In “Jigra,” Alia Bhatt shines as Satya, but her brilliance isn’t enough to elevate the film’s overall mediocrity. The story begins with a poignant moment when Satya asks an officer, “How do I look?” before stepping into a room to confront her brother Ankur (Vedang Raina), who has been falsely accused in a drug scandal on a remote Southeast Asian island. This question encapsulates her vulnerability and sets the tone for their special sibling relationship. Unlike any typical sister, Satya’s bond with Ankur is portrayed with depth, allowing viewers to appreciate the foundation of love and loyalty that underpins their story. As the film unfolds, director Vasan Bala skillfully takes us back in time to reveal the younger Satya and Ankur, offering a glimpse into their childhood and the dynamics that shape their present choices.
Alia’s performance in “Jigra” marks a significant departure from her previous roles, such as the glamorous character in “Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani” or the raw portrayal in “Gangubai Kathiawadi.” In her role as Satya, she finds material that challenges her, granting her the opportunity to explore new emotional landscapes. Alia’s journey in this film is impressive; her expressions of anger come across as authentic, and the emotions feel genuine rather than merely recited lines from a script. Each moment she shares on screen is layered with a depth that resonates, making her portrayal both compelling and relatable.
Bala’s approach to the film plays a crucial role in enhancing its appeal. Despite having one of the industry’s biggest stars leading the cast, he chooses to focus on simplicity and authenticity, which significantly enriches the first half of the movie. This grounded approach allows the audience to connect with the characters on a more personal level, setting the stage for an emotional investment in their journey.
However, “Jigra” struggles with its narrative structure, which ultimately hampers its potential. The story’s linearity becomes a drawback, as viewers desire a more intricate and engaging revenge drama. While Bala starts strong, the plot quickly devolves into a one-dimensional quest that seems overly focused on constructing significant moments for its lead actress. The central brother-sister dynamic, which serves as the film’s emotional backbone, feels weak and unconvincing, making it difficult for the audience to remain invested.
As the narrative loses momentum and the direction of the climax becomes predictable, the film begins to drag. Supporting characters, like Manoj Pahwa, are afforded richer backstories and character arcs, in stark contrast to Vedang, who delivers a sincere performance despite having limited material to work with. The last twenty minutes of the film feel especially tiresome, stretched out to a point where viewers may find themselves wishing for a conclusion.
Despite offering Alia Bhatt ample opportunity to craft impactful moments, much of “Jigra” feels like an attempt to leverage her star power rather than develop a captivating story around her character. One significant shortcoming is the missed opportunity for Satya to confront the family responsible for her brother’s predicament. The film concludes on a sentimental note, yet emotional resonance can only be achieved if the audience is fully invested in the plot.
In summary, while “Jigra” stands as a commendable addition to Alia Bhatt’s impressive filmography, it ultimately falters as a cohesive film. The narrative’s weaknesses overshadow the potential for a compelling story, leaving viewers with a sense of unfulfilled expectations.