bastar: the naxal story (hindi) Review
**Exploring Societal Issues: "Bastar: The Naxal Story"**
Director Sudipto Sen and producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah aim to shed light on another pressing societal issue with "Bastar: The Naxal Story," following the success of their previous film, "The Kerala Story." This time, their focus shifts to the Naxal insurgency in Chhattisgarh. While "Bastar" captivates audiences throughout, a deeper dive into the political landscape could have enriched the narrative, elevating it to a more compelling viewing experience. Drawing inspiration from real-life events and characters, the film blends fiction with reality, though its screenplay may lack some strength. Despite this, Sen's adept portrayal of events compensates for any shortcomings, though viewers should be prepared for moments that may be challenging to watch.
**Character-driven Narrative: Neerja Madhavan and Ratna's Stories**
At the heart of the story is Neerja Madhavan (played by Adah Sharma), an assertive IPS officer tasked with quelling the Naxal insurgency. The film unfolds in a courtroom setting, where government and Naxal representatives engage in a legal battle. Neerja employs Special Police Officers (SPOs) and the state-run militia, Salwa Judum, in her efforts to combat Naxal influence. Running parallel to Neerja's story is that of Ratna (portrayed by Indira Tiwari), a tribal woman seeking vengeance for her husband's brutal murder by the notorious Naxalite Lanka Reddy (played by Vijay Krishna). Ratna enrolls as an SPO to assist Neerja in her mission.
**Realism and Atmosphere: Authenticity and Setting**
The film incorporates characters inspired by real individuals, adding an element of intrigue for viewers familiar with the actual events. Its realistic tone is complemented by authentic locations, contributing to its gritty atmosphere that keeps audiences engaged. However, a notable oversight lies in the film's portrayal of central control hubs like Delhi and Raipur, which are pivotal in a narrative of this nature. While the film touches on these aspects, it merely scratches the surface, leaving room for deeper exploration. Additionally, while the film boasts impressive cinematography, the loud background music can be distracting.
**Impressive Performances: Stellar Cast**
Once again, Adah Sharma delivers a commanding performance, reminiscent of her previous work in "The Kerala Story." As Neerja Madhavan, she portrays a determined police officer unafraid to speak her mind, even in the presence of politicians. Indira Tiwari delivers a heartfelt performance as Ratna, embodying the resilience of a tribal woman seeking justice. Vijay Krishna's portrayal of Lanka Reddy exudes menace, while supporting cast members like Raima Sen, Shilpa Shukla, and Yashpal Sharma excel in their respective roles. "Bastar" stands as a gripping crime drama, offering moments that leave a lasting impact on viewers.
bastar: the naxal story (hindi) trailer
bastar: the naxal story (hindi) Detail
Watch bastar: the naxal story (hindi) Movie Now8.4