Picture this – A typical Bollywood hero dancing around trees, defying gravity with helicopter kicks and romancing 6 heroines between explosions. Cut to 2013. Enter ‘Commando’ a movie where the hero’s biceps do more acting than his dialogue. Starring Vidyut Jamwal, a man who probably does pullups with one hand while scripting fight sequences with the other, Commando wasn’t just a movie but it was a declaration. Few movies in Bollywood have redefined the action genre quite like Commando. In a world where Bollywood heroes routinely paused midair to adjust their hair mid-kick, 2013’s Commando arrived like a rogue grenade.

This cinematic Tour De Force not only showcased Vidyut Jamwal’s awe-inspiring martial arts but also heralded a new era of raw practical stunts in Hindi cinema. This movie didn’t just raise the bar for action; it threw the bar into a woodchipper. Forget rose-tinted romance; here, romance was a knife fight in a monsoon. Strap in for dissection of the blood, sweat and vandalised furniture behind the movie that made Tom Cruise whisper ‘Yeh India mein kya hai?’

A riveting plot with real-world grit

At it’s heart, Commando is more than just an action movie. It is a survival epic. Vidyut Jamwal portrays a special-ops secret agent of the Indian Armed Services who finds himself thrust behind enemy lines after his chopper is shot down during a daring mission. Stranded in hostile territory, he must rely on his finely honed combat skills, tactical ingenuity and raw determination to navigate treacherous terrains and outsmart ruthless adversaries. With the odds stacked against him, the commando embarks on a survival odyssey while engaging in fierce hand-to-hand combat and breath-taking stunts that blur the line between movie and reality.

The narrative unfolds with a blend of high-stakes suspense and poignant moments that echo the authenticity of real military operations. The movie’s gritty narrative is complemented by it’s authentic approach to action by eschewing the conventional use of cable wires or CGI, instead relying on the actor’s raw martial arts prowess to create sequences that are both immersive and visceral.

**The casting coup – Birth of a ‘one-man army’**

Director Dilip Ghosh didn’t just want an action hero because he wanted a ‘human weapon’. Enter Vidyut Jamwal, a martial arts virtuoso trained in Kalaripayattu (an ancient Indian martial art). Ghosh confessed in a Movie-fare interview that…

“I saw Vidyut’s demo reel and thought ‘Either this guy’s a stunt double or we’ve wasted 20 years on fake action’”.

Jamwal back then was a newcomer. He was never cast for his star power but his ability to ‘break bones convincingly’. Director Dilip Ghosh’s brief was simple…

“Find me someone who can fight a bear. And win”.

Vidyut Jamwal’s CV included ‘training since age 3’ and ‘accidentally breaking a coconut with his forehead’. Ghosh, in a MidDay interview, admitted that…

“I didn’t know if he could act but I knew he could dismantle a human”.

Even though Jamwal was then a rookie, it was a gamble which they put on him. But as producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah noted…

“Audiences were tired of heroes who needed 8 takes to throw a punch. Vidyut did it before breakfast”.

Real men, real action – The making

One of the most fascinating aspects of Commando is the behind-the-scenes dedication that went into crafting it’s high-octane action sequences. Unlike many contemporary action movies that relied heavily on digital effects or safety harnesses, Vidyut Jamwal and his team embraced a more organic approach. Filming in challenging locations, the crew shot many scenes without the conventional trappings of modern stunt technology.

This commitment not only enhanced the movie’s authenticity but also brought an edge-of-your-seat tension to every sequence. For instance, a notable sequence involving a helicopter shoot-down was executed without any digital trickery. It was pure grit and the actor’s athletic prowess at the fore.

Into the wild – Filming where even goats feared to tread

Forget studio sets. Commando trekked to Manali’s dense forests and rugged valleys where the crew battled altitude sickness and curious bears. The logistics involved were intimidating. Cinematographer Sejal Shah’s crew lugged IMAX cameras up 11,000-foot peaks, battling altitude sickness and a particularly persistent yak. Sejal Shah later revealed that…

“We’d hike for hours just to shoot a 3-minute chase. Even the camera crew got sixpack abs. We’d shoot until the batteries froze”.

The climax, shot in a crumbling fort, required Jamwal to leap between 30-foot walls. No green screens but just pure guts (and a very nervous insurance agent). Also, the crew didn’t just movie in the Himalayas but they survived them. Locations included…

Manali’s Parvati Valley – Where temperatures plunged to 10°C and the only heat came from Jamwal’s rage takes.

A 200-year-old Rajasthani fort – It’s caretaker had warned that…

“If the walls ever crumble, do not sue us. Sue gravity”.

