Sruthi Ganapathy Raman
"Neru" redefines courtroom dramas by focusing on a woman's right to consent, offering a fresh perspective on justice and navigating the complexities of the Indian legal system.
Anaswara Rajan's portrayal of Sara, a visually-impaired survivor, breaks stereotypes, showcasing her intelligence, courage, and vulnerability without sensationalizing the crime.
Mohanlal's subdued performance as advocate Vijayamohan allows Anaswara to shine, highlighting Sara's journey and challenging traditional courtroom drama dynamics.
"Neru" sheds light on the frustrations of seeking justice in an Indian courtroom, emphasizing the flaws of the adversarial legal system and the need to acknowledge different reactions from survivors.
The film avoids patronizing stereotypes and presents Sara as a survivor actively seeking consent, offering a nuanced exploration of her emotions, including anger and vulnerability.
While retaining some traditional elements, like clownish prosecutors, the film introduces freshness through Mohanlal's cool portrayal, making "Neru" a notable addition to the genre.