Dibakar Banerjee’s latest Hindi film ‘Detective Byomkesh Bakshy’( DBB) , re-introduces to us to the legendary fictional Kolkata detective Byomkesh Bakshy. But, don’t mistake this film as India’s answer to Sherlock. DBB is set on the backdrop of Kolkata during 1942, just on brink of World War II. It’s a story , showing how in an attempt to find his friend Ajit’s missing father, Byomkesh unravels a sinister plot by attack of Japanese Army on Kolkata.
The story of the film revolves around College boy Byomkesh( Sushant Singh Rajput) , who is already famous for his exploits but also infamous for his cold and emotionless attitude. Ajit Banerjee (Anand Tiwari) asks Byomkesh to help find his father, Bhuvan Banerjee who is missing since 2 months. As Byomkesh starts looking for clues in the hostel , where Bhuvan lived to the factory where he worked, and where he is eventually found dead. Byomkesh discovers a deep plot spread across politics, Chinese drugs lords, gang rivalry blackmail, Japanese Army and the most important, an attack on Kolkata.
The production and set design is splendid, giving a real look of 1940’s Kolkata. Costumes too of all characters have been done with minute details, especially those of Byomkesh. It lends a lot of credence to the story. The film takes its time to develop its pace and keeps the viewer engaged, from one point to another.
The story and characters are the high point of the film. Sushant and all the supporting actors have done a really good job, especially Neeraj Kabi who portrays Dr Guha and Anand Tiwari as Byomkesh’s sidekick. Although, Sushant couldn’t entirely capture the essence of the character; but, he has tried his best. The story has lot of pivotal moments, which make you think twice about what’s happened and what will. The arc of the entire plot is really well conceived and is portrayed really well, in one of the best scenes, at the end, where Byomkesh makes everyone sit around, explaining the entire plot.
As noticed in all his movies, Dibakar has added fantastic music, especially the background score ,which adds the X-factor to this detective story. Bachke Bakshy song is awesome, written by Dibakar himself. The movie ends in a way, suggesting that a sequel is in queue.
The movie might seem a bit stretched in the 2nd half, as the plot unravels and this loses its grip a little bit. But, the audience is able to guess the plot towards the end. Script and screenplay should have been tighter especially towards the end. Both the actresses have disappointed, especially Swastika, who has good enough screen time and twists in her character.
Overall, the film is a good watch, enjoyable with friends and family.
(Rating – ***1/2)
By: Sahil Kamdar