From the moment Vasan Bala’s Jigra was first teased, there was a palpable sense of excitement online. The film, starring Alia Bhatt and Vedang Raina in lead roles, had been generating buzz for months, with fans eagerly anticipating its release. Now that it’s finally out in theaters, I’m thrilled to say that Jigra lives up to the hype. In an era where style often overshadows substance, this film offers a refreshingly balanced narrative that combines emotional depth with heart-pounding action.

I’ll admit, going into Jigra, I had some reservations. After seeing films like Animal, which leaned heavily into gratuitous violence with little regard for coherent plot, character development, or emotional engagement, I was worried Jigra might fall into the same trap. Fortunately, that’s not the case. While Jigra has its share of thrilling, intense action sequences, they are always in service of the story and never feel senseless or excessive. Vasan Bala has ensured that the action complements the narrative rather than overshadowing it.

At first glance, Jigra might seem like a typical prison escape thriller, with Alia Bhatt’s character leading the charge. However, beneath the surface, it’s much more than that. At its core, Jigra is an emotional story about the unbreakable bond between siblings. The film uses the prison escape plot as a backdrop to explore the lengths one would go to protect and stand up for a loved one. It’s a love letter to the special connection between a brother and sister, celebrating their loyalty, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to one another.

What truly sets Jigra apart is its ability to balance the high-octane action sequences with emotionally resonant moments. The action is thrilling and well-executed that keeps you on the edge of your seat. But what really elevates the film are the performances, especially by Alia Bhatt. Her portrayal of a determined sister willing to go to any extent for her brother is nothing short of remarkable. Bhatt brings a raw vulnerability to her character, making the audience deeply invested in her journey.

Vedang Raina, in his supporting role as the brother, delivers a grounded performance that complements Bhatt’s intensity. Together, their on-screen chemistry creates a believable and heartfelt sibling relationship that drives the film’s emotional core. Vasan Bala’s direction further amplifies this, ensuring that Jigra never loses sight of its emotional weight even amidst the tension and spectacle.

In a time when many films rely on surface-level thrills, Jigra shines as an example of how action and emotion can coexist harmoniously. It’s a film that not only entertains but leaves a lasting impact, tugging at the heartstrings of viewers.

P.S. My Letterboxd handle is @BhumikGrover.