Aamir Khan’s Sitaare Zameen Par Sparks Emotional Waves: Media Reviews Highlight Heart and Humor

Mumbai, June 21, 2025 – Aamir Khan’s much-anticipated return to the silver screen with Sitaare Zameen Par has ignited a wave of reactions from critics and audiences alike. Directed by R.S. Prasanna and released on June 20, 2025, this sports comedy-drama, a spiritual successor to the 2007 classic Taare Zameen Par, has been lauded for its emotional depth, inclusive message, and heartfelt performances, though some reviews note it falls short of its predecessor’s magic. Approach Bollywood brings you a roundup of the media’s take on this inspiring remake of the 2018 Spanish film Champions.

A Heartwarming Tale of Transformation

Sitaare Zameen Par follows Gulshan Arora (Aamir Khan), a brash and politically incorrect basketball coach sentenced to community service after a DUI incident and a clash with his superior. Tasked with coaching a team of neurodivergent adults, including those with Down syndrome and autism, Gulshan’s journey evolves from prejudice to profound personal growth. The film, also starring Genelia Deshmukh as his estranged wife Suneeta, blends humor and compassion to deliver a message of inclusivity and acceptance.

The Times of India awarded the film 3.5 stars, calling it a “heartwarming family watch that blends comedy, compassion, and charm.” The review praises Aamir’s portrayal of a flawed yet evolving coach and the “energy, authenticity, and warmth” brought by the ensemble cast of debutants, including Aroush Datta, Gopi Krishnan Varma, and Naman Misra. However, it notes that the pacing suffers in parts and the climax feels overly sentimental.

Critical Acclaim with Caveats

Filmfare gave Sitaare Zameen Par a glowing 4/5, with critic Devesh Sharma writing, “More than anything else, it asks us to broaden our definition of what it means to be ‘normal’ and to embrace difference with an open heart.” The review highlights the film’s ability to balance humor with a powerful message, crediting the supporting cast and Aamir’s nuanced performance for its emotional impact.

Koimoi echoes this sentiment, praising the “honest performances” and “dialogues that don’t come across as preachy.” It notes that the film’s core message—every individual has their own ‘normal’—resonates deeply, though tighter editing could have enhanced the pace. Aamir’s transformation from an “unabashedly ignorant” coach to a vulnerable learner is singled out as a highlight.

However, not all reviews are unanimously glowing. The Hindu offers a more critical perspective, describing the film as “annoying” despite its good intentions. It argues that the narrative leans too heavily on Aamir’s didactic style, with every scene yielding a lesson, and the neurodivergent characters lack the depth given to the protagonist in Taare Zameen Par. “An ideal Aamir Khan film can be both entertaining and edifying. But when the balance tilts, it’s just annoying,” the review states.

Indian Express reports mixed audience reactions, with some calling it an “easy crowd pleaser with moral lessons” but others finding it “repetitive” and lacking the “extraordinary touch” of Aamir’s greatest works. The film’s box office performance, with an opening day collection of Rs 3.89 crore across 6,000 screens in India, reflects strong initial interest but suggests it may not match the legacy of its predecessor.

Standout Performances and Emotional Impact

The film’s ensemble cast, particularly the neurodivergent debutants, has been a focal point of praise. Hindustan Times notes that the second half “soars,” with sequences bringing “the house down” thanks to actors like Brijendra Kala and the “adorable” Dolly Ahluwalia. Genelia Deshmukh’s sincere performance as Suneeta complements Aamir’s, though some reviews, like The Times of India’s, suggest her character lacks depth.

Sudha Murty, who attended a special screening, called the film an “eye-opener” for its sensitive portrayal of special needs, emphasizing its potential to promote inclusivity. “This movie can bring a lot of change,” she said, as shared by Aamir Khan’s production house.

A Mixed Bag with a Strong Message

While Sitaare Zameen Par has been hailed as the “finest film of 2025” by trade analyst Sumit Kadel for its perspective-shifting narrative, some social media reactions on platforms like BookMyShow label it “pathetic” and “boring,” criticizing its direction and lack of twists. Despite these critiques, the film’s emotional resonance and strong word-of-mouth, as noted by Times of India, suggest it’s striking a chord with audiences seeking a wholesome, family-friendly experience.

Aamir’s Return and Industry Buzz

Aamir Khan’s return after a three-year hiatus, following Laal Singh Chaddha (2022), has added to the film’s buzz. The star-studded Mumbai premiere, attended by Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and others, generated headlines, with SRK’s heartfelt interactions with the neurodivergent cast earning widespread praise online. The film’s music by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, with lyrics by Amitabh Bhattacharya and a background score by Ram Sampath, has also been celebrated for enhancing its emotional sequences.

Final Verdict

Sitaare Zameen Par is a heartfelt addition to Aamir Khan’s legacy of socially conscious cinema, delivering laughter, tears, and a powerful message about inclusivity. While it may not reach the emotional heights of Taare Zameen Par, its blend of humor and heart makes it a compelling watch for families and fans alike. As one viewer on X aptly put it, “Bachchon ke liye wholesome, parents ke liye heart-touching: Don’t miss the moment.”

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Disclaimer: Box office figures and audience reactions are based on early reports and may vary.