One sequence required Jamwal to sprint across a collapsing rope bridge which was a stunt so risky that the local police showed up to ask ‘Are you all mad?’

The art of pain – Stunt choreography

One of Commando’s most striking features is it’s commitment to realism. Unlike many modern blockbusters that lean heavily on CGI, the moviemakers opted for genuine heart-stopping stunts performed on real locations. While Bollywood always relied on ‘heroic wind machines’ and ‘slow-mo punches’, Commando’s action was rapid, raw and real.

Fight choreographer and director Franz Spilhaus blended Kalaripayattu with parkour. Franz Spilhaus (a South African maestro with a black belt in chaos) fused Kalaripayattu’s lethal grace with parkour’s suicidal agility. The result? Action scenes that looked like a Bruce Lee documentary directed by Quentin Tarantino. He created sequences that left the audiences gasping.

The iconic ‘rope fight’ scene where Jamwal swings like a vengeful Tarzan, took 12 days to shoot. Jamwal quipped in a YouTube interview later…

“By day 3, my hands were blistered. By day 12, they’d turned into leather. Free gloves!”

Vidyut’s rigorous martial arts training is on full display. From gravity-defying flips to intricate hand-to-hand combat, every movement is executed with precision and raw energy. Shooting in rugged unpredictable environments meant that the production team often battled challenging logistics and harsh weather.

Every scene is a testament to the actor’s unyielding spirit and the crew’s dedication which elevated the entire movie to a level of authenticity rarely seen in Bollywood.

Technical wizardry

The production team opted for on-location shoots that often meant battling not just fictional enemies but also real-world elements such as logistical hurdles that would make even the most seasoned crew sweat, rugged terrains and unpredictable weather. Vidyut’s martial arts training came to the fore as he executed close-quarters combat, dives and flips with precision.

The movie used Arri Alexa and Red Epic Dragons cameras to capture highspeed sequences at 120 and 300 frames per second respectively which were ensuring that every grimace, kick, muscle twitch and punch was crisper than a samurai’s sword.

For sound design, Coconut shells were smashed to mimic bone cracks. The foley artist quit after Week 2 by citing ‘nightmares’.

Critics and experts have lauded these sequences by often comparing his style to that of international martial arts legends. The ability to perform his own stunts has been cited as a major influence on aspiring action heroes across India.

**The infamous ‘market fight’**

This eye-pleasing fight scene lasts for 4 minutes and 22 seconds. The body count amounted to 23 goons. 6 fruit carts perished for the scene and left 1 very confused chicken. A hidden detail in this fight scene is that Jamwal used an Urumi (a flexible sword) in one take. But he swapped it for a belt after the censor board fainted.

Guns, guts and guitar riffs – The soundtrack

Composer Mannan Shaah’s score blended electric riffs with tribal drums. The anthem Commando Title Track featured instruments of bamboo sticks, war chants and what sounds like a tiger growling (it was a synth). The legacy of it still remains today. The soundtrack gets played at IPL matches to hype crowds. Because nothing says ‘cricket’ like covert ops.

Fashion meets function – Costumes & props

Costume designer Neha Prasada’s brief…

“Make him look like he shops at Army Surplus…during the apocalypse”.

Commando Karan’s final look was in blue jeans, tactical boots and a vest (verified by obsessive Reddit threads). Prop masterstroke on the antagonist’s favourite weapon of choice. The villain’s knife was a real antique from Rajasthan. It sold at auction for ₹8 lakh (USD 9,300) in the year 2020.

Stories from the set – Behind the camera

The making of Commando is rife with intriguing behind-the-scenes tales. A comment that perfectly blends humour with his dedication to the craft. Amidst the adrenaline and high stakes, there were moments of light-hearted banter on set. From playful jibes among the crew to Vidyut’s off-the-cuff remarks about his pre-shoot tea rituals, the making of Commando was as much about forging strong bonds as it was about breaking new ground in cinematic action. In one instance, the crew chose to abandon modern safety harnesses altogether and trusted Vidyut’s expertise to pull off dangerous stunts. A light-hearted rumour from the set had someone jesting…

“If Vidyut ever falls, he’ll just turn it into an unscripted action scene!”

Such anecdotes not only highlight the unconventional methods employed but also reveal the camaraderie and fearless attitude that defined the project. Vidyut himself once quipped in an off-the-cuff moment that…

“I only fear a poorly brewed cup of tea before a shoot!”

These snippets of humour not only humanised the star but also provided a refreshing counterbalance to the intense action sequences making the movie relatable and even more engaging.

