User reviews

Devashish Makhija's third directorial venture, "Joram," unfolds as a masterfully crafted and refreshingly unconventional thriller. Unlike its counterparts, this film doesn't follow the predictable path of escalating tension; instead, it embraces an agonizing oppressiveness that sets it apart from the mainstream. The movie weaves together sizzling action, a lawless atmosphere, and vibrant locations with undeniable vigor and attention to detail.

In "Joram," Makhija skillfully juggles two narrative focuses - one centered around activism and the other delving into the gripping territories of survival and revenge. While both storylines contribute to the film's overall impact, one stands out as particularly compelling. Manoj Bajpayee's portrayal of Dasru is nothing short of fantastic, effortlessly capturing the character's desperation as a father fighting against the odds to ensure the safety of his child. Bajpayee not only convinces us of a father's vulnerability but also embodies the strength of a determined individual thrust into dire circumstances.

Makhija's storytelling prowess shines through as "Joram" seamlessly navigates between these dual narrative threads. The film's unique blend of elements - from intense action sequences to a lawless atmosphere and lively locations - creates a distinctive cinematic experience that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.

What truly distinguishes "Joram" is its willingness to explore unconventional themes within the thriller genre, offering a fresh perspective on activism and survival. The film strikes a perfect balance between these themes, delivering a thought-provoking narrative that transcends the typical boundaries of the genre.

In summary, "Joram: A Riveting Descent into Desperation and Retribution" is a testament to Devashish Makhija's directorial brilliance. With Manoj Bajpayee's exceptional performance, the film becomes a powerful exploration of desperation, survival, and the lengths a father will go to protect his child. This isn't just another thriller; it's a compelling journey that leaves an indelible mark on its audience, making "Joram" a must-watch for those seeking a unique cinematic experience.

Well made film. I Missed the film at Mumbai film festival but good to see it in theatres.

Good direction acting production and post. Must watch. The film used a good balance between loudness and silence which is rarely done in Bollywood movies.

Films like this should come from India and get international acclaim, hopefully more will come out.

Probably the story lies between fiction and documentary and in half an hour of watching I was immersed into the story and became a part of it. We can't say the things told in the film may have actually happened. Never know.

It must be watched on the big screen.

I went for this movie as I couldn't get the tickets for an another movie (so much for marketing a movie :) But what did we just watch!!!! This must be the best ever Indian movie I have ever seen ever. This is the kind of movie I was waiting for, from Bollywood. Have we come of age? This HAS to be watched in theatres. This is Panchayat meets Kill Bill. Such storyline, I am suddenly proud of Indian Cinema. An extremely sensitive subject of Naxals has been chosen here, and the government's lust for development, leading to rapid decimation of our forests, ecology and all the good things which nature ever gave us. The entire theatre was silent, eerie silent the entire movie, on the edge, goosebumps. This is first ever moment I have seen Indian public just sitting quietly, not moving because we were so moved internally, almost for about 5 minutes after the movie finished. So this is the next movie after GOW & Rang de Basanti, in my my Bollywood hall of fame. Anyways this will not be sent by India for Cannes/ Oscars, but some random garbage from Bhansali or Karan Johar, as usual and embarrassing themselves internationally. Anyways, so this movie has to be seen. Don't go with small kids as there is gore at a few places. Also, what sorcery is this - I see people saying great things about this movie in other reviews but giving less rating? They don't want others to watch this movie? My rating is 20/10. And this is coming from someone who is allergic to Bollywood.

Joram paints a tense picture of Dasru (Manoj Bajpai) on the run with his baby daughter post his wife's murder. Inspector Ratnakar (Mohd Zeeshan Ayub) pursues him relentlessly across Mumbai and Jharkhand.

Smita Tambe's portrayal as Phulo Karma seeking retribution is gripping. The film sheds light on farmers' struggles and the complexities of parenthood amid adversity.

With riveting performances, "Joram" becomes a raw portrayal of societal challenges. It's a rollercoaster ride of action, emotion, and social relevance, leaving a lasting impact.

I would advise people from all generation to watch this masterpiece in Cinema Halls only.

