Mardaani

wogma rating: Watch but no rush (?)

quick review:

A slick even if not taut thriller more than a film that keeps the social issue it is about in your mind after you walk out.

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Director: Pradeep Sarkar
Running time: 110 minutes
Genres: Action, Social
More Movie Info

Mardaani - Preview

It is always exciting to see a film take on a social cause. It is difficult to make a good movie out of it, because we expect solutions from the movie and more often than not, the movie offers simplified solutions which can hardly every be taken seriously in real life. Even so, it is better than watching a theme that has been beaten down to death by repetition. In that sense, I am looking forward to Mardaani.

Only to be reminded the disaster that Laaga Chunari Mein Daag was - same director, same actor, same production house. Yet, I like Rani Mukherjee take on different topics.

Also, from the trailer, there seems to have been some work done in developing characters rather than just taking on an issue that has potential to titillate. The villain seems to be a compelling threat, which is a rare find in Hindi cinema. Rani Mukherjee's character seems to be taking this on as a challenge. A refreshing duel of equals, at least that's what it looks like.

One of those films that you can walk into with pretty much neutral expectations. Always good.

- meeta, a part of the audience

It is just so refreshing to watch a Hindi film that has not been lengthened by forcing in a romantic track and songs. I understand, that shouldn't be a reason to bump any film's rating up. Unfortunately for the film, that is one of the main things you come out with. NOT the social issue it is trying to create awareness about. Till the film starts getting preachy and goes into a monologue, Mardaani is a well-narrated story with all the elements in-sync. But, the last fifteen minutes is downhill towards any typical thriller.

That is not to say, that the action in the last bit is not engaging. It is in fact very slick and Rani Mukherjee moves smartly. But, a voiceover that explains how things worked out, is the biggest turn-off in a thriller. And it is a shame because till then Mardaani didn't have a single dull moment. It's not that the plot twists weren't forseeable. You could see, some of the biggest turning points in the story from a few minutes before they happened. But, since you are rooting for the right thing to happen, you don't mind the predictability.

The writing to a great extent keeps you intrigued by one means or the other. Even though, it has the usual trappings of a supercop film. Like, showing the cop's happy family for one and only one reason. And of course, there are loopholes or leaps of faith. On the other hand, there are other things the writing department takes head-on. The dialogue is witty, even if the way the abuses are delivered sound forced, for effect, rather than natural. But, other than that the lines bring a smile or make you smirk.

The lead characters are written reasonably well too. The topic of sexual trafficking is such that the audience is already rooting for the story. In addition, Mardaani's bad guy instills fear appropriately. Also, a rarity in Hindi films, you see and enjoy a vibrant chemistry between the protagonist and the antagonist. This with Shivani (Rani Mukherjee) and the villain (Tahir Bhasin) hardly being in the same physical space. Again, it's not too often when both the sides are equally smart, cool and unfazed.

Of course, this wouldn't have worked hadn't it been for Rani Mukherjee and Tahir Bhasin's performances. Though Rani Mukherjee starts out being loud, but you soon get used it, because the character is written that way. She's strong and has a fight in her. Always. It is commendable that there is not an ounce of glamor around Rani Mukherjee and she stays in character throughout.

My usual gripe with movies that address social issues is they make some characters (usually the main leads) representative of a larger group of people say, the youth or women or the common man. Which is not bad in itself, but the story slips in and out from being about the character and being symbolic of the said group. Mardaani saves itself from that trap for most of the film. It is telling you the story of this one lady officer who has taken it upon herself to get to the bad guy for a personal reason (to start with) and it moves on to being about a larger purpose. It is also refreshing that the film doesn't make much ado about it being women-centric. It sticks to the points of one - being a thriller and two - talking about trafficking. Sort-of neutralises the fact that a film with a woman at the center is ironically called, Mardaani.

Yes, child trafficking for sexual crimes needs awareness. Yes, more and more films need to be made on such issues. Yes, Mardaani is a decent film. Alas, the issue is not what you come out thinking about. I wonder if there were censor cuts that took away bits that were needed to get us more involved with those who suffered. But, meanwhile, this will do. And go give, Lakshmi a watch too. Note, I am not saying instead, I am saying both. Each has a different approach - only that one is worth a watch and the other ought to be watched.

- meeta, a part of the audience

33 reviewers(?) - 16 yays 16 so-so 1 nays

Warning: clicking on "full review" will take you to an external website that could contain spoilers.

