New Delhi: Several films have been made on Naxalism and Naxalites. They explore various aspects and narratives. After 'The Kerala Story,' Vipul Shah brings us a narrative on Naxalism. Watching Vipul Shah's film requires courage, both for what it portrays and how it portrays it. Those with weaker hearts may struggle to sit through this film. Such films are often labeled as having an agenda or being propaganda. However, Vipul Shah, the producer, has stated on ABP News that he is ready to debate with anyone willing to question the film's research and facts. Let's review this film from a craft perspective.
Story
'Bastar: The Naxal Story' delves into the heart of Bastar and the spread of Naxalism there. The film vividly depicts the horrifying attacks by Naxalites in Bastar. In one such incident, Maoist terrorists attacked a CRPF camp in Bastar, resulting in the deaths of 76 soldiers. But the story goes deeper. The film shows how Naxalites have established their own authority there, wreaking havoc on the lives of the locals. IPS Officer Neeraja Madhvan (Adah Sharma) takes on the Naxalites, battling against the system of the country. This narrative unfolds on the screen in a chilling manner.
How is the film
In a nutshell, this film is unsettling. There are scenes that make you want to shut your eyes. The portrayal of Naxalite terror shakes you to the core. You shudder. This film shakes you. It compels you to ponder upon the state of our country and the atrocities being committed. Some scenes are gut-wrenching. You feel repulsed. You may feel the urge to leave the theatre, but then you want to see how far this terror goes. Every now and then, a scene jolts you, shakes you, forces you to think. You feel anger, empathy, and sorrow. You experience a plethora of emotions.
Acting
Adah Sharma's performance, which was remarkable in 'The Kerala Story,' surpasses expectations here. Adah Sharma wins hearts yet again with her performance. She breathes life into IPS Neeraja Madhvan's character. Adah leaves an impact in every scene. A pregnant female officer never lets her enthusiasm and passion falter. You feel the anger in her eyes, the determination in her body language. It doesn't seem like acting; it feels like she's living this character and has experienced this pain in real life. Additionally, supporting actors like Shilpa Shukla, Raima Sen, Yashpal Sharma, and others have also delivered commendable performances.
Direction
Director Sudipto Sen claims to have researched this film since childhood, having witnessed these events firsthand. Watching the film, you can feel this. It's astonishing how a director can depict terror in such cruel ways. Sudipto's grip on the film is strong. There are no loose ends; every now and then, you're taken aback. This is the director's success.
This team previously brought us 'The Kerala Story,' which sparked a lot of debate. Similarly, this film should also stir debate because there will be a large audience unfamiliar with these events, eager to know the truth and question the research behind it. Vipul Shah deserves credit for investing in such films. Bringing forth such stories requires courage that few filmmakers possess.
Overall, the film is outstanding and should be watched. And after watching it, one should ask the questions it provokes.