A film like Neerja can usher in a new era where films based on true stories are concerned – this is how they should be made. In terms of performances, it’s a career-best portrayal by Sonam Kapoor. Neerja fits her perfectly and vice versa. Shabana Azmi is outstanding – she literally carries the film on her shoulders for the last 10 minutes.
Yogendra Tikku as the father has a tough role but he makes it endearing. Shekhar Ravjiani is a revelation – he comes with good screen presence and the right notes. As a film, Neerja wouldn’t be what it has turned out to be without the camerawork of Mitesh Mirchandani. He ensures this is one of the best shot films in recent times – his play with the lens is almost like the driving force of the film.