Article 15 (2019): Anubhav Sinha's Haunting Social Thriller

Anubhav Sinha's Article 15 is not an easy watch, but it's an essential one. Inspired by real-life events, the film follows Ayan Ranjan (Ayushmann Khurrana), a newly appointed police officer in a rural Uttar Pradesh town, as he investigates the disappearance of two Dalit girls. The film's title refers to the constitutional provision that prohibits discrimination based on caste, and Sinha uses the framework of a police procedural to expose the deep-rooted caste prejudices that continue to plague India. Ayushmann delivers a restrained, powerful performance—his urban privilege and discomfort are palpable. The supporting cast, including Sayani Gupta, Kumud Mishra, and Manoj Pahwa, is excellent. The film is unflinching in its depiction of systemic oppression—the scene where the police arrive at the crime scene and the community's response is gut-wrenching. Article 15 doesn't offer easy answers; it holds up a mirror to society and forces us to confront uncomfortable truths. It's a film that stays with you long after the credits roll. The film is available on Netflix and ZEE5. For free viewing, ZEE5 occasionally offers free access to select content with ads. You can also look for free trials on these platforms if you're a new user. Some public libraries and educational institutions also provide access to such films.