Thumbs up, by Anna MM Vetticad, annavetticadgoes2themovies : ...I confess I had a rollicking good time seeing a woman grind her foot into a creep’s groin in a far more probable fashion. Mardaani strikes that delicate and hard-to-achieve balance between realism and entertainment. Very very nice, Mr Sarkar... full review

Thumbs up, by Naresh Kumar Deoshi, Apun Ka Choice : ...Thankfully, there aren’t any songs to steal your attention away from the cat-and-mouse game unraveling between the cop and the kingpin. The background score is considerate towards your eardrums, and the pace is brisk enough to keep you riveted throughout the running time. And yes, there’s also an interesting twist in the tale. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Baradwaj Rangan, Blogical Conclusion, The New Sunday Express : ...Sarkar brings it all in under two hours and still leaves us with the satisfaction of having watched a full-on commercial Hindi movie. He doesn’t shy away from the grime of it all. He even goes for the expletives. Between Singham and Shivani, there’s no question who’s got the bigger balls.... full review

Thumbs up, by Srishti Dixit , Bollywood Life : ...Mardaani is a narrative that leaves you rattled and perturbed, yet it gives you hope of a better tomorrow. If you like watching good content and good performances on screen, go for this one... full review

Thumbs up, Daily Bhaskar : ...Mardaani is a complete package. You will not mind spending your hard earned money on Mardaani. Thumbs up from us. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Krish Sripada, Desi Martini : ...A very real lady cop minus the usual Bollywood commercial crassness makes this a fine watch for those who love serious cinema ... full review

Thumbs up, by Johnson Thomas, Free Press Journal : ...Rani’s strong performance keeps the interest going, Tahir plays Walt with a resoluteness that is becoming and Artur Zurawski’s cine capture makes it all look edgy. Editor Sanjib Dutta adds to the interest with his swift edits. Pradeep Sarkar’s helming and Gopi Puthran’s script could have done with a little more sharpness though. Especially with that heavy melodrama at the final act…Even so, this is a good, solid and reasonably satisfying outing to aim for this weekend... full review

Thumbs up, by Martin D'Souza, Glamsham.com : ...Thankfully, MARDAANI [even though on the same subject] will have a bigger success, and a focus on child trafficking, thanks to Rani Mukerji and Pradeep Sarkar, and of course Tahir Raj Bhasin. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Rohit Khilnani, india today : ...Mardaani is not a usual Yashraj film but a good one to switch tracks and attempt something different. Filmmaker Pradeep Sarkar deserves a pat on his back for this one. He not just gets the best performances out of his cast but keeps his focus right making Mardaani a great watch.... full review

Thumbs up, Indicine : ...It will take a decent opening at the box office the marketing has been good and if the public likes grittiness of mardan iit will surely grow to be hit.... full review

Thumbs up, by Mohar Basu, koimoi : ...I am quite proud to say that the roaring lady rules the show in Mardaani and with aplomb. Despite the film not unraveling with as much wit and creativity as was expected of it, the movie is an attempt to alter the fare of commercial cinema, giving it a more real tinge. It might not be a brilliant film but it is a film that is better than good and must govern your attention for the theme it raises. It is a powerful film that seldom goes wrong and leaves by a message that must be heard. I am going with a generous 3.5/5 and a big shout out to Team Mardaani.... full review

Thumbs up, by Shakti Shetty, MiD DAY : ...Brevity is sorely missing as the film could have been shorter. But then, at a time when there's rampant violence against women, Mardaani gives a glimpse of what should ideally happen... full review

Thumbs up, by Joginder Tuteja, Movie Talkies : ...Pradeep Sarkar has to be complimented for his choice of supporting actors. Whether it is Vakil (Anil George - a Vijay Anand lookalike, and simply brilliant), the car dealer (Arijit Singh lookalike, again - very good), Tahir's sidekick, Rani's fellow cops, the Sikh cop from Delhi, the fixer, the Minister and of course the girl who plays Pyaari (Priyanka Sharma) - everyone is truly convincing... full review

