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  • Writer's pictureVenki

Paatal Lok - A Metaphor for the dark side of India


I have only one word to describe this Amazon original flick, "Brilliant". This is a perfect neo-noir crime drama which felt so natural and authentic that it will stay with you for a long time. Based on the novel by the name The Story of My Assassins, it deals with three classes of society Earth, Heaven, and Hell (Paatal). On the outset the overall content may sound very familiar, it has the typical shades of Anurag Kashyap movie/series. In a Nutshell it deals with India's all grass root level problems including corruption, passion, power, and ambition. So how do you make a story which travels the same terrains and still make it a compelling watch. Its the narrative style and the treatment which makes a huge difference. And when you add power packed characters into the mix, it becomes a deadly one. Its been a long time since i have seen something which mixed the political and social structure beautifully weaved in a tale (reminded me of Sacred Games Season 1). Directed by a duo combo and produced by Anushka Sharma, this slow burner is brimming with details and authenticity. The only flip sides are its loaded heavily with content and BGM virtually didn't exist. Sometimes BGM plays a crucial role in elevating the tension and thrilling aspect, but here its a low key profile. But even with its absence the show just rocked. Its not a typical investigating cop thriller as the story reveals like a poem. Performance wise Jaideep Ahlawat as inspector Hathiram was a revelation. What a talented guy. His act was so natural that you will feel his loss, pain and success. Few of the women characters were well written and they played key roles in shaping up the narration. And there is a surprising key character which changes the plot and answers the question Why, which i dont want to reveal and spoil the show. Friends, just keep aside other things over the weekend and find time to watch this. You may complain that its the same story but believe me it still worth your time.

Verdict - 4/5(The Immortals)

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