Review:'Bastar:The Naxal Story' brings forth the stark realism of Naxalites led by Adah & Indira's great act

Last year, quite surprisingly, a film - 'The Kerala Story' created quite a havoc at the box office with its outstanding performance and critical acclaim despite its controversial nature and bold subject.   Now, a year later, the same team, led by director Sudipto Sen, producer Vipul Shah, and actress Adah Sharma, is back with another powerful film. This time, they delve into the true events unfolding in the Bastar region of Chattisgarh, shedding light on the dominance of Naxalism in the area. The movie portrays the terror inflicted by communist groups on the villagers and officials. After the success of 'The Kerala Story,' audiences have high hopes for this new venture. It remains to be seen whether the team can recreate their previous success.

Subject heavy and information dense narrative

Throughout the film, one thing shines bright: the wealth of information it delivers. Alongside its dramatic storytelling, the movie serves as a rich source of knowledge about its subject matter. It's heavy on facts and drives home its message with intensity, from the origins of Naxalism in Bastar to the intricate involvement of political leaders and the whole system and how the whole model of Maoism worked. Despite its 124-minute runtime, it manages to pack in all the essential information in a tight and concise manner. Given the seriousness and sensitivity of the subject, absorbing it all might be challenging and even distressing, but the pacing of the film keeps you engaged throughout.

Things that could be bothersome

The filmmakers have gone to great lengths to depict the harsh reality of life in Bastar and the terror inflicted by Naxalites in the region. However, in their portrayal, they haven't shied away from using graphic brutality, which may be too intense and disturbing for some viewers. The screen is filled with scenes of bodies being butchered left, right, and centre, people burned alive, and an overwhelming amount of bloodshed. The level of violence portrayed is almost unimaginable and can become unbearable to watch at times. Despite this, the film stays true to the harsh realities it aims to depict, or at least comes very close to it.

The Performances

The filmmakers seem to have tapped into Adah Sharma's full potential and utilized it brilliantly this time around. Playing the role of Neerja Madhavan, an IPS officer in Bastar, Sharma delivers a performance that is fierce, raw, and filled with conviction. Whether it's action sequences, gunfights, or moments of emotional turmoil, she executes them flawlessly, leaving a lasting impact. Indira Tiwari, portraying a villager, is equally impressive, effortlessly conveying every emotion with authenticity and strength. Supporting actors like Yashpal Sharma, Raima Sen, and Shilpa Shukla also shine in their respective roles, bringing depth and conviction to the characters they portray.

The Setting and Action

The cinematography breathes life into the narrative, capturing the dense forests of Bastar with stunning detail. From the rustic villages to the rugged landscapes, every aspect is depicted authentically, enhancing the filmmakers' vision. The action sequences, fights, and gun chases are all expertly directed, drawing viewers in even during the most disturbing moments. It forces you to confront the harsh reality portrayed on screen, leaving a lasting impact and prompting deep reflection.

The Verdict

"Bastar: The Naxal Story" unveils another somber chapter of our history, portrayed authentically by Sudipto Sen. The film is propelled by powerful performances from Adah Sharma and Indira Tiwari, who bring depth and intensity to their roles. As the narrative unfolds, it grips you with its raw emotion and stark realism.

Rating

***(3/5)stars

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