Director and Writer: Aban Bharucha Deohans
Producer: Kiran Deohans
Cast: Manoj Bajpayee, Sahil Vaid, Prachi Desai, Vaquar Shaikh, Parul Gulati
Streaming on: Zee5
Rating: 3
Tanisha Saxena
Hum sabke andar ek moral compass hota hain. Usko cross karke grey ke andar ghusna (We all have a moral compass within us. Crossing it and entering the grey) is your choice, and you have to pay for that choice eventually,” asserts ACP Avinash Verma, portrayed by Manoj Bajpayee, in the concluding scenes of the second season of Silence, a gripping whodunit series.
In a typical thriller like this, officers often exude a sense of brooding intensity, accompanied by dramatic music and dimly lit interrogation rooms. Forensic reports and DNA analyses are the bread and butter of investigation, while a cluttered office adorned with a bulletin board filled with suspect photos sets the scene for the hunt.
However, Silence flips the script with its unconventional approach. ACP Avinash Verma brings a refreshing energy reminiscent of a seasoned cop, but with a quirky charm that sets him apart. Instead of relying solely on forensics, the film delves into the psychology of its characters, unravelling their hidden motives and intricate connections. And while there may be a board with suspect names, it’s not just a static backdrop; it evolves with each revelation, reflecting the dynamic nature of the investigation. Silence proves that it’s not just about following the typical tropes but about reinventing them in unexpected ways.
Following the harrowing shootout at the Night Owl Bar, which claimed the lives of eight to ten individuals, the unexpected demise of Minister Pradeep Joshi’s esteemed PA, Saryu Seth, initially served as the focal point of the investigation. However, this proves to be merely a deliberate misdirection, as the true depth of the case begins to unfold. Subtle hints pepper the narrative, suggesting a more profound revelation awaiting discovery. As the Special Crime Unit investigators delve deeper into the heart of the matter, the intricate pieces of the puzzle gradually align, uncovering not only the usual suspects but also shedding light on sensitive societal issues such as human trafficking, rape, and the alarming trend of young girls being trafficked into bachelorette parties. It is this nuanced exploration of societal ills that elevates the show beyond its initial premise; what started as a routine murder inquiry evolves into a multi-layered exposé of pervasive social injustices.
Sahil Vaid as Amit Chauhan, Prachi Desai as Inspector Sanjana Bhatia, and Vaquar Shaikh as Inspector Raj Gupta form a formidable team under the leadership of ACP Avinash. While Bajpayee undoubtedly serves as the backbone of both the team and the show, the ensemble cast adds an extra layer of depth to the already compelling narrative. Each member of the team is not merely a supporting player but rather a vital ingredient, enhancing the overall flavor of the series. With well-crafted dialogues and distinct roles, every character brings their own charisma to the table, contributing to the dynamic chemistry and seamless storytelling of the show.
While Silence 2 undoubtedly boasts compelling storytelling and a talented ensemble cast, it is not without its flaws. One notable weakness lies in its cinematography, which fails to effectively capture the essence of the various locations depicted in the show. Despite featuring Mumbai, Jaipur, and even glimpses of Madhya Pradesh, the lack of emphasis on these locales leaves viewers feeling disconnected from the environment and geographical setting of the narrative. With only fleeting glimpses of iconic landmarks like Jaipur’s Hawa Mahal, the film misses an opportunity to fully immerse its audience in the rich tapestry of its surroundings, creating a noticeable void in the viewing experience.
Despite its shortcomings, the exceptional performances of the cast elevate Silence 2 to a commendable standard. From Bajpayee’s masterful portrayal, blending strength with nuanced emotion and sharp dialogue delivery, to Prachi Desai’s portrayal of beauty with brains, the ensemble cast delivers stellar performances. Shruti Bapna’s contribution adds another layer of depth to the show, while Sahil Vaid and Vaquar Shaikh captivate with their compelling portrayals. Unlike other whodunit narratives, Silence 2 deliberately eschews delving into the personal lives of its characters, instead focusing on the intricacies of the whodunit mechanism. The disciplined narrative unfolds with precision over its two-and-a-half-hour runtime, maintaining a structured pattern throughout. A special mention must be made of Parul Gulati’s captivating portrayal of Aarti, a troubled character who leaves a lasting impression despite her limited screen time, leaving viewers yearning for more. In essence, Silence 2 is worth watching.
