Emergency Movie Review: Kangana Ranaut’s bold and nuanced vision of power and politics

Rating: 3.5

Kangana Ranaut’s Emergency is an audacious and striking cinematic venture that ventures into one of India’s most tumultuous political episodes—the 1975-77 Emergency period, under the leadership of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. As both the director and lead actress, Kangana not only brings a powerful historical drama to life but also captures the layered complexities of a woman at the center of India's political storm. Emergency is not merely a film about power; it is an exploration of the human beings who wield it, the personal costs, and the moral compromises that shape their legacies.

At the heart of this riveting drama is Kangana Ranaut’s commanding portrayal of Indira Gandhi. This is not the portrayal of an unapproachable political figure, but a fully realized human being. Kangana immerses herself into Gandhi’s persona, portraying both her iron resolve and emotional vulnerability. The film captures the contradictions that defined Gandhi’s reign—her unyielding leadership juxtaposed against the personal turmoil she grappled with. Whether in the heat of political maneuvering or during intimate, reflective moments, Kangana brings depth and nuance to the role, offering a portrayal that is as chilling as it is empathetic.

What sets Emergency apart from other political biopics is its refusal to offer a one-sided narrative. Instead of glorifying or demonizing its protagonist, the film presents Indira Gandhi as a complex figure, whose decisions were shaped by ambition, survival, and, at times, desperation. Kangana’s portrayal anchors the narrative, making Gandhi not just a subject of historical curiosity but a character whose internal struggles and burdens are palpable throughout the film. The result is a layered performance that elevates the entire film, making it not just an examination of political history, but an exploration of the cost of wielding unchecked power.

The film doesn’t just focus on the larger political upheavals of the Emergency—such as the suppression of civil liberties, the Bangladesh Liberation War, and the rise of Khalistani separatism—but also zooms in on the personal dynamics within Gandhi’s circle. A standout in the film is Vishak Nair’s portrayal of Sanjay Gandhi, Indira’s son, whose controversial actions, including the forced sterilization campaigns, add a tragic and morally charged element to the narrative. His relationship with his mother becomes the emotional nucleus of the story, with both characters locked in a power struggle that defines the course of the film.

The ensemble cast is superb, with Anupam Kher as Jayaprakash Narayan providing a moral counterpoint to Gandhi’s authoritarian rule. His performance as the relentless opposition leader balances the film’s portrayal of political ideals, as does Satish Kaushik’s portrayal of Jagjivan Ram, a man of integrity navigating a corrupt political landscape. Milind Soman as Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw adds depth to the military perspective of the time, and Mahima Chaudhry’s nuanced portrayal of Gandhi’s confidante, Pupul Jayakar, adds emotional richness to the otherwise tense political environment.

Kangana’s direction in Emergency is as bold as it is careful. She refuses to oversimplify or push an overt political agenda, instead offering a multi-faceted examination of power and its consequences. The pacing of the film, while deliberate, allows for a deep dive into the motivations of the characters. The visual style—dark, moody, and immersive—complements the film’s heavy themes. The cinematography captures the gritty essence of 1970s India, from the crowded streets of Delhi to the solemn corridors of power, effectively transporting the audience to a bygone era.

The film’s soundtrack further enriches the narrative, with songs like Singhasan Khali Karo and Sarkar Ko Salaam Hai serving as both thematic motifs and anthems of the socio-political unrest of the time. The background score amplifies the tense atmosphere, helping to underscore the rising stakes and emotional depth of the story.

Emergency is not merely a history lesson; it is a cinematic experience that challenges the viewer to reflect on the nature of political power, the moral cost of leadership, and the balance between democracy and authoritarianism. Kangana Ranaut’s direction and performance stand as the pillars that elevate this ambitious project. The film’s impeccable ensemble cast, evocative visuals, and stirring soundtrack make it a must-watch for anyone interested in the complexities of political history, human nature, and the turbulent dynamics of governance.

As a director, Kangana has proven herself to be as formidable behind the camera as she is in front of it. Emergency is not just a film—it is a powerful, thought-provoking commentary on the price of power, the limits of authority, and the personal consequences that shape political legacies. This film leaves a lasting impact, reminding us that in the realm of politics, the line between right and wrong is often blurred by personal ambition and the weight of leadership.