Crime dramas have become the ‘Engineering’ of Indian web shows lately. Everyone does it the same way, and no one wants to bring in any newness. With an over-saturation of shows of this genre, the quality has fallen drastically. So is the case with Dharavi Bank. This crime drama series on MX Player takes you on a journey through the heart of Mumbai’s largest slum. The show sets us up for a thrilling ride as we dive into the intense power struggle between Thalaivan, the badass gangster in town (played by the fierce Suniel Shetty), and Jayant Gavaskar, the kickass Joint Commissioner of Police (brought to life by the versatile Vivek Oberoi). But, while the show boasts great action and visually stunning scenes, the plot is very predictable and does not bring anything new to the table, making it an average watch.
The performances in Dharavi Bank are praiseworthy. Suniel Shetty makes his sizzling OTT debut as Thalaivan, the gangster you don’t want to mess with. With his killer screen presence and intense gaze, he steals every scene he’s in. Vivek Oberoi as JCP Jayant Gavaskar is no less, bringing the heat with his badass attitude and delivering a performance that will make your jaw drop. And let’s not forget Sonali Kulkarni, who brings her A-game as the Chief Minister, adding layers of complexity and awesomeness to the show. However, some of the supporting actors don’t arrive with their performances, and their characters also lack depth.
Ever wondered what life in Dharavi is really like? Well, Dharavi Bank takes you on a wild and authentic tour through the slum’s gritty surroundings. The cinematography by Vijay Mishra captures the essence of Dharavi, giving you a front-row seat to its vibrant chaos. From heart-pounding chase sequences to jaw-dropping drone shots, this show takes realism to a whole new level. This attention to detail enhances realism and contributes to the overall immersive experience.
The plot is gritty, but the problem is its predictability
Dharavi Bank serves up a plot that’s spicier than a street-side vada pav. It starts off with a bang as Thalaivan threatens to bring chaos to society and the Chief Minister’s political career. But as the story unfolds, the twists and turns become overly predictable. The chase between Thalaivan and JCP Jayant, while thrilling, can sometimes feel like déjà vu. It’s like watching the same political crime thriller with different actors. The only high point about the show is the cliffhanger at the end, really things setting up for a potentially thrilling second season.
While the cinematography packs a punch, the editing faulters the pace
However, the technical aspects of Dharavi Bank deserve recognition. Director Samit Kakkad weaves together the contrasting visuals of Dharavi’s slums and Mumbai’s skyscrapers with finesse. The chase sequences and night-time shots are particularly thrilling, while the show incorporates metaphors and symbolism skillfully. But with 10 episodes each being an hour long, some episodes might have you checking your watch, wishing for a little more speed.
Overall, the show sadly brings in no newness to the crime drama genre. Suniel Shetty and Vivek Oberoi bring their A-games, and the show’s technical brilliance will make your eyes pop. But the sheer predictability of the show and the use of tired tropes is what overshadows the good. However, if you are craving a gritty action thriller that keeps you wanting more, you are in for a ride!
