Emergency movie review:- Fine dramatic talents, lead by Kangana Ranaut, save this film, but only just, as a mediocre narrative drags it down.
Emergency movie review:- When I stepped into the theater to see Emergency, the prosthetic nose on Kangana Ranaut’s face, attempting to make her seem like the late Indira Gandhi, mixed with the involuntary facial twitches, made it plain that ‘this is going to be a caricaturish portrayal’.
Movie reviews typically begin with a discussion of the plot and pacing, rather than shortcomings in the performers’ performances. But, as she states in the film ‘Indira is India, and India is Indira’, Emergency can only stand as a film because of Kangana, who transforms your opinion of it as the story progresses.
The premise of Emergency
The political thriller begins with following the events that led to the implementation of India’s Emergency in 1975. With a supporting ensemble that includes the late Satish Kaushik, Shreyas Talpade, and Anupam Kher, the film’s approach feels like a political science class.
And that may prompt you to go for your smartphone—not to conduct research, but to check messages and social media. Viewers’ attention spans have been decreasing over time, so all of this is blatantly ineffective. However, the intention is correct; Indira’s hamartia is that she believes she is impossible to deal with. However, the film does not believe in subtlety; for example, Indira’s guilt for instituting the Emergency did not need to be communicated through horrifying mirror reflections. Kangana’s emotional response was sufficient. Similarly, focusing the camera on a photo of a lioness and then on Kangana’s face makes the point!
What works and what doesn’t? The first half has several unintentionally amusing moments due to execution flaws.
The interval comes when Indira announces the emergency, and you’re almost ready to give up. However, when you return to your seats, Kangana takes over. Some powerful moments in the second half, along with a few poignant ones, save Emergency. Kangana is a good performer, so you’re willing to forgive her for the prosthetic nose.Pay close attention to her, particularly in the scene where she experiences a profound personal tragedy.
Does the film’s soundtrack truly require iconic characters performing songs? Two such lip-sync sequences are disconnected. However, Ae Meri Jaan, featuring Hariharan, is relaxing to the ears and has been well-placed.
Emergency does not appear to want to whitewash or degrade Indira’s acts. Kangana, the director, has attempted to balance what transpired under her watch during the Emergency, as well as the loss of her son Sanjay Gandhi. Anupam gives a restrained performance as required by the role, while the late Satish displays his mettle in just one line. What an actor!
In conclusion, Emergency tries to pack too much into one film and ultimately falls short. However, it’s still worth watching for the impressive performances. But what is good acting without a compelling story?
