In the movie ‘Pink’, a dialogue resonated amongst the masses – ‘No Means No’. This movie not only raised the issue of sexual exploitation of women but also stressed upon the need of the women’s consent. However, is the man accused of any sexual crime always guilty? Can he not be innocent?
Directed by Ajay Bahl, ‘Section 375’ is a courtroom drama, based on the implications of Section 375 of the Indian Penal Code, which relates to the legal provisions against the sexual exploitation of women. The principal cast of this movie is Akshaye Khanna.
Plot –
Rohan Ravi Khurana, a prominent film director is accused by Anjali Vasudev Dangle, a junior costume designer in his movies of sexually assaulting him at his home. Rohan appeals against the decision of the lower court, following which the case is now being heard in the Mumbai High Court. Rohan is represented by senior advocate Tarun Saluja, while Anjali is being represented by the ex-pupil of Tarun and public prosecutor Hiral Gandhi. Now the question remains as to whether whatever happened between Rohan and Anjali – was it consensual or against it?
What is Brilliant –
If there is one word to describe this movie, it shall be – Incredible. This film shall not only break many notions but also shake the conscience of many people from within. Section 375 of the IPC is considered to be a double-edged sword – if it is fruitful for some, it is equally harmful to others. It is no joke to make a movie on such a sensitive issue. Ajay Bahl has not only made it possible, but he has spared none in his take on the Indian system of justice – be it judiciary, or media, or even the two parties in the court. The difference between law and justice, and how not understanding the same can lead to disastrous consequences, has been depicted very well in this movie.
In terms of acting, every actor has stuck brilliantly to their assigned roles. Be it Akshaye Khanna as Tarun Saluja, or Richa Chadha as Hiral Gandhi, or even Rahul Bhatt and Meera Chopra as the accused and the victim respectively. Even Kishore Kadam impresses as one of the judges presiding over the matter.
There is no villain in person, but this time the media coverage in the movie compensates for the same. The way media trials are performed, and the way the judgment is given even before the actual judgment is depicted way better than ‘Batla House’ in this movie.
However, if someone deserves the most of the applause, it’s the pair of director Ajay Bahl and writer Manish Gupta. The way both have created this movie, it will engage you till the very end and won’t make you feel bored at any point. If there are any flaws, it is to not dramatize this movie. Those accustomed to the masala genre won’t feel comfortable with such movies.
Overall Section 375 is a movie which throws light on the possible misuse of Section 375 of the Indian Penal Code. The aim of the movie is crystal clear – A false rape case is a nail in the coffin of a genuine rape victim. To rate this movie in any way wouldn’t be less than an insult to the same, and we would only say – DO NOT MISS THIS MOVIE AT ANY COST.
