Article 15 is a gripping and intense crime drama that delves deep into the socio-political issues of caste-based discrimination in India. Directed by Anubhav Sinha, the film was released on June 28, 2019. With its hard-hitting narrative and thought-provoking themes, Article 15 quickly gained attention for its raw portrayal of real-life issues in rural India. The film is inspired by true events and offers a critique of the systemic corruption and injustice that plague the country’s law enforcement and political systems. With strong performances and a compelling storyline, Article 15 stands out as an impactful film that highlights the importance of fighting against inequality.
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2. Plot Summary
The movie follows Ayan Ranjan (played by Ayushmann Khurrana), a young and idealistic police officer who is assigned to a rural district in Uttar Pradesh. Upon his arrival, Ayan is faced with a shocking case involving the mysterious disappearance of two young girls from a lower-caste community. As he begins to investigate, he uncovers a web of corruption, brutality, and prejudice that extends to the highest levels of society. Ayan’s struggle to bring justice to the victims becomes a personal battle against the entrenched caste system and the corrupt police force. The film portrays his emotional journey, as he confronts his own biases and learns about the harsh realities of the world he’s now a part of. The story is a compelling mix of suspense, drama, and social commentary.
3. What’s Good?
There are several aspects of Article 15 that make it stand out as a remarkable film. First and foremost is the acting. Ayushmann Khurrana delivers a powerful performance as Ayan Ranjan, a man caught between his moral compass and the harsh realities of the system. His portrayal of a man struggling to do what’s right in an environment that’s systematically corrupt is nuanced and believable. Supporting actors like Nassar, Manoj Pahwa, and Kumud Mishra also deliver strong performances that add depth to the story.
The direction by Anubhav Sinha is another key strength. He skillfully brings out the tension and suspense in the narrative while ensuring that the social message remains the focal point of the story. The director’s ability to balance the crime thriller aspect with the social issues being addressed is commendable. The film does not shy away from uncomfortable truths, and this boldness adds to its impact.
The cinematography is also noteworthy. The film’s visuals are gritty and raw, perfectly complementing the dark themes of the story. The camera work effectively captures the rural setting, with shots of dusty roads, narrow lanes, and dilapidated buildings adding to the overall atmosphere of despair and corruption. The film’s music, composed by Anurag Saikia, is minimal but effective, with a haunting background score that enhances the tension and drama.
Finally, the writing deserves special mention. The dialogues are sharp and impactful, and the screenplay keeps the audience engaged throughout. The film’s pace is steady, and while it doesn’t rely on unnecessary thrills, it still manages to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
4. Strengths and Weaknesses
The film’s biggest strength lies in its social commentary. It takes on the issue of caste discrimination head-on, shedding light on the brutal realities faced by marginalized communities in India. The narrative is rooted in realism, and the characters feel genuine, which makes the story even more impactful. The film’s pacing is also well-balanced, never feeling rushed or drawn out.
However, there are a few weaknesses in the film. At times, the film’s tone can be overly bleak, which may be overwhelming for some viewers. While the story is compelling, there are moments when the narrative feels predictable, especially for those familiar with the themes of caste-based discrimination in India. The film could have explored certain characters and subplots in more depth, as some elements feel underdeveloped. Additionally, while the film’s approach to the issue is commendable, it may not be as accessible to all audiences, especially those unfamiliar with the socio-political context of rural India.
5. Target Audience
Article 15 is a film that will resonate with a wide range of audiences, especially those who enjoy socially relevant dramas and crime thrillers. It will appeal to viewers who are interested in films that address real-world issues, such as caste discrimination and systemic corruption. Fans of Ayushmann Khurrana’s work will find his performance compelling, while those who appreciate thought-provoking cinema will appreciate the film’s bold narrative. However, due to its serious and intense nature, it may not be suitable for younger viewers or those looking for light entertainment.
6. Box Office Details
Article 15 was produced on a budget of approximately ₹22 crore. Despite the film’s serious themes, it performed well at the box office, grossing a total of ₹65.25 crore worldwide. In India, the film’s opening weekend earnings were strong, with the movie grossing approximately ₹19.75 crore in its first three days. The film’s box office performance was a testament to its widespread appeal, as it garnered attention for both its social message and the performances of its cast.
The movie had a steady run in cinemas, with the following day-wise earnings in India:
- Day 1 (Friday): ₹4.75 crore
- Day 2 (Saturday): ₹6.50 crore
- Day 3 (Sunday): ₹8.50 crore
- Day 4 (Monday): ₹3.50 crore
- Day 5 (Tuesday): ₹2.75 crore
Overseas, the film did reasonably well, grossing around ₹6.5 crore in its first week. The film’s international earnings were bolstered by its appeal to audiences in regions with a significant Indian diaspora, particularly in the UK and the US.
7. Recommendation
Article 15 is a powerful and thought-provoking film that offers a stark portrayal of India’s caste-based issues. With its strong performances, sharp direction, and relevant social commentary, it’s a film that’s both engaging and impactful. If you enjoy films that tackle real-world issues with honesty and intensity, Article 15 is definitely worth watching.
Genres:
Crime, Drama, Thriller
Rating:
7.5/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Ayushmann Khurrana | Ayan Ranjan |
| Isha Talwar | Aditi |
| Sayani Gupta | Gaura |
| Kumud Mishra | Jatav |
| Manoj Pahwa | Bhramadatt |
| Nassar | Panicker |
| Ronjini Chakraborty | Dr. Malti Ram |
| Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub | Nishad |
| Ashish Verma | Mayank |
| Sushil Pandey | Nihal Singh |
| Shubrajyoti Bharat | Chandrabhan |
| Rajeev Singh | Party Host |
| Aakash Dabhade | Satyendra Rai |
| Sumbul Touqueer | Amali |
| Uday Vir Singh Yadav | Sukkha Singh |
| Naval Shukla | Mahant |
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Disclaimer: Some of the information on the article, including box office collection, cast, crew, and movie details, is sourced from IMDb. However, our reviews are based on our team's firsthand viewing experience and reflect our honest opinions about the movie.
