Ek Chatur Naar (transl. A Clever Lady) is a 2025 Hindi-language black comedy thriller that smartly blends suspense, satire, and emotional depth. Written by Himanshu Tripathi and directed by Umesh Shukla, the film is produced by Merry Go Round Studios and presented by T-Series. With Divya Khosla Kumar and Neil Nitin Mukesh in the lead, the film released theatrically on 12 September 2025 and immediately stood out for its unconventional narrative and bold treatment of corruption and power.
Story & Screenplay: Smart, Layered, and Unpredictable
At its core, Ek Chatur Naar is a revenge drama disguised as a black comedy thriller. The story revolves around Mamta Mishra, a widowed woman struggling to survive in poverty with her young son and mother-in-law. Divya Khosla Kumar’s Mamta is not the usual helpless victim; instead, she is observant, strategic, and quietly dangerous.
The plot takes a sharp turn when Abhishek Verma, a corrupt and immensely wealthy government contractor, loses his phone in a metro station accident. What initially appears to be a petty theft soon unravels into a meticulously planned trap. The screenplay cleverly uses the lost phone as a narrative device to expose layers of corruption, betrayal, and moral decay.
What makes the writing impressive is how it gradually shifts power from the rich and influential to a woman who has nothing left to lose. The twists are not merely shocking but emotionally justified, especially when the final revelation connects Mamta’s personal tragedy to Abhishek’s scams.
Performances: Divya Khosla Kumar Shines
Divya Khosla Kumar delivers one of the strongest performances of her career. She portrays Mamta with restraint, intelligence, and emotional intensity. Her transformation from a struggling metro staff member to a calculated mastermind is believable and deeply satisfying.
Neil Nitin Mukesh is equally effective as Abhishek Verma. He brings a cold, entitled arrogance to the role, making his character convincingly detestable. His gradual descent into paranoia and desperation is portrayed with nuance.
Supporting performances elevate the film further. Sushant Singh as Inspector Triloki Singh adds moral weight and quiet strength, while Zakir Hussain as Minister Qureshi perfectly captures the smug ruthlessness of political power. The ensemble cast, including Chhaya Kadam, Heli Daruwala, and Yashpal Sharma, ensures there are no weak links.
Direction & Tone: Black Comedy with a Social Edge
Director Umesh Shukla skillfully balances dark humor with tension. The comedy never undercuts the seriousness of the subject; instead, it highlights the absurdity of unchecked power and corruption. Scenes involving misunderstandings, manipulation, and psychological games are handled with precision, keeping the audience engaged throughout.
The metro station setting, domestic spaces, and industrial backdrops are used effectively to contrast Mamta’s fragile world with Abhishek’s lavish yet morally hollow life.
Music & Background Score: Subtle but Impactful
The soundtrack, composed by Vayu and Sharan Rawat, complements the film’s tone. The title track “Ek Chatur Naar,” sung by Kailash Kher, is thematic and haunting, while “Gulabi Saawariya” adds a softer, emotional layer. Amar Mohile’s background score deserves special mention for heightening suspense without overwhelming the narrative.
Themes & Message: Power, Revenge, and Justice
Beyond entertainment, Ek Chatur Naar makes a strong statement about systemic corruption, class disparity, and the silent suffering of ordinary people. Mamta’s character symbolizes suppressed voices that, when pushed too far, can dismantle even the most powerful structures.
The final act, especially the revelation that Mamta and Triloki orchestrated everything to expose Abhishek, is both shocking and cathartic. The climax, involving the train sequence, is brutal, symbolic, and unforgettable.
Final Verdict
Ek Chatur Naar is not just a thriller—it’s a smart, socially aware film that trusts its audience to follow a complex, morally layered story. Strong performances, tight writing, and confident direction make it one of the more engaging Hindi films of 2025.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
For readers who enjoy intelligent cinema with dark humor and strong female protagonists, this film is a must-watch. For more detailed reviews, ratings, and the latest updates from the world of cinema, stay connected with Movie Ka Ticket, explore reviews on MovieKaTicket.com, and download the MovieKaTicket Films Review App for an immersive movie-review experience.