Following in the successful footsteps of the 2013 sports biographical drama Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, comes Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 2014 film about "Magnificant" Mary Kom, a five-time World Amateur Boxing champion and 2012 Olympic bronze medallist who wrote about her life and passion for boxing in the 2013 autobiography Unbreakable.
Priyanka Chopra stars as Mangte Chungneijang Mary Kom - a.k.a. M.C. Mary Kom - who was born in the northeastern state of Manipur in 1983. Manipur connects India with Southeast Asia. For more than 2500 years, this region has been at the crossroads of Asian economic and cultural exchange, facilitating the migration of people, cultures and religions.
Having a Indian sports legend emerge out of Manipur is rare. Having a Olympic level woman boxer emerge from India is even rarer. Mary Kom's passion, hard work and dedication to her sport provide the basis for a fascinating story.
Here are 5 lessons learned from Mary Kom which make the film inspirational without seeming sentimental.
1. It's about more than boxing.
The film is about pursuing your dreams no matter what obstacles you may face. But it also recognizes that life's circumstances may take you on a different journey from what you planned - or was planned for you. Whether you get back on your chosen path or veer off in a completely different direction, enjoy the ride!
2. Priyanka Chopra gives her heart and soul to this film ... and it shows.
Not only did she undergo intense physical training and conditioning, Priyanka also spent time with Mary Kom so she could more accurately portray the living legend. The preparation that she went through to bring authenticity to this role is an model for anyone seeking to do their best in any endeavor.
3. It reminds us that success isn't achieved alone.
Even though the recognition of success may go to one person, there are many individuals behind the scenes - teachers, coaches, mentors, colleagues, friends, family, and fans - who contribute in some way to every personal triumph.
4. It reminds us that life is a series of choices.
Sometimes decisions are easily made, sometimes with much difficulty, and your choices will impact others. Choices made may need to be revisited and revised based on lessons learned and experience gained. But there will always be choices.
5. It reminds us that passion without practice is just desire.
The film shows that Mary's route to boxing fame wasn't easy - which makes the story more interesting. While the film primarily focuses on her successes, we also see her hard work and struggles. She has passion and raw talent to be sure, but her success comes from the proper focus, discipline, and lots and lots of training drills.
While the Mary Kom story inspires, the beautiful soundtrack - by Prashant Ingole and Sandeep Singh - offers music which unreservedly reinforces the themes of the film. There are no big production item numbers performed in the film; however, the powerful songs will resonate with you long after you've left the theater.
The following video playlist features the trailer, making of, and some songs from the film Mary Kom. While you are listening to the music, you might also scroll through the posters, reviews, and inspirational quotes that were posted on the film's Facebook page.
If you liked this, check out our other Film Reviews.