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Netflix’s Inspector Zende is not your typical crime thriller. Instead of plunging into the dark and gritty depths of the Charles Sobhraj story, it offers an unexpected cocktail of humour, suspense, and Mumbai masala charm. Starring Manoj Bajpayee as Inspector Madhukar Zende and Jim Sarbh as Carl Bhojraj—a character inspired by Sobhraj—the film takes a bold, refreshing detour from formulaic Bollywood crime dramas.

Story & Themes

Based on real events from Inspector Zende’s memoir, the film dramatises the legendary chase that led to the capture of one of India’s most notorious conmen. But instead of gravitas and melodrama, director Chinmay Mandlekar opts for wit and whimsy. The cat-and-mouse game between cop and criminal unfolds with sharp dialogues, local flavours, and cultural authenticity, making it more of a playful duel than a heavy moral tale.

The absence of over-the-top stunts and needless subplots is a relief. The narrative stays lean, lively, and packed with subtle cultural humour.

Performances

• Manoj Bajpayee as Inspector Zende
  Bajpayee shines in a role tailor-made for his understated brilliance. With deadpan comic timing and grounded charm, he transforms Zende into a refreshingly real cop—determined, sometimes vulnerable, and always relatable. His fans from The Family Man will immediately connect with his unique blend of humour and gravitas.
• Jim Sarbh as Carl Bhojraj
  Sarbh is magnetic as the charming yet menacing criminal. His sly grins and effortless unpredictability keep audiences hooked, making him the perfect foil to Bajpayee’s calm persistence. Their onscreen rivalry is the film’s strongest pillar.
• Supporting Cast
  Bhalchandra Kadam and Harish Dudhade contribute comic warmth and add richness to the ensemble, ensuring the lighter moments land as well as the tense ones.

Direction & Style

Chinmay Mandlekar deserves credit for pulling off a tonal balancing act. The sepia-tinted cinematography anchors the period setting while maintaining a brisk, modern pace. Mumbai’s local flavour seeps into every frame, from bustling police stations to street-side encounters. The production design feels authentic yet never indulgent.

The music—particularly the quirky track “Charlie Baby”—enhances the playful energy and ensures that the narrative never drags.

Weaknesses

The film isn’t flawless. At times, the serio-comic tone feels uneven, with a few jokes stretching too far and occasional dips in momentum. Some viewers may feel the film could benefit from a slightly tighter edit. However, these flaws are minor compared to the overall entertainment value.

Verdict

Inspector Zende is a delightful, offbeat spin on one of India’s most famous crime sagas. By replacing brooding intensity with clever humour and cultural authenticity, it delivers a unique viewing experience. Anchored by Manoj Bajpayee’s superbly controlled performance and Jim Sarbh’s electrifying presence, it’s a weekend binge that works as both a crime story and a comedy of quirks.

⭐ Rating: 4/5

Hollywood Xtreme Rating 8/10
For those intrigued by the Charles Sobhraj legend—or anyone craving something refreshingly different in the Bollywood crime genre—Inspector Zende is well worth your time.

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