Thumbs up, by Divya Solgama, MoviezADDA : ...Well, this movie has all the dum required for a good hard-hitting entertainer. The movie is thrilling, haunting, engaging and entertaining without even being preachy. 'Mardaani' is a mandatory watch for every female, who should be brave and bold just like the character of Rani Mukherjee along with every pervert man, who will never dare to use his animal instincts after watching this film. 'Mardaani' is the celebration of woman power for every woman who feels inferior in front of the opposite sex, and of course, every man who respects them and treats them equally. Ratings : 4/5 Now, enjoy reading Moviezadda.com on your Android Smartphone Bollywood Popular After Rihanna, it’s Kriti Sanon for River Island After Rihanna, it’s Kriti Sanon for River Island Shraddha Kapoor’s mystical eyes lands her a role in Haider Shraddha Kapoor’s mystical eyes lands her a role in Haider Parineeti Chopra is at home in Lucknow Parineeti Chopra is at home in Lucknow Vikram Bhatt uses same software from Avatar 3D in Creature 3D Vikram Bhatt uses same software from Avatar 3D in Creature 3D When Natwarlal met his Guru! When Natwarlal met his Guru! After Creature 3D, Bipasha to think twice before signing horror film After Creature 3D, Bipasha to think twice before signing horror film Tanishaa Mukerji makes a stylish appearance at LFW 2014 Tanishaa Mukerji makes a stylish appearance at LFW 2014 Sussanne and Mehr reveals truth on Hrithik’s divorce controversy Sussanne and Mehr reveals truth on Hrithik’s divorce controversy ... full review

Thumbs up, by ANUJ KUMAR, The Hindu : ...It is a vehicle designed for Rani and one accessed the film with the trepidation of watching a loud performance. She takes time to get into the groove but once she does, she regales with a measured performance. At places, the discerning might find that she is getting into good old theatrics where every emotion and line is spelt out and it becomes all the more obvious in the presence of a support cast — led by Tahir Bhasin as the mastermind of the racket — which doesn’t have to carry the baggage of the past but then it is mainstream film trying to reach out to as many as it could. The fact that for the most part it makes you forget it is the biggest victory for Mardaani... full review

Thumbs up, by Aparna Mudi, Zee News : ...If you are tired of the nonsensical action, and over-the-top drama, `Mardaani` is the film for you. The movie has the power to invoke thought and subjects you to question the ultimately ineffective candle light vigils that need to now metamorphose to a more powerful resistance to lawless cruelty and nip crime at its bud. ... full review

So-So, by Bobby Sing, Bobby Talks Cinema.com : ...So in the present avatar, it just remains an ok one time watch putting the much needed light on a burning and shameful truth of our sick social structure.... full review

So-So, by Taran Adarsh, Bollywood Hungama : ...On the whole, MARDAANI is relevant, powerful and inspiring with a top notch performance by Rani Mukerji. Worth a watch! ... full review

So-So, by Deepa Gahlot, cinemaah : ... Rani Mukerji is in terrific form, and even though the film has no depth, she doesn’t let her intensity falter. Why should a film about a woman who does her duty even be called Mardaani? It’s as if being janaani is somehow inferior.... full review

So-So, by Suparna Sharma , Deccan Chronicle : ...Mona Ambegaonkar has a brief but interesting role, and plays it with delightful confidence. Anil George, whom we first met in Miss Lovely, is a sparkling gem who needs a role that’s longer, more fleshed-out. ... full review

So-So, by Mohit Patil, Desi Martini : ...A taut thriller that's consistently watchable, if not memorable. ... full review

So-So, by Ameet Bhuvan, Desi Martini : ...Rani is in fine form, not the film entirely though ... full review

So-So, by Rachit Gupta, Filmfare : ...You can watch Mardaani for all the wrong reasons and feel underwhelmed. Don't watch it for Rani Mukerji trying to be a Salman Khan. She’s not. Don’t watch it for true grit or precise realism; this is still a dialogue driven entertainer. Don’t watch it for song and dance, there isn’t any. Watch it for thrills; watch it with a pro-feminist stance. And you could find the right perspective... full review

So-So, by Ravi Kandala, fullhyd.com : ...Mardaani is a disturbing film - we know we are saying it again, but please make a note before you venture out. Though the message is lost in the dramatic finale, the film will leave quite an impression on you. ... full review

So-So, by Rajiv Masand, IBN Live : ...Mardaani is not a perfect film, but it's better than many of the blockbusters Bollywood churns out regularly. It's a well-made commercial Hindi film - reasonably short and minus songs - that's trying to say something. For that I'm going with three out of five. Whatever else, you won't be bored. ... full review

