For a film that has sparked conflicts and controversy, Anant Mahadevan’s Phule feels more like a textbook narration of events than an actual film.
Phule, starring Pratik Gandhi and Patralekha, was released yesterday. While fans have taken to the internet to voice their thoughts on the controversy, they’ve also shared their reviews of the film with equal intensity.
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The film tells the story of Jyotiba Phule and his wife Savitribai Phule- pioneers who worked to make education accessible to all, regardless of caste.
Creating a film on such an impactful subject is a delicate task. It can’t be too preachy or it risks becoming dull, and it can’t be overly dramatic, given the seriousness of caste discrimination.
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However, according to many viewers, the film fails to strike that balance.
Audiences have said that the film was extremely dull, with performances that felt disconnected and unconvincing.
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Despite its powerful subject matter, the film fails to do justice to the Phules’ legacy or evoke any real inspiration.
Viewers also pointed out the lack of artistic authenticity in portraying the 1800s, both in terms of set design and performances.
Many felt the film took the idea of being “ahead of their time” too literally, making it seem like the characters were from 2025 narrating events from the past.
Phule, a film about progressive minds, ironically ends up being a creatively regressive portrayal of Jyotiba and Savitribai Phule’s immense contribution to the nation.
