Watch The Warrior Queen of Jhansi

The Warrior Queen of Jhansi is a historical drama film from 2019 that tells the inspiring story of Rani Lakshmibai, the warrior queen of the kingdom of Jhansi, in India. Directed by Swati Bhise, the movie stars British actors Rupert Everett and Derek Jacobi, as well as Indian actress Devika Bhise, who also co-wrote the script with her mother.

The movie begins by introducing the audience to the world of the 19th-century India, where the British East India Company is expanding its rule over the Indian subcontinent, causing poverty, oppression, and cultural destruction. Against this backdrop, the story of Rani Lakshmibai unfolds, as she defies the norms of her patriarchal society to become a skilled warrior, a capable leader, and a fierce defender of her people's rights.

The first act of the movie focuses on Lakshmibai's childhood and upbringing, highlighting her close relationship with her mother and her early exposure to the martial arts and political intrigue. Through flashbacks and dialogues, the viewer learns about the traditions and customs of the Maratha empire, to which Jhansi belongs, as well as the threats posed by the British colonizers and the local collaborators who supported them.

As Lakshmibai grows up, her determination to protect her kingdom and her people only increases, leading her to marry the king of Jhansi and take an active role in the administration of the state. However, her happiness is short-lived, as the British East India Company declares war on Jhansi after the king dies and tries to claim the kingdom as its own.

The ensuing conflict forms the heart of the movie, as Lakshmibai leads her army of rebels, both men and women, against the far better-equipped and trained British soldiers. The battle scenes are vividly depicted, with a mix of practical and digital effects that create a sense of gritty realism and emotional intensity. Despite facing insurmountable odds, Lakshmibai refuses to give up, inspired by her sense of duty, honor, and love for her people.

The Warrior Queen of Jhansi also explores the personal struggles of Lakshmibai, as she balances her role as a warrior with her role as a mother and wife, and as she confronts the doubts and fears that plague her mind. Jodhi May, who plays Queen Victoria of England, provides a poignant contrast to Lakshmibai's character, drawing attention to the cultural differences and power dynamics that shaped the historical context.

Throughout the movie, the themes of gender equality, cultural identity, and national sovereignty are interwoven with the plot, highlighting the relevance of Lakshmibai's story to contemporary issues of social justice and human rights. The cinematography and production design are also highlights of the movie, capturing the beauty and diversity of India, as well as the horror and brutality of war.

In conclusion, The Warrior Queen of Jhansi is a stirring tribute to a remarkable woman who defied the constraints of her time and became a symbol of hope and resilience for her people. With its strong performances, compelling script, and impressive visuals, the movie is a must-see for anyone interested in history, culture, and women's empowerment.

The Warrior Queen of Jhansi is a 2019 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 4.9 and a MetaScore of 27.