So-So, by Vinayak Chakravorty, india today : ...Mardaani aims to work as a crime drama for the urban audience. It does, to a large extent. Sarkar needed to pump in a bit more of energy into his narrative to make things more interesting.... full review

So-So, by Nandini Ramnath, Live Mint : ...t’s efficient and watchable, but also cold and mechanical despite the sensationalism inherent in the material. Mukerji works hard and is far more convincing using brains than brawn, but Shivani is a dull cop whose obsession never yields any emotional pay-off. Bhasin plays Karan with eye-rolling insouciance, but the most effective villain is Anil George in a small and memorable part as the sleazy lawyer who operates the trafficking operation.... full review

So-So, by Saibal Chattarjee, NDTV : ... Because Shivani Shivaji Roy is not your average action ‘hero’, she might not appeal to Dabangg junkies. But for everyone else, Mardaani could be well worth a trip to the multiplex. ... full review

So-So, by Noyon Jyoti Parasara, Now Running.com : ...Having said that, irrespective of all it's cliches Mardaani serves well towards Rani's career graph. A definite watch if you are a Rani fan, Mardaani is just an above average revenge-action cop flick.... full review

So-So, by Sukanya Verma., Rediff : ...If only the script weighed more in intensity of thoughts than stagy heroics and simplistic resolutions, it could do a lot more for women in the film industry if not society in general. ... full review

So-So, by Sonia Chopra, Sify Movies : ...If we look past these blunders, we have an interesting film with an inspiring hero, a menacing villain that you personally want to thrash, and a story that touches your heart. All this, and Rani Mukerji! More reasons to watch, than not! ... full review

So-So, by TNN, Times of India : ...This movie could have continuous recall had the pace been racier. And if you could also buy into the emotional tracks between Shivani and her husband, her niece or her ward. Also, Rani is the only member of the cast with star value. The rest of the actors, including the English-speaking young goon, are inconsquential.... full review

Thumbs down, by Anupama Chopra, Hindustan Times : ...Which is a shame, because this could have been so much better. In the rating above, one star is for Rani who, like fine wine, is only getting better.... full review

123 tweeters(?) - 107 yays 3 so-so 13 nays

zuraida143: Mardaani - A must watch - Thriller - Action - Rani Mukharjee - So plumpy - So Adorable - Don't mess with an inspector - Crime Branch

Xivolkar: Mardaani. Do not miss this one. Go watch

vviwiii: Mardaani was awesome. Written to the point and good direction as well

varunvish87: #Mardaani, an amazing movie on a sensitive topic accentuated by an amazing performance by #RaniMukerji...#thumsup #kudos

vartika: Must watch Mardaani. What a fine performance by Rani Mukherjee! Very sad to hear about the child trafficking stats though

vaibhavconti: For the first time i would say that yes I'll love to watch a sequel of this movie #Mardaani

twitvinay: #mardani good one time watch movie

tanushcalala: Mardaani is such a great movie

TaariniNB: Hard hitting yet super filmy, I loved everything about #Mardaani. Rani's performance as Shivani Shivaji Roy is quite commendable. Go watch!

surabhitripathy: Mardaani - If you haven't seen it, go now! Kudos! Rani Mukerji. Kudos!

suneal: #Mardaani weather ur male r female it dsn't matter it’s a must watch film 4 every one. RATING: ★★★.75/5 full review https://t.co/a5S3Gd0KSO

sudhisinha: Recommends #mardaani!!!

sonika_sethi: #Mardaani a brave, hard hitting film bringing out the harsh reality of female trafficking.Wish people mustered #courage to tackle this issue

Solacezz: I kindly request @arunjaitley to watch #Mardaani & then claim rape is a small incident.It may be a movie but for sure reflects our society

Similattew: Thumps Up Mardaani... fantastic casting, and Simple story tellin... Just enugh to make a fantastic film.

shyamasounil: #Mardaani >>>>>>> loved the movie

shetesandesh: Superb acting by rani mukharji in #mardaani. Movie with perfect story nd dialogs..

Shanoozeing: Have a great day! Have a #mardaani day!

saptanshu: Mardaani is worth a watch....Rani Mukherjee rocked #mardaani

sanjupazare: mardaani movie is awesome.....

