Guilty
2020
Director: Ruchi Narain
Cast: Kiara Advani, Akansha Ranjan Kapoor, Gurfateh Singh Pirzada

This Netflix original explores the #NoMeansNo and #MeToo themes, through an intriguing tale of an alleged sexual assault in a posh Delhi college setting, replete with rock bands, drugs, punks, parties, and politics.

What is the plot?

When the college’s most popular student (Gurfateh Singh)- a rich, talented, high flying Delhi dude, faces rape accusations from a seemingly out of place, ordinary-looking, small-town girl (Akansha Ranjan Kapoor), the public opinion is divided. The guy’s girlfriend (Kiara Advani), a wayward rich kid herself, is sure that her boyfriend is being framed by the wannabe girl who had always been falling all over him. Is there some dark truth waiting to be unearthed?

What is hot?

Director and Co-writer Ruchi Narain ‘s story and direction keep the viewers guessing and hooked with clever twists and turns. Kiara Advani in her streaked-hair-junkie avatar shows that she does have acting chops. Akansha Ranjan Kapoor shines in some moments. The rest of the cast is competent.

What is not?

Feels like moving in circles at times. The climax could have been more impactful and less melodramatic.

Verdict

Guilty positions itself more like a dark mystery, than a social message drama. That approach works well. It is a watchable film with a striking performance from Kiara Advani, who surprises with her intense performance.

Rating

3 stars