Some movies narrate a story, whereas some touch the nation’s wound and even reach your soul. ‘Dhurandhar’ is that ambitious film which belongs to the latter. It showcases the worlds of espionage, politics, and the underworld. But its real impact is shown when we get glimpses of actual raw footage on the big screens.
Cinema turns into a reality after seeing this footage. For a moment, the viewers are transported to another world, where they feel like witnessing history unfold before their very eyes. Several characters like IB Chief Ajay Sanyal, played by R Madhavan, stand out for being firm, calm and strategic. Amid the darkness shown in the film, his character assures the viewers that there are people silently working around the clock to protect the nation. Madhavan brilliantly maintains a powerful on-screen presence and brings trust and gravity to every frame.
On the other hand, Ranveer Singh as Hamza is like an explosive force in human form. His character is dangerous, broken, and willing to go to any length for his country. His transformation is truly impressive as he goes from an angry man to a weapon that infiltrates the enemy’s heart. He is truly the soul of the film. He brings an intense presence, especially in the second half, and theatre itself begins to feel like a battlefield.
Akshaye Khanna as Rehman Dacoit is the perfect amalgamation of dangerous calm and poisonous intelligence. Arjun Rampal, who played Major Iqbal, opens the next chapter of the conspiracy with spine-chilling acting. Meanwhile, Sanjay Dutt as the Jinn is a force to reckon with in this actioner. Sara Arjun’s character adds a much-needed emotional layer to the plot.
However, Dhurandhar’s true strength is its world-building and realism. It’s truly impeccable how the real footage is embedded into the narrative, showcasing that terrorism is not just a series of events but an ongoing war. From the 2001 Parliament attack to the 26/11 Taj Hotel attack, director Aditya Dhar has not just shown the footage but also threaded it into the plot like an emotional heartbeat.
When the scenes of gunshots during the Parliament attack and smoke-filled frames of the Taj Hotel come up on the big screen, it opens up wounds and heartbreaking memories. Therefore, the tension, plain and patriotism portrayed in Dhurandhar feel more authentic. It also results in every twist, every plan, and every threat feeling more real and intense.
Dhurandhar’s biggest strength lies in Aditya Dhar’s direction. He begins the film with grandeur but gradually shows politics, betrayal, and emotions as the film moves forward. Despite its lengthy duration, the film successfully maintains a steady flow, with each scene crafted with care. Several moments can also send shivers down your spine with their intensity and brutality.
Its background score elevates its story and evokes terror, fear and hope all at once. Especially in the footage sequences showcasing real images of terrorism, the background music ignites with raw intensity.
Dhurandhar makes it clear from the start that every decision comes with a heavy price as it dives into violence and pain. By the time the interval arrives, these emotions tie a knot in your throat. If the intensity in the first half was not enough, the second half goes even further with political manoeuvres, underworld power plays, and Hamza’s fearless operations.
Coming to production, Jyoti Deshpande, Lokesh Dhar, and Aditya Dhar with B62 Studios and Jio Studios have created a different world with complete authenticity, which also feels solid and vibrant.
Dhurandhar is not just a film but also a reminder of what India has gone through and how our heroes continue to fight. We have to wait for its sequel to know more about the world of Dhurandhar.
