Manoj Bajpayee is back on the screen, this time in a gripping cop drama based on the life of Madhukar Zende, the mumbai police officer famous for arresting serial killer Charles Sobhraj twice. Inspector Zende X, directed by Chinmay Mandlekar, blends comedy, crime, and real-life events—but does it hit the mark? Here’s a breakdown in listicle format.
1. Manoj Bajpayee: The hero Returns
Bajpayee plays Madhukar Zende, a cop who doesn’t seek fame but whose deeds became legendary. netizens praise his portrayal, comparing it to his role in The Family Man. His serious demeanor, mixed with subtle humour, brings authenticity to a real-life figure while keeping viewers engaged.
2. jim sarbh Steals the Spotlight
Playing Carl Bhojraj, a character inspired by Sobhraj, jim sarbh delivers an impressive performance. His French accent and mischievous charm add layers to the story, making the cat-and-mouse game between Zende and Bhojraj both thrilling and entertaining.
3. Classic 90s Cop Vibes
Many viewers appreciated the film’s retro 90s feel. From the cinematography to the wardrobe and the overall vibe, Inspector Zende X captures the essence of mumbai police dramas from the 1990s. Nostalgic elements like old-school cop techniques, cityscapes, and period-specific props help immerse the audience in the era.
4. comedy Meets Crime
While the film is biographical, it leans heavily on humour and quirky moments, creating a unique mix of comedy-thriller. Some viewers loved this approach, calling it witty and refreshing. Others felt the humour sometimes diluted the intensity of the real-life story.
5. Storytelling: Hits and Misses
The first half establishes characters and stakes efficiently, but several reviews noted that the second half slows down, especially in storytelling and pacing. Some felt the thriller elements didn’t reach their full potential, leaving parts of the plot feeling flat despite strong performances.
6. Supporting Cast Shines
Apart from Bajpayee and Sarbh, actors like Sachin Khedekar and Girija Oak provide solid support. Their performances add depth, helping the narrative stay grounded, even when the story takes creative liberties with humour or dramatization.
7. Netflix Release: Perfect for Binge-Watchers
With the film streaming on Netflix, it’s accessible for a wide audience. Fans of true-crime dramas, biographical films, and indian cop stories will find Inspector Zende X an interesting watch, particularly those who enjoy a mix of comedy and crime.
8. audience Verdict
Positive: Sharp humour, nostalgic 90s vibe, stellar performances by Bajpayee and Sarbh, well-crafted cinematography and lighting.
Negative: Pacing issues in the second half, story feels slightly underwhelming at times, humour doesn’t always land.
Final Take
Inspector Zende X is a quirky, entertaining, and biographical crime-comedy that celebrates a real-life hero while keeping viewers engaged with clever writing and memorable performances. While the story sometimes falls flat, the charm of manoj bajpayee and the cat-and-mouse chase with jim sarbh make it a worthwhile watch for fans of 90s cop dramas and Netflix thrillers.
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