Movie Review: The Vaccine War

Plot

Directed by Vivek Agnihotri, 'The Vaccine War' takes us on a journey through the tumultuous period of the Covid-19 pandemic. The film focuses on a group of scientists who work tirelessly to create India's first vaccine against the coronavirus. While the plot leans towards stoking nationalistic fervour, it also pays homage to the unwavering commitment of healthcare professionals and scientists during these challenging times.

Acting

The film boasts an impressive cast, with Nana Patekar, Anupam Kher, Raima Sen, and Pallavi Joshi delivering stellar performances. Nana Patekar's calm and composed act justifies his character well. Pallavi Joshi steals the show with her tearfully sentimental portrayal of the chief scientist. The entire cast helps to keep the dramatic urgency intact, despite the film's occasional excesses.

Cinematography

The technical merit of the film works to its advantage, capturing the gravity of the panic-filled world through its imagery. Cameraman Udaysingh Mohite's tight close-ups effectively capture the claustrophobia including lab shots and various characters. The cinematography adds depth and intensity to the story.

Direction

Vivek Agnihotri's direction is surprisingly understated in 'The Vaccine War'. He honours the scientific community while also balancing the drama and realism of the story. Agnihotri successfully champions a Nari Shakti message, highlighting the strengths and struggles of the women scientists involved in creating the vaccine. However, the film does go overboard at times, particularly in its third act, which detracts from the emotional weight of the story.

Overall

'The Vaccine War' is a watchable film that highlights the achievement of the Indian scientific community during the Covid-19 pandemic. While it may lean towards stoking nationalistic fervour, it should not deter viewers from appreciating the film's solemnity and dedication to its subject matter. The performances, cinematography, and direction all contribute to making this an engaging film, despite its occasional flaws.