After a hiatus of 14 months, Alia Bhatt makes her much-anticipated return to the silver screen with Jigra, a film directed by Vasan Bala that delves into the complexities of sibling relationships and the sacrifices that love demands. Set against the vibrant backdrops of Mumbai and Singapore, the film also marks the theatrical debut of Vedang Raina, who plays Alia's younger brother, Ankur Anand.

Jigra introduces us to Satya Anand, portrayed by Alia Bhatt, a young woman who has endured a challenging upbringing. The film opens on a serious note, showcasing the strong bond between young Satya and Ankur, only to shift dramatically when their father commits suicide. The narrative evolves, depicting the harsh realities they face while living in their uncle's home. Satya becomes more of a servant than a family member, highlighting the difficulties and challenges she must navigate.

As Ankur travels to Singapore with a cousin to pursue his dreams, the plot thickens. The devastating moment arrives when Ankur gets wrongfully convicted in a foreign land while trying to help his self-serving cousin. This pivotal event ignites a fierce determination within Satya, setting her on a path to become a real-life superhero—or as the film aptly refers to her, Bachchan.

In her quest to rescue her brother from the clutches of an unjust prison system, Satya is not alone. She finds allies in Muthu, played by Rahul Ravindran, and the lovable Mr. Bhatia, portrayed by Manoj Pahwa. Together, they embark on a dangerous mission to break into the prison, hoping to save those wrongfully imprisoned. However, they face a formidable adversary in the form of the Central Jail Commander, played by Vivek Gomber. The film's climax raises the question: will they succeed, or will their efforts lead to their demise?

Direction and Writing

Vasan Bala excels in crafting a strong narrative that keeps the audience engaged throughout the film. The screenplay, co-written with Debashish Irengbam, ensures that every scene adds depth to the story without leaving loose ends. While the first half establishes the characters and their motivations, it is the second half where the film truly shines, especially during the gripping prison break sequence. However, some casting decisions, particularly regarding Alia's age portrayal, might not resonate with audiences, as the bond between the characters could have been strengthened with a different choice for the elder sister role.

The film also delves into serious themes such as mental health, skillfully addressing Satya's childhood trauma as a significant part of her character development. Yet, some critics note that the portrayal of Satya’s aggressiveness feels somewhat stagnant throughout the film, failing to reflect her emotional evolution effectively.

Music

The soundtrack of Jigra stands out as one of its highlights. Songs like Phoolon Ka Taaron Ka and Sang Rakhna, featuring the soulful voices of Arijit Singh and Vedang Raina, evoke deep emotions and enhance the film's impact. The lyrics, crafted by Varun Grover, perfectly capture the film's tone. However, the absence of Diljit Dosanjh's Chal Kudiye from the soundtrack, even in the end credits, feels like a missed opportunity.

Acting

While Alia Bhatt brings her usual charm to the screen, some moments in her performance have been criticized. The impactful dialogue “Ab toh Bachchan banna padega”, which created buzz in the trailer, does not carry the same weight in the film. Her emotional scenes, particularly the jail visit with Ankur, lack the depth and expression necessary to resonate with audiences. However, her portrayal of Satya's silent victory in the climax is a standout moment, showcasing her character's emotional journey effectively.

Vedang Raina delivers a commendable performance as Ankur, although his character could have been more fleshed out rather than existing solely as Satya's younger brother. The supporting cast shines brightly, with Manoj Pahwa emerging as a fan-favorite, infusing warmth and heart into the film. Rahul Ravindran as Muthu is equally convincing, while Vivek Gomber captivates as the antagonistic jail commander, bringing a robust performance that adds tension to the narrative.

Verdict

Jigra is a poignant exploration of bravery, loyalty, and the sacrifices siblings make for one another. While Alia Bhatt's portrayal of sisterly love is touching, the film offers more than just thrilling action; it provokes thoughtful conversations about justice and resilience. Vasan Bala, known for his work in films like Raman Raghav and Monica O' My Darling, successfully creates a narrative that resonates deeply with audiences, evoking both tears and applause. Jigra is undoubtedly deserving of 3 stars, now playing in theaters.

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