Inspired by real-life horrifying events, “Sector 36” is a film that takes its viewers on a dark and gripping journey, exploring the complexities of criminal psychology and the flaws within the justice system. The film, directed by Aditya Nimbalkar, delves into the psyche of a psychopath and raises serious questions about societal inequality and law enforcement’s approach to handling crime.
The Story Behind ‘Sector 36’
The film “Sector 36” opens with a terrifying scene that sets the tone for the rest of the movie. Prem Singh, portrayed by Vikrant Massey, is seen lounging on a sofa watching a TV show. He then goes upstairs to a room where a young girl is tied up, and in a shocking act of violence, he murders her. This gruesome scene immediately pulls the audience into the horrifying world of the killer.
The narrative soon shifts to a colony near the bungalow, where children are disappearing without a trace. Despite the parents’ pleas, the police, led by Inspector Ram Charan Pandey (played by Deepak Dobriyal), dismiss these concerns, believing that the children are running away. It isn’t until Pandey’s daughter nearly becomes a victim that he starts to take the matter seriously. What follows is a shocking investigation that uncovers the dark and sinister truth behind the disappearances.
Drawing Parallels to the Infamous Nithari Case
While the makers claim that “Sector 36” is inspired by multiple real events, there are clear connections to the infamous Nithari village murders of 2006. The discovery of human skeletons and body parts in the case shocked the nation, and the film seems to evoke memories of this horrifying incident. The crimes committed by Prem Singh in the movie are eerily similar to those of Surendra Koli, who was convicted of multiple murders and rapes of children in the Nithari case.
Vikrant Massey and Deepak Dobriyal Deliver Powerful Performances
The performances in “Sector 36” are noteworthy, especially those of Vikrant Massey and Deepak Dobriyal. Vikrant Massey, as Prem Singh, delivers a chilling portrayal of a psychopathic killer. His transition from a calm and collected man to a terrifying murderer is bone-chilling. After impressing audiences in “12th Fail,” Vikrant takes his acting to a new level in this film, giving a performance that leaves a lasting impact.
Deepak Dobriyal, as the initially indifferent Inspector Ram Charan Pandey, shines with his versatility. Often known for his comic roles like Pappi Ji, Dobriyal’s portrayal of a conflicted and tormented police officer shows his depth as an actor. A standout moment in the film is a police investigation scene where Vikrant’s portrayal of a deranged Prem is so intense that it visibly affects Dobriyal’s character, capturing the raw emotion of the moment.
A Dark Exploration of Criminal Psychology and Social Inequality
Director Aditya Nimbalkar has made a bold choice by tackling such a dark and sensitive subject in his debut film. He masterfully explores the psychological motivations behind the crimes, while also addressing the societal divide between the rich and the poor. One of the most poignant metaphors in the movie is how quickly the police find a missing rich child, while ignoring the disappearances of poor children for years.
The film does not try to justify or create sympathy for the criminal, despite touching on his traumatic childhood. Instead, it portrays him as a cold-blooded killer, and the film builds tension through its stark representation of his crimes.
Technical Excellence but Not for the Faint-Hearted
From a technical standpoint, “Sector 36” is impressive. The production value is high, with gritty set designs that add to the dark tone of the movie. The editing keeps the pace tight, and the background score amplifies the suspense and dread that permeates the film.
However, the film is exceptionally violent and might be too much for sensitive viewers. The intense depiction of violence and the disturbing nature of the crimes make this film a tough watch. It is certainly not for those who are easily disturbed by graphic content.
Why You Should Watch ‘Sector 36’
If you’re a fan of crime thrillers and psychological dramas, “Sector 36” is a film that provides a gripping, disturbing, and thought-provoking experience. It offers an in-depth look into the mind of a killer, while also shedding light on the often-ignored inequalities in society. With stellar performances by Vikrant Massey and Deepak Dobriyal, along with its realistic portrayal of a chilling murder investigation, the film makes for a compelling watch.
