Advance screening for Shabana

Though the release of Aamir Khan-starrer Dangal is still three months away, the film is ready and complete, thanks to the actor’s commitment to getting it right before moving on to his next project, The Thugs Of Hindostan. On September 18, Aamir held the first screening of his film for handpicked guests. And the verdict was unanimous. Aamir has another winner on his hands.

Says a source, “Agreed, it was  premature to show the film considering Dangal releases during Christmas. But it was a special occasion on Sunday. It was Shabana Azmi’s birthday. Aamir and his wife Kiran Rao are very close to Shabana and Javed. So, Aamir sportingly arranged a  screening attended by Shabana, Javed Akhtar and around 20 other close friends.”

Says a source, “It is not a film about wrestling like Sultan. It’s about a wrestler’s efforts to train his daughters in wrestling. It’s a heartwarming effort. At a time when cinema like Pink and Parched simply address the question of women’s empowerment, Aamir’s Dangal will show him to be a true champion of feminism.”

Shabana is profuse in her praise for the film. “Dangal is brilliant. Another blockbuster from Aamir. It is beautifully scripted with very convincing performances. The girls are wonderful and its Aamir’s best performance to date.  The gender politics are so relevant for the times and the unexpected climax  will make even the most hardened heart cry. It is emotional without being sentimental. It’s a hundred per cent winner.”