A Sabarmati Report

Story: This film investigates the events and causes behind the 2002 Godhra incident, which led to the tragic loss of 59 train passengers.

Review: ‘The Sabarmati Report’ delves into the tragic Godhra incident, where 59 passengers aboard the Sabarmati Express lost their lives in 2002. With a crisp two-hour runtime, the film manages to keep viewers engaged for the most part. The film seeks to challenge traditional narratives, suggesting that history has often been shaped by biased perspectives and calling for a re-evaluation. Unfortunately, a more grounded and realistic portrayal could have made it far more compelling. The first half largely sidelines the Godhra incident, focusing instead on the workings of a broadcast channel that manipulates its coverage to favour the then-ruling party, exploiting its close ties for political gain.

The film follows Samar Kumar (Vikrant Massey), a Hindi journalist, who is recruited by Mahika (Ridhi Dogra), a hard-nosed journalist working for a prominent broadcast channel. Together, they travel to Godhra to report on the tragic incident. However, Mahika receives a call from her boss that alters her narrative, framing the event as merely an unfortunate accident. Samar, through his own investigation, uncovers a truth that starkly contrasts with his channel’s coverage. When he confronts his employer, he is abruptly fired. Struggling to find another job, he spirals into depression and turns to alcohol. As the incident’s fifth anniversary approaches, the network assigns Amrita Gill (Raashi Khanna) to revisit the case. She turns to Samar for guidance, and together, they prepare a fresh and unfiltered account of the events.

Vikrant Massey delivers an authentic portrayal of Samar Kumar, capturing the essence of an honest reporter with skill and sincerity. Raashi Khanna as Amrita, a producer, also gives a solid performance, but it’s Ridhi Dogra as Mahika—a ruthless, manipulative journalist—who truly commands attention. Her portrayal is sharp, exuding a chilling sense of arrogance and entitlement. However, the film stumbles in its research. It’s unrealistic to show journalists traveling long distances to Delhi solely to deliver tapes when, in that era, such tasks were often handled by bus drivers or flight passengers. Moreover, by 2002, OB vans were commonly used for transmitting footage via satellite. Also, Mahika’s character portrayal leans heavily into stereotypes, and viewers should take it with a pinch of salt.

‘The Sabarmati Report’ holds viewer attention through most of its runtime, but its slightly glossy treatment makes it feel less like a film based on true events and more like a typical commercial drama. While it succeeds in educating audiences about the lasting impact of this tragic incident, the cinematic embellishments somewhat dilute its authenticity.

Plus Points of The Sabarmati Report:

1. Strong Performances: Vikrant Massey gives a sincere and convincing portrayal of Samar, a journalist grappling with ethical dilemmas. Ridhi Dogra stands out as Mahika, bringing a chilling, manipulative energy to her role. Raashi Khanna also adds depth as Amrita, the new journalist seeking the truth.
2. Relevant Subject Matter: The film addresses an important and controversial topic—the Godhra incident and the media’s role in shaping public narratives. It raises awareness about media manipulation and political bias, encouraging viewers to question historical accounts.
3. Engaging Plot: The storyline, focused on uncovering the truth behind the Godhra incident, keeps the audience engaged. The twist of Samar’s investigation and his moral struggle adds depth to the narrative.
4. Compact Runtime: The film’s two-hour runtime makes it an easy watch while still delivering its message effectively, without dragging on unnecessarily.
5. Strong Cinematic Tension: The film builds suspense as Samar and Amrita dig deeper into the incident, creating an emotional connection for the audience.

Minus Points of The Sabarmati Report:

1. Unrealistic Details: The film includes some logistical inaccuracies, such as portraying journalists traveling long distances to deliver tapes. By 2002, such tasks were typically handled by bus drivers or passengers, making certain scenes feel less believable.
2. Glassy Treatment of a Serious Topic: The film occasionally feels like a commercial drama rather than a grounded, realistic portrayal of the tragic incident. Its cinematic flourishes sometimes overshadow the serious nature of the subject matter.
3. Stereotypical Characterization: Mahika’s portrayal as a manipulative, power-hungry journalist feels somewhat one-dimensional and relies on stereotypes, which could have been avoided for a more nuanced character.
4. Limited Exploration of the Incident: The first half of the film spends more time focusing on the media channel and the political manipulation, sidelining the Godhra incident itself. This reduces the emotional weight of the actual tragedy.
5. Shallow Emotional Impact: While the film raises important questions, it doesn’t dive deeply enough into the emotional or human side of the event. The personal struggles of the main characters, especially Samar, could have been explored more deeply to make the film more compelling.