Sector 36 Review: Vikrant Massey Delivers a Riveting Performance in a Chilling Thriller

The film begins in 2005 Delhi, where house help Prem Kumar, in his master’s robe, lounges and watches TV. This eerie calm is shattered when he disposes of a schoolgirl’s body in his washroom, setting the tone for the grim narrative that unfolds. Prem, who works for businessman Balbir Bassi, is not only a serial killer but also involved in human trafficking and organ trade, with his partner-in-crime Chote Lal aiding his depravity.

Sub-inspector Ram Charan Pandey initially dismisses the disappearance of children from a nearby slum. However, his indifference changes when Prem kidnaps his own daughter, driving him to pursue the case relentlessly. The film builds tension as Ram investigates, with a particularly intense interrogation scene between him and Prem that keeps viewers on edge.

A notable sequence involves Ram, dressed as Raavan for a Ram Leela skit, and his subsequent chase of Prem—who dons a Raavan mask—through dark alleys. This scene is rich in metaphor, reflecting Ram’s inner turmoil and his confrontation with evil.

Aditya’s direction presents Prem as a cold, menacing figure without seeking sympathy for his horrific actions. The film also touches on themes of migration, class divide, and the power struggles affecting the oppressed, visually contrasting the affluent Sector 36 with the gritty Rajiv Camp.

The contrast between Prem’s brutality and Ram’s familial tenderness is striking, emphasized by scenes of bloodshed juxtaposed with Ram’s loving interactions with his daughter and Durga Puja imagery symbolizing good overcoming evil.

Vikrant Massey delivers an outstanding performance as Prem, bringing a chilling intensity to the role of a necrophile and cannibal. Deepak Dobriyal complements him as Ram, portraying a compelling transformation from a detached cop to a determined seeker of justice. His performance adds depth to the narrative, especially in scenes of personal and professional conflict.

While the climax may be somewhat predictable, Sector 36 remains a powerful and relevant film, standing out in the genre for its bold, disturbing portrayal of crime and justice. It’s a gripping watch that fulfills its role as a chilling, thought-provoking thriller.