Article 370 (2024) Review!!

Synopsis – After 2016 Kashmir unrest, local agent Zooni Haksar chosen for secret mission by Rajeshwari to end terrorism and conflict economy by abrogating Article 370 without bloodshed.

My Take – While the troubles in the valleys of Jammu and Kashmir has been the subject of many Hindi films before, particularly revolving around terrorism and Pakistan’s interference in causing dis-stability, this latest one tackles the contentious topic of Article 370 and its abrogation that happened just a few years ago.

An article that was in motion for an array of years and gave special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir until loopholes and tactics were discovered that led to an equal treatment and status for the state.

Produced by Aditya Dhar, best known for directing and writing military action film Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019), and directed by Aditya Suhas Jambhale, the film does it best to explain how the entire strategy was executed within its run time of 158 minutes.

And though it is, as expected, tuned to sing as a propaganda piece for the BJP government ahead of the general elections, however surprisingly, keeping aside its glorification of PM Narendra Modi, the film also manages to stand out as a compelling spy thriller, expertly woven in a script co-written by Aditya Dhar, Aditya Suhas Jambhale, Arjun Dhawan and Monal Thaakar that ably balances its sensitivity with dramatic flair.

Despite diving into political and social complications surrounding the abrogation of Article 370, it presents a narrative that is both engaging and exciting.

Yes, real-life incidents are referenced in the film, but anyone with sense would recognize how the world and characters portrayed here are largely fictional, especially the Kashmiris, who are either depicted as caricature villains or simply swooning with love for the Indian government.

Mostly importantly, in spite of treading on dangerous lines when it comes to the current political climate, it never forgets its primary job of entertaining with a well-crafted screenplay and sharp dialogue, which prompts us to question the status quo and reevaluate one of the most crucial chapters in India’s history.

Split into six chapters and set between 2015 and 2019, the story follows Zooni Haksar (Yami Gautam Dhar), an ID Field officer in Srinagar, who finds herself facing backlash when an unsanctioned operation lets to the death of a dreaded terrorist, with her senior reporting officer, Khawar Ali (Raj Arjun), transferring her to Delhi for disobeying his orders.

However, months later, Zooni finds herself contacted by Rajeshwari Swaminathan (Priyamani), Joint Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office to lead a team as a member of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and begin cracking down on the terrorism and corruption in the state, laying the groundwork to revoke Article 370 in the state of Jammu & Kashmir.

Teetered between an unabashed adoration of a particular brand of political power and a commitment to delivering an entertaining political drama, director Aditya Suhas Jambhale adopts a simple, yet intense narrative that untangles the complex Article 370 in a manner which makes it easy for everybody to understand, without making it look like a history and civics lesson.

While the first half is more about setting up the plot, the second half is filled with thrilling moments and top-notch action sequences. The decision to have actual action in the form of gunfire run parallel is a smart tool to adapt as whenever the political jargon and terminologies overwhelm.

Director Jambhale also assembles an effective music and background score team to assist the key moments in the film. Alongside the car chases, blasts and gunfights, there’s a valiant effort to make research and paperwork seem thrilling.

To the film’s credit, it imagines these key behind-the-scenes players as women. Refreshingly, these characters steer clear of the standard tropes of needing to juggle home and work, or being saddled with a romantic subplot.

Instead, director Jambhale films the two women as traditional male action heroes have been depicted in the genre, focusing on their grit and single-minded dedication to their job. The makers even hold themselves from doing the obvious i.e. bashing Pakistan or the Muslims which most films of these nature tend do.

However, a major problem with the film lies with its depiction of the Kashmiri politicians. They come across as more stereotypical villains rather than proper political personalities. In contrast to this, Modi and company are shown to be the only ones concerned about the welfare of the Kashmir state and its people. Which we all know is far from the fact. Also, the voices of an ordinary Kashmiri are barely heard, except for one old man who is only seen lamenting against the existing leadership in the valley.

Performance wise, Yami Gautam Dhar bring in an outstanding turn. Her portrayal performance keeps you invested in the narrative, as she navigates through the intricate web of alliances, betrayals, and personal sacrifices with remarkable finesse. She once again proves exceptional acting prowess and stands as a highlight of the film.

Also laudable alongside her is Priyamani, as an immaculately dressed senior bureaucrat in the PMO, at the heart of the momentous legislation. Despite not actually having ‘scene-stealing’ moments, her sheer presence, body language, posture, subtlety and ability to underplay so expertly is what has make the biggest splash.

Vaibhav Tatwawadi, Skand Sanjeev Thakur, Raj Arjun, Rajendra Zutshi and Divya Seth bring in commendable supporting turns. Arun Govil and Kiran Karmarkar, capable actors on their own, but are left with portraying shoddy and unbelievable avatars of PM Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah respectively. On the whole, ‘Article 370’ is a compelling political action thriller bolstered by strong performances and a solid screenplay.