Expert opinions and industry insights

Action connoisseurs and movie critics have repeatedly underscored the movie’s impact on Bollywood’s action genre. Veteran action directors have noted that Commando set a new benchmark for intensity and realism in Indian cinema. They have lauded Commando for bringing back the lost art of practical stunts. In numerous interviews, experts have remarked on how the movie rekindled interest in authentic action choreography.

“Commando is a game-changer; it brought back the essence of practical stunts that many had forgotten”.

…an industry insider revealed during a panel discussion at a recent movie festival.

Another critic mused that…

“Vidyut’s dedication is palpable on screen. He doesn’t just perform stunts — he lives them and that’s what makes Commando an enduring classic”.

Another insider observed that…

“Commando isn’t just a movie. It is a revolution that revived the old-school real-action methods that were once the backbone of martial arts cinema”.

This sentiment is echoed by many who believe that Vidyut’s relentless pursuit of perfection has set a high bar for future Bollywood action movies. These insights only add to the mystique and allure of the movie which thereby cements it’s legacy as a cult classic among action aficionados.

Blood, sweat and legal-threats – The controversies you never knew

Every groundbreaking project faces it’s rightful share of challenges and Commando was no exception. Shooting in remote locations brought technical difficulties that tested the limits of it’s crew. Equipment malfunctions, the inherent risk of performing high-intensity stunts without digital safety nets and unpredictable weather, all contributed to a pressure-cooker environment. Yet, these obstacles were met with ingenuity and perseverance which are attributes that shine through in the final product.

Plagiarismgate – A minor controversy erupted when a scene resembling The Bourne Identity’s rooftop chase started plagiarism claims. Ghosh laughed it off…

“Jason Bourne wishes he could climb trees like our commando”.

Critics accused the climax of ripping off Die Hard another time. Ghosh retorted back with…

“John McClane couldn’t do a backflip if you paid him in cigars”.

The movie and it’s star were not without controversy. There were polarising public debates surrounding Vidyut’s candid interviews. Vidyut’s unfiltered interviews, wherein he often lauded his own abilities with a blend of bravado and wit, ignited debates online. Known for his outspoken nature, Vidyut often blends self-assured bravado with sincere passion. One particularly memorable interview saw him declare himself as one of the best martial artists in the world. It became a statement that ignited a flurry of online discussions.

Some critics accused him of overconfidence while countless die-hard fans and fellow martial artists defended his stance. They were arguing that self-belief is an essential trait for a modern action hero and particularly in a field as physically demanding as action cinema. This polarisation, while sometimes leading to heated discussions on social media platforms, ultimately contributed to the viral nature of the lasting public interest in his persona and the movie’s promotion.

Animal welfare drama – PETA protested a scene involving a CGI snake. Jamwal’s response?

“Mate, the snake was digital. Unless you’re also protesting Photoshop?”

Injury report – Jamwal fractured two ribs during a rooftop leap but finished the shot. His logic?

“Pain is temporary. IMDb ratings are forever”.

Meanwhile, Jamwal dislocated his shoulder mid-shoot another time but finished the scene anyway.

“Adrenaline is the best painkiller”.

…he later told NDTV.

Influence on Bollywood and beyond

Commando has left an indelible mark on the action genre in Bollywood. It’s emphasis on practical stunts and real physicality influenced a wave of subsequent movies that sought to replicate it’s gritty realism. Vidyut Jamwal, with his blend of athleticism and charisma, inspired not only a generation of action stars but also sparked a renewed interest in martial arts training among young enthusiasts across the country. His journey from performing dangerous stunts on set to being lauded as one of the world’s top martial artists illustrates the transformative power of passion and perseverance in the movie industry.

Moreover, the movie’s success demonstrated that there is a dedicated audience for authentic high-energy action movies in Bollywood. It paved the way for sequels like Commando 2 with actors like Adah Sharma joining the fray and adding fresh dynamics to the franchise. The influence of Commando is seen not just in the box office numbers but in the ripple effect which it created across media and inspired countless viral discussions to meme-worthy moments online.

Beyond the screen – How Commando changed lives

Fitness frenzy – Gyms across India reported a 300% spike in Kalaripayattu classes.

Military love – The Indian Army invited Jamwal to perform stunts at border camps. And yes, he did.

Fan fury – A Mumbai teen used Jamwal’s wall-climb technique from the movie to rescue a stranded kitten.

“Vidyut Sir DM’d me – ‘Use gloves next time’”.

Cultural impact – The movie’s dialogue ‘Ye wala scene’ became college slang for chaotic exam prep.

Army adoption – The NSG (India’s elite commando unit) incorporated Kalaripayattu martial art into training by citing ‘Jamwal’s efficiency in close combat’.

