By Martin D’Souza | Opening Doorz Editorial | May 24, 2023

The Essence: All in all, Dahaad is a work of art, if you choose to ignore the flaw in the last episode. Watch it for the performances. Acting like this, from every actor on screen, comes once in a lifetime.

Dahaad… The Review

When every aspect of movie-making aligns flawlessly, it’s an absolute delight for the connoisseur. There’s joy in every frame as every actor stands out for their purpose and plan in the plot. The casting is perfect, the acting is a master class, and the dialogue delivery and body language are of a world-class standard. The meticulous attention to lighting, script, and direction elevates it to an A-level production.

Dahaad is all this and more. It’s a work of art and a must-watch for every cinema lover. You are hooked onto the Series from ‘frame one’. And even though you know who the killer is, there is never a dull moment on screen. Directors Reema Kagti and Ruchika Oberoi, wave the baton for a perfect symphony.

Dahaad… The Story

Dahaad captivates viewers from start to finish with its gripping storyline. This thought-provoking revolves around girls who are found dead in public toilets. The case is closed as a suicide since they have all consumed cyanide. But there is an unwavering pattern in these deaths that sends Bhatti on a wild goose chase. They are all from the backward class. Their family does not know why they ran away and most have not lodged a missing complaint as they have written a letter for their family before going missing. 

Dahaad explores thought-provoking themes. It delves into complex social issues, moral dilemmas, and the consequences of one’s actions. The series challenges societal norms and prompts viewers to question their own beliefs, adding a layer of depth to the storytelling.

Dahaad is bolstered by its strong writing, which combines a gripping plotline with well-developed characters. The writing strikes a balance between intensity and emotional depth, drawing viewers into the characters’ dilemmas and conflicts.

Dahaad… The Symphony

When it comes to performances, every actor performs like a dream. They possess an innate ability to transport us to a world of imagination and emotion. They transcend the screen, capturing our attention and immersing us in their craft. Vijay Varma is an extraordinary talent whose portrayal of psychopath Anand Swarnakar leaves an indelible mark. Is this guy for real?

Varma is not the only performer. It is the whole team, as mentioned earlier. Yogi Sinha as Murli Chandal is there in the first two episodes. I kept looking for him to resurface in the following episodes. As a brother looking for his sister who is missing, he sets the tone for the case that Sonakshi Sinha heads as Anjali Bhatti. Bhatti is from the lower class with a higher-class surname. Thanks to her late dad. You can imagine her plight even as a police officer in a caste-ridden society. 

Gulshan Devaiah shows us once again why he is up there among the best. The scenes with his family are very real and connect at a raw level. The actor who plays his wife needs a special mention. Ditto Sohum Shah (Kailash Parghi). Zoa Morani (Vandana Swarnakar), Sanghmitra Hitaishi (Miriam) Jayati Bhatia (Devki Bhatti), Deepal Doshi (Shiv Swarnakar), Ratnabali Bhattacharjee (Renuka), and Prashansa Sharma (Sindoora). The other actors who have not been named also deserve a special mention.

Dahaad… The Overall View

One of the remarkable aspects of every actor is their flawless body language. Every movement is purposeful, every gesture speaks volumes. Whether it’s a subtle glance or a powerful stride, their physicality communicates the character’s essence with precision. The actors’ understanding of how body language can convey emotions and intentions adds depth and authenticity to their portrayal.

Dialogue delivery is another area where every actor excels. Their ability to breathe life into the written word is mesmerizing. Each line is delivered with impeccable timing, inflection, and emotion. Their command of the local dialect is another high point.

Additionally, the cinematography of Dahaad contributes to its overall impact. The series is visually stunning, with meticulous attention to detail in capturing the settings and creating the right atmosphere. The skilful direction ensures that every scene serves a purpose, maintaining a brisk pace and building tension effectively. The visual and technical aspects of the series seamlessly align with the narrative, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

On the production front, the series boasts high production values. The sets, costumes, and production design are well thought out, lending an authentic and immersive feel to the narrative. The soundtrack and background score complements the intense moments and heightens the emotional impact of key scenes.

Dahaad… The Letdown

The letdown for me was in the last episode. Anand has escaped the trap laid by the police in Rajasthan. What is jarring is that they fail to send a ‘wanted’ notice across the country with his picture. This would have been the correct manner to let the story flow. After all, they have evidence of his involvement in the 29 murders. What were they waiting for? Another murder?

On the contrary, Anand is shown hoodwinking the Rajasthan police to settle in Goa, via Mumbai. The funny part is that he gets married in a Church as Richard. I wonder why the Parish Priest did not ask for his documents from the Parish he came from. Neither was the Marriage Banns read in his Parish. How the writers could fall flat in this last narrative after building the scenes realistically is something I am still scratching my head about.

All in all, Dahaad is a work of art, if you choose to ignore the above-mentioned flaw. Watch it for the performances. Acting like this, from every actor on screen, comes once in a lifetime.

NOTE: Marriage Banns are an announcement in the Church, of your intention to marry and a chance for anyone to put forward a reason why the marriage may not lawfully take place. Banns are an ancient legal tradition and have been read out every week in churches across the land for millions of couples, over many centuries.

CREDITS
Producer: Excel Media and Tiger Baby
Directors: Reema Kagti and Ruchika Oberoi
Star Cast: Sonakshi Sinha, Vijay Varma, Gulshan Devaiah, Zoa Morani. Ratnabali Bhattacharjee.

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