The first big action film of 2025 is here, and it comes with an all-out bloodbath as promised! Fateh, written, directed, produced, and led by Sonu Sood, marks his directorial debut and delivers a high-octane action spectacle. But does it pack enough punch to keep you glued to your seats, or does it fizzle out along the way? Let’s break it down.
The Story: Fateh’s Journey of Revenge and Redemption
The film follows Fateh (played by Sonu Sood), a seemingly ordinary dairy farm supervisor living in Moga. However, a series of events pull him into a village-wide conflict, forcing him to confront his past and use his skills to deal with the chaos. The story unfolds largely as a flashback, with Fateh narrating how things spiraled into a blood-soaked battle.
The first half of the film serves as the setup, establishing Fateh’s life, relationships, and the stakes involved. While it takes its time building an emotional connection, it effectively makes you care about the characters. The interval itself warns the audience to brace for the high-octane action that awaits in the second half—and it doesn’t hold back.
Action-Packed but Uneven Execution
Sonu Sood clearly knows what kind of film he is making, and he goes all guns blazing. The action sequences are relentless and stylized, inspired by international hits like John Wick, Commando, and The Equalizer. There are well-executed fight sequences, especially some brilliant single-take action shots that showcase the brutality of Fateh’s world.
However, the film falters in its screenplay. The second half, where the action truly takes over, suffers from pacing issues. The film isn’t as relentless as it aspires to be, with moments where the energy dips. The storytelling takes a backseat, relying heavily on quick cuts and stylish choreography rather than a tightly woven plot. Some scenes slow down the narrative instead of fueling the momentum.
Sonu Sood: A One-Man Army?
As Fateh, Sonu Sood is absolutely in his element. He lives and breathes the character, making the action sequences feel natural and impactful. There are clear inspirations from classic action heroes, but Sood manages to add his own flavor to it. His commitment to the role is evident, and he pulls off the intense physicality required for such a film.
As a director, he deserves credit for showing restraint where needed. Despite wearing multiple hats—actor, director, producer, and writer—he avoids excessive indulgence. He makes some bold choices in editing, cutting down sequences that may have otherwise been self-indulgent. That being said, the film still struggles with pacing, which could have been tightened further.
Technical Brilliance: Cinematography, Action Choreography & Background Score
One of Fateh’s biggest strengths is its visual execution. The cinematography is slick, with dynamic camera movements that elevate the high-adrenaline sequences. Action choreography is another highlight—it may be heavily inspired by Hollywood, but it is executed well enough to stand on its own. The single-take fight sequences are a major standout, adding a raw intensity to the combat.
Surprisingly, the film even boasts a background score contribution from Hans Zimmer himself! His composition is used effectively in key action sequences, adding a cinematic grandeur to the fights. The music plays a vital role in amplifying the tension and impact of Fateh’s battles.
Final Verdict: Should You Watch Fateh?
If you are a fan of action-packed films, Fateh delivers what it promises—stylized, brutal, and engaging combat sequences. While the screenplay could have been tighter and pacing more consistent, the sheer energy and effort put into the film make it worth a watch.
Watch it if:
✔️ You love high-octane action films.
✔️ You enjoy stylish cinematography and intense fight sequences.
✔️ You are a fan of Sonu Sood and want to see his directorial debut.
Skip it if:
❌ You prefer strong storytelling over action.
❌ You aren’t a fan of violent, over-the-top action films.
While it’s not a must-watch on the big screen, it’s definitely an entertainer that action lovers will enjoy—whether in theaters or on its eventual OTT release. So, buckle up for a ride filled with punches, bullets, and destruction!
Have you watched Fateh yet? What did you think of it? Drop your thoughts in the comments!