Jaat First Reviews: Sunny Deol’s Roaring Comeback Has Fans and Critics Cheering

Sunny Deol is back—and in a way no one expected. With Jaat, the iconic action hero of the ’90s has returned to the big screen in what early viewers are calling a mass bonanza of action, nostalgia, and pure cinematic energy. Directed by Gopichand Malineni—marking his Bollywood debut—the film has already started screening ahead of its official release, and the early reactions? They're lit.

From packed premiere shows in Mumbai to social media buzz across platforms, Jaat is being celebrated as a thunderous comeback for Sunny Deol, a tribute to classic masala cinema, and a film that fans of action-packed drama simply can’t afford to miss.


Sunny Deol Is Back—And He’s Not Holding Back

Trade analyst Sumit Kadel attended an early screening and had this to say:

“#Jaat Interval – Super Entertaining till now. #SunnyDeol of the '90s is back with this film… no one has presented him like this in the last 15 years.”

That’s high praise, especially considering Sunny Deol’s long and storied career. Known for his intense performances in cult classics like Ghayal, Ghatak, and Damini, fans have long yearned to see him in a role that revives his signature style. According to viewers, Jaat does exactly that—and more.

Film writer Amit Joshi echoed similar sentiments after watching the premiere:

“Just attended the premiere of #Jaat — mind-blowing, paisa vasool, and pure wholesome entertainment! If you’re a fan of Ghayal, Damini, or Ghatak, this one takes it to the next level.”

Joshi also shared a sweet behind-the-scenes anecdote, mentioning his regret over missing a chance to greet veteran actor Dharmendra at the premiere, but calling Sunny Deol the “original action superstar” in full form.

Actor Utkarsh Sharma, who starred alongside Deol in Gadar 2, chimed in with his thoughts:

“Caught #Jaat last night… what a thoroughly enjoyable ride! Unmissable for fans. Congratulations to Sunny sir and the team for a mass bonanza .”


A High-Energy Face-Off: Sunny Deol vs. Randeep Hooda

One of the most hyped aspects of the film is the showdown between Sunny Deol and Randeep Hooda, who plays the antagonist Rana Tunga. The chemistry between these two powerhouse performers is already getting people excited.

HT reviewer Rishabh Suri had this to say:

Jaat, starring Sunny Deol, Randeep Hooda, and Viineet Kumar Singh, looks like a very well-made masala actioner. It’s everything Sikandar [Salman Khan's upcoming film] would probably aspire to be.”

That’s a big comparison—and sets expectations sky-high.


🧨 Trailer Highlights: “Dhai Kilo Ka Haath” Returns

The trailer for Jaat—released last month—gave fans a hit of nostalgia with Sunny Deol revisiting his iconic “dhai kilo ka haath” persona. In a moment that’s already gone viral, he declares:

“Ye dhai kilo ke haath ki taakat pura north dekh chuka hai. Ab south dekhega.”
(“The north has already seen the power of this two-and-a-half-kilo hand. Now the south will see it.”)

That one line alone has lit up social media, with long-time fans calling it a tribute to Damini—the very film that won Sunny a National Award in 1993. The message is clear: this isn’t just a comeback. It’s a celebration of everything that made Sunny Deol an action legend in the first place.


A True Pan-India Film

Jaat has been filmed in Hindi, Telugu, and Tamil, and will be releasing simultaneously across India. It’s a collaboration between top production houses: Mythri Movie Makers, People Media Factory, and Zee Studios—all known for backing blockbuster projects.

The cast features a mix of talent from across the Indian film industry:

  • Sunny Deol as the lead
  • Randeep Hooda as the menacing Rana Tunga
  • Viineet Kumar Singh, Regina Cassandra, Saiyami Kher, Ramya Krishnan, Jagapathi Babu
  • Special appearance by Urvashi Rautela

This pan-India strategy not only widens its appeal but also adds variety to the performances and storytelling.


What’s in a Name? The Meaning Behind “Jaat”

In a recent interview with ANI, Randeep Hooda spoke about the significance of the film’s title. While the word Jaat refers to a community, Hooda explained that in the context of the film, it’s much more:

“In the movie, Jaat is not just a community, an agent, or an individual; it’s an emotion. Jat people are known for their patriotism, justice, action, truth, daring, soft hearts, anger, and love.”

Interestingly, Hooda admitted that he initially hoped to play the titular role but was later satisfied playing the antagonist after realizing Sunny Deol was cast as the lead. His statement adds depth to the film’s cultural roots and highlights the pride embedded in its narrative.


Final Verdict: Is Jaat Worth the Hype?

All signs point to yes. Whether you’re a die-hard Sunny Deol fan or someone who enjoys a good old-fashioned action spectacle, Jaat is shaping up to be a theatrical experience worth catching on the big screen.

It’s nostalgic yet modern, rooted in mass entertainment but laced with emotional depth. With glowing early reviews, a strong ensemble cast, and a director who knows how to deliver box office hits, Jaat could be the surprise action hit of the year.