“The Vaccine War,” directed by Vivek Agnihotri, is a compelling and engaging film that explores India’s battle against the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly its efforts in developing the indigenous Covaxin vaccine. Starring the talented Nana Patekar, the movie delivers a persuasive narrative but stumbles in its final act, where it tends to make more of a statement than an inquiry.
The film’s opening scenes set the tone, with the Director-General of ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research), portrayed by Nana Patekar, posing a thought-provoking question: “Hum process ke hisaab se war ladenge, yaa war ke hisaab se process banayenge” (Will we fight the war according to the process or create a process based on the war?). This query encapsulates the central dilemma of the film, where the urgency of the pandemic raises questions about the importance of procedures and outcomes.
“The Vaccine War” is structured as a straightforward underdog story, presented in 12 interconnected chapters, each a fragment contributing to the whole. The narrative is based on Balram Bhargava’s book, “Going Viral,” and revolves around the development of Covaxin, India’s first indigenous COVID-19 vaccine, during the challenging days of the pandemic. Nana Patekar delivers a stellar performance, portraying Bhargava as a no-nonsense, unemotional, and scientifically rigorous character.
The story commences during the early days of the pandemic when ICMR begins to take notice of alarming reports from China. As the threat grows closer to home, scientists at ICMR, led by the candid Bhargava, spring into action. The film depicts their relentless efforts and the sacrifices they make, juxtaposed with a skeptical Indian media, portrayed by Raima Sen, that often questions rather than supports.
However, while the film effectively portrays the dedication and hardships of the scientists, it falters in the final act, attempting to make unsubstantiated accusations. It ventures into making statements rather than fostering open debate.
“The Vaccine War” offers a glimpse into the chaos and devastation of the second wave of the pandemic, capturing the loss and despair faced by many. In the midst of these challenges, a few scientists persevere, and it is this spirit that the film successfully fictionalizes.
The performances across the board are commendable, with a standout cameo by Anupam Kher. Yet, it is Nana Patekar’s restrained yet impactful portrayal that dominates the screen. He embodies an unvarnished image of truth and determination, resonating with millions of Indians grappling with the pandemic’s effects.
The film’s primary issue lies in its desire to shape a statement rather than encourage discussion. Its arguments appear overly optimistic, and the motivations behind its characters feel somewhat simplistic. Despite a formidable antagonist in the form of an invisible virus, the film can’t resist humanizing the characters it aims to criticize.
While the media’s role is not always positive, the film’s approach to portraying Indian scientists as perpetual victims seeking accountability doesn’t quite fit the narrative. “The Vaccine War” might have been better served by focusing on the authenticity of the scientific process and its laborious journey instead of trying to victimize the scientists.
Despite these shortcomings, the film remains watchable due to its sincere depiction of an unlikely triumph against the odds.
