Vasan Bala’s Jigra Starring Alia Bhatt: The Unexpected Thrill of Emotional Warfare

Starring: Alia Bhatt, Vedang Raina, Manoj Pahwa

Directed by: Vasan Bala

An emotional family drama to an adrenaline-fueled prison break that might leave you feeling like you’ve watched two different movies spliced together. But we are not complaining, it's the best of both worlds!

Performances (5/5)

Alia Bhatt Kapoor is the reason you stay glued to the screen. She nails the intensity of a sister on a mission and slays (literally, at times) the action sequences. Satya is all grit, and Alia gives her both the emotional and physical muscle to make this a performance you won’t forget anytime soon. In Satya's own words, she doesn't know if she is right or wrong, all she knows is being an elder sister to Ankur!

Speaking of which, Ankur portrayed by Vedang Raina is serving up some serious talent! He’s got charisma for days and steals every scene. Seriously, if you weren’t a fan before, his performance will make you a believer.

Manoj Pahwa, he doesn’t just support the plot, he gives it a personality. Manoj Pahwa is an absolute gem. His comedic timing and charm add much-needed lightness to what could’ve been an unrelentingly heavy film. He plays the wisecracking companion who you secretly wish was your lighthouse.

Writing & Direction (5/5)

Vasan Bala knows how to keep things moving. The emotional setup is tight, and the pacing works well until.

Vasan Bala’s Jigra isn't your typical mass action flick, and honestly, it’s better for it. You won’t find any slo-mo hero landings or one-liners before a punch here. This film skips the usual "punch first, ask questions never" formula that massy movies love. But you know what? It works. Instead of the usual testosterone-fueled spectacle, Jigra leans into real tension and raw emotion. Alia Bhatt doesn't need to beat up 30 goons to hold your attention—her fierce, relentless drive to save her brother does all the heavy lifting. Sure, it’s missing the massy, larger-than-life moments, but the film’s personal stakes and heartfelt performances are what make it special. Further it picks up action more in the second half.

Technical Prowess (4/5) 

The music does its job. It keeps the tension high when needed and pulls at the heartstrings at just the right moments. Composed by Achint, the soundtrack keeps the energy just right. Vedang Raina takes on the title track, belting out high notes in the most beautiful way. The prison sequences are gritty, dark, and oppressive, perfect for a story about a life-or-death escape. Kudos to the Swapnil S. Sonawane for making even the dimmest jail cell look visually appealing. The action scenes are shot cleanly, without the nauseating shaky cam, and the whole thing feels polished in a way.

Editing & Length (3/5)

Let me be clear, it's a great film but at times the scenes feel overdrawn and lengthy. The prison escape scenes, while thrilling, go on a bit too long. Some viewers might find themselves checking their watches, wondering when Satya will just hop on a helicopter and fly them all out already.

Jigra isn't about grand action sequences or a highly trained protagonist taking down villains effortlessly. It’s about Satya, played by Alia Bhatt, doing whatever it takes to protect her brother, despite being unprepared for the high-stakes danger she faces. Jigra works because it shows a character who is just a regular person fighting her way out come hell or high water! That's what makes her journey so gripping. 

Vasan Bala never misses, he introduces to a new formidable character. Watching Satya stumble, struggle, and grow through sheer willpower makes the stakes feel more personal and raw. Her every move is fueled by desperation and love, which is far more powerful than any over-the-top action hero moment. Watch this movie in theaters!

Stars: 4/5