Article 15, directed by Anubhav Sinha and released on 28 June 2019, is a bold and powerful crime drama inspired by real-life incidents like the Badaun rape and Una flogging cases. Anchored by Ayushmann Khurrana’s restrained lead performance, the film tackles caste-based violence and systemic bias through the lens of a city-bred IPS officer. This Article 15 Movie Review delves into its narrative, performances, direction, strengths, shortcomings, and social impact.

What Is Article 15 About? – Article 15 Movie Review

The narrative centers on Ayan Ranjan (Ayushmann Khurrana), a Delhi-educated IPS officer posted in the fictional heartland town of Lalgaon. Soon after his arrival, three lower-caste girls go missing; two are found raped and hanged publicly. As Ayan investigates, he confronts entrenched casteism—among villagers, police, and politicians—anchoring the narrative conclusively on the constitutional Article 15, which prohibits discrimination based on caste, among other grounds.

Article 15 Movie Review – Cast and Performances

• Ayushmann Khurrana as Ayan Ranjan: Delivers his most mature, understated performance yet. His transition from ignorance to moral awakening drives the film’s emotional arc.
• Manoj Pahwa as Brahmadutt Singh: As a senior upper-caste officer, his simmering pragmatism and resistance to change make an impactful foil to Ayan.
• Kumud Mishra as Jatav: A Dalit officer navigating biases and solidarity—his layered, grounded performance leaves a mark.
• Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub as Nishad: A mid-sized role, yet electric in scenes that reveal Dalit activism and pain beneath the surface.
• Sayani Gupta as Gaura: She plays Nishad’s partner and offers emotional gravity, briefly shining in a tightly taught narrative.
• Isha Talwar as Aditi: Ayan’s girlfriend, who serves as his conscience; some critics argue her role feels underdeveloped and functional more than fleshed out.

Direction & Screenplay – Article 15 Movie Review

Anubhav Sinha’s Bold Vision

Sinha applies a grounded, procedural style—framed through visuals that feel grim, atmospheric, and occasionally chilling. He avoids melodrama in favor of accumulating social detail, letting images and silence speak as much as dialogue.

Writing by Gaurav Solanki

The screenplay packs thematic weight—incrementally layering casteism, prejudice, and power dynamics. A notable moment is Ayan pinning a printed copy of Article 15 on the police station board. It serves as both narrative device and symbolic turning point.

What Works in Article 15 – Article 15 Movie Review

1. Earnest Acting: Khurrana’s subdued performance grounds the film, while supporting actors—particularly Pahwa, Mishra, Zeeshan Ayyub, and Gupta—add depth and intensity.
2. Cinematic Realism: Ewan Mulligan’s stark cinematography and Mangesh Dhakde’s score create an oppressive mood that reflects rural caste realities.
3. Social Relevance: The film doesn’t preach; it exposes caste violations and structural apathy through a procedural thriller.
4. Critical Acclaim & Awards: It won Filmfare Critics Awards for Best Film, Best Actor (Khurrana), Best Story, and earned nominations across editing, music, and production design.

What Could Be Better – Article 15 Movie Review

• Upper-Caste Savior Trope: Critics argue the film centers a Brahmin hero coming to rescue Dalits, limiting agency for marginalized characters like Nishad and Gaura.
• Pacing and Editing: The narrative occasionally stalls under subplot overload—such as political rally scenes and romantic detours. Some Redditors found scenes like the girlfriend subplot unnecessary or distracting.
• Shallow Character Depth: Many supporting roles are not deeply developed, making their impact secondary to the protagonist’s arc.

Audience & Reddit Reactions

Reddit discussions reveal mixed responses: many viewers praise its social portrayal and Khurrana’s performance, calling it a “must-watch” for its rawness. But others found it slow or preachy—often comparing it unfavorably with tighter thrillers like Delhi Crime or Ugly.

Final Verdict – Article 15 Movie Review

Article 15 is poignant, gripping, and socially essential. While imperfect in structure or underdog character arcs, it achieves quiet power through its realistic portrayal of caste-based oppression. Ayushmann Khurrana shines in a subdued yet emotionally charged lead role, backed by an ensemble that brings authenticity. This film won’t entertain lightly—but it will provoke, educate, and linger in memory.

Should You Watch Article 15?

• ✅ Yes, if you’re looking for thought-provoking social drama with strong performances.
• ❌ Maybe skip, if you prefer high-energy thrillers or well-rounded character arcs across the board.

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