You are here:

Arjun

Name: Arjun
Director: Rahul Rawail
Released: 1985
Duration: 154 min

Representation Score

2.6/10

Limited

1985

Director

Rahul Rawail

Runtime

154 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Arjun is a classic 1980s action-drama that focuses on a populist critique of institutional corruption. Its progressive value lies in its narrative deconstruction of state authority rather than demographic variety. The film challenges the perceived infallibility of legal institutions by framing vigilantism as a necessary response to a compromised judiciary. This critique adds a layer of social commentary. However, this subversion is balanced by a traditional approach to gender roles and social norms, reinforcing patriarchal family units and hyper-male clichés.

Watch this, not that →

Category Breakdown

Does Arjun have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or non-straight relationships. It follows traditional romantic dynamics typical of 1980s Indian cinema.

How does Arjun portray gender?

Limited

The story emphasizes a hyper-masculine protagonist who dominates the narrative. Female characters such as Rukmini and Sudha serve primarily as emotional support rather than having independent roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Arjun?

Fair

The cast reflects a culturally uniform group consistent with its Bombay setting. It offers an authentic depiction of the period's social fabric without whitewashing.

How does Arjun represent religion and culture?

Good

The film criticizes institutional corruption by depicting state and legal systems as ineffective. It portrays established authority as predatory and unreliable.

Does Arjun include disability representation?

Minimal

There are no prominent depictions of physical or neurodivergent disabilities used as central plot devices within the narrative.

Present on Screen

Offers a strong critique of systemic corruption and ineffective legal institutions.
Provides an authentic, localized representation of the 1980s Bombay social fabric.
Challenges the perceived infallibility of state and political structures.

Limited or Absent

Female characters lack independent narrative roles.
Reinforces traditional gender hierarchies and hyper-male clichés.
Does not represent LGBTQ+ identities or neurodivergent characters.

Official Synopsis

Mr. Malwankar lives a small tenement in Grant Road, Bombay, with his son, Arjun, daughter, Sudha, and wife, Rukmini, who is his second wife, as his first wife passed away. Although he is well past his retirement age, he continues to work for an abusive employer, Ashok. Arjun's attempts at seeking employment are all in vain. One day when hoodlums are beating up a man, he intervenes, beats the hoodlums up with the help of half of his friends. This is when his life changes forever. One of his friends', Mohan, is killed; Arjun finds out who the killers are, and kills them in broad daylight; he is arrested, and subsequently released, only to be told by his father that he is no longer welcome. A politician, Shiv Kumar Chougule, takes a liking to Arjun and employs him, and gives him all the support and assistance he needs to fight hoodlums. Arjun now finds he has a mission in life, and is quite content

How are these scores produced? →