Alia Bhatt shines in Jigra, delivering a powerful performance supported by Vasan Bala’s gripping direction, Vedang Raina’s compelling presence, and an intense score by Achint Thakkar. Together, these elements create a film that is both thrilling and unforgettable.
Jigra Movie Review What Makes Jigra Stand Out
As a thriller, Jigra hits all the right notes. Vasan Bala, the director, skillfully maintains a tight grip on the pacing, making each moment count. The transition from the Indian setting to Hanshi Dao is seamless, without any jarring changes in tone or pace. The second half, however, does slightly slow down when Satya’s escape plan—devised with help from Bhatia (Manoj Pahwa) and Mithu (Rahul Ravindran)—faces multiple roadblocks. Some viewers might find it tricky to follow all the moving parts, but the script cleverly acknowledges this complexity through dialogue. At one point, Bhatia remarks about the plan’s difficulty, and Mithu responds, “This isn’t a masala film, it’s supposed to be complicated.” It’s a brilliant touch that both lightens the mood and highlights the film’s ambition.
A Gripping Plot Rooted in Emotion
In one pivotal moment, as the song I Got the Fire plays in the background, Satya (Alia Bhatt) plans her brother Ankur’s (Vedang Raina) escape from prison using fire as a metaphor for her determination. There’s even a clever nod to Amitabh Bachchan, hinting that if the iconic star can defeat a gang of thugs, then Alia’s petite frame can believably pull off some intense action scenes, too.
Jigra is highly self-aware and takes pride in being one of Hindi cinema’s best thrillers, balancing raw emotion with high-stakes action. At the heart of the story is Satya, an orphan who has raised her younger brother, Ankur, after losing their parents. Living with a wealthy but distant relative, she works as household staff while her brother, an engineer, comes up with a business proposal. Their uncle agrees to invest, but with the condition that his son will be a partner.
The siblings travel to Hanshi Dao (a fictional, North Korea-like country with strict laws—there’s even a point where Satya jokes that showing emotions like laughing or crying is punishable). While there, a speeding incident leads to their arrest, and drugs are discovered in Ankur’s cousin’s possession. Ankur is falsely accused, and in Hanshi Dao, the penalty for drug possession is death by electric execution. With only three months until his execution, Satya knows she must act fast. Without any legal support, she embarks on a desperate mission to save her brother, and the rest of the story is a thrilling ride of what she does next.
Aside from the action, the emotional depth between Satya and Ankur is profound. From the very beginning, their sibling bond tugs at your heartstrings, and as the stakes rise, the powerful performances push that emotional intensity even higher. Be prepared to shed a tear when you’re not on the edge of your seat.
Strong Performances That Leave a Mark
Now, let’s talk about the acting. Alia Bhatt once again proves that she’s a rare talent in Bollywood. Her performance, full of vulnerability and fierce determination, captivates as she fights against time to save her brother. Alia doesn’t just act—she immerses herself in the character’s desperation and courage. On top of that, she co-produced the film, showcasing her commitment to this project.
Her chemistry with Vedang Raina, who plays Ankur, is another highlight. Vedang brings a calm, accessible presence to the screen, complementing Alia’s intensity with a grounded performance. He’s a fresh face but definitely one to watch, as he balances looks and acting talent effortlessly.
Manoj Pahwa, often known for comedic roles, is a revelation in this film. His portrayal of Bhatia brings unexpected depth, and he immediately lights up the screen whenever he appears. Kudos to the filmmakers for not relegating him to comic relief; his character plays a crucial role in the plot.
Lastly, Achint Thakkar’s background score deserves special mention. It heightens every scene, keeping the tension high and emotions raw, making sure you’re fully immersed in the unfolding drama.
Final Thoughts: A Thriller That Delivers
Jigra is a well-crafted thriller that, while slightly predictable at times, never loses its grip on the audience. Satya’s unwavering courage—her ‘jigra’—makes you wish you had someone like her watching your back. Though the film has occasional lulls, the stellar performances and expert direction more than make up for them, leaving you satisfied and moved by the end.
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