Watch Newton

Newton is a Hindi language film released in 2017, starring talented actors Rajkummar Rao, Pankaj Tripathi, and Anjali Patil in lead roles. Directed by Amit V Masurkar, the movie was widely appreciated for its unconventional storyline and excellent performances. The protagonist of the movie, Newton Kumar (Rajkummar Rao), is a young government clerk who is assigned election duty to a remote area in Chhattisgarh, India, known for its Naxalite insurgency. With his rigid sense of duty and honesty, Newton believes that he can bring about a change in the lives of the villagers by conducting free and fair elections in the area. However, his idealistic views clash with the harsh reality of the situation on the ground.

As Newton reaches the village, he realizes that the polling booth set up there has no other staff than him and two low-level government teachers. Moreover, most of the villagers are either too scared to come out of their homes, or they don't understand the concept of voting. Newton, however, remains determined to conduct the elections in a legitimate manner, even if that means facing the wrath of the Naxalites or local police officers.

Throughout the film, the audience witnesses Newton's struggle to fulfill his duty, as he navigates his way through the complexities of the situation. His encounter with Aatma Singh (Pankaj Tripathi), an army officer entrusted with providing security to the polling booth, serves as a stark reminder of the deep-rooted corruption and brutality that underlies the functioning of the system.

The story is made all the more compelling by the nuanced performances of the cast, who bring to life the intricacies of their characters. Rajkummar Rao's portrayal of Newton is a masterclass in acting, as he manages to convey the idealism and vulnerability of his character with subtlety and finesse. Anjali Patil, who plays Malko, a young tribal woman living in the village, is equally impressive with her naturalistic performance.

Pankaj Tripathi as Aatma Singh is a standout, stealing every scene he appears in with his impeccable comic timing and screen presence. Singh is a complex character, with shades of grey that make him both humorous and terrifying at the same time. His interactions with Newton are some of the highlights of the movie, as the two actors effortlessly bounce off each other's energy.

Apart from the performances, another standout feature of Newton is its writing, which manages to weave together various social and political issues into a coherent narrative. The film never feels preachy, yet manages to provoke thought and introspection in the audience.

Director Amit V Masurkar manages to capture the beauty and harshness of the Chhattisgarh countryside with equal dexterity, immersing the audience in the world of the film. The cinematography by Swapnil Sonawane is masterful, showcasing the rugged beauty of the landscape and societal mores present there.

In conclusion, Newton is a thought-provoking film that manages to hit all the right notes. With its stellar cast, excellent writing, and masterful direction, the movie is a must-watch for anyone who wants to experience the complexities of the Indian electoral system and the issues faced by the marginalized sections of society. Newton is a timeless classic that deserves all the accolades it received and much more.