The 2025 Indian Hindi-language historical drama Emergency has been making waves since its release. Directed and co-produced by Kangana Ranaut, the movie has sparked mixed reviews and controversies. It showcases the ‘dark phase’—the emergency period from 1975 to 1977 under the governance of former prime minister Indira Gandhi. Before its release date, the movie has gained a lot of attention. But was the movie up to the mark? Was it able to cover everything relating to that critical event? Let’s have a look at the Emergency Movie Review featuring Kangana Ranaut
Kangana Ranaut’s Portrayal of Indira Gandhi
Kangana Ranaut, the actress, has tried to get into the shoes of Indira Gandhi and has attempted to depict the complicated political life of one of India’s most powerful political figures. Her efforts to capture Indira Gandhi’s conduct through facial expressions and a distinct nasal twang are commendable. However, some critics argue that Kangana Ranaut has shown some nervousness, and was not able to showcase the authoritative aura that defined Indira Gandhi. She is not able to live up to the image and role of the “Iron Lady” of India. In a positive role, the film highlights Indira Gandhi’s human side, giving some glimpses into her personal life and relationships with her friends and family. This movie captures the balance between her political legacy and her personal decisions. But, it leaves much of her legacy still unexplored.
The Storyline: A Missed Opportunity
This movie revolves around the 21 months of emergency in India under the Congress government. It attempts to cover the dark chapters of democracy, but it also struggles with the enormity of the subject. The screenplay feels disjointed, leaving several key aspects of the event underdeveloped. Events like unemployment, voter dissatisfaction, censorship, and protests led by prominent ministers get only fleeting attention. The critics have argued that a single film of 2 hours duration, has failed to capture the actual essence of Indira Gandhi’s political era, and the impact of her “wise yet critical” decisions.
Controversies Sparking Around The Emergency Moview?
Even before its release, the film ‘Emergency’ faced an immense amount of controversies and hatred from various communities, especially the Sikh Community. The Shiromani Gurdwara Committee (SGPC) accused the film of disrespecting and misrepresenting the Sikh community. They sent a legal notice to the producers and demanded the removal of objectionable content.
As a result, several cinemas in Punjab, including those in Ludhiana, Amritsar, Patiala, and Bhatinda, refused to screen the film. Protests by the SGPC members further restricted the film’s screenings, and police were deployed outside several cinema halls as well as malls. The actor, Kangana Ranaut, commented that the demands for a ban are the “harassment of art and the artist.”.
Box Office Performance of Emergency Moview
Despite the controversies, Emergency managed to achieve Kangana Ranaut’s biggest opening in the past five years, earning 2.5 crores on its opening day. As compared to Kangana Ranaut’s previous solo released movies, the numbers were quite encouraging. The audience attendance for this film, noted, was highest in the state of Chennai ( 25% occupancy rate ), followed by Mumbai ( 23.75% occupancy rate). Interestingly as per records, the night shows have performed better, with a 36.25% occupancy rate. The morning shows could only attract a few, with just a 5.98% occupancy rate.
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Strengths Of Emergency Movie
One of the few highlights of this is its attempt to represent such an icon- Indira Gandhi. The Film portrays both the flaws and strengths of her leadership. It also shows Indira Gandhi’s sacrifices, her critical decisions as well as a glimpse into the struggles faced by her, in her personal life.
Another positive aspect is the film’s effort to include influential political figures of the time, such as Jayprakash Narayan (played by Anupam Kher) and Atal Bihari Vajpayee (played by Shreyash Talpade).
Emergency Movie Review 2025: Flaws of the Movie
When discussing the Emergency movie review, let’s also have a look at the flaws or what the movie lacked. Yes, the movie had an ambitious scope. But unfortunately the execution of the movie faltered and wasn’t able to deliver what the audiences were expecting. The screenplay lacks cohesion, with several narrative threads abruptly dropped.
The decision to include a musical sequence featuring political leaders like Jayaprakash Narayan and Atal Bihari Vajpayee performing synchronized acts was particularly drawing criticism. These sequences show the unseriousness of the filmmakers. The film’s second half is marginally better, as the screenplay finds a semblance of rhythm. However, it’s too late. The film’s pacing and uneven storytelling leave viewers with more questions than answers. Hence, this makes it a confusing watch for those who are looking for a detailed understanding of the emergency period.
Should The Emergency Movie Be A Web Series?
Many critics strongly feel that it would have been better if the Emergency movie would have been a web series. Additionally, an in-depth and detailed format of the story would have allowed the audience to explore the events, decisions, and personalities that played a critical role during this event. The film’s attempt to include everything in two hours, could not capture the attention and focus of the audience.
Final Thoughts on The Emergency Movie Review
Now doubt that the Emergency movie by Kangana Ranaut is a great movie that intends to convey India’s darkest political history. Additionally, the actress’s commitment towards the role was commendable too. However, the film and the idea is a poor cinematic experience for the audience owing to its erratic pacing and fragmented plot. Audience might enjoy the movie but it fails to answer all the questions you need to know.
