Inspector Zende Review – 3.2/5: Fun One-Time Watch with Stellar Acting
Inspector Zende is a film that delivers entertainment in a quirky, unusual way, but it ultimately works best as a one-time watch. The movie’s playful tone keeps the viewer engaged, yet it also leaves behind a sense of incompleteness. The missed opportunities in the storyline and screenplay mean that while the ride is enjoyable, it stops short of being a gripping crime thriller.
What makes the film worth watching are the performances. Manoj Bajpayee slips seamlessly into the role of Inspector Madhukar Zende, combining authority with understated humour. Jim Sarbh is equally impressive as Carl Bhojraj, his portrayal carrying the right mix of menace and charm. Sachin Khedekar’s dignified presence adds depth to the narrative, anchoring the film in moments where it could have drifted. Together, these performances elevate the material and hold the viewer’s attention even when the script feels uneven.
Director Chinmay Mandlekar takes a bold approach by blending crime drama with dark comedy. At times, this experiment works—particularly in scenes where the absurdity of the real-life manhunt shines through. However, the tonal shifts are not always smooth, and some stretches feel longer than they should. The screenplay could have been sharper, especially in sequences that drew directly from Inspector Zende’s pursuit of Charles Sobhraj.
The film’s recreation of 1970s and 1980s India deserves credit. From the streets of Mumbai to the settings of Goa, the attention to period detail adds to the authenticity. The production design and cinematography complement the storytelling, while the background score enhances the quirky yet suspenseful atmosphere, even if it never fully soars.
In the end, Inspector Zende is entertaining, stylish, and supported by outstanding acting. It doesn’t completely satisfy as a crime thriller, but it works well enough as a fun diversion. For me, the performances of Bajpayee, Sarbh, and Khedekar are the standout reasons to watch, bringing the final rating to 3.2/5.
