The Sabarmati Report Review: Vikrant Massey Shines in a Flawed Yet Bold Attempt

The much-anticipated film The Sabarmati Report, starring Vikrant Massey, Rashi Khanna, and Ridhi Dogra, has hit the theaters. Produced by Ekta Kapoor and directed by Dheeraj Sarna, the film explores the haunting events surrounding the tragic Sabarmati Express fire and its aftermath. With a good intent to uncover truths, the movie, however, struggles to leave a lasting impact.

The story follows a journalist (played by Vikrant Massey), whose journey begins with an assignment to cover the fire incident near Godhra. What starts as a routine report unveils a chilling reality—it wasn’t just an accident but a planned massacre. Despite capturing evidence, his news channel downplays the story, labeling it an accident.

The protagonist faces significant personal and professional repercussions. He is fired, falsely accused of theft, and blacklisted in the media industry. The narrative then shifts to his relentless effort to bring the truth to light, facing challenges that test his courage and resolve.

Execution: The Hits and Misses

While the film carries an important message, it falters in execution. The first half feels disjointed, with a lack of focus on the central narrative. The second half is more engaging, diving deeper into the journalist's quest and moral dilemmas. However, certain scenes lack logic, making them less impactful.

For instance, a pivotal sequence involves an attack on a taxi carrying Vikrant Massey. Strangely, the attackers target the taxi driver instead of the journalist holding the camera, diluting the tension of the moment.

Vikrant Massey delivers a sincere performance, bringing depth to his character. His chemistry with Rashi Khanna adds a touch of warmth to the otherwise intense narrative. Rashi and Ridhi Dogra also shine in their roles, providing emotional layers to the story.

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Director Dheeraj Sarna, making his debut, struggles to translate his strong writing background into impactful filmmaking. Known for his work in television, his transition to the big screen feels uneven. The depiction of journalism and media practices also suffers from inaccuracies, diminishing the film’s authenticity.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

While the movie highlights the enduring value of truth, it fails to present any new revelations about the Sabarmati incident. The storytelling often feels didactic, focusing more on delivering a message than creating a gripping narrative.

However, certain moments do stand out, such as the depiction of children celebrating in a Muslim neighborhood, which subtly conveys the hope and unity that often gets overshadowed by hate.
The Sabarmati Report is a film made with good intentions but lacks the finesse to leave a lasting impression. It appeals to a niche audience interested in political dramas and real-life events. While it has its flaws, the strong performances and earnest storytelling make it worth a watch for those who enjoy socially relevant cinema.

For others, the movie might feel like a missed opportunity to address an important issue with greater depth and nuance.