Dange | Movie Review

CAST: Harshvardhan Rane, Ehan Bhat, T.J. Bhanu, Nikita Dutta, Zoa Morani, Shreema Upadhyaya, Taniya Kalrra, Nakul Sahdev, Siddharth Menon
DIRECTION: Bejoy Nambiar
GENRE: Drama, Action
DURATION: 2 hours 34 minutes
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐(3/5)

Synopsis:
Directed by Bejoy Nambiar, “Dange” is a campus drama that delves into the complex dynamics of student life. The story revolves around Xavier (Harshvardhan Rane) and Yuvraj (Ehan Bhat), two medical students with contrasting personalities. As they navigate through the challenges of campus politics, drug culture, and personal vendettas, they find themselves entangled in a web of ambition and betrayal. With a diverse cast of characters, including the enigmatic drug queen Rishika (Nikita Dutta), the activist Gayatri (T.J. Bhanu), and the influential student leader Siddhi (Zoa Morani), the film explores themes of friendship, rivalry, and redemption against the backdrop of a Goa-based university campus.

Review:
“Dange” presents a multi-layered narrative that intertwines various themes and subplots, ranging from casteism and student politics to drug abuse and personal vendettas. Director Bejoy Nambiar’s ambitious approach to storytelling results in a densely packed film that occasionally feels overstuffed with ideas. The screenplay, while engaging, struggles to fully explore each storyline, leaving some aspects feeling rushed or underdeveloped. However, Nambiar effectively captures the camaraderie and conflicts within the student community, grounding the film in a sense of authenticity.

The film’s strength lies in its depiction of relationships, particularly the bond between Xavier and his friends, and Yuvraj’s tumultuous romance with Rishika. The performances by Harshvardhan Rane and Ehan Bhat are commendable, with both actors effectively conveying the emotional complexities of their characters. The supporting cast, including Nikita Dutta, T.J. Bhanu, and Zoa Morani, deliver solid performances, adding depth to the narrative.

One of the film’s standout aspects is its action sequences, which are raw and visceral, adding a palpable sense of tension and urgency to the story. The final fight scene, in particular, is expertly choreographed, immersing the audience in the chaos and intensity of a campus riot. The pulsating background score enhances the film’s overall impact, creating a sense of momentum and excitement.

While “Dange” may not fully realize its ambitious vision, it remains a compelling watch, offering a glimpse into the complex world of campus life. With its strong performances, intense action sequences, and thought-provoking themes, the film serves as a poignant exploration of youth, identity, and power dynamics in contemporary India.

Verdict:
“Dange” may be overstuffed with ideas, but its raw intensity and engaging narrative make it a worthwhile watch. Bejoy Nambiar’s ambitious direction, coupled with strong performances and gripping action sequences, elevate the film beyond its narrative shortcomings. Despite its flaws, “Dange” offers a compelling glimpse into the complexities of campus life, making it a memorable addition to the genre of campus dramas.