Joram Movie Review: Intriguing and intense watch along with a stellar performance by Manoj Bajpayee

Joram is a compelling and intense film, with Manoj Bajpayee delivering a stellar performance as Dasru Karketta/Bala. The film's ability to grip the audience from the opening sequence and maintain intrigue throughout its 121-minute runtime is the highlight. Manoj Bajpayee, who plays Dasru Karketta/Bala. The first instance he appears on the screen, squatting on the floor under the open sky, you are convinced he’s a tribal rooted in culture. He gets the look (with face tattoos) and the demeanor perfectly and has a tight grip on it until the end and through the different phases of his rich character arc.

The director, Devashish Makhija, presents a layered narrative that explores various themes, including survival, tribal life, socio-political issues, and the impact of development on the environment. Makhija handles the film’s political aspect well and refrains from overtly taking sides. While he shows how the tribals are being shortchanged and the environment is being destroyed in the name of development, he reveals another perspective, too. The non-linear storytelling is commended for being engaging and coherent, with a well-executed focus on the socio-political aspect in the latter half of the film.

The film's cinematography by Piyush Puty is applauded for enhancing the drama and capturing the essence of tribal life, the chase sequences, and the environmental challenges faced by the characters. The inclusion of symbolism and meaningful dialogue adds depth to the storytelling.

Manoj Bajpayee is outstanding as the helpless and hapless father running from his dark past and bleak present. Scenes of him bonding with and caring for his baby will tug at your heartstrings. Smita Tambe Dwivedi steals the scene as the coldhearted MLA. She delivers a nuanced performance as an emotionally wounded but conversely unfeeling woman. Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub is excellent, too, as a conflicted Sub-Inspector Ratnakar Bangul tasked to capture Dasru. Tannishtha Chatterjee plays her part well in the special appearance.

The film is acknowledged for straying from a typical survival drama as it delves into socio-political aspects. It’s a must-watch for its intense storytelling and performances. The movie will also make you think about what we are doing to Mother Nature in the name of development and progress.