A powerful new film has arrived on Netflix, with viewers and critics alike declaring it one of the most emotionally resonant and important releases of 2025. The Indian courtroom drama, titled Haq, is based on a true and landmark legal case that continues to resonate today.
A Landmark Case Brought to Life
Directed by Suparn Varma, Haq draws its narrative directly from the historic Supreme Court case of Mohd Ahmed Khan v. Shah Bano Begum. The film dramatises the story of a 62-year-old woman from Indore who, after being divorced by her lawyer husband via Islamic 'triple talaq', fought for maintenance under Section 125 of India's Criminal Procedure Code.
After more than four decades of marriage, her husband refused her request for modest monthly support, arguing his financial obligations lasted only the roughly three-month 'iddat' period. Her legal battle, which culminated in a pivotal Supreme Court judgment, forms the compelling core of the film.
Critical and Audience Acclaim
The film has been met with overwhelming praise since its release. On the review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, Haq boasts an impressive 83% critics' score and a stellar 92% audience rating. The cast, led by Yami Gautam as Shazia Bano and Emraan Hashmi as Abbas Khan, has been singled out for exceptional performances.
One viewer on Rotten Tomatoes called it a "phenomenal film" and a "must watch", while another praised it as a "class" biopic that explores the challenge of religious and civil law coexisting. The reviewer highlighted Yami Gautam's performance, stating her final monologue was "something else" and that she "steals the show".
Powerful Performances and Storytelling
Audience reviews on IMDb have been equally effusive. One user described Haq as a "masterpiece of truth, courage, and justice" and "one of the most powerful and emotionally charged films of 2025". Another stated the story is strong and keeps viewers hooked, with Yami Gautam's acting so powerful it overshadows her co-star. The reviewer suggested she "deserves a National Award for this performance".
Netflix's official synopsis summarises the plot: "After her husband abandons her, Shazia Bano takes him to court, fueling a national debate on women's rights and justice. Inspired by a landmark judgment."
While the reception has been largely positive, not every critic was completely sold. The Hollywood Reporter India found the film "well-intentioned but reductive". However, this appears to be a minority view amidst a wave of acclaim for the film's bold message and heartfelt execution.
Haq is available to stream globally on Netflix now.
