Nail Polish: A Gripping Thriller with a Twist
Nail Polish is a 2021 Indian Hindi-language legal thriller drama film written and directed by Bugs Bhargava Krishna1. The film stars Arjun Rampal, Manav Kaul, Madhoo, Rajit Kapur, Anand Tiwari and Samreen Kaur in pivotal roles. The film follows the trial of a famous social activist who is accused of raping and murdering two migrant children while also suspected of killing others1. The film premiered on ZEE5 on 1 January 20211.
The Plot
The film begins with the discovery of two charred bodies of migrant children in a forest near Lucknow. The police arrest Veer Singh (Manav Kaul), a decorated army officer and a popular social activist, as the prime suspect. He is charged with multiple counts of rape, murder and kidnapping of children over a span of five years.
Sid Jaisingh (Arjun Rampal), a high-profile lawyer and a former politician, agrees to take up Veer’s case as a challenge. He believes that Veer is innocent and that there is a conspiracy behind his arrest. Amit Kumar (Anand Tiwari), an honest but inexperienced prosecutor, is assigned to oppose Sid in the court. Judge Kishore Bhushan (Rajit Kapur), a veteran jurist with a terminal illness, presides over the case.
As the trial progresses, Sid uncovers several loopholes and inconsistencies in the evidence against Veer. He also exposes the corruption and incompetence of the police and the forensic department. He manages to create reasonable doubt in the minds of the judge and the jury about Veer’s guilt2.
However, things take a dramatic turn when Veer suffers a seizure in the court and reveals another personality within him. He claims to be Ranjit, a serial killer who enjoys torturing and killing children. He confesses to all the crimes that Veer is accused of and even provides details that only the killer would know.
Sid is shocked and confused by this twist. He suspects that Veer is suffering from multiple personality disorder or dissociative identity disorder. He tries to prove that Veer is mentally unstable and not responsible for his actions. Amit, on the other hand, argues that Veer is faking his condition to escape punishment. He demands that Veer undergoes a psychiatric evaluation to determine his sanity.
The film then delves into the dark and disturbing past of Veer and Ranjit, and how they are connected to each other. It also explores the psychological aspects of sexual violence, trauma and identity. The film ends with a shocking revelation that changes everything.
The Cast
The film boasts of an impressive cast of talented actors who deliver stellar performances. Manav Kaul steals the show with his portrayal of Veer and Ranjit, two contrasting personalities with different motives and emotions. He switches between them effortlessly and convincingly, making us empathize with both of them at different points in the film. He also displays a range of expressions and body language that convey his inner turmoil and conflict.
Arjun Rampal plays Sid Jaisingh with style and charisma. He brings out his character’s confidence, intelligence and determination to win the case. He also shows his vulnerability and frustration when he faces unexpected challenges and dilemmas in the court. He shares a good chemistry with Manav Kaul and Anand Tiwari in their courtroom scenes.
Anand Tiwari plays Amit Kumar with sincerity and earnestness. He portrays his character’s honesty, integrity and passion for justice. He also shows his character’s growth from being naive and nervous to being confident and assertive in the court. He holds his own against Arjun Rampal’s Sid Jaisingh in their verbal duels.
Rajit Kapur plays Judge Kishore Bhushan with grace and dignity. He depicts his character’s wisdom, experience and authority as well as his personal struggles with his health and family. He also adds some humor and warmth to his role. He balances his character’s impartiality and empathy as he listens to both sides of the case.
Madhoo plays Shobha Bhushan, the wife of Judge Kishore.
The Reviews
Nail Polish has received mostly positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. The film has been praised for its gripping storyline, unexpected twists, and powerful performances. The film has also been appreciated for touching upon aspects of sexual violence rarely discussed in Hindi cinema or in Indian society at large.Some of the reviews are:
- Anna M. M. Vetticad of Firstpost gave the film 3.5 stars out of 5 and wrote: "Nail Polish is unpredictable, original and absorbing."
- Shrikanth Venkatesh of Sify gave the film 3 stars out of 5 and wrote: "Nail Polish is a gritty film and is gripping for the most part. The acting is generally top notch, with Arjun Rampal and Manav Kaul especially in fine form."
- Archika Khurana of The Times of India gave the film 3.5 stars out of 5 and wrote: "Nail Polish is a compelling thriller which can be watched for its story and most importantly the outstanding performances."
- Shubhra Gupta of The Indian Express gave the film 3 stars out of 5 and wrote: "A few things are overstated, a couple of facts are fuzzily presented, but despite the occasional eye-roll, Nail Polish, buoyed by a wonderful performance from Manav Kaul, and ably supported by the rest, keep us engaged."
- Prathyush Parasuraman of Film Companion gave the film 2.5 stars out of 5 and wrote: "If nothing else, this movie is a testament to how well-framed and well-acted films can elevate even the banal writing, even if it cannot entirely transcend the banality."
The Verdict
Nail Polish is a must-watch for fans of legal thrillers and psychological dramas. The film offers a captivating and intriguing story that keeps you hooked till the end. The film also showcases the brilliant acting skills of Manav Kaul, who delivers a career-best performance as Veer and Ranjit. The film also features Arjun Rampal, Anand Tiwari, Rajit Kapur and Madhoo in impressive roles. The film has a dark and disturbing theme that may not be suitable for everyone, but it also raises some important questions about justice, trauma and identity. Nail Polish is a nail-biting thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
So what are you waiting for? Watch Nail Polish on ZEE5 now and let us know what you think in the comments below.