In an engaging thriller, the protagonist, often an ordinary person thrust into extraordinary circumstances, should be relatable yet resourceful – someone you root for as they navigate a web of suspense. “Bad Cop,” directed by Aditya Datt, makes a commendable attempt at achieving this and comes close to success. Starring Gulshan Devaiah in a dual role as Karan and Arjun, the series intricately weaves the lives of identical twins with contrasting personas – one a determined cop, the other a small-time thief – and at various points, you find yourself rooting for both. The plot, a playful twist on the classic cat-and-mouse drama with a dash of duality, begins with the murder of a journalist, Anand Mishra in Pune, and a tip-off that sets off a chain of events exposing an extensive ivory smuggling ring.
Karan, the committed cop, embarks on a mission to take down the formidable villain Kazbe, portrayed by the incomparable Anurag Kashyap. The series adeptly blends Karan’s professional pursuit with his personal challenges, particularly his relationship with his wife Devika, played by Harleen Sethi, with whom he is on the brink of divorce. Gulshan Devaiah, at the top of his game, is the series’ driving force, effectively embodying both Karan and Arjun. His performance is nothing short of captivating – from the adrenaline-pumping fight sequences and high-stakes chases to the emotionally charged conflicts and moments of self-doubt.
Harleen Sethi excels as Devika, juggling the roles of an upright cop and a wife striving to salvage her marriage for the sake of their daughter. The chemistry between Gulshan and Harleen is unmistakable. It’s a romance you can’t help but root for, even though deep down you know it’s destined to fail. Saurabh Sachdeva, following his recent success in “Animal,” brings depth to his portrayal of ACP Aarif Khan, propelled by a personal vendetta to seek out his friend’s killer.Anurag Kashyap as Kazbe is a revelation. Kazbe delivers impactful lines and carries out brutal actions, and Anurag’s ability to transition between composed menace and explosive aggression keeps viewers captivated and appalled in equal measure.
Many of the supporting characters feel like they’ve been borrowed from other shows or movies, playing familiar roles. A sense of déjà vu persists throughout the six episodes. Businessmen with a penchant for debauchery? Check. Corrupt politicians? Check. Goons comically beseeching their criminal overlords for another chance at murder? Check. The plot unfolds in 30-minute episodes, but the twists fail to keep the audience guessing.Nevertheless, “Bad Cop” also addresses the serious issue of hunting and smuggling. The series does not shy away from portraying the harsh realities of wildlife crime, making a statement about the devastating impact of these illicit activities.
