Introduction:
In the world of crime dramas, ‘Haddi’ stands out as a film that unapologetically delves into the darker realms of society. Released on ZEE5, this movie introduces viewers to a cast of morally questionable characters, a seedy money-making scheme, and a healthy dose of cynicism, not unlike what you might find in the world of politics. As we dive into this review, we’ll explore the film’s unique protagonist, Haddi, a hijra seeking vengeance in a world fraught with stereotypes and marginalization.
The Revenge-Driven Plot:
‘Haddi’ is a crime drama fueled by the flames of vengeance. The film’s lighting and ambiance create an eerie atmosphere, perfectly befitting the narrative’s dark undertones. Expect a substantial body count as the story unfolds. Akshat Ajay Sharma, the film’s director, attempts to set ‘Haddi’ apart by making the revenge-seeker a hijra—a choice that adds an intriguing layer to the storyline.
Meet Haddi (Nawazuddin Siddiqui):
The film introduces us to Haddi, a character whose name translates to ‘bone’ in Hindi. She harbors a deep-seated grudge against her adversary, but before we discover the reasons behind her rampage, we must navigate the stereotypes and prejudices that have historically plagued her marginalized community.
When we first encounter Haddi, she wields a knife and issues chilling threats. As a member of a gang involved in blackmail and murder, she proves to be a highly efficient enforcer. Haddi’s openly gay boss, Inder (Saurabh Sachdeva), answers to the corrupt Pramod (Anurag Kashyap), a politician with a voracious appetite for land acquisitions to fund his re-election campaign.
Delving into Haddi’s Past:
The film employs flashbacks to shed light on Haddi’s journey, introducing her mentor (Ila Arun) and her lover, Irfan (Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub). These sequences provide the film’s only moments of delicacy amid its otherwise dark and twisted narrative.
A Screenplay That Pushes Boundaries:
The screenplay, crafted by Sharma and Adamya Bhalla, consistently challenges societal comfort zones. The 144-minute crime drama doesn’t shy away from exploiting the shock value of Nawazuddin Siddiqui portraying a woman. Grotesque close-ups and exaggerated camera angles reveal Haddi’s true identity, a choice that might leave the audience divided in a film that aims to garner sympathy for its protagonist.
Conclusion
‘Haddi’ is a crime drama that fearlessly explores the murkier aspects of society and revenge. Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s performance as Haddi is undeniably bold and thought-provoking, as he takes on a character that defies conventional norms. While the film does challenge societal stereotypes, it also teeters on the edge of discomfort, leaving viewers with much to ponder after the credits roll. If you’re a fan of gritty crime dramas that challenge the status quo, ‘Haddi’ is worth a watch for its unique approach and unconventional protagonist.
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