FILM REVIEW: MARDAANI 3 “Mardaani 3 proves that real power doesn’t roar on screen it stands quietly between justice and fear.”

By Suyash Pachauri | Global Bollywood | Director’s Daily Clapboard

Introduction

With Mardaani 3, Hindi cinema returns to one of its most grounded, socially conscious and emotionally unsettling franchises. The Mardaani series has never attempted to glamorise crime, violence or policing. Instead, it has consistently chosen to look at uncomfortable truths with clarity, restraint and courage. The third instalment continues this tradition, while subtly evolving its emotional depth and narrative complexity.

At the centre of the film once again stands Shivani Shivaji Roy a name that, over the years, has come to symbolise integrity, fearlessness and moral clarity in contemporary Indian cinema. Portrayed by Rani Mukerji with a quiet but commanding presence, Shivani is not written as a superhero in uniform. She is a professional, a human being and a deeply empathetic observer of suffering. In an industry where police characters often become vehicles for exaggerated action and swagger, Mardaani 3 consciously chooses dignity over drama.

What makes this chapter particularly significant is its tonal maturity. The film does not rely on nostalgia or franchise familiarity. Instead, it stands firmly on its own narrative legs, dealing with a disturbing and socially rooted crime that reflects modern realities rather than cinematic clichés. The story unfolds with emotional patience and investigative discipline, ensuring that the audience remains engaged not because of spectacle, but because of moral urgency.

Mardaani 3 is not designed to be comforting. It is meant to provoke discomfort, reflection and emotional involvement. The makers understand that the power of the franchise lies not in shock value, but in its ability to humanise victims, complicate morality and question systemic failure without turning the film into a lecture.

In many ways, Mardaani 3 feels less like a sequel and more like a continuation of a responsibility. A responsibility to speak for those who cannot, and to present law enforcement not as invincible warriors, but as fallible individuals trying to navigate broken systems.

Screenplay & Script Sense

The screenplay of Mardaani 3 is its strongest asset. It is tight, focused and emotionally intelligent. From the opening sequence itself, the writing establishes the emotional tone and thematic direction of the film. The story does not rush into dramatic confrontations or chase sequences. Instead, it builds its world patiently, allowing the audience to understand the gravity of the crime and its ripple effects on multiple lives.

The structure of the screenplay is deliberately linear, avoiding unnecessary flashbacks or narrative gimmicks. This clarity works in the film’s favour. The investigative trail unfolds methodically, mirroring the real-life pace of complex police work. The writers avoid simplifying the process of evidence collection, interrogation and bureaucratic hurdles. Instead, they show how small breakthroughs often emerge from persistent, unglamorous labour.

What is particularly admirable is the script’s emotional restraint. The writers trust the audience to feel without being told how to feel. Scenes involving victims and their families are written with remarkable sensitivity. There is no exploitation of grief. Silence, pauses and restrained conversations communicate more than dramatic outbursts ever could.

The film also avoids overloading the narrative with multiple social themes. While it remains socially aware, the story never loses its central focus. The crime and its investigation remain at the heart of the narrative. Subtexts related to power imbalance, digital vulnerability, social neglect and institutional limitations are layered organically into the story rather than delivered as separate messages.

Dialogues remain minimalistic and functional. There are no punchline-heavy monologues or heroic speeches. Shivani’s words are often short, precise and purposeful reflecting her professional mindset. When the script does allow space for emotional expression, it does so sparingly, making those moments feel earned rather than manufactured.

Importantly, the antagonistic side of the story is also written with nuance. Instead of creating one-dimensional villains, the screenplay hints at systemic and social failures that contribute to crime without justifying it. This balance allows the film to remain morally firm while still being intellectually honest.

The second half of the screenplay tightens further, focusing on psychological pressure, tactical manoeuvring and emotional stakes. Although some narrative beats may appear familiar to seasoned viewers of the genre, the writing compensates through emotional layering and character consistency.

Overall, the script of Mardaani 3 demonstrates maturity, discipline and social responsibility qualities that are becoming increasingly rare in mainstream crime dramas.

Direction

The direction of Mardaani 3 is marked by remarkable control and emotional intelligence. The director clearly understands the franchise’s core identity and respects its tonal legacy. There is no attempt to reinvent the series into a commercial action spectacle. Instead, the film leans into its greatest strength grounded realism.

The director’s most notable achievement lies in how tension is built. Rather than relying on loud background scores, dramatic camera movements or stylised violence, the film generates anxiety through pacing, framing and performance-driven scenes. Ordinary locations police stations, streets, homes and interrogation rooms become spaces of psychological intensity.

The director also deserves credit for the way sensitive subject matter is handled. The film never exploits trauma for shock value. Disturbing moments are implied rather than explicitly shown. This restraint respects both the subject and the audience, allowing the emotional impact to emerge naturally.

One of the defining qualities of the direction is its focus on process rather than payoff. Many scenes revolve around discussions, documentation, follow-ups and subtle behavioural observation. These moments are treated with cinematic seriousness, reinforcing the idea that real heroism often lies in patience and persistence.

The director also maintains a consistent emotional tone throughout the film. There are no tonal shifts into melodrama or unnecessary humour. Even lighter moments remain subdued and character-driven, preventing the narrative from losing its seriousness.

Perhaps most importantly, the director resists the temptation to elevate Shivani into an untouchable figure. She is portrayed as capable, confident and decisive but also emotionally affected by what she witnesses. This vulnerability strengthens her character rather than weakening it.

