January 2, 2025 – The critically acclaimed Indian film Santosh, directed by Sandhya Suri, has made its mark on the global stage by earning a spot on the coveted Oscar shortlist for Best International Feature Film. This gritty crime thriller, set in the rural hinterlands of India, takes a hard-hitting look at the intersection of power, caste, and gender within the country’s police force.
Starring Shahana Goswami and Sunita Rajwar in powerful roles, Santosh tells the story of a young widow who assumes her late husband’s position as a police constable. Navigating a patriarchal, corrupt, and violent environment, the protagonist’s journey unfolds against the backdrop of a deeply flawed justice system, forcing audiences to confront the harsh realities of societal hierarchies and personal prejudices.
A Critical Lens on Indian Law Enforcement
Unlike the action-packed depictions of law enforcement in mainstream Bollywood, Santosh paints a raw and unflinching picture of the Indian police. The film highlights pervasive issues such as moral policing, systemic corruption, and the normalization of police brutality. By holding up a mirror to these realities, Santosh challenges viewers to examine their own acceptance—or denial—of these societal failings.
Unpacking Caste and Justice
At the heart of Santosh is the investigation of the murder of a Dalit girl, an event that unravels the entrenched caste system and its influence on justice. As Santosh delves deeper into the case, the film exposes the ways in which caste, religion, and social standing dictate the course of law enforcement in India.
In a compelling twist, Santosh herself is revealed to harbor biases shaped by her upbringing and societal norms. This duality challenges the notion of heroism, portraying the protagonist as a complex and deeply human figure navigating a morally ambiguous landscape.
Subverting the Feminist Narrative
While Santosh begins as a tale of female empowerment, the film subverts this narrative by showing the corrupting influence of power. As the protagonist becomes complicit in the very systems she initially sought to challenge, the story raises unsettling questions about the cost of ambition and survival in an oppressive system.
Cinematic Excellence and Global Acclaim
Sandhya Suri’s direction shines through a distinct visual language that keeps the audience intimately tied to the protagonist’s experience. The lingering camera work and raw emotion create an atmosphere of tension and introspection, making every scene deeply impactful.
Critics have celebrated Santosh for its fearless storytelling, earning it a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes. The film has captivated audiences at major festivals, including Cannes, London, and Toronto, and has won two British Independent Film Awards for Best Screenplay and Breakthrough Producers.
A Timely Story for the World
Released in theaters on December 27, 2024, Santosh continues to spark conversations about the inequalities and challenges in modern Indian society. With its Oscar shortlist recognition, the film has achieved a global platform to shine a light on the realities faced by millions.
As the awards season progresses, Santosh stands as a testament to the power of cinema to address difficult truths and inspire change. Whether it wins the Oscar or not, its impact will undoubtedly resonate far beyond the silver screen.
