The much-anticipated historical drama *Emergency*, directed by and starring Kangana
Ranaut, hit theaters today, aiming to unravel the intricacies of one of India’s most
controversial political periods. Set during the Emergency imposed by then-Prime
Minister Indira Gandhi from 1975 to 1977, the film aspires to explore the tumultuous era
that left an indelible mark on Indian democracy. While the film shines in pockets, largely
due to Ranaut’s stellar performance, it falters in execution, often becoming a slide show
of events rather than a compelling narrative.
At the heart of the film is Kangana Ranaut’s portrayal of Indira Gandhi. With her
trademark intensity, she brings to life a character that is as polarizing as it is iconic.
From her carefully crafted mannerisms to her nasal twang, Ranaut immerses herself in
the role, delivering a performance that oscillates between restraint and commanding
presence. Her facial expressions speak volumes, capturing the calculated authority of
Gandhi while hinting at the vulnerability of a leader grappling with crises.
Supporting performances from Anupam Kher (as Jayaprakash Narayan) and Vishak
Nair (as Sanjay Gandhi) are notable, but their roles remain underdeveloped, serving
more as plot devices than fully realized characters. While their contributions add depth
to the story in parts, they fail to leave a lasting impact.
One of the most glaring issues is the film’s pacing.The inclusion of musical numbers,
while beautifully composed, feels jarring and out of place, disrupting the narrative flow.
The film’s tagline, “Indira is India,” underscores its intent to portray Gandhi as the
central figure of the era. However, this approach comes at the cost of nuance. The
complexities of the Emergency, including its far-reaching impact on the masses, are
overshadowed by the glorification of Gandhi’s persona. While the film briefly touches on
dissent and resistance, it rarely delves into the human stories that defined this period.
Visually, *Emergency* boasts impressive production design and cinematography,
capturing the aesthetics of the 1970s with meticulous detail. The costumes and settings
transport viewers to a bygone era, enhancing the film’s authenticity.
Ultimately, *Emergency* is a film that works in parts. Kangana Ranaut’s towering
performance as Indira Gandhi is undoubtedly its strongest asset, providing glimpses of
the leader’s complexities and contradictions. However, the film’s uneven storytelling and
lack of emotional depth make it a missed opportunity to truly explore one of India’s most
controversial political chapters.
For those intrigued by history and political drama, *Emergency* is worth watching for
Ranaut’s portrayal. But as a cinematic experience, it falls short of its ambitious premise,
leaving viewers longing for a more