With the uproar "Inquilab Zindabad (Long live the revolution)," Jana Gana Mana, vigilante action thriller, reached theatres today. Starring Prithviraj Sukumaran, Suraj Venjaramoodu in lead roles and with Mamta Mohandas, Vincy Aloshious in important supporting roles, the film is directed by Dijo Jose Antony.

The film is written by Sharis Mohammed, edited by Sreejith Sarang, and cinematographed by Elamon. It is the first of two cinematic parts, with the end of this film setting up the events of the next installment.

Jana Gana Mana focuses on ACP Sajjan (played by Suraj Venjaramoodu), who is asked to investigate the rape and subsequent murder of a professor, Saba (Mamta Mohandas). The movie opens with Saba's burning body being discovered and the resulting student protests at Central University, Bangalore. Sajjan leads a team to investigate the case in the aftermath. The events during and after the investigation forms the crux of the story.

First off, one must appreciate Sharis Mohammed for the gripping nature of the screenplay. It is everything a thriller can be: edgy, interesting, and whistle-inducing dialogues. Mohammed has successfully weaved a compelling story using fictionalised versions of real-life events that make one give a serious thought about the world we live in.

The lack of unnecessary songs disrupting the flow of the story adds to the effect of the film. Speaking of music, Jake's Bejoy's score gives the support the screenplay needs to leave the audience at the edge of their seats. However, the same score evokes sympathy, rage and the feeling of hopelessness when the scene demands it.

Along with a tight screenplay, what carried Jana Gana Mana throughout its 2 hours and 43 minute–runtime were the actors. Suraj Venjaramoodu as a smart, determined, and helpless ACP and Prithviraj Sukumaran as a jaded, just, and limping lawyer were a marvel. Supporting cast members like Mamta, Vincy, Shari, and Ilavarasu were equally, if not more, effective with their performances.

Jana Gana Mana raises important questions about law, justice, politics, and bias but above all, the impact of sensationalized media in our country. It covers a lot of different issues and constantly keeps the audience hooked. Moreover, with some unexpected twists and extended sequences, the movie sets up for the sequel. But this is where the problem arises.

In its attempt to leave people guessing, the timeline of events becomes convoluted. Adding the confusion are all the flashbacks towards the end of the film, which takes little away from the impact the film had until then. The courtroom scene, as riveting as it was, felt drawn-out and unrealistic with back-to-back monologues but that's to be expected in a thriller like this one. And in all honesty, the monologues did have the desired impact, and ultimately Jana Gana Mana drove home all its points, so it's a win.