'Inspector Zende' Review, Manoj Bajpayee Shines In Netflix's Crime Drama Despite A Weak Plotline

OTT platforms have the new powerhouse of Indian entertainment by offering interesting stories, engaging narratives and unforgettable characters. One actor who has been dominating OTT platforms with his acting is Manoj Bajpayee. After giving a power-packed performance in The Family Man, he has returned with his recent film, Inspector Zende. Read on to know what works in this film and what does not. 

Inspector Zende is a fresh take on the case of Charles Sobhraj

Inspector Zende is not the first film that is made on the criminal, Charles Sobhraj. His story has been told in films like The Serpent and Black Warrant. But what makes this film different is that the focus of this film is not Charles Sobhraj, rather it is the police officer, who captured him not once, but twice. The film is centered around Inspector Madhukar B. Zende, whose grit, savvy, and perseverance make him the real hero of this true-crime saga.

Manoj Bajpayee singlehandedly elevates the experience for viewers

One of the best things about Inspector Zende is The Family Man actor, Manoj Bajpayee. All fan reviews and film critics believe that Manoj Bajpayee is the main reason viewers would enjoy watching this film. It can be said that Manoj is the anchor of Inspector Zende. From the opening scene, Manoj Bajpayee portrays himself as a middle-class man and not some superhero. 

The way Manoj Bajpayee portrays his character is what makes the film believable. When the plot demands, he is shown as a dedicated police officer with a sharp mind, when it isn't, he is seen in a lighthearted mood. His scenes with his wife and a bit of humour add depth to his character, which viewers are able to relate with. 

Jim Sarbh’s character seems like an unimportant character

Even though Jim Sarbh, who plays the role of a criminal is an important character in the film, it looks like the writers of the film got so busy with Manoj's character, that they forgot about Jim’s character. The film shows Jim as 'Carl Bhojraj' (fictionalised version of Charles Sobhraj), but no background is built for him. Even though, the film's focus was 'Zende's' POV, viewers expected scenes of 'Carl', to understand his mindset. While the makers could have utilised Jim Sarbh's talent, it can be said that they used him as a toy, which makes 'Zende' famous.

Powerful acting by the supporting actors

Apart from Manoj Bajpayee, actors like Girija Oak, Bhau Kadam, Sachin Khedekar, Harish Dudhade, Sumit Chandra and more, who are the supporting cast of the film, brought their own charm and layers to the film. Manoj Bajpayee’s scenes with them are full of fun and humour. Those scenes make the film interesting for the viewers to watch. 

Is the film, Inspector Zende worth watching?

For viewers who are wondering if Inspector Zende is worth a watch or not, we have got you. If you are looking for a powerful plot and want to know about what has actually happened in real-life, then this film might not be a good choice for you. If you are a music lover and want to enjoy the music of his, then also the film might disappoint you as the sound track doesn't build up tension or the vibe of the film, it is just present. But if you are a Manoj Bajpayee fan, then this film is for you. The actor is there in almost every scene and his presence lights up the screen. In simple words, this film survived only because of Manoj Bajpayee. 

What are your thoughts on the film, Inspector Zende? Let us know. 

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