Chhapaak focuses on the burning topic of acid attacks, the legal complications faced by the survivors apart from the acceptance from society and a lot more. A few scenes are quite moving and hard-hitting and it’s shocking to see the extent of acid-related incidents in the country. The courtroom and flashback scenes keep the interest going the most. On the flipside, the film doesn’t really go on a high. It’s needlessly dry and also the execution is inconsistent. It’s shocking that someone like Meghna Gulzar, who handled the difficult film like Talvar and also the thrilling Raazi, couldn’t do justice to the subject in hand. Deepika Padukone underplays her part well and in a few scenes, she really shines. Her make-up and prosthetic is very authentic. But in few scenes, she’s seems expressionless and maybe, it was intentional. But there’s a lot she could have done here, without going overboard. Vikrant Massey has a terrific screen presence and does a very fine job. Sadly, his track is weak and he’s let down by the writing. Madhurjeet Sarghi is an actor to watch out and she deserves to be seen more. Vishal Dahiya is superb as the attacker Basheer Shaikh. Delzad Hivale has an interesting part but doesn’t get enough screen time. All in all, Chhapaak is a one-time watch. Keep your expectations in check and you’ll be satisfied by the film!

My rating - *** out of 5!