Jigra, directed by Vasan Bala, is an adrenaline-pumping action thriller that packs an emotional punch. With a screenplay co-written by Debashish Irengbam, the film stars Alia Bhatt in a powerful role as Satya Anand, a woman on a relentless mission to save her brother, Ankur (played by Vedang Raina), from a foreign prison. What unfolds is a gripping tale of loyalty, sacrifice, and survival, making Jigra a standout in modern commercial cinema.
The story of Jigra pivots around familial bonds and the lengths one will go to protect their loved ones. Satya, a fierce and determined sister, finds herself in a high-stakes situation when Ankur is trapped in a seemingly inescapable foreign prison. Alia Bhatt, as Satya, delivers an outstanding performance that anchors the film. Her role demands not just emotional depth but also physical intensity, and she executes both with aplomb, making the audience root for her every step of the way.
The film’s antagonist, a sadistic jailor of Indian origin played by Vivek Gomber, adds a chilling layer to the story. Gomber embodies menace in a way that echoes the classic villains of yesteryear, adding tension and unpredictability to the plot. Manoj Pahwa, cast as a retired gangster whose son faces the death penalty in the same prison, delivers a nuanced performance, blending his characteristic humor with deep pathos. His unlikely alliance with Satya adds an intriguing dynamic to the story.
One of Jigra’s greatest strengths lies in its technical brilliance. The cinematography captures the grittiness of the action sequences, while the sound design amplifies the intensity of the scenes. The film avoids over-the-top “dishum-dishum” sequences, opting instead for more grounded and believable action. The fight scenes, particularly one in the jungle between Alia Bhatt and Rahul Ravindran’s character, are choreographed with precision and feel raw and real.
Beyond the action, the film is also a tribute to Amitabh Bachchan, as seen in the numerous references scattered throughout the narrative. From Satya watching Agneepath on a flight to Pahwa’s character listening to Zanjeer songs, these nods to Bachchan give the film an added layer of nostalgia and depth. Alia Bhatt’s character even declares, “I must become Bachchan,” embodying the essence of his cinematic persona—unrelenting in the face of adversity.
Vedang Raina delivers a vulnerable performance as Ankur, portraying the fear and confusion of a young man caught in circumstances beyond his control. Meanwhile, Rahul Ravindran shines in a smaller but significant role, adding to the overall ensemble’s strong performances.
Ultimately, Jigra is a film that thrives on its combination of heart and high-octane thrills. The emotional core—anchored by Satya’s undying love for her brother—drives the story forward, while the action keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. Bala’s direction ensures that the stakes feel real, the characters are relatable, and the tension never lets up. The jailbreak scene in the film’s climax is particularly noteworthy, capturing the chaos and desperation of the characters in a way that feels authentic.
With Jigra, Alia Bhatt proves once again why she is one of Bollywood’s most versatile actors. Her performance is nothing short of spectacular, and as a producer, she has backed a film that delivers on all fronts—action, emotion, and technical excellence.
Verdict: Watch Jigra for its intense performances, thrilling action, and a story that resonates on an emotional level. It’s a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, showcasing both Alia Bhatt’s star power and Vasan Bala’s directorial finesse.
Rating: ★★★★☆
