Mardaani

"Mardaani is not a perfect film, but it's better than many of the blockbusters Bollywood churns out regularly. It's a well-made commercial Hindi film - reasonably short and minus songs - that's trying to say something. Whatever else, you won't be bored."

"Post-interval, the story derails considerably. By the time we get to the climax, we are fully in avenging angel territory. And, just like in Singham Returns last week, the solutions suggested are problematic. Which is a shame, because this could have been so much better. In the rating above, one star is for Rani who, like fine wine, is only getting better."

"The display of the 'trafficked' girls teeters on the voyeuristic. The resolution, showcasing bloody vigilante-ism, is problematic. Is that the only definition of 'mardaani', and is that something to be celebrated? Something more pragmatic, and yes, more real, would have served its consistently watchable leading lady, better."

"Brevity is sorely missing as the film could have been shorter. But then, at a time when there's rampant violence against women, Mardaani gives a glimpse of what should ideally happen."

"MARDAANI is a must watch. It's an edge-of-the-seat thriller that catapults you right into the middle of the plot. The execution is near flawless and it takes you a while to realize that this is a film on child trafficking."

"Mardaani is not a usual Yashraj film but a good one to switch tracks and attempt something different. Filmmaker Pradeep Sarkar deserves a pat on his back for this one. He not just gets the best performances out of his cast but keeps his focus right making Mardaani a great watch. Book your tickets for Mardaani and watch Rani Mukherji in action. She will blow your mind!"

"Once you're done soaking in all the awesomeness that the seasoned actress brings in to her character of Shivani Shivaji Roy, you will notice everything else, from the ambience, the shots, the other actors. Having said that, it's the taut story that engages you through the film's complete runtime – the real heroine, the real star of the show. Kudos to the complete team!"

"I am quite proud to say that the roaring lady rules the show in Mardaani and with aplomb. Despite the film unraveling with as much wit and creativity as was expected of it, the movie is an attempt to alter the fare of commercial cinema, giving it a more real tinge. It might not be a brilliant film but it is a film that is better than good and must govern your attention for the theme it raises. It is a powerful film that seldom goes wrong and leaves by a message that must be heard. A big shout out to Team Mardaani."

"This film deserves to be seen - for Rani's and Tahir Bhasin's acting; to learn about the ugly truth that is human trafficking; and for the brilliant portrayal of a lady cop's true grit."

"If you are tired of the nonsensical action, and over-the-top drama, `Mardaani` is the film for you. The movie has the power to invoke thought and subjects you to question the ultimately ineffective candle light vigils that need to now metamorphose to a more powerful resistance to lawless cruelty and nip crime at its bud."

"Handsomely helmed by Pradeep Sarkar and terrifically performed by Rani Mukherjee, 'Mardaani' is a fiercely arresting action thriller that holds the flag of women power high. Must watch."

"...despite its Adults Only certification, doesn't spend much time in dingy bedrooms, or with the girls. Though it lectures and breathes heavy sometimes, it's more interested in the men who run these rackets — men you may see hanging out at a coffee shop, or jogging in your colony park."

"This movie could have continuous recall had the pace been racier. And if you could also buy into the emotional tracks between Shivani and her husband, her niece or her ward. Also, Rani is the only member of the cast with star value. The rest of the actors, including the English-speaking young goon, are inconsequential."

"That the trailers of Mardaani were disappointing could be a blessing in disguise. But for the climax, it is an understated and relatively agreeable mainstream film—manipulative but not exploitative—that thankfully falls short of sensationalizing a serious issue."

"The movie Mardaani offers quite a number of twists and surprises which will keep the viewers' eyeballs excited and some catchy dialogues will do the same with the ears. In a nutshell, Rani Mukerji as Shivani Sivaji Roy in Mardaani seems capable enough to shy away several other 'Mard' cops in Bollywood."

"Rani's mardaani Shivani is a close second to Sarfarosh's Ajay Rathod and that is saying something. In spite of a couple of flaws, this is still a very good movie to have come out in a long time. It's definitely worth a watch."

"There are plenty of applaud worthy moments in Mardaani and barring a few manipulative and exploitive scenes, which should have been left on the editing table, this is a reasonably smooth ride."

"Mardaani is a narrative that leaves you rattled and perturbed, yet it gives you hope of a better tomorrow. If you like watching good content and good performances on screen, go for this one!"

"We have an interesting film with an inspiring hero, a menacing villain that you personally want to thrash, and a story that touches your heart. All this, and Rani Mukerji! More reasons to watch, than not!"

"Mardaani is obviously Rani Mukerji's film and she dominates the show all the way through. But a few of the other actors, too, are given enough space to make a mark. Because Shivani Shivaji Roy is not your average action 'hero', she might not appeal to Dabangg junkies. But for everyone else, Mardaani could be well worth a trip to the multiplex."

"...is relevant, powerful and inspiring with a top notch performance by Rani Mukerji. Worth a watch!"

"Mardaani is a complete package. You will not mind spending your hard earned money on Mardaani. Thumbs up from us."

"Mardaani's philosophy and message are conveyed to some extent. It may be liked due to its women oriented theme, but I don't think it would give any impetus to the process of women empowerment. Watch it if you have been a Rani fan, but don't look for any depth in the story."

"Yes, more and more films need to be made on such issues. Yes, Mardaani is a decent film. Alas, the issue is not what you come out thinking about. I wonder if there were censor cuts that took away bits that were needed to get us more involved with those who suffered. But, meanwhile, this will do. And go give, Lakshmi a watch too. Note, I am not saying instead, I am saying both. Each has a different approach - only that one is worth a watch and the other ought to be watched."

"...irrespective of all it's cliches Mardaani serves well towards Rani's career graph. A definite watch if you are a Rani fan, Mardaani is an average revenge-action cop flick."