Sherni

Review By Kamal K

It really shows the true situation of the forest department and how politics influence or rather interfere with it, Vidya shines as always Vijay Raaz is the perfect, overall team has done well. Sherni has almost everything but lacks what a good film must have - moments of "cinematic" brilliance where you feel emotionally moved & stirred but cannot explain why. That's the beauty of any good art work. Newton did that so well but not this one.

Extremely detailed, well acted, realistic camera movements - all were there but the poetry and poignancy was missing which made this film maybe a good documentation of our forest , wildlife, people , government procedures etc but failed to make it a good "CINEMA".

After Newton director Amit Masurkar delivers another gem which gives us a never seen before peek into lives of brave men and women of forest officers. And he succeeds with flying colors.

Vidya Vincent, a newly appointed DFO struggles to find her place and solution to crisis in jungle amongst the villagers, politicians and is on a mission to save tigress which everyone wants a piece of.

Vidya Balan plays her role with finesse. It's evident that she is capable of captivating you not just with her acting skills alone. She doesn't need to be a standardized bollywood heroine for you to appreciate every scene she is in. You feel her frustration, helplessness, anger and sheer will from the screen. Vijay Raaz is as always marvellous to watch, he and Vidya are not just partners in the mission but also on screen. This unconventional duo is amazing.

But the big surprise and one of the best part is Sharat Saxena. Glad to see him get a role that fits him. He looks the part he's playing which is a hunter under guise of conservationists and makes your blood boil effectively.

Other co actors including extras as villagers do a fine job. Ila Arun was wasted in her small role.

The movie is also very well shot. CGI in some places was shabby but for the most part acceptable. Background score is great. Dialogues are expertly written, some dark jokes scattered wherever needed.

The director tries to shed a light on various other issues apart from the main plot, like arm chair activists vs real activists but it doesn't always work. Some media clichés I felt could've been avoided. But one thing he does very well i.e. Saluting the hard working officers in field of our forest department.

I doubt this movie will win awards but it should. Sherni is an important movie that everyone should watch. Perhaps it will inspire young minds to take the challenging career in our forest department.

What works : Jungles, Satire and Vidya of course.

What doesn't : Story gets slow at times but does keep us hooked.

First off, it's not a thriller considering the concept of catching a tiger. It's a battle between 2 thought process.

One, who wants to save the tiger.

Second, who wants to add 1 more kill to his list.

And in between, there is corruption, politics, egoes and a hard hitting message of Wildlife conservation and environmental balance.

Jungles are shot beautifully. The local dialect would be loved.

A good break from watching movies based on urban India with actors flaunting 6 Packs.

Vidya is amazing as always. She is the real Sherni here with her facial expressions speaking more than she does.

Vijay Raaj would be as much loved as Sharat Saxena would be hated.

Rest of the crew does good too.

A decent 1 time watch.

Good movie... Very realistic no heroic or fake action...

Sherni has an extraordinary premise and it delivers it's points pretty well.

Vidya balan is outstanding in her role, so do the other cast. Cinematography and sound department does a splendid job. Worth watching.