Mulk

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**Review Summary: *Mulk***

*Mulk* is a powerful courtroom drama that tackles hard-hitting questions about nationalism, identity, and prejudice in contemporary India. Directed by Anubhav Sinha, the film delves into the stigmatization faced by a Muslim family after being wrongfully accused of having links to terrorism.

The story begins with Murad Ali Mohammed (Rishi Kapoor), a respected advocate, celebrating his 65th birthday with his close-knit family in Benaras. Their happiness is shattered when Murad's nephew Shahid (Prateik Babbar) is accused of being a terrorist and killed in an encounter, while Shahid's father, Bilaal (Manoj Pahwa), is arrested. As the family becomes the target of suspicion and hostility from their community, Murad himself is implicated, forcing his Hindu daughter-in-law Aarti (Taapsee Pannu), also a lawyer, to defend their name in court.

The narrative poses thought-provoking questions about the nature of patriotism, the burden of proving one’s love for the country, and the deep-rooted biases that divide communities. It critiques how fringe radicalism on both sides often fuels prejudice and hate, leaving moderate voices drowned out.

### **Strengths**
1. **Outstanding Performances**:
- Rishi Kapoor is the moral backbone of the film, portraying Murad’s resilience and heartbreak with conviction.
- Taapsee Pannu shines as Aarti, a lawyer who fights the case with logic and determination, embodying the voice of reason.
- Manoj Pahwa’s portrayal of a grieving father is deeply moving, while Ashutosh Rana delivers a strong performance as the fiery prosecutor.
- Rajat Kapoor’s nuanced take on a Muslim anti-terror expert adds complexity to the story.

2. **Gripping Writing**: The courtroom scenes are the film's core strength, with sharp, impactful dialogues that dissect societal biases and the flawed narratives surrounding terrorism.

3. **Technical Excellence**:
- The cinematography by Ewan Mulligan captures the essence of Benaras and Lucknow with a gritty, somber tone that reflects the film’s serious themes.
- Ballu Saluja’s editing ensures the story flows seamlessly, keeping viewers engaged.

4. **Courageous Direction**: Anubhav Sinha deserves applause for tackling a sensitive topic with fearlessness and empathy, presenting a balanced yet unapologetic critique of communal tensions in India.

### **Weaknesses**
The film’s message is profound but occasionally risks becoming overly didactic, with some dialogues veering into preachiness. Prateik Babbar’s character, while pivotal, feels underutilized, leaving the audience wanting more insight into Shahid’s motivations and struggles.

### **Themes and Impact**
*Mulk* forces the audience to confront uncomfortable truths about the rapid polarization of society and challenges stereotypes about religion and terrorism. It critiques the notion of collective guilt and emphasizes the need to judge individuals on their actions rather than their community. The film's heart lies in its plea for unity and mutual understanding, reminding us that humanity transcends religious divides.

### **Final Verdict**
*Mulk* is a bold, emotionally resonant film that dares to ask the hard questions about identity and belonging in modern India. It is anchored by exceptional performances and compelling courtroom drama. Watch it for its unflinching examination of prejudice and its hopeful message about bridging divides.