Devashish Makhija makes movies about people on the margins, compelled to switch on their survival mode in the face of great odds. His fourth feature 'Joram' reunites him with Manoj Bajpayee who was terrific as a retired low-level policeman in 'Bhonsle': here, the latter plays a tribal on the run, keeping at bay inimical forces from within his own people, as well as those who are hunting him from the outside. Is there anyone left on his side?

From the bucolic and tranquil forests of Jharkhand to a cacophonous and bustling urban jungle, the forced transition that Dasru Kerketta (Manoj Bajpayee) and his wife Vaano (Tannishtha Chatterjee in a special appearance) make in Joram, an immersive and disturbing man-on-the-run drama written and directed by Devashish Makhija, is excruciatingly and expectedly painful.

Joram is a gritty tale that will stay with you for a long time. Although it strays from being a survival drama as the socio-political facet overpowers the narrative, it's a must-watch for its intense storytelling and performances. The poignant movie will also make you think about what we are doing to Mother Nature in the name of development and progress. It deserves to be watched on the big screen.

I am truly thankful to the writer, director, and actors who take bold steps to create such layered cinema. Despite commercial cinema dominating the indie movie box-office, a film like that is still searching for its place, almost as if it's tucked away in a corner of a large multiplex.

In today's time, there are fewer movies being made that can truly resonate with people and compel them to ponder, forcing them to realize that this is the same society that separates humanity from humaneness.

The movie "Joram" beautifully portrayed all characters in their roles. We don't perceive Dasru as Manoj Bajpayee we see him solely as Dasru. Similarly, Smita Tambe played magnificently as Phulo Karma, and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub portrayed Ratnakar with brilliance.

Overall, it's a creative concept which is beautifully written and directed by Devashish Makhija.

The plot ends within 30 minutes of the movie. Rest is just running sequences for an hour. I never sleeps in movies, but this movie made me sleep at 8pm before dinner itself. Please don't watch it, and don't go by these fake ratings.

The plot ends within 30 minutes of the movie. Rest is just running sequences for an hour. I never sleeps in movies, but this movie made me sleep at 8pm before dinner itself. Please don't watch it, and don't go by these fake ratings.

The plot ends within 30 minutes of the movie. Rest is just running sequences for an hour. I never sleeps in movies, but this movie made me sleep at 8pm before dinner itself. Please don't watch it, and don't go by these fake ratings.

"Joram" is a gripping Indian Hindi thriller that navigates the intricacies of survival, justice, and revenge. Manoj Bajpai's portrayal of Dasru, a man framed for his wife's murder, is deeply compelling. His desperate journey from Mumbai to Jharkhand unfolds an intense tale of evasion and revelation.

Mohd Zeeshan Ayub's portrayal of Police Inspector Ratnakar adds a relentless pursuit element, showcasing the cat-and-mouse chase between law enforcement and Dasru. However, it's Smita Tambe's portrayal of the ruthless politician Phulo Karma that steals the show. Her portrayal is commanding, leaving a lasting impact through her nuanced expressions and intensity.

"Joram" not only delves into the personal quest for justice but also addresses larger societal issues, such as the conflict between development and the destruction of natural resources. The film touches upon the plight of farmers selling their lands to industries and subsequently facing the challenges of urban labor.

Intriguing, intense, and thought-provoking, "Joram" captivates audiences with its stellar performances and its exploration of pertinent social issues. Manoj Bajpai's powerful presence, coupled with Smita Tambe's exceptional acting, makes this film a must-watch. It's a testament to the potential of cinema in reflecting and addressing significant societal debates.

Joram is what I call cinema.

It feels so good to know that this movie came out of the Hindi film industry. Joram makes you want to believe in cinema again.

This film is not just a pretty package that makes you feel good about yourself but it actually sparks a conversation and I believe no body could have done this better than the director himself (kudos to Devashish sir.) It would be wrong to say that the film is just about a CHASE, it's much more than that.

Every aspect of the movie ranging from casting to cinematography has been executed beautifully, No wonder Joram made it to so many film festivals.

This is not a normal run of the mill movie, this is an extraordinary movie with some outstanding performances. Manoj Bajpayee is simply master class.

