Love Sonia Movie Review: Dark and Disturbing

Though several films have been made on human trafficking in India, not many have the same impact on you like Tabrez Noorani’s Love Sonia.

The film revolves around Sonia, the daughter of a poor farmer, who unknowingly ventures into the murky world of human trafficking to rescue her sister. Her journey takes her from a drought-struck village in Maharashtra to the dingy parts of Mumbai to USA and then back to India.

It’s not hard to guess the course that the story will take, however it’s the treatment and the fabulous performances, which make this macabre tale compelling. Tabrez has depicted the shady brothels of Mumbai and the conditions of sex workers so realistically that you feel suffocated while watching the movie.

Mrunal Thakur, who has played the lead role bowls you over with her simplicity and power-packed performance. She is a natural and your hearts goes out for her character.

Richa Chadha is impressive as Madhuri, a sex worker, who makes the ultimate sacrifice to give Sonia another chance. Though she repels you in the beginning, we see a more humane side to her character as the film progresses.

Freida Pinto is playing the bindass Rashmi, another sex worker and she will not only surprise you with her transformation, but also leave you in awe of her performance.

Manoj Bajpayee is a true chameleon and his Faisal is so sinister that he will send a chill down your spine. The man lets a random guy rape a girl just for a cigarette, need I say more?

Rajkummar Rao has limited screen time but he is able to make his presence felt. Adil Hussain is playing Sonia’s father and is good in his role. Sai Tamhankar too has played her part well. Anupam Kher is playing a creepy loan shark and you would not want to meet a person like him. The rest of the supporting cast has also done a superb job.

Like I said before, the story is predictable but it’s the performances which make this gem shine. The film will remind you of Nagesh Kukunoor’s 2014 release Lakshmi, though this one is more hard-hitting and gut-wrenching.

While the first half keeps you engaged, I found the second half a bit convenient but the actors save it with their outstanding performances. Tabrez Noorani’s directorial debut is impactful, disturbing and thought-provoking.

The cinematography is fantastic and makes the film come alive on screen. AR Rahman’s music blends perfectly with the narrative and the dialogues also are very natural.

Watch this film to enjoy good cinema and great performances.