The Bengal Files, directed by Vivek Agnihotri, has hit theatres today as the third and final film in his Files Trilogy, following The Tashkent Files and The Kashmir Files.
This historical-political drama focuses on the communal violence in Bengal during the 1940s. Key events depicted include the Direct Action Day and the Great Calcutta Killings, making it a tense and emotionally charged watch.
The performances by Simrat Kaur Randhawa, Pallavi Joshi, Namashi Chakraborty, and Mithun Chakraborty have been widely praised. Their powerful portrayals add emotional weight and authenticity to the complex narrative.
Some reviewers have described the film as bold, hard-hitting, and emotionally intense. However, many have pointed out that it follows a similar tone and treatment as Agnihotri’s earlier films, lacking subtlety and nuance.
Critic Titas Chowdhury called it “angry, violent, and histrionic,” citing the film’s excessive runtime of 3 hours and 25 minutes as its weakest link. She felt the narrative confuses length with depth.
Lachmi Deb Roy noted that while the film is gripping, the extended portrayal of Direct Action Day demands patience and emotional strength from viewers.
Audience feedback has been mixed. While some appreciate the film’s storytelling, others believe the dramatization distorts real-life legacies and may distress descendants of those portrayed.
In Kolkata, the film’s release triggered controversy. A man sought a stay on the screening, alleging it misrepresented his grandfather, a noted historical figure from that era.
Sections of the public, especially those with personal or historical ties to the 1946 riots, criticised the film for showing a selective version of events. They feel it presents a one-sided narrative of the Hindu-Muslim conflict.
Director Vivek Agnihotri and producer Pallavi Joshi alleged political pressure in West Bengal, claiming that government officials threatened theatre owners to halt screenings. Joshi even penned an open letter to the President, urging support.
Despite the backlash, fans praised Agnihotri’s courage in tackling sensitive subjects. Many called the film “bone-chilling” and commended its intent to open discussions about forgotten chapters of Indian history.
Overall, The Bengal Files is being seen as a bold and polarising film. While its historical interpretation is debated, it undeniably pushes viewers to revisit one of the most violent chapters in India’s past.
