In the newest offering from director Gururaj Kulkarni, “The Judgement” stars Diganth Manchale as Anil, an investment banker who finds himself entangled in a legal ordeal. Anil is arrested for the murder of Roopa, an NGO head played by Roopa Rayappa. From the outset, the audience is given a strong impression that Anil is likely innocent of the crime. This initial hunch is only amplified when Govind, a highly acclaimed lawyer portrayed by V. Ravichandran, manages to get Anil convicted. Despite the nail-biting courtroom scenes, it becomes apparent that the story holds more layers than meets the eye.
The film takes a keen interest not only in the murder investigation but also in the intricacies and multifaceted nature of the Indian legal system. As the case against Anil progresses, viewers often find themselves two steps ahead of the narrative, even if the filmmakers attempt to throw unexpected twists our way. However, the film takes a more intriguing turn when Govind experiences a change of heart. He begins to doubt Anil’s guilt and decides to delve further into the case, leading to thought-provoking observations on what compels lawyers to accept certain cases.
Govind’s motivation for taking on cases is driven by ego. He thrives on being regarded as the best and gravitates toward individuals who inflate his sense of self-worth. This complex dynamic comes under scrutiny through the perspective of Govind’s wife, a lecturer played by Meghana Gaonkar. She raises the poignant question: can pride overshadow truth? This profound query sparks a sense of introspection in Govind, driving him deeper into the pursuit of justice.
As Govind digs deeper into the murder, connecting the dots between Roopa’s murder and another case, the audience is presented with a plethora of legal jargon and courtroom scenarios. The film makes a concerted effort to keep the legal proceedings engaging, though at times it feels more like a television serial than a gripping courtroom drama.
. Certain production choices, such as the obtrusive background score during investigative scenes, can be jarring, and the dated production design of the courtroom detracts from the overall realism.
Anil’s parents, portrayed by Rangayana Raghu and Rekha Kudligi, embody the archetypal grieving family often seen in soap operas. Their anguished performances heighten the melodramatic atmosphere, while the character of Qureshi, a corrupt minister played by Krishna Hebbale, is an exaggerated depiction of villainy. Yet, Hebbale’s compelling performance breathes some life into the otherwise cliched character. Intermittent scenes feature junior lawyers making offhand comments on Govind’s skills, but this additional focus on the protagonist occasionally breaks the narrative flow.
In an illuminating departure, the film examines the delay behind star-driven Kannada films, providing a meta-commentary on the larger cinematic landscape. “The Judgement” stumbles in its failure to fortify the whodunnit aspect of the story. Clues emerge with convenient timing, making it relatively straightforward to deduce the identity of the real culprits. Nonetheless, the courtroom confrontations, steered masterfully by Ravichandran, maintain the film’s watchability, even though the onslaught of legal information may leave viewers feeling mentally worn out.
Despite these drawbacks, Gururaj Kulkarni’s second directorial venture isn’t a forgettable experience. The film, though predictable, manages to keep the audience engaged to a considerable extent with its nuanced portrayal of legal battles and ethical dilemmas.
“The Judgement” is a stark reminder of the complexities within the legal system and the human ego’s role in the quest for justice. While it may fall short in some storytelling aspects, it opens up dialogues about morality, truth, and the pursuit of excellence in a field driven by pride and perception. This Kannada courtroom drama is worth a watch for those interested in the legal genre, providing enough hooks to keep the viewers invested despite its narrative predictability.
As “The Judgement” culminates, it leaves viewers contemplating the fine line between justice and pride, urging a reflection on what truly drives the human desire for validation. The film’s exploration of these themes ensures that, despite its flaws, it lingers in the audience’s mind as they reflect on the compelling journey presented on screen.
