CAST: Sidharth Malhotra, Shilpa Shetty, Vivek Oberoi, Shweta Tiwari, Rituraj Singh,

DIRECTOR: Rohit Shetty

Streams on Prime Video

One of the series we were super excited about is a flimsy Bollywood flick with heavy-weight actors and all fluff. The premise of the show was a lot like Suryavanshi. Against the overarching theme of good Muslims versus the brainwashed ones, the story focuses on Kabir Malik, a Delhi Police officer, who we would not have surmised is Muslim till he points that out several times in his passionate encounters with the terrorists.

For a change, the harboring neighbor is Bangladesh, providing a much-needed respite from repeat offenders and staple punchbags in Pakistan.

Rohit Shetty excels at action sequences and a lot ( When we say a lot- it means a whole lot) of Drone shots embellished with long shots. And please, the song routines make it more of a theaterish note rather than a home and chill fare.

Shetty, known for his larger-than-life cop dramas, doesn’t let the small screen cramp his style, which is perhaps a misfit in the first place. Streamers are supposed to elevate small creator content, but with a pack of big, known names, this series overpromises and under-delivers.

In a refreshing twist to normal Shetty fare, ‘Indian Police Force’ ditches the usual one-man-army trope for more collective heroism. Sidharth Malhotra, stepping into this universe, is a smart pick. He’s not your typical larger-than-life hero; instead, he’s a relatable everyman cop, nailing the role with a physicality and restraint that speaks volumes. He looks good in action shots, shows a taut physique in body-hugging shirts and is complete candy material.

The series isn’t just about high-octane action; it also delves into softer, more intimate moments. Take, for instance, the poignant scene where Sidharth’s character, Kabir, and his mother (played by the talented Mrinal Kulkarni) discuss coping with loss. These moments add depth to the narrative, contrasting the usual Shetty flair.

Speaking of flair, Shetty fans will be delighted with the series’ action sequences. We’re talking classic Rohit Shetty – from thrilling chases in Chandni Chowk to high-stakes drama on a yacht ( which sometimes feels green-screened). But it’s not all fast cuts and explosions; the show takes its time, giving a more realistic pace to the life of a cop, filled with obstacles and hard-fought victories.

The VFX lacks finesse. One could feel the mouse taps as the train to Dhakka makes its way over grass and tracks.

Now, let’s talk villains. Shetty and his team dive deep into the villain’s backstory, but it doesn’t quite hit the depth mark. It’s as if another director sneaked in for these parts. However, the show’s casting of Mayyank Tandon, a fresh face from Shetty’s team, as a villain is a stroke of genius. He’s the kind of bad guy who blends into the crowd, starkly contrasting to the typical menacing villain.

Shilpa Shetty’s entry as a tough-as-nails cop is a scene-stealer. While she’s more in a strategic role, the glimpses of her in action leave you wanting more. She is agile and makes the kicks believable. More of her, please. And it’s not just Shilpa; the series showcases an array of female characters who, though in minor roles, leave a significant impact.

But here’s the kicker – for the first time in Shetty’s cop universe, we see vulnerability; major characters face real consequences, elevating the stakes and adding a layer of realism. It’s a departure from the invincible heroes we’re used to in his films.

However, there’s a catch. In pursuing realism, the series sometimes loses the quintessential Rohit Shetty touch. You know, the one where SUVs defy gravity and logic. We’re left craving that adrenaline-pumping, over-the-top action synonymous with Shetty.

‘Indian Police Force’ offers a mix of classic Shetty elements with a more grounded approach. While it hits some high notes, especially with its action sequences and human moments, it occasionally stumbles in its pacing and villain portrayal. It’s a solid watch for Shetty fans and those looking for a cop drama with a twist. Just don’t expect the usual high-flying SUVs – they obey traffic signals this time!