When justice falters and corruption reigns, vigilantes often emerge to turn the tide. Directed by Rensil D’Silva, this vigilante drama stars Emraan Hashmi, Kangana Ranaut, Randeep Hooda, and Sanjay Dutt in a gripping tale of rebellion and social awakening. Set in the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, the film delves into the frustration of the common man with systemic corruption and red tape. As a thriller with a socio-political undertone, it offers a blend of action, drama, and subtle humor, painting a picture of urban angst against the backdrop of a city that never sleeps.
The story revolves around a group of four friends—Nikhil, Abhay, Maya, and Kalim—who band together to form a secret vigilante group called “Ungli.” Disillusioned by the endless cycles of injustice and bureaucratic inefficiency, they decide to take matters into their own hands. Their mission? To expose corruption and bring those in power to justice through unconventional, often audacious methods. However, their righteous rebellion puts them in the crosshairs of the system, particularly ACP Kale, a sharp and determined officer tasked with bringing the group to justice. The narrative unfolds through a series of bold acts by the group, interspersed with the emotional dilemmas that arise when their ideals clash with the harsh realities of their crusade.
One of the film’s strongest assets is its ensemble cast. Randeep Hooda, as the brooding yet charismatic Nikhil, anchors the group with a performance that is equal parts intensity and vulnerability. Emraan Hashmi shines as ACP Kale, bringing his signature charm to a character torn between duty and empathy. Kangana Ranaut, though underutilized, delivers a subtle performance as Maya, the group’s moral compass. The camaraderie among the friends feels organic, and their interactions provide some of the film’s lighter moments amidst the intense narrative. Sanjay Dutt, in a supporting role, adds gravitas to the story, although his character could have been better developed.
The direction by Rensil D’Silva is competent, particularly in how he handles the transition between the film’s lighter, humorous elements and its darker, more serious tones. The concept of using vigilante justice to tackle systemic issues is handled with a mix of realism and flair, making the story both relatable and engaging. However, the screenplay occasionally falters, with some scenes feeling formulaic and predictable. The editing, too, could have been tighter, as certain sequences drag, slightly diluting the film’s overall impact.
Visually, the film benefits from some striking cinematography by Hemant Chaturvedi. The city of Mumbai is captured in all its gritty, chaotic glory, serving as both a character and a backdrop to the unfolding drama. Night scenes, in particular, are well-shot, with the interplay of shadows and neon lights adding a noir-like aesthetic to the vigilante missions. The action sequences, though not groundbreaking, are slick and effectively staged, with just enough adrenaline to keep viewers invested.
Music plays a crucial role in adding energy to the film. Tracks like “Dance Basanti,” featuring Shraddha Kapoor in a vibrant cameo, infuse a sense of fun and celebration, while the background score accentuates the tension in key moments. The soundtrack, composed by Salim-Sulaiman, Sachin-Jigar, and others, is a mixed bag—some songs are memorable, while others feel like filler. Nevertheless, the music complements the film’s overall vibe, providing a balance between its serious and lighthearted moments.
Thematically, the film tackles pertinent issues like corruption, inefficiency, and the lack of accountability in public systems. While its exploration of these themes is commendable, the execution sometimes lacks depth, with the narrative opting for dramatized solutions over nuanced storytelling. The vigilante methods, while entertaining, often feel overly simplistic, and the moral questions they raise are left unanswered. However, the film’s core message—that ordinary citizens can and should demand better from those in power—resonates strongly and is likely to strike a chord with audiences.
Costume design and production values are functional rather than flashy, in line with the film’s grounded tone. The vigilantes’ outfits and the staging of their missions are kept realistic, avoiding the trappings of a high-budget superhero film. This approach lends authenticity to the story, making it more relatable for viewers who might see themselves in the characters’ frustrations and aspirations.
Despite its merits, the film is not without flaws. The pacing is inconsistent, with the first half building momentum effectively but the second half meandering at times. Some subplots, such as Maya’s backstory, feel underdeveloped, leaving certain characters without a full arc. Additionally, while the film aims to critique systemic corruption, it does so in a manner that sometimes feels superficial, missing the opportunity for a deeper exploration of the issues at hand.
Overall, this movie is an engaging, if imperfect, attempt at blending social commentary with mainstream entertainment. Its strong performances, compelling premise, and stylish execution make it worth a watch, even if its storytelling occasionally stumbles. Recommended for fans of vigilante dramas and socially conscious thrillers, it’s a film that entertains while encouraging reflection on the need for accountability and justice in an imperfect world. If you’re looking for a film with heart, humor, and a dash of rebellion, this one’s worth pointing a finger—or rather, an “ungli”—at.
