Title: Khakee: The Bengal Chapter
Directors: Debatma Mandal, Tushar Kanti Ray
Cast: Jeet Madnani, Prosenjit, Parambrata Chatterjee, Chitrangada Singh
Where: Streaming on Netflix
Rating: 3.5 stars
In the sprawling tapestry of Kolkata's underbelly, this series orchestrates a narrative that is as intricate as the city's bylanes. This standalone sequel to Neeraj Pandey's acclaimed Khakee: The Bihar Chapter ventures into the murky waters of Bengal's political and criminal nexus, delivering a tale that is both compelling and ambitious.
Set against the volatile backdrop of the late 1980s to early 2000s, a period rife with political turmoil and lawlessness. The catalyst—a high-profile kidnapping—sets the stage for a cat-and-mouse game between the audacious gangster Shankar 'Bagha' (Saswata Chatterjee) and the resolute IPS officer Saptarshi Sinha (Parambrata Chattopadhyay).
As the Special Investigating Team tightens its grip, alliances shift, betrayals unfold, and the line between law and crime blurs beyond recognition. The narrative, interspersed with political machinations and underworld dealings, weaves a layered, non-linear tale of power, corruption, and survival.
Parambrata's brief yet impactful role as IPS Saptarshi Sinha leaves an indelible mark, his sincerity resonating amidst the chaos.
Jeet Madnani's portrayal of IPS Arjun Maitra marks a commendable entry into the digital realm. His embodiment of a law enforcer caught in the crossfire of duty and morality is convincing, if occasionally larger than life. Saswata Chatterjee's Bagha exudes a menacing charm, his scarred visage a testament to a life steeped in violence.
But it is Ritwik Bhowmik and Aadil Zafar Khan who steal the show as Sagor Talukdar and Ranjit Thakur. Their portrayal of Bagha’s protégés is electric adding a fascinating psychological depth, showcasing the fragile alliances that govern the underworld.
Chitrangada Singh's Nibedita Basak, the opposition leader, brings a nuanced performance, though her character's potential for fierceness feels underexplored. And, Prosenjit as the politician Barun Roy, despite having a major role, is a bit staid.
The supporting cast, including characters like Aratrika Bhowmick and Himel Majumdar from the SIT team, and the pada boys (grass root level lackeys), add dimension to the story, ensuring no character feels out of place.
The series excels in its production design, meticulously recreating the period. The authenticity of the setting is enhanced by thoughtful details—the ubiquitous public phones and period-specific telecommunication devices serve as silent narrators of a bygone era. The cinematography captures Kolkata's essence, juxtaposing its vibrant culture against the grim realities of its darker corners. Also, the multi-camera setup enhances the immersive quality, making the action sequences kinetic and the dramatic moments intimate.
The narrative's ambition is one of its most striking qualities, embracing a non-linear structure that adds depth and intrigue. The tonal shifts, rather than detracting, offer a varied emotional experience, ensuring that the series remains unpredictable and engaging throughout.
The dialogue, peppered with sharp observations, reflects the state's intricate power dynamics. Lines like, "In a state where the police are protecting the ruling party, and the ruling party gives protection to the criminals," encapsulate the systemic rot that the series seeks to portray.
Overall, this series is a gritty exploration of crime and consequence, anchored by strong performances and rich production values.
