Media Magick

Judicial injustice is a pressing issue in India. Many books and films are based on topics that arise as a byproduct of jurisdictive unfairness. A Thursday is also one of the films that is based on the same foundation. The story highlights some pressing concerns that are unfortunately prevalent in society, how a common person in such a critical and depressing situation takes up things in their hands to fight for what they deserve is what A Thursday showcases. A Thursday is directed by Behzad Khambata and it features Yami Gautam, Neha Dhupia, Atul Kulkarni and Dimple Kapadia in pivotal characters. Here is what the film is all about and what message it highlights.

60 Seconds Review – A Thursday

A Thursday is a story that revolves around Naina who runs a playschool and is about to get married to her fiancé Rohit very soon. One day she turns the table and takes 16 kids as hostages and shares her demands with Javed Khan, the super cop. One demand leads to the other and soon she asks for a one to one meeting with Prime Minister of India. What happens next is a series of accidents and well-planned events that change the face of the judicial and political system. The story reminds me of 2008’s high-voltage thriller drama A Wednesday featuring Naseeruddin Shah and Anupam Kher; Yami and Atul are playing the same sort of characters respectively.

A Thursday is an impactful film, made with genuine intentions and features bravura performances by main leads. Yami Gautam looks furious in a few scenes; she beautifully portrays a character that is both confident and at times unsure of the situations around her. Her emotional outbursts and scenes where she shows her vulnerability are a treat to watch. Atul Kulkarni stands out in a character that is backed with impactful dialogues and a character that has multiple shades. It’s refreshing to watch him back in the form with a kind of role that an actor of his caliber deserves. Dimple Kapadia impresses in a few scenes and emotes through her eyes effortlessly, giving her character a strong balance. Neha Dhupia is strictly okay.

The story of A Thursday is emotionally draining and when the puzzle starts to form a clearer picture, that’s in the climax, it sends chills to the bone and upsets the audience for uncovering the harsh reality of India based on factual numbers proven by statistical data. The heart of the film is placed in the right place and there are a few dialogues that act as the last nail in the coffin to bring attention to the seriousness of the issue. However, the film is a bit lengthy and for some it is predictable. There are a few scenes that could have been chopped off easily. At times, audience also feels that everything is fitting very smoothly, as if an expert Tetris player is playing the game.

On the whole, A Thursday is a decent watch, a good inspiration from A Wednesday (but not close to it), it also features good performances and a message that is the need of the hour. For one time watch, recommended.