Khakee: The Bengal Chapter Review – A Raw & Riveting Crime Drama.

Streaming On: Netflix
Languages: Bengali & Hindi
Episodes: 7 (50 minutes each)
Creator: Neeraj Pandey
Directors: Debatma Mandal & Tushar Kanti Ray
Cast: Jeet, Prosenjit Chatterjee, Chitrangada Singh, Ritwik Bhowmik, Aadil Zafar Khan, Parambrata Chatterjee & more

What’s the Story About?

In Kolkata, a complex web of crime, politics, and police corruption unfolds. IPS Arjun Maitra (Jeet) is determined to clean up the system but soon realizes that justice isn’t black and white. As he navigates a world controlled by powerful politicians, ruthless gangsters, and corrupt officers, he faces one critical question: Can a cop truly uphold justice, or must he choose the lesser evil?

The story kicks off with a shocking betrayal—one cop arresting another. This sets the tone for a gripping narrative filled with power struggles. Gangster Bagha (Saswata Chatterjee) and his henchmen, Sagore and Ranjit, dominate the city. DCP Parambrata Chatterjee tries to bring them down but struggles. However, the real action begins when Jeet enters as IPS Arjun Maitra, setting the stage for an intense battle of brains and brawn.

Script & Execution – A Well-Woven Crime Thriller

Khakee: The Bengal Chapter takes a strategic approach to storytelling. Instead of overwhelming viewers with violence, it slowly unravels the deep connections between the police, politicians, and criminals. The first two episodes take their time setting up the plot, but once the pace picks up, it becomes an intense, unpredictable ride.

Ritwik Bhowmik and Aadil Zafar Khan shine as Sagore and Ranjit, two gangsters who rise through the ranks and eventually take control from their leader. Their journey from street thugs to powerful figures adds depth to the storyline. The series follows the classic underdog hero arc, where Jeet’s character struggles, fails, and eventually outsmarts his enemies, much like the legendary Baahubali-Bhallaladeva dynamic in cinema.

What Works?

• Realistic Portrayal of Crime & Politics – Unlike many over-the-top cop dramas, this one stays grounded. It showcases the harsh realities of corruption without unnecessary exaggeration.
• Jeet’s Performance – He doesn’t play an invincible hero but a strategic and flawed officer who learns and adapts.
• Strong Supporting Cast – Ritwik Bhowmik and Aadil Zafar Khan are scene-stealers as they bring out the dark yet intriguing transformation of their characters.
• Smart Writing – The series effectively uses the age-old ‘divide-and-rule’ tactic, making it a well-thought-out battle rather than just a bloodbath.

What Could Be Better?

• Slow Start – The first two episodes could have been more engaging. The real action picks up only after episode three.
• Rushed Climax – While the buildup is excellent, the last two episodes feel slightly rushed, possibly due to the constraints of a limited series.
• Underdeveloped Characters – Some key characters could have been explored more deeply to add more emotional weight.

Final Verdict – A Must-Watch for Crime Drama Fans

Khakee: The Bengal Chapter is an intense and well-crafted crime thriller. It doesn’t rely on flashy action sequences or larger-than-life cops but presents a raw, realistic take on the law-and-order system. If you enjoy political dramas mixed with action and strategic gameplay, this series is worth watching.

Unlike Bollywood’s typical heroic cop dramas, this series keeps it real. If you’re expecting a ‘Dabangg’-style cop, you might be disappointed. But if you appreciate crime series that focus on smart storytelling and character development, this is the show for you!