"Dange," directed by Bejoy Nambiar, hit the screens on March 1, 2024, promising an intense dive into the world of college politics. With a runtime of 2.5 hours, the film boasts a talented ensemble cast led by Harshvardhan Rane, Ehan Bhat, and Nikita Dutta, set against the vibrant backdrop of a college in Goa.

Summary: The film opens with a focus on Xavier (Harshvardhan Rane), a senior student revered for his fearless approach to fighting against injustice. His character contrasts sharply with Yuva (Ehan Bhat), a junior student depicted as arrogant and dominant. As the narrative unfolds, we are introduced to a multitude of subplots, including romantic entanglements, student protests, and clashes with college authorities.

Likes: "Dange" excels in its visual presentation, with stunning cinematography that effectively captures the vibrant and chaotic atmosphere of college life. Harshvardhan Rane delivers a compelling performance as Xavier, portraying the character's rebellious nature with conviction. The film also deserves credit for its portrayal of important social issues such as caste discrimination and minority rights, adding depth to the storyline. Nikita Dutta shines in her role as Ishika, bringing a sense of strength and complexity to the character.

Dislikes: Despite its visual appeal, "Dange" struggles with a disjointed narrative that fails to fully develop its characters and subplots. The film attempts to juggle too many storylines, leading to a lack of focus and coherence. Ehan Bhat's portrayal of Yuva feels one-dimensional and fails to evoke empathy or interest from the audience. Additionally, the film's dialogue often feels forced and unnatural, hindering the emotional impact of key scenes.

Verdict: "Dange" is an ambitious but ultimately flawed film that struggles to balance its various narrative threads. While it boasts strong performances from its lead actors and visually striking cinematography, the film is let down by its disjointed storytelling and lack of character development. Despite its shortcomings, "Dange" offers an intriguing glimpse into the world of college politics and raises important social issues. I would rate it 3/5 stars.