Khadaan (2024) [Movie Review] — A gritty Bengali action thriller of power and betrayal

Soojit Dutta’s Khadaan is an energetic Bengali action thriller that stakes its claim on atmosphere and star power. Centered on coal-mining politics and two men’s rise to dominance, the film delivers punchy set pieces and a commanding central performance, even as its narrative occasionally treads familiar ground.

Story & Themes — Plot and moral core

From partnership to overlordship — greed, politics, and betrayal

The film follows Shyam Mahato (Dev) and Mohan Das (Jisshu Sengupta) as they enter the shadowy world of mining in Adivasi lands and evolve from entrepreneurs into regional overlords. Khadaan explores how ambition, caste tensions, and political patronage corrode relationships and community life. At its best, the story probes moral ambiguity — especially through Mohan’s arc — but it leans on genre beats that seasoned viewers will recognize.

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Visuals & Technicals — Craft that elevates scenes

Rugged mine landscapes, tight editing, and immersive sound design

Shailesh Awashthi’s cinematography is a standout: the mines are shot with a raw, tactile eye that sells the film’s grim reality. Editing keeps the tempo brisk through much of the runtime, and Gowra Hari’s background score underscores the epic tone. Stylised action sequences and well-staged set pieces — though sometimes melodramatic — offer the film its most memorable moments.

Performances — Acting that drives the film

Dev’s intensity meets Jisshu’s composed menace

Dev dominates as Shyam, bringing physicality and relentless drive to the role. Jisshu Sengupta provides a strong foil as Mohan, his restrained performance adding depth to the duo’s chemistry. Barkha Bisht and Idhika Paul support well — the former lends emotional weight as Shyam’s partner, while the latter’s role is more functional. Anirban Chakrabarti’s Mandi and Sujan Mukherjee’s politician add local color and sympathy where needed.

Screenplay & Shortcomings — Where it falters

Predictability and uneven character work hold it back

Khadaan’s main flaws are an occasionally predictable plot and a few underwritten characters whose subplots feel perfunctory. Some sequences rely on excessive violence for tone rather than narrative payoff, and comic or romantic detours sometimes dilute the film’s darker thrust.

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Verdict — Who should watch

A solid pick for action-lovers and fans of star-driven Bengali cinema

For viewers who enjoy intense action dramas with a morally complex center, Khadaan delivers satisfying spectacle and strong lead work. It doesn’t always reinvent the wheel, but its visual grit and potent central performances make it a worthwhile entry in contemporary Bengali thrillers.

Overall Rating: ★★★⯪☆ (3.5 / 5)