"Tubelight" is a 2017 Bollywood film directed by Kabir Khan and starring Salman Khan in the lead role. The film is set during the 1962 Sino-Indian War and tells the story of a man named Laxman who is known as a "tubelight" because he takes longer than others to understand things.
The film explores themes of brotherly love, faith, and the power of hope. Laxman's brother, played by Sohail Khan, is sent to fight in the war, and Laxman sets out to bring him back home. Along the way, he encounters various challenges and learns important lessons about the world and himself.
"Tubelight" was not a commercial success but received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the performances of the cast and the film's emotional impact, while others criticized its pacing and screenplay.
The film also features a notable performance by Chinese actress Zhu Zhu, who plays Liling, a Chinese woman who becomes a close friend to Laxman. The relationship between Laxman and Liling serves as a symbol of the hope for peace and reconciliation between India and China, even in the midst of conflict.
The film's soundtrack, composed by Pritam, was well-received and features popular songs such as "Radio" and "Naach Meri Jaan".
Despite its mixed reception, "Tubelight" remains notable for its themes of love and hope in the face of conflict and tragedy. The film's message is particularly relevant in today's world, where peace and understanding between different cultures and nations are more important than ever.
Additionally, "Tubelight" also addresses the issue of bullying and discrimination against individuals who may be slower to understand or learn, with Laxman's character often being ridiculed for his lack of intelligence. However, the film emphasizes the importance of empathy, kindness, and acceptance towards all individuals, regardless of their abilities.
The film's climax is emotional and poignant, and it emphasizes the power of hope and positivity in the face of adversity. The message of the film is that even in the darkest of times, there is always a glimmer of hope, and that it is important to hold on to that hope and keep moving forward.
While "Tubelight" may not have been a box office success, it remains a thought-provoking and emotionally impactful film that delivers an important message about love, hope, and the importance of acceptance and empathy towards others.
In addition to its themes, "Tubelight" also boasts impressive production values, with stunning cinematography and realistic depictions of the war and its aftermath. The film was shot in the beautiful locations of Ladakh and Manali, which add to the film's overall visual appeal.
Salman Khan's performance as Laxman received mixed reviews, but he is able to convey the character's innocence, vulnerability, and eventual transformation convincingly. Sohail Khan and Zhu Zhu also deliver strong performances in their respective roles.
The film's director, Kabir Khan, is known for his socially relevant and politically charged films, such as "Bajrangi Bhaijaan" and "New York", and "Tubelight" continues his trend of exploring important themes and issues through his films.
"Tubelight" may not be a perfect film, but it is a sincere and heartfelt attempt to convey a message of hope and love in the midst of conflict and adversity. Its themes of acceptance, empathy, and positivity are timeless and universal, and its message is particularly relevant in today's world.
Moreover, the film also features notable supporting performances by actors such as Om Puri, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, and Matin Rey Tangu. Their roles help to flesh out the film's characters and add depth to the story.
The film's title, "Tubelight," is derived from the term used to describe a person who takes a longer time to understand things. This concept is used as a metaphor throughout the film, emphasizing the importance of patience, understanding, and acceptance towards those who may not be as quick to grasp things as others.
In conclusion, "Tubelight" may not have achieved the same level of critical acclaim or box office success as some of Salman Khan's other films, but it remains a poignant and powerful film that conveys a message of hope, love, and acceptance. Its themes and messages are timeless and relevant, and its emotional impact lingers long after the credits have rolled.