Jigra Movie Review: When the announcement came out that Vasan Bala is collaborating with Alia Bhatt for his next movie, the cinephiles couldn't keep calm. As a filmmaker, Vasan is known to treat the audience with some peculiar stories in movies like Peddlers, Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota, and Monica's O My Darling. Jigra, his latest film, stars Alia and Vedang Raina. Alia is known for delivering impactful performances with her movies. Following the release of Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, the audience has eagerly anticipated seeing the actress on screen for over a year. So is the movie good? Continue reading further.
Movie Review: Jigra
Release Date: October 11, 2024
Where to Watch: Theatres
Cast: Alia Bhatt, Vedang Raina, Manoj Pahwa, Rahul Ravindra
Director: Vasan Bala
Rating:
What is it about?
Jigra is the story of a sister named Satya (Alia Bhatt), who would go to any lengths to save her brother Ankur, (Vedang Raina). Watching her father take his life in front of her own eyes has turned Satya cold, but the only person who has a soft spot in her heart is her younger brother. Hence, when he gets embroiled in a drug case, falsely, in a fictional country called Hanshi Dao, Satya leaves everything behind and is ready to even 'bomb' the prison if needed.
What's Hot?
Jigra has a gripping first half, as we see the world-building of Satya's relentless efforts to save her brother. Ankur has only three months left until he gets electrocuted to death. In Hanshi Dao, possessing a drug is considered a huge crime and has no forgiveness. They provide their prisoners with the best facilities, but even for crimes of this level, they declare the death penalty. Often, we see the characters criticise the rules of this fictional island, so it makes sense the makers didn't use any real country to avoid any controversies.
Throughout the story, you are captivated by Satya's determination to save her younger brother after she has exhausted all possible options. The screenplay not only showcases Satya's efforts but also depicts the hardships Ankur and others face inside the prison. So it helps the first half to steer clear from monotony of just watching Satya, who also finds a friend in Manoj Pahwa. The music also enhances the emotional impact of Jigra, even without any dramatic scenes involving the siblings. Tenu Sang Rakhna, composed by Achint Thakkar and sung by Arijit Singh and Anumita Nadesan, gives you goosebumps.
The first half raises the expectations for the second half, which mostly delivers. For a brief period, the climax sequence maintains a high level of tension. Satya enters a state of complete action as the only woman bravely walks through the fire and dodges bullets to save her brother. Alia Bhatt is a powerhouse of talent; that is crystal clear and Jigra is one of her fantastic performances. Alia portrays Satya with great sincerity, like a superhero. As the character speaks less and rarely emotes, Alia mostly has a straight face. But the performance doesn't bother you.
Vedang Raina, who left a great impression as Reggie in The Archies, plays his part well. However, the performance that truly stood out after Alia was that of actor Vivek Gomber, who portrays the prison cop Hansraj Landa. Vivek portrays the brutal cop with such conviction that he effortlessly manages to irritate you every time he appears on screen.
What's not?
For me, the first half was perfect. However, in the second half, where we see Satya and others in action with their great plan, things look quite convenient. It leaves you wondering how, on an island where the law and order is so strict, such big and deadly plans are smoothly executed. I know the story is always in the favour of our protagonists; it makes you wonder because of how cops are always on alert there.
Further, the challenges thrown in Satya's way aren't overwhelming enough. The action-packed climax sequence is thrilling and one of the best parts of the movie, but the emotional moments in the end don't hit you hard. Even the dharma-tization of the brother-sister emotion shown in slow motion fails to make you feel anything. At times, Satya looks quite one-dimensional. Yes, we know her purpose in life is only to look after her brother. But that also doesn't give much depth to the character.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Jigra is intense, action-packed, and treats us to brilliant performances. The screenplay keeps you engaged, especially in the first half with its high stakes. However, the second half is comparatively weak until we reach the climax. But it was fun seeing Bhatt in action mode, and we are more excited to see her in YRF's Alpha.
