Mardaani 3 Review: An arresting start and a changed tone

After the success of Mardaani and Mardaani 2, one might have expected the third part to open in a familiar way—but it does not. From the very beginning, Mardaani 3 signals a change of pace. Rani Mukherjee’s introduction is striking: she doesn’t just appear on screen, she seems to burst into a real crime scene. This electrifying entry draws you straight into the story and demonstrates that the filmmakers are not content to repeat themselves.

The template dilemma

That said, the franchise’s reliance on the kidnapping‑and‑rape template remains a point of contention. As the reviewer notes, every film revolves around a young woman’s abduction or assault, presented in different ways and in different cities. Although the filmmakers work hard to keep each instalment grounded in reality, the core premise rarely ventures beyond this framework. This repetition risks dulling the impact and could be seen as a missed opportunity to explore other facets of crime and justice.

Realism and a fresh story

Despite the template issue, Mardaani 3 succeeds in telling a distinct story. The world of the film feels authentic: police stations, investigative procedures and criminal evidence play out as if in a news report. This realism, combined with a well‑researched script, earns the film genuine praise. The director’s commitment to depicting the system’s mechanics adds tension and credibility.

A tougher, leaner Shivani

Rani Mukherjee’s Shivani Shivaji Roy has evolved. She is more seasoned, more irritable and less inclined to waste time. She prioritises swift action over procedure, clashing even with senior officers when they get in her way. Mukherjee plays her as a woman who has seen too much to indulge in patience or polite conversation. This new avatar is compelling and fits the heightened stakes of the third film.

Tension from the first scene

From the moment the film begins, the scenes take hold of you. There is no slow build-up or easing into the narrative; the viewer is thrown straight into the chaos. That urgency maintains a persistent sense of unease, making it difficult to sit back and relax. It’s a bold choice that pays off, and it distinguishes Mardaani 3 from more formulaic thrillers.

Continuity and a familiar hero

Another strength is the continuity between this film and the previous entries. References to the earlier films are woven into the story, and Shivani’s backstory is consistent. This continuity makes her name feel familiar; for fans, there’s a warmth in reconnecting with an old friend. It also helps invest viewers in her personal evolution over the series.

Villainy and mystery

One lingering question is the menace posed by this film’s villain. The villains of the first two films were deeply unsettling and psychologically disturbing. Initially, it’s unclear who the real threat is in the third film or how dangerous they will prove to be. This ambiguity fuels some of the film’s suspense, even if it makes the antagonist feel less immediately imposing.

A twist and an absorbing first half

Mardaani 3 distinguishes itself with a twist unseen in the first two parts. The surprise arrives suddenly, sending the plot in a new direction and raising the stakes. The first half is so compelling that you begin to wonder how the second half could match up. With so many events unfolding, time passes quickly and your curiosity only increases.

A strong second half and persistent suspense

Thankfully, the second half delivers. Performances remain strong, the intensity of the action sequences holds steady and even small plot points are thoughtfully crafted. An unusual suspense drives the entire film—you keep guessing the motive behind the kidnapping but can’t figure it out until the end. That mystery keeps you invested right up to the climax.

Emotional heft and questionable choices

The film does a fine job balancing a simple presentation with emotional gravity. Scenes might look straightforward, but the underlying weight is heavy. There is one misstep: a scene in which a bob pin is used to open handcuffs. In a film that aims for realism, this choice feels weak and out of place.

The climax and final verdict

Compared with its predecessors, Mardaani 3 ends with a larger twist and triple the anger. Shivani’s rage and pain are more palpable than ever, and the conclusion is both cathartic and unsettling. The film shakes you and stays with you.

So, should you watch Mardaani 3? Yes. Even though it follows a familiar template, the fresh twist, Rani Mukherjee’s commanding performance and the well‑maintained suspense make it worth your time. On balance, the reviewer awards Mardaani 3 an impressive 4.5 out of 5 stars, acknowledging its flaws but celebrating its successes.