SanjayGokhale: You showed guts to come out with a message amid mindless entertainment. For that Rani Mukerjee, you're a Mardani.

samtweeterist: Mardaani rocks! Check it out. Awesome movie by YRF after a long time! Outstanding work by Rani - simply brilliant. @iiRani_Mukherjee @yrf

samirvirani: #Mardaani what a film ! What a powerful message and Rani wht a performance. More power to you !! #MustWatch @MardaaniTheFilm @yrf

salsasneha: Watched "Mardaani" last night & I really liked it! I thought it was a good movie:)

sagargala1234: Mardaani a good movie!!

sachinrai5988: Just watched Mardani... Awesome movie... Now, queen is back

sachinchatte: It has some manipulative scenes & CID like dialogues but Mardani is watchable because of an offbeat story and a fiery Rani Mukerjee.

SachikoSeth: #mardaani .. what a movie. !!

rutakoregupta: Watched #Mardaani. Surpassed my expectations. A good watch except for the Bollywoody ending and a few cheesy dialogues.

royalgunners: Loved Mardani... Superb Performance by Rani Mukherjee...

RKJ_muscat: Finally a decent bollywood movie #Mardaani

rkf_rumana: Loved Mardaani. Rani is so powerful!

RKalltheway: Watched Mardaani and absolutely loved it. Some of the scenes are brutal, but that's what makes it so impactful.

ritikarrao: Every Woman Should Watch Mardaani!!! #Respect Take A Bow Rani Mukherjee! Tahir Bhasin You Have Great Future Dude

rinku419: # RaniMukerjee's # Mardaani movie review: wrenching tale on child trafficking.Society needs such messaging & motivating film. #thumps_up

RazeenGutta: Mardaani was a powerful film, the emotions are felt and you can't blink at times. 7/10 @DereshinNaidoo @ronesh @VarshanSookhun @Ronesh

rajivvijayakar: #Mardaani is gripping and crisp. #RaniMukerji is superbly underplayed.Wish her character had not had a personal agenda though.Evil is evil.

rajeshbhatia04: 'Durga Shakti': The invincible power in each one of us. Loved the movie #mardaani

pudiharicharan: #Mardaani is not a great film, but Rani makes it a decent watch with her knockout performance. Tahir Bhasin was damn good. Go for it

PrincessHazel16: Watch mardaani!!! I can't tell u y..just watch it ..ull know!!! #Mardaani

preetiwavikar: Moved by #Mardani n #Rani's performance..!! People Plz Go & Watch..!! Its a must Watch..

pixiestarpu: #MARDAANI awsm movie! Rani Mukherjee's performance appreciable! Loved it! #aftercollege #movie #phoenix —... https://www.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=298108723705535&id=100005192288281

pinetrees57: #Mardaani Superb movie with a social message based on true incidents. See it!

pcs1818: अब मर्दो की छुट्टी हो गयी ...!!! http://nbt.in/micron/redirect.html?str=8bF0iY

PChopraNews: Here's why Rani's 'Mardaani' a must watch movie http://zipzip.it/?url=http://dlvr.it/6hVl8P

pankkajl: Every Woman & Man should watch #Mardaani - Fantastic Film. Donot under estimate or mess with a woman.

PankajBSharma: Must watch - movie - Mardani

Nirmalvys: Watched #Mardaani @yrf Studio..Just Fab Rani Nailed it #Superb

NirajBayla: Watched Mardani...quite a gud movie!! well done #RaniMukherji

nikkupikku: Finally some good women oriented movies have started coming up.. #Mardaani #MarryCom Way to go Bollywood

NikhilBapat1: Saw mardaani today!! Must say wat a power packed performance by rani chopra!! Way to go #Mardaani

nayantara_: Mardani was amazing. Fast paced. No unnecessary frills. Bad ass to the core. Watch watch!

namratapunjabi: #RaniMukerji is the hero of #Mardaani and she’s pitch perfect..

MrunalKhimji: Mardaani is a must watch! Kudos to @iRani_Mukherjee for her effortless and flawless acting:@yrf thanks for creating awareness #gowatchit

Mr_LonelySRKian: Mardaani dekho acha hai.

