Neru

Director Jeethu Joseph, with co-writer and actor Shanti Mayadevi, endeavours to make a legal drama of unwavering focus and succeeds. They ensure that Mohanlal's presence doesn't take the limelight away from Anaswara and the issues addressed.

'Neru' is a riveting courtroom drama that holds your attention throughout. And to have Mohanlal belting out dialogues on consent, women's rights and victim-shaming makes this film a worthy addition to the long list of women empowerment films.

It is a joy to see Mohanlal not having to play the loud and overbearing wisecracker yet again. Somewhere between the many moments of sad cliches and superfluous lines in Jeethu Joseph's new Mohanlal film Neru, an engaging court drama can be uncovered.

While courtroom dramas are not a unique concept in recent years, the film keeps the audience engaged for most part. The second half is the saving grace, as it keeps the audience guessing as the two sides engage in an interesting game of one-upmanship. Neru is a story of courage, resilience, and justice, and an engaging watch.

Despite the script's meticulous attention to detail, mirroring the filmmaker's previous works, both within and outside the courtroom, every scene in the film seems somewhat incomplete due to a lack of refined writing. Even within its courtroom drama setting, Neru's narrative unfortunately falls short in fully capitalising on the numerous potential impactful moments, leaving them feeling underdeveloped upon reflection.

Neru is not a fully-fledged commercial entertainer. But it is an emotional courtroom drama which will make you thrill until the credit starts rolling.