From army cadets adopting Kalaripayattu to viral TikTok challenges (#CommandoClimb), the movie’s influence is undeniable. A fan in Kerala even credit’s Commando for saving his life…

“I used the rope technique to escape a house fire. Vidyut Sir, you’re my guardian commando!”

From box office underdog

Commando opened to modest numbers but became a cult hit on satellite and streaming. Critics praised it’s ‘refreshing lack of nonsense’ (Anupama Chopra, Movie Companion). More importantly, it sparked a new wave of action movies from Singham to URI with directors demanding ‘Commando-style realism’. Jamwal became India’s answer to Tony Jaa and began inspiring fitness freaks nationwide to swap pizza for push-ups.

Commando has undeniably changed the landscape of Bollywood action. It’s success has prompted moviemakers to rethink the reliance on digital effects, reigniting interest in raw, practical stunt work. This movie has paved the way for sequels such as Commando 2 and Commando 3. It inspired a wave of new projects that celebrate the physicality and spirit of true martial arts.

Commando opened to ₹12 crore (USD 140k) which was a modest sum but became a monster on TV reruns and YouTube. Vidyut Jamwal’s transformation into a bona fide action hero has had a profound impact beyond the silver screen. Not only has he been featured in international lists as one of the top martial artists in the world (drawing comparisons with icons like Jackie Chan and Tony Jaa) but his influence has also inspired a new generation of aspiring actors and fitness enthusiasts. His dedication to performing his own stunts has become a rallying cry for authenticity in an era dominated by digital effects.

Sequels and shenanigans

As the digital era evolves, Vidyut Jamwal is expanding his repertoire beyond traditional cinema. Recent projects include high-octane web series and OTT ventures each carrying forward the same ethos of raw unfiltered action. These new formats are not just diversifying his portfolio but they are also reaffirming his status as a pioneering force in modern action entertainment. With each new project, Vidyut continues to challenge the status quo by proving that hard work, passion and a willingness to take risks are timeless ingredients for success.

Commando 2 (2017) and Commando 3 (2019) upped the ante with espionage plots and Adah Sharma’s comic timing. But fans agree that the OG’s raw grit remains unmatched.

In 2023, Vidyut hinted at Commando 4 during an Instagram Live sending fans into a frenzy. Rumour has it the script includes a scene where he fights a tiger. Naturally, without CGI. Jamwal’s 2023 Instagram post showed him training with…a honey badger? Caption – ‘New co-star. Doesn’t understand ‘action’ or ‘cut.’ Just violence’.

Trivia tornado

No harness? No problem! – In a world where most actors rely on CGI and safety rigs, Vidyut boldly chose to forego these aids. As a result, every kick and punch on screen felt palpably real. Rumour has it that during one particularly daring stunt, a crew member quipped that if he failed, he’d just make his own action scene.

A candid confession – In one candid interview, Vidyut joked about his preparation for the role by remarking that he only feared a poorly brewed cup of tea before a shoot. This blend of humour and humility endeared him even more to fans and added a light-hearted note to the otherwise intense atmosphere on set.

The martial arts legend – It’s not every day that you come across an actor who is not only a charismatic performer but also a bona fide martial artist. Vidyut’s inclusion in international lists of top martial artists has often been a point of discussion among experts with many citing him as the ‘Indian Tony Jaa’ or even drawing comparisons to Jackie Chan for his daring stunts and impeccable timing.

Vidyut Jamwal as a kid

Did you know Jamwal performed 98% of his stunts? The remaining 2%? Probably blinking. Rumour has it his contract included a clause as ‘No body doubles, just protein shakes’.

Jamwal’s audition involved disarming three stuntmen with a rolled-up newspaper. True story.

The role was initially offered to an A-list star who backed out after reading the line ‘Climb cliff barefoot. No harness’. Ego, meet Kalaripayattu.

Why Commando is Bollywood’s action Bible

For those in search of a cinematic experience that blends raw emotion with visceral action, Commando stands as a towering example of what can be achieved when talent meets tenacity. A decade later, Commando remains a benchmark for action cinema. It’s a testament to what happens when skill meets sweat. As Vidyut Jamwal told The Hindu newspaper once…

“Action isn’t a genre. It’s a religion. And I’m just the mad priest”.

Watch the full movie

And boy, did he gave a bestseller. Think you’ve got the guts to be a commando? Share this post, and maybe start with climbing your stairs… without using your feet 😉 Feel free to share your thoughts and favourite moments from Commando in the comments below. Let’s celebrate the movie that redefined Bollywood action, one kick at a time!

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