Rangoon (2017) is a period drama directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, set against the backdrop of World War II and India’s struggle for independence. The film follows Julia (Kangana Ranaut), a popular action film actress, who is sent to the Indo-Burma border by her mentor and lover, Rusi Billimoria (Saif Ali Khan), to entertain British Indian soldiers. During her journey, she meets Jamadar Nawab Malik (Shahid Kapoor), a soldier with secret nationalist ties. As Julia finds herself torn between duty, love, and the larger fight for freedom, she undergoes a profound transformation, questioning her loyalties and identity. The film skillfully blends romance, action, and patriotism, weaving a tale of love and betrayal amidst wartime chaos.

With stunning cinematography and an evocative score, Rangoon captures the complexities of love and war. The film explores themes of power, colonialism, and self-liberation, with each character representing a different facet of India’s historical struggle. Kangana Ranaut delivers a powerhouse performance, supported by Saif Ali Khan’s nuanced portrayal of a possessive yet vulnerable mentor and Shahid Kapoor’s restrained intensity as a soldier torn between duty and passion. Though Rangoon received mixed reviews, its bold storytelling, striking visuals, and haunting soundtrack left a lasting impact, making it a unique addition to Indian cinema.