Emergency Movie Review: Kangana Ranaut’s masterstroke, a brilliant blend of power and politics

Kangana Ranaut's portrayal of Indira Gandhi is the film's beating heart of Emergency. The actress brings to life the iron-willed, enigmatic leader with astonishing depth.

Directed by: Kangana Ranaut
Cast: Kangana Ranaut, Anupam Kher, Shreyas Talpade, Vishak Nair, Mahima Chaudhry, Milind Soman, Satish Kaushik

Rating : 3.5 out of 5

Kangana Ranaut’s Emergency is a monumental cinematic achievement that brings to the forefront one of the most controversial chapters in Indian political history—the Emergency period of 1975-77. As both the director and lead actress, Kangana fearlessly takes on the complex figure of Indira Gandhi, offering a film that is as much a historical recount as it is a deeply personal exploration of power, ambition, and moral compromise. It’s a compelling, high-stakes political drama that leaves viewers not only reflecting on the past but also questioning the nature of authority and democracy.

Kangana Ranaut’s portrayal of Indira Gandhi is the film's beating heart. The actress brings to life the iron-willed, enigmatic leader with astonishing depth. While many films might lean into glorification or vilification, Emergency succeeds in presenting Gandhi as a multi-dimensional figure. Ranaut’s performance is nothing short of extraordinary—she captures the steely resolve of the Prime Minister while also laying bare her vulnerabilities. Gandhi’s struggles, her relationships, her manipulation of power, and the immense personal cost of her decisions are all reflected in Ranaut's nuanced portrayal.

Her Gandhi is not a caricature of authority, but a human being, driven by ambition, a sense of duty, and at times, desperation. Whether she is in the midst of a political confrontation or alone, grappling with the fallout of her actions, Ranaut’s range is on full display. The actress doesn’t merely play Gandhi—she becomes her, giving a performance that is both chilling and empathetic.

At its core, Emergency is a character-driven drama, intricately weaving personal and political conflicts. The 21 months of Emergency, during which civil liberties were suspended and democracy silenced, serve as the emotional core of the film. Through the eyes of Indira Gandhi, we experience not just the political turmoil of the time but also the heavy toll it took on those closest to her, including her son Sanjay Gandhi (played by Vishak Nair).

Nair’s portrayal of Sanjay is a standout. He brings a unique blend of youthful energy and ruthless ambition to the role, making Sanjay a tragic figure, whose misguided decisions—like the controversial forced sterilization campaign—add another layer of complexity to the narrative. His dynamic with his mother is at the heart of the film, providing an emotional anchor as the two clash over power and ideology.

The film also delves into key events like the Bangladesh Liberation War, Operation Blue Star, and the rise of Khalistani separatism. However, it’s the personal and political fallout of the Emergency that remains the focal point, skillfully explored through its diverse cast. Anupam Kher’s portrayal of Jayaprakash Narayan, the leading opposition figure, brings a voice of resistance and moral clarity to the film, balancing Gandhi’s authoritarian leadership with the ideals of democracy.

Similarly, Satish Kaushik as Jagjivan Ram and Milind Soman as Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw contribute strong, grounded performances, embodying the political and military leadership of the time with subtlety and precision.

Kangana Ranaut’s direction is bold and assured. As a director, she demonstrates a deep understanding of the historical period and presents the events without sensationalism or bias. She doesn’t shy away from the darkness of this chapter in Indian history—whether it’s the brutality of the government’s crackdown on dissent or the personal cost of Gandhi’s authoritarian decisions. However, she also avoids turning the narrative into mere political commentary or propaganda. Instead, Emergency explores the multifaceted nature of power and governance, presenting its subject matter in a manner that is both thought-provoking and emotionally stirring.

Ranaut’s direction is confident and meticulous. Every scene is crafted with purpose, whether it’s capturing the political maneuverings in the corridors of power or the intimate, fraught moments between family members. The pacing of the film, while slow at times, allows for the development of its complex characters, while the tension steadily builds as the political landscape intensifies. The visual aesthetic of the film mirrors its tone—gritty, raw, and immersive—capturing the essence of 1970s India.

The ensemble cast in Emergency delivers exceptional performances, with each actor adding weight and depth to the narrative. Vishak Nair’s Sanjay Gandhi is particularly compelling, infusing the role with both an energetic drive and a palpable sense of tragedy. He becomes the film’s secondary protagonist, one whose decisions reverberate throughout the storyline.

Anupam Kher’s portrayal of Jayaprakash Narayan is steady and rooted in moral clarity, a perfect counterpoint to Gandhi’s complex leadership. Mahima Chaudhry, playing Indira’s confidante Pupul Jayakar, provides a delicate balance, embodying the empathy and quiet strength that formed the backbone of Indira’s support system. Satish Kaushik’s portrayal of Jagjivan Ram and Milind Soman’s performance as Sam Manekshaw add significant gravitas, offering a diverse range of perspectives on the political landscape.

Emergency excels in its visual storytelling. The cinematography beautifully captures the essence of the 1970s, from the bustling streets of Delhi to the tense, high-stakes political arenas. The period details, from the cars to the costumes, are meticulously crafted, making the era feel alive and tangible. The lighting, especially in moments of political confrontation, amplifies the emotional intensity, contributing to the film’s overall sense of urgency.

The film’s soundtrack is integral to its emotional impact. Tracks like Singhasan Khali Karo and Sarkar Ko Salaam Hai not only heighten the drama but also underscore the political commentary, adding layers of meaning to the narrative. The background score complements the film’s tense atmosphere, making the stakes feel even higher as the story unfolds.

Emergency is a cinematic triumph—an ambitious, thoughtful, and emotionally charged film that explores a defining moment in India’s political history. Kangana Ranaut’s direction is impeccable, and her performance as Indira Gandhi is a career-defining achievement. The film doesn’t shy away from the complexities of the era, offering a multifaceted portrayal of power, governance, and the personal costs of leadership. With a stellar ensemble cast, stunning visuals, and a captivating score, Emergency is a must-watch for those interested in Indian politics, history, and the intricate dynamics of power.