Black Warrant Review: A Gripping Look into Tihar Jail’s World
Black Warrant is a gripping and honest look into the chaotic world of Tihar Jail. While it may not be a binge-worthy series, its deep emotional story and strong performances stay with you long after the show ends. Although the writing could have been sharper, the series does an excellent job of making you feel empathy for the characters and provides a raw, thought-provoking experience.
The Storyline and Characters
Netflix begins the year with Black Warrant, a compelling prison drama that explores the turbulent life inside Tihar Jail through the eyes of rookie jailer Sunil Gupta. The seven-episode series is based on the memoir Black Warrant: Confessions of a Tihar Jailer by Sunil Gupta and journalist Sunetra Choudhury. The show is directed by Vikramaditya Motwane and features a talented cast, including Zahan Kapoor, Rahul Bhat, Paramvir Singh Cheema, Anurag Thakur, and Sidhant Gupta.
At its heart, Black Warrant offers an unvarnished view of the inner workings of Asia’s largest prison while also focusing on Sunil Gupta’s transformation. Zahan Kapoor plays 24-year-old Sunil Kumar Gupta, who enters the chaotic world of Tihar (though Zahan, at 32, doesn’t quite match the youthful character in age). His portrayal shows Sunil’s growth from a quiet man into a strong jailer, using subtle expressions and body language to convey his evolution.
Performances: Standout Roles
Zahan Kapoor’s performance is a standout, capturing Sunil’s vulnerability and strength in a harsh environment. He skillfully brings out the complexities of his character, showing how he changes as he adapts to the brutal prison world.
Rahul Bhat also delivers an excellent performance as DSP Rajesh Tomar, a manipulative and authoritative figure torn between protecting his staff and pursuing his own interests. His layered portrayal contrasts perfectly with Zahan’s quieter, introspective Sunil, creating a dynamic that drives the series. The supporting cast, including Paramvir Singh Cheema and Anurag Thakur, also adds depth to the narrative.
Sidhant Gupta’s portrayal of the infamous serial killer Charles Sobhraj is another cinematic highlight. Despite limited screen time, his performance captures Sobhraj’s chilling charm and menace, making his character unforgettable.
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Tihar Jail’s Harsh Realities
The series excels in portraying the harsh realities of Tihar Jail, from the dehumanising effects of prison life to the emotional toll it takes on both inmates and officers. One of the most powerful images comes in the final episode, where Sunil is shown leaning helplessly against the jail bars, while Charles enjoys his ‘suite’. This moment symbolises the inversion of power and freedom within the prison.
Flaws and Missed Opportunities
Despite its strengths, Black Warrant has its flaws. Some subplots, particularly glimpses into the personal lives of certain characters, feel unnecessary and detract from the main storyline. While these moments aim to humanise the characters, they take away from the series’ intense focus on the grim realities of prison life. Tighter editing could have helped keep the story more focused.
Vikramaditya Motwane’s Direction
Vikramaditya Motwane’s signature style is present in smaller moments, such as the song at the end of Episode 6, which recalls Jubilee’s “Saare Ke Saare Akele”. However, the series leans more towards a dark, gritty tone rather than his usual aesthetic-driven approach. This shift gives the series a more grounded and intense feel.
Comparing to Scoop and Other Series
The themes of Black Warrant also remind us of another Netflix crime drama, Scoop. While Black Warrant lacks the binge-worthy appeal of Scoop, it makes up for it with a powerful and immersive portrayal of jail politics and personal evolution.
Where you can watch Black Warrant
Black Warrant is a compelling and raw exploration of Tihar Jail’s complex world. While it may not be a show that you can binge-watch, its emotional depth and powerful performances make it a memorable experience. The series does an excellent job of evoking empathy, even if the writing could have been sharper. Black Warrant offers a thought-provoking and immersive experience for viewers. Movie is now streaming on Netflix.
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