This is not a normal run of the mill movie, this is an extraordinary movie with some outstanding performances. Manoj Bajpayee is simply master class.

This is not a normal run of the mill movie, this is an extraordinary movie with some outstanding performances. Manoj Bajpayee is simply master class.

This is not a normal run of the mill movie, this is an extraordinary movie with some outstanding performances. Manoj Bajpayee is simply master class.

My expectations were high because of manoj but it is a big dissapointmen. Very dull boring movie waste of time. It does make any sense, it feels like short film stretched too far for no reason. The plot is weak dull making the viewers irritating rather than sympathizing with the character. It reminds me of 80's those so called art film makers many making movies with average looking actors revolving around poverty and getting favourable reviews from critics for making intelligent movie and no one watching it. Today those same movies looks below average. Over all dissapointing if you are watching it for manoj.

I found the film is very beautiful portrail of adivasi community and their own struggle. Although it has many layers of communication. It seems like all the Drama is happening real.

The thrill of Dasru feels real. It makes us think & question ourselves on many things like what is actually right? Who is at right side?. And whatever is happening for growth is it really worth it! Or all this is just a scam/ for Personal Benifit.

Despite of sensitive subject/Plot Director Devashish Makhija makes you hold and squeeze your seat throughout the film. By showing multiple thrilling events of Dasru.

I suggest people to watch this gem. It's amazing...

Rarely do you come across a film, which fills you with events but still feels alive. Which makes you want to live every part of it. Joram is one of those films. A tale, which keeps you on the edge of your seat because it's gripping but still holds you like a parent because it is a story told that way. When it's the end of the story, you will want to watch more of it and thus story remains with you, even after the end. And you wonder, what is going to happen now? What our main pratognist, Dasru, going to do now. Characters, caught in a tangled situations have no choice to go ahead and do their part, even when something seems to be not going right.

Joram is a film you should not miss watching because when you come out of theatres, you are surely going to think about it. In lots of senses.

Joram attempts to carve its niche in the thriller genre but falls short of expectations. Despite promising elements, the film struggles to find its footing, leaving audiences feeling underwhelmed and disconnected.

While director shows potential, his inexperience occasionally shows in the pacing and execution of key scenes. The film's pacing feels uneven, with moments of tension often undercut by slow pacing in other parts. This inconsistency disrupts the flow of the narrative, making it difficult for viewers to fully invest in the story.

Story feels very short and incomplete, lead actor Manoj sir did well, but apart from that movie failed to attract in storyline.

Bajpayee sirs presence elevates the film, and his performance is a highlight that showcases his talent and range as an actor.

Joram is a gripping Survival thriller Drama with brilliant performances from it's lead star cast like Manoj Bajpayee, Smita Tambe, Zeeshan Ayyub but the secondary characters shines like diamond too. Takes a real effort to write and direct such an experiential film all the characters so well defined arc, and the plot keeps you at the edge of the seat through out. With stunning Cinematography and Haunting sound design and layered Background score it definitely needs to be watched of Big screens. And i m afraid people will wait for this to come at Ott without realising what kind of experience they are missing. Would highly recommend this outstanding top class cinema from our own Bollywood after a long long time.

Monoj Sir is setting all kinds of benchmarks. Everything in this movie is done perfectly. Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub is a very underrated actor, I've been a fan of his work since Ranjhanaa; actors like him are blessing to Bollywood, but Bollywood is not ready for method actors yet.

The casting is perfect for the story.

Devastated forests, bling greed, rebellion; Cinematography is just enough.

All the Background Score adds a lot of punch to this thriller. I got goosebumps while listening to it's music. Mangesh Dhakde did a great job.

All in all it's a masterpiece made by director and writer Devashish Makhija.

Joram tells a gripping story of a man named Dasru (played by Manoj Bajpai) running away with his three-month-old daughter after his wife's murder. He's chased by a determined police inspector, Ratnakar (Mohd Zeeshan Ayub), from Mumbai to Jharkhand, always slipping away.

Smita Tambe, as politician Phulo Karma, steals the show with her fierce role seeking revenge for her son's death. Her expressions speak volumes without words.

