Dange

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*Dange*, directed by Bejoy Nambiar, delves into the chaotic world of a college campus, exploring a medley of student issues. Set in a multi-disciplinary campus in Goa, the film centers on two medical students, Xavier (Harshvardhan Rane) and Yuvraj (Ehan Bhat), or Zee and Yuva. Zee, a perpetual senior, thrives on campus hierarchy, while Yuva, a brash fresher, challenges norms. Alongside them are a diverse set of characters: Rishika (Nikita Dutta), the campus drug queen; Gayatri (T.J. Bhanu), a social activist; Siddhi (Zoa Morani), a politically connected student leader; Ambika (Taniya Kalra), a reform-driven student, and Bhama (Shreema Upadhyaya), a talented dancer.

The film ambitiously weaves multiple threads, tackling casteism, student politics, drugs, senior-junior conflicts, revenge, romance, trauma, and women empowerment. However, this narrative density often feels overwhelming and underexplored. The story seems better suited for a web series, where its themes could have been more fleshed out. Subplots, like Gayatri and Ambika’s clashes with Siddhi or Zee and Yuva’s rivalry, feel rushed, leaving key moments lacking impact.

Despite its narrative flaws, *Dange* shines in depicting friendship and camaraderie, especially within Zee’s and Yuva’s groups. The relationships—like the romance between Yuva and Rishika or the bond between Zee and Gayatri—feel authentic. The tension between juniors and seniors is also effectively portrayed. The action sequences, particularly the climactic riot, are raw and gripping, with realistic fight choreography and a pulsating score.

Harshvardhan Rane embodies Zee’s big-hearted yet intimidating senior persona well, while Ehan Bhat conveys Yuva’s anger and emotional complexity with intensity. Their confrontational scenes carry the film. Supporting performances by T.J. Bhanu, Nikita Dutta, and others add depth to the ensemble.

*Dange* captures the raw energy of campus life and taps into hyper-masculinity, a recurring trend in recent films. While its overloaded narrative prevents it from reaching its full potential, it’s worth a watch for its gritty action and insight into the unseen chaos behind prestigious educational institutions.