In 2017, Amit Masurkar’s Newton quietly arrived on the scene, only to become one of the most celebrated Indian films of its decade. Starring Rajkummar Rao in the titular role of a government clerk determined to conduct free and fair elections in a conflict-ridden jungle, the film blended satire, realism, and an unflinching look at democracy.
At the heart of this success was Rajkummar Rao’s powerhouse performance as Newton Kumar, a man whose stubborn idealism becomes both his strength and flaw. For his role, Rao won several prestigious accolades, including Best Actor awards that recognized not just his craft but also his ability to embody the quiet resilience of a character who refuses to compromise. His portrayal elevated him into the ranks of India’s finest contemporary actors and marked one of the most defining performances of his career.
As for the film, what began as an indie gem quickly snowballed into a global success story. Newton premiered at the 67th Berlin International Film Festival, where it won the International Federation of Art Cinemas (CICAE) Award, a milestone that immediately put it on the international map. From there, it traveled across major festivals worldwide, earning acclaim for its sharp writing, restrained performances, and its ability to use humor to address complex socio-political realities.
The film went on to win over 20 awards globally, a rare feat for an Indian independent feature at the time. It received the National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi (2018) and was also India’s official entry to the 90th Academy Awards in the Best Foreign Language Film category, cementing its place in cinematic history.
Eight years later, Newton remains more than a film; it is a statement. A reminder of the fragile but vital machinery of democracy, and of the power of cinema to spark conversations that outlast the screen.