Besides the thrilling chase, the movie also looks at big problems. It shows how farmers sell their lands for industries, ending up as daily laborers in cities. Dasru's caring for his baby daughter in tough situations adds a touching layer to the story.

Joram is captivating, with top-notch acting. Manoj Bajpai and Smita Tambe make it a must-watch. It shows how movies can talk about important issues. Overall, it's a movie worth seeing, full of action and meaning.

Go and watch Joram Now.

This stands as a powerful cinematic piece that delves into the lives and struggles of tribal communities in regions like Jharkhand. The film, marked by its thought-provoking narrative, captivates audiences with its emotionally charged storyline. Your observation of its well-crafted storytelling is echoed in the movie's ability to engage and move viewers, making it a notable work in contemporary cinema.

The performances in "Joram" are exceptional, with Smita Tambe delivering a particularly powerful portrayal that adds depth and intensity to the film. This high emotional resonance, combined with the movie's insightful exploration of socio-political issues, makes it not just entertaining but also a significant commentary on the realities faced by tribal communities. The film's blend of compelling storytelling and meaningful themes cements its status as a memorable and impactful addition to Indian cinema [

Great direction and screenplay!!

While falling short of directly criticising the Govt (for obvious reasons) the movie makes a powerful statement on the "development" vs "environment" debate. Manoj Vajpayee is entirely believable as the innocent tribal and his acting awesome as usual. The supporting cast is also wonderful..A special mention for the background score and the cinematography. Both are top notch. Quite like the NFDC cinema of yesteryears. Thank God there are some directors and actors out there who still want to do meaningful cinema! What comes out is how beautifully such a tragedy incident is narrated. It's a must be watch.

I learned a lesson today that do not pay that much heed to overall imdb rating in general lol.

Although the movie's story was pretty simple and nothing breathtaking like we would crave for, but the direction and cimetography had been extra ordinary and captured the minute details that we foresee or ignore when thinking about the sacrifices that we are making as society in favour of progression and development.

My favourite scenes were how the team had captuted the subplot set in the train and iron mines. The train scene was especially good at noting down the very minute details like the toilet and a passenger asking the police officer about why the fan is not working. I could literally related to that lol.

The mines scene particularly showcased some amazing visuals of the humongous machinery. Metaphorism was at work here bringing life to the machines.

Overall a good slow paced movie and would recommend it 100% who are into slow paced realism. This film is filled with strong visuals which goes around our life. Definitely worth a watch.

It is very great movie. Worth audience time and money. Great Story, Camera work and direction.

Very good efforts by brilliant crew. Lots of efforts to create just a beautiful masterpiece. Very different genre movie. Every minute is must watch. There is not even a minute audience will be bored. Such a beautiful direction and edit work, you will be hooked to your seat for complete movie.

Monoj sir and zeesha have done brilliant work. It completely feel natural work by cast. This movie deserve all international awards and regocnizations. Must watch in Theater. Please go and must watch it with family.

"Joram" is a searing exploration of tribal life in India, skillfully directed by Devashish Makhija. This raw and brutal depiction sheds light on pressing socio-economic issues like political corruption, gentrification, and deforestation. Anchored by stellar performances from Manoj Bajpayee and Tannishtha Chatterjee, the film follows Dasru's harrowing journey from rural tranquility to the gritty reality of Mumbai's construction sites. Makhija weaves a narrative that exposes the dog-eat-dog mentality driven by the pursuit of power and status, delving into the injustices of caste and societal hierarchies. "Joram" stands as a powerful cinematic commentary, leaving an indelible mark with its unflinching portrayal of human struggles.

I saw the film last year at IFFI in the viewing room and I can't begin to describe the range of emotions I experienced through the film especially the last visual of Manoj Bajpayee with a child and a gun in the hand. Followed by watching a film, I sat against a beautiful sunset by the sea in Goa and struggled to comprehend my feelings that lingered for days to come. However, hugging Devashish Makhija (The Director of the Film) immediately after watching the film for a long 4 mins helped calm my nerves for sure. If you miss this film, you will miss a once in a lifetime experience of your life. It provokes you to a point where you begin to question human cynicism that is plaguing humanity at large. So, don't waste any time and WATCH the film NOW!