Cast and Crew: Directed and written by Pulkit, "Dedh Biga Zameen" features Pratik Gandhi as Anil Singh, Khushaali Kumar as his supportive wife, and Prasanna Bist as his sister, Neha. Mukesh Chhabra plays the role of Bablu Bhaiyya, Anil's lawyer brother-in-law. This ensemble of talented actors brings to life a narrative set against the backdrop of Uttar Pradesh, where a common man's fight against a powerful political figure unfolds.

Summary: The film revolves around Anil Singh, a humble food grains shop owner in Uttar Pradesh, who is determined to marry his sister Neha. However, the dowry demands from Neha's prospective in-laws force Anil to consider selling a piece of land his late father had purchased. His plans are thwarted when he discovers that a local MLA has unlawfully seized the land. Despite being advised to abandon the matter, Anil embarks on a relentless quest for justice, facing threats, false accusations, and a corrupt system. The story follows his journey from a passive victim to a determined fighter as he confronts the entrenched corruption head-on.

What Worked: Pulkit's direction effectively portrays the gritty reality of corruption and the struggles of a common man. Pratik Gandhi's performance is the film's highlight, convincingly portraying Anil's transformation from a simple shop owner to a man fighting for his rights. His emotional outbursts and determination resonate with the audience, making his character relatable and compelling. Khushaali Kumar also impresses with her portrayal of Anil's wife, capturing the essence of a supportive yet assertive spouse. The film's depiction of police runarounds, courtroom battles, and the intimidation tactics used by the MLA and his cronies add to the overall tension and drama.

What Didn't Work: While the film's premise is strong, the narrative sometimes fails to fully embrace its potential as a thriller. The ending, in particular, leaves viewers wanting more, as Anil's battle reaches a critical juncture without a satisfying resolution. A deeper dive into the collusion between the broker and the MLA could have added more layers to the story, enhancing its impact.

Verdict: "Dedh Biga Zameen" is a compelling watch, primarily due to Pratik Gandhi's stellar performance and the realistic portrayal of a common man's struggle against systemic corruption. Despite some narrative shortcomings and an unresolved ending, the film successfully highlights the grit and determination required to fight for justice. It is worth watching for those who appreciate stories of resilience and perseverance.

Rating: 3.0/5