Movie Details
Directed by:
Arati Kadav
Screenplay by:
Harman Baweja, Anu Singh Choudhary
Based on:
The Great Indian Kitchen by Jeo Baby
Produced by:
Harman Baweja, Pammi Baweja, Smitha Baliga, Abdul Aziz Makani, Jyoti Deshpande
Starring:
Sanya Malhotra, Nishant Dahiya, Kanwaljit Singh
Cinematography:
Pratham Mehta
Edited by:
Prerna Saigal
Music by:
Sagar Desai, Faizan Hussain
Production companies:
Jio Studios, Baweja Studios
Distributed by:
ZEE5
Released dates:
22 November 2024 (IFFM), 7 February 2025
Running time:
111 minutes
Country:
India
Language:
Hindi
A Powerful Statement on Womanhood
Last couple of years have seen quite a few women-centric films in Bollywood, but Mrs. stands out as one that has a distinctly different edge. Channeled by its director, Arati Kadav and starring an immensely talented Sanya Malhotra, this film isn’t just about the story. The film explores the notion of identity, independence, and social norms. What does it mean to be your person in a society where everyone expects you to be like them? Let’s do a deeper analysis of this dramatic drama.
Plot Summary
Mrs. is set in a middle-class house and follows the story of Richa (Sanya Malhotra), a loving wife and daughter-in-law who for years was being dictated to and expected by her family. However, an event unrelated to her past forces her to question every aspect of her existence -- her role, her choices and most importantly, her identity. Overcoming the pressures and patriarchy in her family and society, she sets off on a journey of self-discovery that may question the very foundation of her existence.
Unlike the conventional melodramatic treatment of such themes, Mrs. keeps things grounded, making Richa’s struggles feel real, raw, and deeply personal.
Sanya Malhotra’s Stellar Performance
If there was ever a role that showed how versatile Sanya Malhotra is as an actress, it's this one. Her performance is both restrained and explosive at the same time. Rather than resorting to verbal detachment, she's letting her eyes do all the talking. Her portrayal of Richa's inner monologues is both sweet and forceful -- I was almost drawn into the turmoil and pain in her eyes at every turn.
It has a lot of supporting cast. Some seasoned actors like Vijay Raaz and Sheeba Chaddha are also there and each one of them plays a significant role in the transformation of Richa and hence making the movie more interesting.
Direction & Screenplay: Slow-Burn Storytelling That Leaves an Impact
Director Arati Kadav has chosen to go low-key and not with dramatic confrontations, relying on the well-crafted screenplay to allow everyone to feel the weight of each moment. The first half sets the tone, and the second half delivers an emotional explosion that leaves you feeling well after the credits roll.
Although one might find the slow-burn narration a bit longwinded at times, it is an intentional choice made to bring Richa's life story to the audience at her own pace — as it often takes time to overcome life's consequences in a patriarchal society.
Cinematography & Music: A Visual and Emotional Treat
I feel that the photography captures well the worlds of Richa that she's in, the miserable one she lives in and the ones that she desperately wants to leave and go to. I particularly love how the lighting and the framing were used to give the whole thing a real sense of depth.
The background music is slightly off-putting but powerful in its ability to underscore several key scenes without bogging down the story. Not having an off-putting commercial score helps to maintain the film’s realistic tone.
Themes & Social Commentary: Breaking the Chains of Patriarchy
What sets Mrs. apart is its fearless take on patriarchy, gender roles, and self-identity. The film doesn't just highlight the problem—it challenges the audience to rethink their perspectives. Unlike other feminist narratives that rely on preachy monologues, Mrs. makes its case through storytelling, making it all the more powerful.
One particular scene in the second half that encapsulates the whole thing is this scene where Richa is standing at a crossroads literally, and metaphorically; an important moment I expect will stay with people for a long time.
Final Verdict: A Must-Watch for Thoughtful Cinema Lovers
Mrs. may not be a film – it’s an experience. To watch it you are going to get pushed to consider some deeply entrenched social norms that are part of our daily lives. Sanya Malhotra delivers her best performance in years, making Richa’s story so much personal to us all.
Perhaps because there is a bit of a sense of subversion here — and some sort of metaphysical or emotional tension — at the end — however subtle. If you are looking for an hour and a half of rousing fun, you won't want to see Mrs.
Rating: 3.5/5
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
Sanya Malhotra’s phenomenal performance
Thought-provoking storytelling
Realistic portrayal of gender roles
Strong supporting cast
Impactful cinematography & music
❌ Cons:
The slow pace may not appeal to all viewers
Heavy subject matter requires emotional investment
Should You Watch Mrs.?
If you like a movie like Thappad, Pink or Darlings, then Mrs. belongs on your must-see list. It's a movie that makes you think about, question and maybe even change (a rarity in mainstream cinema).
What do you guys think about Mrs.? Did this make you like it? Leave a comment down below and join the conversation!