MovieAha: Nipesh Patel Review 4 out of 5 for #Mardaani must watch if u like story based movie @RaniMukerji_FC @ranimukherjee1 @yrf @iRani_Mukherjee

MissCandyFlaws: Watched Mardaani today. ★★★1/2 Personally, I loved the film. I don't think anyone in the film… http://instagram.com/p/sAeQL9m1Nc/

md_kareena: Wooohooo . Just saw #Mardaani .... Rani was totally the best choice for this role . Confident and so brave . Happy to have seen it

marinaadel456: Rani likes to surprise us with her different roles as in Black,Dil bole hadippa & of course #Mardaani, This one is Superb Well Done!

malikcfc: Mardaani is a bloody fine movie Good dialogues Great villian Even better storyline Rani mukharjee is back MUST WATCH

libre_huma: Mardaani is an Amazing movie

Lakhisarani: #mardani must watch movie juss came sometimes back from #pvr oberoi awsum movie it guys rani nd karan acting superb

kumshah: Awesome movie.... No dabang or singham theatrics.... Go n see #Mardaani... Pradeep Sarkaar n Rani Mukherjee are back with bang...

Kavi_Hardik: खूब लड़ी 'रानी' वो तो बॉलीवुड की 'मर्दानी' थी ! #Mardani

kanikabhatia14: When everything but the title is perfect. #Mardaani

JaJaffry: Mardani it's a greet movie .... Hands of Rani... Guy's must watch

itsmeshruti: What a superb movie #Mardaani is! @iRani_Mukherjee kudos for the most brilliant performance!

itsAtomghost: watched #mardaani ..very well acted and directed. Rani should do more films like this one. thumbs up!

ithekrookedking: Self defence clases must be given #MARDANI

iShivamBapat: #Mardaani ☆☆☆☆☆ #RaniMukherjee @yrf

insertindian: Mardaani - surprisingly good

iDabaang: Just watch this movie once ---> MARDAANI. all the Girls in movie hall were Shouting in joy and clapping all the time,Really well made movie.

Iam_PrinceVij: Mardaani is effective remark of Bollywood on sex trafficking, prostitution and drug mafia. It is one of the best... https://www.facebook.com/iamprincevij/posts/386381208182213

hpsumit: #Mardaani!!! Super film!! Loved Rani in this avatar..a very sensitive topic touched and well executed!!! Lol!!

harshida_kp: Honestly my mom is Madhuri Dixit fan but she loved #Mardaani more then #GulaabGang

gyanmehra: MARDANI short and crisp fast paced must watch ......thank you rani and pradeep sarkar .... you deserve a award

gunjangupta24: "Must Watch" #MARDAANI.. A real performance after long time...love u @RaniMukerji_FC

ForeverSleepyyy: #Mardaani , delivers a great message against child sex trafficking. Rani Mukharjee played her role very well! Great movie :)

forever_stonedd: Fyi .. Mardani is a must watch movie !

faria1109: "Mardaani is far better than the regular blockbusters BW churns out." THIS!

ExactlyThat: Watched Mardaani today. That's it. Watched it. Absolutely nothing to say.

DrAMSinghvi: पुरुष प्रधान बॉलीवुड में नयिकाप्रधान फिल्में शुद्ध हवा के झोंके का एहसास दिलाती हैं(context Mardani,Rani Mukherjee)

Delhiwriter: Loved #mardaani. Great job by the director and Rani Mukherjee.

chickoo_chirag: And its so good to see Rani Mukerji back with a role that does justice to her talent. #Mardaani

chait123: Just saw Mardaani! Really enjoyed it. (@ PVR Cinemas in Mumbai, Maharashtra) https://t.co/HbmUVRhiEJ

booksroundup: 'Mardaani' is not a great film, but Rani makes it a decent watch with her knockout performance. Tahir Bhasin... https://www.facebook.com/haricharan.pudipeddi/posts/10203223174198640

BollywoodROUTE: Review: #Mardaani is an intelligent and emotional thriller. @iRani_Mukherjee has nailed it. Mindblowing performance..Must watch. 4*/5*

bollywoodlight: #Mardaani has powerfull action punch. Story and Screenplay are very good. Best movie of Pradip Sarkar till date.. @yrf @iRani_Mukherjee

BishalLaskar: Mardani was must watch film 4 evry woman if each woman has find mardani inside her thn nobdy can do any bad thng with woman more power2woman

Binitagiri: Jus watchd "Mardaani" Wht a powerful film and msg .Super performances by all and Rani was par excellence. Go Girl power..

