(Crisp) Movie Review: ARTICLE 15 by FENIL SETA

There have been several films with great intermission points, an aspect unique to Indian cinema. In that regard, Article 15 excels and how. Its intermission point gives you goosebumps. It’s such a simple scene but the manner in which director Anubhav Sinha has executed it, the impact is manifold! And not just in this scene, the whole film is very well directed. The storyline itself is a winner and also quite a shocker – how two girls lose their lives and are violated for asking for a raise of just Rs. 3. Caste crimes are a reality of a society and the way Article 15 has fearlessly taken the names of various communities and explained the caste hierarchies, very few films have. On the flipside, the treatment is niche which is not a problem. But it’s not consistent – at some places, it seems like a documentary but in other scenes, like the one during interval, the film seems like a mainstream thriller. A few subplots are interesting individualistically but in the film, it doesn’t gel well with the principle story. Thankfully, the film has enough to impress and leave a mark. Performances are also exemplary. Ayushmann Khurrana is an apt choice. He has been seen in mostly quirky roles (even Andhadhun had some comic quotient) but here, he appears as a no-nonsense officer and is totally convincing. With this role, he proves that he’s an all-rounder and can do any kind of role. Manoj Pahwa is quite a shocker. Anubhav extracts the best from him – whether it’s Mulk or Article 15. Kumud Mishra is the surprise of the film. He gets to play such a wonderful part and he rocks the show in two of the most crucial scenes of the movie. Sayani Gupta proves yet again her worth. She has also sung the introductory song and that’s commendable. Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub is in his element. Ronjini Chakraborty gives a memorable performance. Other actors who are good are Aakash Dabhade, Isha Talwar, Nassar and the one playing Amla the maid. All in all, Article 15 is one of the best flicks of the year and here’s hoping audiences give it a chance!