Marital R*pe. It’s a dark reality whispered behind closed doors, a horrifying truth hidden within the supposed sanctity of marriage. “Lakeerein” tackles this sensitive issue head-on, aiming to bring these atrocities to light. But while the film’s heart is undeniably in the right place, its execution leaves something to be desired.
Story
Kavya (Tia Bajpai) finds herself in the heart-wrenching position of fighting for justice against her own husband, Vivek (Gaurav Chopra). The weapon used against her? Marital Rpe. Enter defense attorney Dudhari Singh (Ashutosh Rana), a man known for his powerful courtroom presence. With Kavya’s brave advocate Geeta Biswas (Bidita Bag) by her side, a legal battle unfolds, laying bare the complexities of marital Rpe and the emotional toll it takes on victims.
Cast
| Cast | Character |
|---|---|
| Ashutosh Rana | Dudhari Singh (Defense Attorney) |
| Bidita Bag | Geeta Biswas (Advocate) |
| Tia Bajpai | Kavya Agnihotri (Wife) |
| Gaurav Chopra | Vivek Agnihotri (Husband) |
| Rajesh Jais | Kavya’s Father |
The film rests on the able shoulders of its cast. Ashutosh Rana delivers a powerful performance as the defense attorney, while Bidita Bag portrays Kavya’s advocate with quiet determination. Newcomer Tia Bajpai makes a commendable debut, capturing Kavya’s vulnerability and resilience.
Review
“Lakeerein” deserves credit for its courage in tackling a taboo subject. The courtroom scenes are engaging, showcasing the legal arguments and the emotional weight of Kavya’s testimony.
However, the film struggles with its pacing. At over two hours, it feels stretched thin at times. The inclusion of multiple similar cases, while aiming to highlight the prevalence of marital R*pe, can leave the narrative feeling repetitive.
Additionally, the focus on courtroom drama sacrifices a deeper exploration of the emotional impact on Kavya and other victims. A tighter screenplay with a more focused narrative could have strengthened the film’s emotional connection with the audience.
Verdict
Despite its flaws, “Lakeerein” is a well-intentioned film that sheds light on a critical social issue. It sparks important conversations about marital R*pe, a topic that deserves to be at the forefront of our social discourse. While it may not be a cinematic masterpiece, it’s a film worth watching for its sincerity and its potential to raise awareness.