BhinderThind: Finally a meaningful movie #Mardaani

bhaumikshukla: #Mardaani a good movie. Rani did a good act. Overall a good package. My ratings 3/5

Beingdanish789: #Mardaani Must Watch:) RANI IS A FEMALE DABANGG;)

Awghad_hai: Watched Mardaani. This is Rani Mukerjee's best performance till date. Well executed. Not even a bit is irrelevant. Must watch movie. * * * *

asthasethi1972: Just saw MARDAANI,vry touching.I would suggest every1 2 make ur daughters watch the movie.Thanks @yrf @MardaaniTheFilm #Ranimukerjee

asmaanwar: Just saw #Mardaani, the best Indian movie I have seen in recent times. Sorry Kangna,#Rani is still the queen! @udaychopra #Childtrafficking

asim_a_k: #Mardani A very well made movie!

AnandaniDivya: #Mardaani! Go watchhh right nowww

AmitGDaga: #Mardaani gives you a lil disappointment in typical masala cinema category but gives you deep introspection and thinking about the subject

amit_043: Go watch Mardaani. Its a terrific film.

akv2012: The best movie of 2014 so far #Mardaani outstanding performance by queen(rani)

akshjjw: Rani Mukherjee is flawless in Mardaani. Always considered her one of the good actresses still around. Powerful movie. #MustWatch

Abhi_Chadha: #mardaani excellent movie.. it'll be shame if this one goes unwatched. Fast paced, meaningful and engaging. Rani is excellent.

aadishankar: #Mardaani a true dabanggg,real singham.....an amazing movie. Must watch.

22Sirasao: #Mardaani and then begins chess game(chase) between rani and tahir where both makes one move after other.overall worth a watch

_kartikshah: Saw Mardaani at YRS. Its an amazing film.. All must watch this movie. Kudos to the team and Mr. Pradeep Sarkar !!! http://twitter.com/_kartikshah/status/502828201500884992/photo/1

_JuhiShah: Unlike those masala khaakhi uniform movies, with only masala and no duty, #Mardaani RULES THIS TIME! It is a Sarkar movie B)

nishantkavi: Mardaani ★★★

IAyaanSRK: Kuch long movie dekh kar bigadte hai, to movie dekh ke kuch sudharte bhi hai, go n watch MARDANI 1time "She show u the power of MARDANI Girl

dheerajmalineni: Mardaani is a hard hittin of beat mvi ..diferent frm masala,comedies ..decent actin by rani mukerjee 1time watch 1st half goin on

silentlygnorant: A super cop story should if nothing else have pace.... This one is riding a bullock cart.... disappointment #Mardaani

sabyasachi462: Not impressed with the movie Mardani starring Rani Mukherjee, I think Kangana would have done better job in that role.

RJV4U: #Mardaani is a good movie...Rani Mukerji rocking performance...Bit slow but worth a watch

MSKawesomme: 'Mardaani' ... pathetic direction ... just pathetic ...

MehrotraAnubhav: मर्द को कभी दर्द नहीं होता , मगर "Mardaani" देखने बाद मर्द को सिरदर्द जरूर होता है!!

mayapillai: Melodrama much. #mardaani

kransg: #Mardaani is a boring movie with power packed #RaniMukerji...go n watch it for her

kew_gyan: Watched Mardani movie less than o k . Rani acting awesome.

girishbhatt13: Bhut dino ke baad free huva nd full masti with do gugliya mugliya...... but mardaani movie bekar thi :p https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=710285889062269

chupchap: #Mardani had potential. Story is alright, but very poorly directed

chicabeingme: So disappointed by Mardaani ! I guess they made a movie for the masses but so badly?! Such a loose plot.

aamir71: #mardaani is highly kiddish or to say very childish attempt some scenes stand out .I mean channel v #gumrah is better than this

_shahanuj_: Watched #Mardani . I think Abhishek Bachchan or Uday Copra would have played a better role than Rani Mukherji

4 readers - 2 yays 2 so-so 0 nays

Want to Watch, by guddu : Mardaani

Want to Watch, by Rachit Gupta : Looking forward...

Yay! Thumbs Up, by Anuj

Yay! Thumbs Up, by Fan

So-So, by Raj : View Tamil movie "Vidyum Munn" also...

So-So, by Suman

This page has additional observations, other than the ones noted in the main review.

Plot Summary

A cop takes on child-traffickers.

What Worked

  • The scene in which the girls are being assessed by their body. Creepy.
  • The dialogue between the villain and the cop, Shivani Shivaji Roy (Rani Mukherjee).
  • The scene in which the girls are auctioned. Humiliating.
  • Shivani's mute yet empowering husband.
  • The undisturbed villain having a breakdown.
  • "Ye India hai" scene. Irony and sarcasm at its best.

