Santosh (2025) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
“Santosh” (2025) is a compelling neo-noir crime drama that sheds light on the deep-rooted issues of misogyny, caste discrimination, and police corruption in India. Directed and written by Sandhya Suri, the film follows the journey of Santosh, a recently widowed woman who is forced to inherit her late husband’s job as a police constable in a patriarchal system that seeks to exploit her rather than empower her.
With an exceptional performance by Shahana Goswami, “Santosh” presents a raw and unfiltered look at the intersection of systemic oppression and personal resilience. This review delves into the film’s themes, cinematography, performances, and its overall impact while providing details on where you can watch it online in the U.S.
Plot Summary
Set in the harsh and unforgiving landscapes of rural Northern India, “Santosh” follows the titular character as she struggles to navigate a male-dominated police force. Her new position is not a matter of choice but a necessity, granted by a government scheme that allows widows to inherit their late husbands’ jobs.
When the body of a lower-caste girl is discovered, Santosh is assigned to assist in the investigation under the mentorship of Inspector Geeta Sharma (Sunita Rajwar), a fiercely independent and pragmatic officer. However, the deeper Santosh gets into the case, the more she realizes that justice is often manipulated by those in power. The film does not merely focus on the procedural aspects of the investigation but rather critiques the oppressive systems that allow such injustices to persist.
Themes & Social Commentary
1. The Corruption Within the Indian Police Force
The film highlights how law enforcement in India often prioritizes political narratives over truth. Santosh finds herself trapped in a system where cases are solved not for justice but for convenience. Every decision made by those in power serves to maintain the status quo, making it nearly impossible for someone like her to create meaningful change.
2. The Intersection of Gender and Caste
“Santosh” does an excellent job of exploring the overlapping issues of gender discrimination and casteism. Santosh, as a woman in a predominantly male force, is expected to remain obedient, while the murdered girl’s lower-caste status ensures that her death is treated with indifference. The film boldly critiques the societal structures that devalue both women and marginalized communities.
3. The Burden of ‘Doing the Right Thing’
A recurring motif in the film is the question, “What good would that do?” Every time Santosh tries to stand up against injustice, she is met with this phrase, reinforcing the idea that change is nearly impossible. The film challenges viewers to consider whether moral integrity can truly survive in a fundamentally corrupt system.
Performances & Cinematic Execution
Shahana Goswami as Santosh delivers a deeply nuanced performance, portraying her character’s internal conflict with subtlety and depth. Without many words, her facial expressions and body language convey the suffocating weight of the position she has been forced into.
Sunita Rajwar as Inspector Sharma provides a strong counterbalance to Santosh’s hesitant nature. Her character is more seasoned, pragmatic, and willing to play within the system’s corrupt rules to achieve results. The dynamic between these two women serves as the film’s emotional core.
Cinematography & Direction
Sandhya Suri’s direction immerses the audience in a bleak yet realistic depiction of rural India. The use of lingering shots—such as Santosh’s restless nights under the gaze of her late husband’s portrait—adds to the film’s atmospheric tension. One particularly haunting scene features Santosh standing still as a train speeds past her, symbolizing the overwhelming forces she cannot control.
Criticism & Room for Improvement
While the film is gripping for the most part, some critics have pointed out that the third act feels slightly drawn out. Certain scenes, while still interesting, could have been trimmed without affecting the overall impact of the story. Additionally, the film’s ending, though powerful, may feel too neatly wrapped up given the complexity of the issues it tackles.
Where to Watch Santosh (2025) Online
As of March 2025, “Santosh” is not yet available on any major streaming platform. However, based on industry trends, the film is expected to become available on the following services soon:
Subscription-Based Streaming Services (Predicted)
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Netflix – Given its history of acquiring international dramas, Netflix is a likely contender.
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Amazon Prime Video – Amazon often picks up Indian indie films, making it another probable option.
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Hulu – As a platform expanding its global cinema collection, Hulu may also add “Santosh” to its library.
Rental & Purchase Options (Expected)
Once available for digital rental or purchase, the film may be accessible on:
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Apple TV
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Google Play Movies
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Vudu
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YouTube Movies
To check the latest availability, visit: JustWatch
Final Verdict
“Santosh” (2025) is an unflinching and thought-provoking drama that exposes the deeply entrenched flaws of India’s law enforcement system. With stellar performances, striking cinematography, and a narrative that refuses to offer easy answers, it is a film that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.
While it may not provide a conventional sense of closure, its ability to provoke thought and discussion makes it essential viewing—especially for those interested in social justice narratives.
If you are a fan of hard-hitting dramas like “Newton” (2017) or “Court” (2014), “Santosh” should definitely be on your watchlist.
