Bastar: The Naxal Story

"Bastar: The Naxal Story" is not for the faint-hearted. Director Sudipto Sen, known for his bold storytelling, delivers yet another hard-hitting narrative in Bastar. Following the success of his previous venture, "The Kerala Story," this time Sudipto didn't deliver his best but managed to dive deep into the complex and brutal world of Maoism in the Bastar region. The film grips you with its unflinching portrayal of terrorism, nationalism, and communism.

The first half opens with a chilling sequence depicting the Maoist leader Lanka's merciless act of chopping a man into pieces for hoisting the Indian flag. This sets the tone for the relentless brutality that unfolds throughout the narrative. The use of intense visuals ensures that sensitive viewers are left disturbed. The script is taut, the dialogue delivery is sharp, and the cinematography & editing work seamlessly to create a gripping narrative. From the harrowing depiction of the 2010 massacre of 76 CRPF Jawans in Dantewada to the chilling portrayal of Indian university students celebrating the atrocity, every frame is meticulously crafted to evoke a visceral response from the audience.

It is coupled with stellar performances, particularly from Adah Sharma, who showcases remarkable growth as a performer, and Vijay Krishna, whose portrayal of the menacing Maoist leader Lanka Reddy leaves a lasting impact. Supporting performances from Shilpa Shukla, Yashpal Sharma, and Indira Tiwari further elevate the film, with each actor delivering praise-worthy performances. Indira Tiwari, in particular, shines as she effortlessly navigates through a range of emotions, showcasing her versatility as a performer.

Direction 3/5 Acting 3.5/5 Dialogues 3.5/5 Story 3.5/5 Screenplay 3/5.

The movie dwells through the ground level issues of Maoism in Chattisgarh. It sheds light on how the nexus between the ruling government and Maoist leaders actually disrupted the working of SPOs and CRPF. It stays focused with the plot. However it may seem like a one sided story. The movie would have been better if it would have maintained balance by also showing why there are comrades with Maoists.

IG of Bastar is charged with suppression of Maoism which is apparently prevalent in the area in the period of 2010. A nexus between writers , educationists, universities and ruling party then in India creates hurdles for the system devised by the IG along with SPOs and camps. The brutalities of maoists is shown crisply with also mention of how international Mao movement funds this movement. The move is onesided. The critical viewpoint of Maoist is India is forgotten! If not for this last point , I recommended the movie completely.

Great work has been done by the team. Everyone in the film have performed well.

The thrill and seriousness over really sensitive and painful topic has been maintained in the film.

What we read in news about chattisgarh and naxalites this film will give you deep dive.

The pain of the villagers and democracy has been truly depicted in the film.

Power of IPS has been truly justified by Adha character.

Great story telling and direction. Excellent script writing.

Judicial trail also support the story line and seriousness.

Also how much this problem has been rooted in the country.

How the funding and support they are getting.

Must watch movie.

Many viewers tend to approach this film through a political lens, yet it encompasses much more than that. With a compelling storyline that captivates the audience and delivers both intense action and thrilling moments, it offers a multifaceted experience. Adah Sharma's performance once again shines brilliantly, adding depth to the film.

The director Sudipto Sen's ingenious approach in presenting facts through the storyline is truly remarkable .A movie with gripping action sequences and a satirical edge that guarantees value for money entertainment.

Even if one isn't deeply involved in politics, they can still find enjoyment in this movie.

Amazing cinematic film based on the true reality of naxal movement and it's horrific crimes committed against common Indians and our army which is based on political propaganda and vested interest of foreign powers that kept India backward and away from development.

I would seriously urge the young artistic generation to watch this and encourage others to do the same as this film might get banned across states for reasons known to everyone .

I also like Adal Sharma's acting , she has come a long way from 1929 and her acting skills have been getting better and better with each passing film . Her last film Kerala story was as amazing as this one and I wish her and the full team of Bastar a great box office success.