Mardaani 3 once again proves why this franchise continues to resonate with both audiences and critics. With Rani Mukerji firmly at the center, the third installment stands tall as a gripping, socially relevant thriller that doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable truths. Backed by the success of the previous two films, both commercially and critically, Mardaani 3 feels like a natural yet evolved continuation of a franchise driven by purpose rather than spectacle.
Rani Mukerji, who recently shared during a Delhi interaction that she is deeply drawn to projects with substance, returns to a role that clearly holds personal and professional significance for her. At a time when films with three to three-and-a-half-hour runtimes are dominating box office conversations, Mardaani 3 earns praise for its crisp 126-minute runtime and tightly written screenplay. The film’s biggest strength lies in its ability to keep viewers engaged from start to finish, binding them emotionally and mentally to the narrative and its characters.
Choosing a subject often considered “box-office risky,” Rani deserves credit for backing a film that addresses a disturbing social reality with honesty and conviction. The film doesn’t just tell a story it confronts the audience with it.
Shivani Shivaji Roy (Rani Mukerji), a senior officer with the NIA, is assigned a high-profile kidnapping case involving the daughter of a top official and the child of a domestic worker, both of whom go missing under mysterious circumstances. As Shivani dives deeper into the investigation, she uncovers a chilling pattern over ninety girls between the ages of eight and thirteen have disappeared from different regions.
What begins as a kidnapping case soon reveals the horrifying presence of an organized human trafficking racket. With every revelation, Shivani expands the scope of her investigation, leading the story toward an unexpected and unsettling turn. Post-interval, the film accelerates dramatically, leaving little room for distraction blink and you risk missing a crucial detail. Director Abhiraj Minawala maintains a serious, tense atmosphere right from the opening frame—an essential choice for a subject of this gravity.
Rani Mukerji once again anchors the film with absolute authority. While the franchise has always revolved around her character, this installment gives Shivani a wider emotional and professional canvas. Rani reportedly underwent a 20-day workshop before shooting, and it shows in her nuanced performance. From controlled rage and investigative intensity to emotional exhaustion and suppressed vulnerability, she brings depth and realism to every frame. Her screen presence is commanding, especially in confrontational and high-stakes moments.
Mallika Prasad, playing the antagonist Amma, delivers a chilling performance. Her portrayal is restrained yet menacing, making her scenes with Rani particularly compelling. The face-offs between the two actors significantly elevate the film’s tension.
After notable appearances in films like Shaitaan and Vash, Janki Bodiwala plays an important role as a member of Shivani’s team. She fits seamlessly into the narrative and holds her own in key scenes. The supporting cast also delivers solid performances, adding authenticity to the film’s world. The storytelling remains disciplined, the tension controlled, and the emotional beats effective.
Mardaani 3 is not just a crime thriller it’s a powerful statement. It balances entertainment with responsibility and delivers a compelling cinematic experience without compromising on its message.
Rating: 4/5
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