After two highly successful seasons that promised an engrossing plot that would keep you glued to the screen, Undekhi Season 3 is finally here. In its most recent chapter, the suspenseful thriller introduces more turns and twists.
PLOT: In the third season of the series, the ‘Atwals’ make a riveting return. With higher stakes, the chase becomes even more exhilarating, and the intricate plot twists leave viewers in awe. Papaji, portrayed by the talented Harsh Chhaya, finds himself in dire straits as the incriminating video of him shooting the dancer from season 1 resurfaces, compelling a desperate bid for his rescue. Rinku, played by the dynamic Surya Sharma, is driven to extraordinary lengths to safeguard his beloved Papaji amidst the tumult. Amidst the chaos, an illicit drug trade adds another layer of complexity to the narrative.
HIGHLIGHTS: Dibyendu Bhattacharya’s portrayal as DSP Barun Ghosh is a true showcase of realism and nuance. With meticulous attention to detail, Bhattacharya breathes life into Ghosh, depicting him as a cop who fearlessly navigates the gritty world of crime with an authentic touch. His subtle yet impactful expressions and mannerisms capture the essence of a seasoned officer unafraid to confront the darkest aspects of society, making him the show’s standout feature. Bhattacharya’s delivery of Ghosh’s witty one-liners and quirky humour adds a layer of humanity to the character, rendering him both relatable and endearing to audiences.
Surya Sharma’s return as Rinku Atwal, aka Rajendra Singh Atwal, is equally compelling. He embodies the role of the obedient son, determined to protect his father and their shady business at any cost. Sharma maintains a strict demeanour throughout, skillfully withholding emotions to enhance his performance. His restrained approach to language and action adds depth to the character, showcasing Sharma’s versatility as an actor.
Women play strategically significant roles in the series, each with her own motives and backstory that shape their journey through the storyline. Anchal Singh, portraying Teji Atwal in this season as in its predecessor, demonstrates a nuanced character arc. She effortlessly embodies the essence of her character, adding an air of mystery to her portrayal.
The show’s screenplay is a standout feature, skillfully crafted to captivate the audience. The seamless integration of Hindi, Punjabi, and Bengali lines adds depth and broadens its appeal to viewers across India. Papaji’s Punjabi dialogues, flavoured with vivid expletives, imbue the conversations with an authentic and dynamic flair. Furthermore, DSP Ghosh’s Bengali dialogues, alongside the use of standard Hindi, enrich the linguistic fabric of the series, showcasing the diverse cultural backgrounds of its characters and locales.
Drawbacks: The show’s biggest drawback lies in its predictability. While the episodes are engaging, they lack the gripping suspense that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Additionally, some episodes suffer from an excessively slow pace, and the introduction of new characters feels underutilised.
Technical aspects: The series doesn’t unfold against the typical backdrop of Uttar Pradesh or Bihar but rather amidst the picturesque hilly terrain of Manali. The breathtaking mountain vistas serve as more than just a scenic backdrop; they become integral to the secrets and intrigues woven by the characters. The cinematography skillfully transports viewers to the majestic mountains of Manali, capturing their grandeur and mystique. The adept use of lighting further elevates the visual experience, enhancing the ambiance of each scene with precision. The editing is sharp, and the shots are meticulously chosen. And the background score is truly a garnish to the series.
VERDICT: Undekhi presents a refreshing take on the crime thriller genre, offering a nuanced exploration of crime, corruption, and power dynamics. What distinguishes it from other recent crime thrillers is its restrained approach; it refrains from excessive glorification of the criminal world.
Written by: Abhishek Garg and Chirag Salian
Directed by: Ashish R. Shukla
Cinematography by: Murzy Pagdiwala
Produced by: Sameer Nair, Deepak Dhar, Rajesh Chadha, and Deepak Segal
Starring: Harsh Chhaya, Dibyendu Bhattacharya, Surya Sharma, Ankur Rathee, Ayn Zoya, Aanchal Singgh, Shivangi Singh, and Varun Badola
Streaming on: Sony Liv
Rating: 2.5/5