The climax is handled with restraint and emotional focus. Instead of excessive action choreography, the director chooses to highlight psychological closure and moral resolution. The result is a conclusion that feels truthful to the franchise’s philosophy.

Acting

Rani Mukerji once again delivers a deeply convincing and layered performance as Shivani Shivaji Roy. Over the years, she has built a powerful emotional connection with this character, and Mardaani 3 benefits enormously from that familiarity and maturity.

Her performance is understated but impactful. Shivani’s strength is conveyed through composure rather than aggression. Rani uses silence, facial expressions and body language to communicate emotional fatigue, moral anger and quiet resolve. The character does not rely on dramatic gestures or raised voices to command authority.

One of the most impressive aspects of Rani’s performance is how she portrays emotional containment. Shivani clearly feels the weight of every case she handles, yet she never allows personal emotion to cloud her judgement. This internal conflict between empathy and professional discipline is communicated beautifully through subtle performance choices.

The film also offers Rani moments of vulnerability, particularly in scenes where she reflects on the long-term psychological impact of her work. These moments never feel indulgent. Instead, they deepen the character and remind the audience that even the strongest individuals carry emotional scars.

Rani’s screen presence anchors the entire narrative. The film does not attempt to distract from weaker writing or pacing through her star power. Rather, her performance becomes a natural extension of the story’s seriousness.

Supporting Cast

The supporting cast plays a crucial role in sustaining the film’s realism. The actors portraying Shivani’s colleagues present believable professional relationships rather than exaggerated camaraderie. Their interactions reflect routine cooperation, occasional disagreements and shared pressure.

The performances of the civilian characters particularly those affected directly by the crime are handled with emotional honesty. None of them appear written merely to provoke sympathy. Their reactions feel genuine, restrained and deeply human.

The antagonist’s portrayal avoids theatrical villainy. Instead, the performance relies on psychological subtlety, making the character more unsettling and believable. The absence of overt flamboyance makes the threat feel disturbingly real.

Even minor roles are cast and directed with care. Brief appearances still contribute meaningfully to the narrative texture. This ensemble approach strengthens the film’s emotional credibility.

Cinematography

The cinematography of Mardaani 3 adheres to the franchise’s grounded aesthetic. The camera rarely draws attention to itself. Instead, it functions as an observational tool, placing the audience inside the investigative environment.

Lighting is kept naturalistic. Police stations feel bureaucratic and functional rather than stylised. Residential spaces appear lived-in and emotionally textured. Streets, alleys and public areas are captured with subdued realism.

Close-up shots are used sparingly but effectively, particularly during interrogation and emotional confrontation scenes. These moments allow the audience to observe micro-expressions and internal conflict without intrusive visual manipulation.

The camera movement remains restrained, often handheld during tense moments to subtly increase immediacy. This technique enhances the feeling of being present within the investigation rather than watching a staged sequence.

Overall, the cinematography supports the narrative without competing for attention.

Music & Background Score

The music of Mardaani 3 is intentionally minimal. The film relies almost entirely on its background score rather than standalone songs. This choice reinforces the seriousness of the subject matter.

The background score complements the film’s emotional rhythm. Instead of dominating scenes, it quietly underscores tension, uncertainty and emotional gravity. The music often fades into the background, allowing silence to carry dramatic weight.

Crucially, the score avoids melodramatic cues during emotional scenes. The filmmakers trust the performances to communicate pain and urgency without musical manipulation.

This restrained musical approach aligns perfectly with the franchise’s identity.

Editing

The editing of Mardaani 3 is disciplined and purposeful. The narrative flow remains steady, avoiding unnecessary digressions. Scenes begin and end at emotionally appropriate moments, maintaining narrative efficiency.

The investigation sequences are edited with clarity, ensuring that the audience can follow developments without confusion. Cross-cutting is used carefully, primarily to increase tension rather than stylistic flourish.

The pacing of the first half focuses on gradual world-building and emotional grounding, while the second half tightens significantly, reflecting rising psychological pressure and narrative urgency.

While a few transitions may feel familiar to seasoned viewers of crime dramas, the overall editorial approach supports the film’s seriousness and narrative clarity.

Final Verdict

Mardaani 3 is a thoughtful, restrained and emotionally grounded continuation of one of Hindi cinema’s most socially responsible franchises. It refuses to compromise its core values for spectacle, commercial shortcuts or exaggerated heroism.

The film succeeds because it understands its own purpose. It is not merely about catching criminals. It is about bearing witness to suffering, acknowledging systemic flaws and highlighting the quiet courage of those who continue to fight despite emotional exhaustion.

Rani Mukerji’s committed performance, combined with disciplined direction and intelligent writing, makes Mardaani 3 a meaningful cinematic experience rather than just another crime thriller.

It stands as a reminder that impactful cinema does not require scale it requires sincerity.

On the Plus Side

• A powerful and restrained lead performance by Rani Mukerji

• Sensitive and socially responsible screenplay

• Controlled and mature direction

• Strong supporting performances

• Realistic and immersive cinematography

• Subtle and effective background score

• Disciplined editing and narrative clarity

On the Minus Side

• Limited exploration of some secondary characters’ emotional journeys

• A few narrative beats feel familiar within the genre

• Viewers seeking high-octane action may find the film subdued

• The psychological complexity of the antagonist could have been explored further

Suyash Pachauri's Verdict One Liner

“Mardaani 3 proves that real power doesn’t roar on screen it stands quietly between justice and fear.”