Netflix's new series, Khakee: The Bengal Chapter, taps into the dark political underbelly of West Bengal, shining a light on crime, corruption, and law enforcement in the early 2000s. Created by Neeraj Pandey and directed by Debatma Mandal and Tushar Kanti Ray, this fictional narrative follows the power struggles between gangsters and politicians, set against the backdrop of the gritty streets of Kolkata.
The series kicks off with a kidnapping gone awry, leading viewers into a world layered with violence and deception. Its setting, Kolkata, often known for its vibrant culture, gets a rocky portrayal in this gripping tale, emphasizing the notorious crime scenes and the interplay between mobsters and political figures. With a catchy title song that promises "ek aur rang bhi dekhiye Bengal ka," there was hope that the show would dive into the cultural richness of Bengal. However, many critics argue it falls into the realm of cliché-filled tropes.
At the heart of the story is gangster Shankar Barua (Saswata Chatterjee), who has built his empire through ruthless ambition. Barun Roy, played by Prosenjit Chatterjee, serves as the de facto power broker, manipulating the political landscape to maintain his dominance. The narrative equally gives importance to IPS officer Arjun Maitra (Jeet), who is determined to restore order in the city plagued by Barua’s reign of terror. Jeet’s portrayal of a tough cop aiming to clean up the streets aims to be relatable, albeit stuck within a familiar framework.
Among the ensemble cast, Ritwik Bhowmik stands out as Sagor Talukdar, Barua’s staunch lieutenant, alongside Aadil Zafar Khan as Ranjit Thakur. Their brotherhood and contrasting personalities add a level of complexity, creating moments of tension and drama. However, while their roles provide some depth, critics note that the characters often conform to well-trodden archetypes rather than offer fresh perspectives. The series sometimes feels like a mixture of familiar elements, leaving viewers with a sense of déjà vu.
Another point of discussion among reviewers is the show's pacing. Although some parts of Khakee: The Bengal Chapter draw viewers into intense action scenes and political maneuvering, others drag, occasionally leading to a slower momentum that hampers the narrative. Several reviews mentioned that the excitement found in gripping narrative twists is balanced with moments of predictability. Critics also pointed to the opening episode as being particularly heavy and dense, with many characters and storylines introduced in a short span.
The cinematography and production values are commendable, capturing the essence of Kolkata's colonial-era buildings and bustling streets. Despite this, the music score has received mixed feedback. While some found the title track engaging, others felt that it failed to truly encapsulate the cultural vibrancy of Bengal.
Cultural elements are crucial to the narrative, yet there are arguments that the series sometimes plays it too safe. The decision to mix Bengali dialogue with Hindi and English could alienate audiences unfamiliar with the nuances of West Bengali culture. Critics expressed a desire for a deeper exploration of the region's rich socio-political context rather than settling for a surface-level depiction.
Moreover, although the show attempts to provide strong female characters, engaging in political dialogues, many of the significant arcs still seem to focus heavily on male characters, with women often sidelined. Chitrangada Singh’s character, Nibedita Basak, tries to assert her position as a leader within the male-dominated storyline but mainly serves as a counterpoint to Barun Roy’s manipulative games.
Despite its flaws, Khakee: The Bengal Chapter performs well in various aspects, particularly in character performances. With actors like Prosenjit Chatterjee and Jeet, whose strong screen presence is undeniable, the series manages to keep viewers engaged. Additionally, the camaraderie and rivalry among the male leads add a dynamic element that keeps the tension alive, contributing to the overall thrill of the series.
As this chapter in the Khakee franchise unfolds, it may not embody the creative risks or cultural depth one might anticipate, but it does offer a bold approach to depicting the struggles within Bengal’s crime-political nexus. While it might not break new ground, it remains a compelling watch for those intrigued by crime dramas and the gritty complexities of human ambition.
