Emergency Movie Review: Kangana Ranaut shines in this riveting tale of power and leadership

Kangana Ranaut starrer Emergency, also written and directed by her, has released in theatres today. But does this political biopic based on the life and times of Indira Gandhi deserve your time and attention? Read our movie review to know.

Kangana Ranaut is back on the big screen with a film that is written and directed by her. Under her production house Manikarnika Films, Emergency presents Kangana Ranaut as Indira Gandhi in a historical biopic. The film also boasts of a very interesting ensemble cast including names like Anupam Kher, Shreyas Talpade, Vishak Nair, Mahima Chaudhry, Milind Soman, the late Satish Kaushik amongst others. The film is not the only release in theatres this week. Newcomers Aaman Devgan and Rasha Thadani’s Azaad, also starring Ajay Devgn, has released in theatres as well. After Thalaivi in 2021, where she played actress turned politician Jayalalitha, Kangana once again portrays a strong female politician. But does Emergency deserve your time and attention? Read our movie review before making the decision.

What’s Emergency all about?

Emergency is a captivating film that delves into the life and times of Indira Gandhi. It begins with her childhood, where her grandfather planted the seeds of power in her heart and mind. The film follows her journey into politics, culminating in her historic rise as India's first female Prime Minister in 1966. It also explores her controversial decision to impose Emergency in 1975 and her order for Operation Blue Star, events that ultimately led to her tragic assassination by her own security personnel.

Movie Review: Emergency

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

Director: Kangana Ranaut

Emergency Release date: January 17, 2025 (in theatres)

Rating : 3 out of 5

Watch Emergency trailer below:

What’s Hot

Films about politics, politicians, or historical events are often told through a particular lens, and Emergency is no exception. While the narrative and portrayal of political figures and events may appear biased at times, Kangana strives for balance, offering a compelling look at the complexities of power and leadership. As with all films starring Kangana Ranaut, even if the storyline has its shortcomings, her exceptional performance elevates the film. Indira Gandhi was a formidable woman with a tough exterior, yet she had her vulnerabilities. Known as the Iron Lady, a term coined by Lord Henry Kissinger, she was also referred to as the "goongi gudiya" (mute doll). Kangana convincingly embodies this duality with her confident and effortless demeanor, making her performance a delight to watch.

Regardless of your political views, the story, penned by Kangana herself, is engaging and attempts to showcase the multifaceted nature of a politician in power. The film's grand scale matches the powerful narrative it seeks to tell, further enhanced by a complementary background score. The ensemble cast is thoughtfully selected, with each actor bringing their best to the screen. This film marks the final appearance of the late actor and filmmaker Satish Kaushik, who plays the pivotal role of Jagjeevan Ram. Anupam Kher effortlessly portrays J P Narayan, while Shreyas Talpade convincingly embodies a young Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Mahima Chaudhry seamlessly transitions into the role of Pupul Jayakar, Indira’s close friend and cultural activist, leaving us wishing to see more of her in future projects. Darshan Pandya delivers a masterclass in subtle acting as RK Dhawan, Indira’s close aide and personal secretary. Vishak Nair breathes life into the character of Sanjay Gandhi with his nuanced performance.

Milind Soman looks the part as Sam Manekshaw, but after watching Vicky Kaushal in Sam Bahadur, it's hard to imagine anyone else fitting the role of the brave Army general as perfectly.

What’s Not

There is a fine line between imitation and mimicry, and some characters occasionally crossed into the latter. For instance, Kangana Ranaut has meticulously worked on her appearance and demeanor, adapting Indira Gandhi’s mannerisms, distinct voice, and characteristic facial expressions. However, in some scenes, her efforts appeared exaggerated. The same can be said for Shreyas Talpade.

While the story delves into Indira Gandhi's relationship with her son Sanjay Gandhi and how his decisions impacted her image and tenure as Prime Minister, it leaves her bond with Rajiv Gandhi, who succeeded her as Prime Minister after her assassination, unexplored. The film does not include even a single scene depicting Rajiv's interest in politics or any discussions he might have had with his mother on the subject.

BL Verdict

Emergency is a compelling film about one of India's most fearless and prominent Prime Ministers, who was both loved and hated in equal measure. I highly recommend watching it purely for entertainment.