Language: Hindi
Genre: Crime, Drama
Age Rating: A (Adult)

A Hard-Hitting Tale of Justice and Injustice

Directed by Sandhya Suri, Santosh is an intense crime drama that strips away any romanticized notions of law enforcement and power. With a raw, realistic approach, the film follows the journey of Santosh Saini (Shahana Goswami), a widow who is compelled to join the police force after the tragic demise of her husband, a cop. However, what seems like an opportunity for empowerment soon turns into a harrowing journey through a corrupt system, revealing the deep-seated prejudices and injustices that exist in society.

The film, which was the UK’s entry for Best International Feature Film at the 97th Academy Awards, has garnered critical acclaim for its unapologetic portrayal of gender, caste, and corruption in India. However, its Indian release has been put on hold due to extensive censor board demands, further fueling discussions around the film’s hard-hitting subject matter.

Plot Overview

Santosh Saini (Shahana Goswami) is a grieving widow who is thrust into a new world after donning the police uniform following the death of her husband. Set in a small village plagued by caste discrimination and political turmoil, Santosh finds herself entangled in the investigation of a gruesome rape and murder case of a young Dalit woman. Guided by her female superior, Geeta Sharma (Sunita Rajwar), Santosh faces resistance from the system itself, forcing her to choose between justice and survival.

As she uncovers dark secrets and navigates the corruption within her own police force, Santosh’s journey becomes an intense battle against deep-rooted societal biases and personal struggles.

What Works

✅ Shahana Goswami’s Commanding Performance
Goswami’s portrayal of Santosh is raw, intense, and deeply moving. Her expressions and body language capture the emotional turmoil of her character effortlessly.

✅ Authentic and Gritty Narrative
Unlike commercial crime thrillers, Santosh delivers a grounded and realistic take on corruption and systemic failures.

✅ Minimalist Yet Impactful Direction
Director Sandhya Suri refrains from over-dramatization, allowing the quiet moments to hit harder. The film’s intensity is built through its silence rather than loud background music.

✅ Thought-Provoking Social Commentary
The film raises pressing questions about gender, caste, and institutional corruption, making the audience reflect on harsh realities.

✅ Strong Supporting Cast
Sunita Rajwar and other supporting actors bring depth to the story, making every character feel integral to the narrative.

What Doesn’t Work

❌ Slow-Burning Narrative
While the film’s pacing adds to its realism, it may feel slow for viewers accustomed to fast-paced thrillers.

❌ Lack of Commercial Appeal
Unlike mainstream crime dramas, Santosh is heavy on realism, which might not appeal to fans of high-octane action films.

Performances

🎭 Shahana Goswami (Santosh Saini): A tour de force performance, balancing strength and vulnerability with finesse.
🎭 Sunita Rajwar (Geeta Sharma): A compelling mentor figure, bringing authority and emotional depth.
🎭 Supporting Cast: Each actor contributes meaningfully, ensuring the film remains immersive and emotionally charged.

Technical Aspects

🎥 Cinematography: Captures the raw essence of rural India, enhancing the film’s realism.
🎵 Music & Background Score: Subtle yet effective, complementing the film’s somber tone.
✂️ Editing: Keeps the narrative focused but could have been slightly tighter.
💡 Direction: Sandhya Suri’s meticulous storytelling ensures a gripping and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

Final Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

With a gripping storyline, hard-hitting social themes, and Shahana Goswami’s career-defining performance, Santosh is a must-watch for those who appreciate cinema with depth. While it may not be a conventional commercial thriller, its raw and powerful storytelling makes it one of the most impactful films of the year.