We are all aware of the shocking Jallaianwalla Bagh massacre. Kesari Chapter 2, however, deals with the aftermath and how a brave Indian lawyer took General Dyer to court. The film moves at a steady pace and the way the massacre is depicted is shocking. The circumstances which lead to the courtroom drama are also interesting. The film goes to another level once the court scenes commence. The climax is powerful. However, the courtroom drama follows a set template and hence, one might anticipate where the film is heading. Moreover, the protagonist’s backstory and his belief in the British justice system is unconvincing; it should have been better explored. Akshay Kumar, as always, gives his best to the role. Watch out for him in the climax! R Madhavan has a late entry but dominates some of the scenes in the second half. Simon Paisley Day is too good as the villain (General Dyer). Ananya Panday has an important role and does very well. Regena Cassandrra is wasted. Krish Rao (Pargat Singh), Amit Sial (Tirath Singh). Steven Hartley (Judge McArdie), Alexandra Moloney (Martha Stevens) and Sammy Jonas Heaney (Harold Laksi; jury member) leave a mark. All in all, Kesari Chapter 2 is a hard-hitting courtroom drama that educates viewers about an important chapter of Indian history. Here’s hoping this well-intentioned film succeeds in cinemas.
My rating – **** out of 5!