Rohit Shetty, renowned for his cop universe in Bollywood films, makes an impactful debut in the OTT realm with his latest series, "Indian Police Force." In this binge-worthy show, Shetty takes viewers into the tumultuous world of the Delhi Police as they grapple with a series of planned explosions orchestrated by the Indian Mujahideen. With his signature style intact, Shetty delivers a series that captivates from start to finish.
Co-directed by Sushwanth Prakash, the series boasts a talented ensemble cast, featuring Sidharth Malhotra, Vivek Oberoi, and Shilpa Shetty Kundra in prominent roles. The narrative, penned by Shetty and his team of writers, including Sandeep Saket, Anusha Nandakumar, Ayush Trivedi, Vidhi Ghodgaonkar, and Sanchit Bedre, revolves around Joint CP Vikram Bakshi IPS (Vivek Oberoi), SP Kabir Malik IPS (Sidharth Malhotra), and Gujarat ATS chief Tara Shetty (Shilpa Shetty), as they lead a unique unit in a race against time to thwart terrorist attacks.
The series kicks off with a gripping series of bombings that evoke fear in the heart of the nation's capital. The writers skillfully immerse viewers into the heart of the investigation, capturing the anxiety and urgency inherent in such a crisis.
Unlike Shetty's films, the series takes its time to develop the storyline and allows each character's arc to unfold organically. While the central plot may not be groundbreaking, the series manages to maintain viewer engagement, thanks to its well-executed narrative.
The pacing in the initial episodes may seem slow, causing fluctuations in the intensity of tension. However, Shetty's departure from his typical over-the-top action sequences is refreshing. The action in "Indian Police Force" is raw, real, and features riveting chase sequences and uniquely choreographed hand-to-hand combat, a departure from Shetty's usual flamboyance.
What elevates the series is its avoidance of typical cop film tropes, delivering genuine emotional moments between characters. Episodes clocking in at 30 to 40 minutes make binge-watching an enticing option for viewers.
Sidharth Malhotra shines in his role, showcasing versatility and skill, solidifying his position in the industry after his successful turn in "Shershaah." His portrayal of a more humane cop adds a fresh dimension to Shetty's cop universe.
Vivek Oberoi impresses with his nuanced performance, providing depth to his well-crafted character. Shilpa Shetty Kundra, known for her masala cop films, surprises with a subtle and powerful portrayal that does justice to her acting prowess.
Supporting cast members, including Isha Talwar, Vaidehi Parshurami, Mayyank Taandon, Shweta Tiwari, Nikitin Dheer, Mukesh Rishi, and Sharad Kelkar, all contribute commendable performances, adding emotional depth and authenticity to the storyline.
"Indian Police Force" emerges as a noteworthy addition to Rohit Shetty's cop universe, impressing with its balance of realistic action and emotional resonance. With an engaging storyline, well-executed action, and standout performances, the series stands out as a binge-worthy option for the weekend.
Series: Indian Police Force (Running on Amazon Prime Video)
Duration: Seven episodes 30-40 minutes each
Director: Rohit Shetty
Cast: Sidharth Malhotra, Vivek Oberoi, Shilpa Shetty Kundra, Isha Talwar, Sharad Kelkar, Vaidehi Parshurami, Mayyank Taandon, Shweta Tiwari, Nikitin Dheer and Mukesh Rishi
IANS Rating: ***1/2