What did not

Note: This section simply lists the things that I did not like in this movie. This is not the overall impression about this movie. Please read the full review here

  • Singham is Bajirao Shivaji and Shivani is Shivaji Roy. Why?
  • When they made the effort of Rani Mukherjee wearing minimal make-up, why did she have to get up from deep sleep, be rushed to some place and be seen wearing fresh pink lipstick?
  • Shivani's monologue - when she explains what happened.
  • Shivani's monologue - the preachy one.

Parental Guidance:

  • Violence: Lots of action sequence. Nothing very gory, but fights nonetheless. Also, rape is alluded to.
  • Language: Free use of abusive language.
  • Nudity & Sexual content: Partial nudity.
  • Concept: A cop takes on child-traffickers.
  • General Look and Feel: Contemporary.

Detailed Ratings (out of 5):

Direction:
Story:
Lead Actors:
Character Artists:
Dialogues:
Screenplay:
Music Director:
Lyrics:

Mardaani - Cast, crew, links

Official Sites:
Producer:
Cinematography:
Background Score:
Action Choreography:
Costume Designer:
Running time:
110 minutes
Reviewer:
Language:
Country:
Genres:

Comments (15)

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Rachit

I am actually looking forward to this and Mary Kom more than Singham Returns and HNY! What is happening to me. Must be old age :-)

Anuj

As much as we speak of feminism and female liberation, the fact remains that the concept of a lady Singham is not exactly something very enterprising, especially with a yesteryear actress well past her prime. I'll be surprised if this one even gets an average occupancy.

@Rachit ha ha ha ha. With age, comes maturity :P

@Anuj As long as it gets the concept well, I am happy :D

I won't be spending my 200 bucks for this film, nowadays femminism means anti male chauvinism.

I take back my words after reading your review, will surely catch it on Sunday and share my opinion. Very articulated and eloquent review Meetu. :)

Loved your review. So happy to see that a film dealing with such an important issue will not sidelined as an art film which is what usually happens for many films.

Anuj

Well I did end up watching it. Its something like a Neeraj Pandey film with a Rohit Shetty like ending. Excellent concept that could have resulted in a brilliant film had it not been for a rather lame and predictable end. Nevertheless a movie that Bollywood fans must watch. As for Rani, this performance after No One Killed Jessica once again reiterates what we Bollywood fans have missed out on from an otherwise brilliant actress who was written off a tad too soon (perhaps because she's not a size zero bimbette who strips down to her undergarments at the drop of a hat). For me this is definitely Rani's career best after Black,Bunty aur Babli and NOKJ.

Anuj

On a casual note, the Maratha police force would be the happiest of the lot this August 2014 :D

Raj D.

Dear Meetu,
As I have worked with child trafficking group I would like to say this:

With Singham style commercial format and over-riding women empowerment jump-board, I would have liked Pradeep Sarkar to incorporate this aspect - 90% of first contact of child trafficking victim who initiate this trade is a women, and 99% of third contact is also a women. It would have given a balanced awareness!

Suman

Direction: 2
Story: 2
Lead Actors: 3
Character Artists: 2

Dialogues: 2
Screenplay: 2
Music Director: 1
Lyrics: 1

@Suman ouch!

@Raj D well, in a way they did here, didn't they? Might not be accurate %age wise, but even so.

Thank you @Elizabeth

Thanks @guddu. Did you watch it then?

Fan

@Meetu: the film is full of partial nudity, paedophelia, intercourse with minors, and what not. Please be very clear with parental guidance or else don't have that section.

Fan

@Meetu: I did like the film, and agree with you that many such films are necessary to increase awareness and more importantly action.

And this film probably has hardly shown any cruelty and pain that the victims have to go through.

But there are people like me who couldn't stomach any crime against children regardless of gender. I know that much worse things than this happens in reality. And I am willing to do anything to be a part of the solution. But I cannot bear to see in such graphic details such atrocities. A warning should be put up for audiences like me. Even news channels like BBC and CNN announce that graphic images are going to be shown to allow viewers to switch channels.

So yes, please make more such films to.awaken people. But at the same time please state it up front on what to expect.

@Fan Apologies. Will try to be more specific next time around.

Fan

Thanks.

Apologies are not necessary.

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