Review: 'Kaalkoot' is a riveting crime series touching on toxic masculinity with Vijay Varma at its heart

Kaalkoot review

Vijay Varma's rising prominence in the entertainment industry is undeniable, and his latest venture in the crime-drama series "Kaalkoot" is a refreshing shift from his previous dark and shady roles. In this captivating series by writer-director Sumit Saxena, Vijay Varma takes on the role of a virtuous police inspector determined to unravel the truth behind an acid-attack case. Having had the chance of watching the show, witnessing Vijay Varma shine as possibly the 'good guy' after a considerable hiatus, this is what I felt about it. 

The Premise and Screenplay

Here's the sketch of Sarsi: A small town plagued by misogyny, where a determined single mother pressures her son, police inspector Ravi Shankar Tripathi (Vijay Varma), to marry. On the verge of quitting his job, Ravi experiences a transformative realization, leading him to prove his worth through a powerful case. The series spotlights the toxic masculinity prevalent in the police force, as Ravi is trained to conform to societal expectations of being a 'mard,' or tough man. 

The narrative takes a gripping turn when Parul (Shweta Tripathi) becomes the victim of an acid attack, propelling Ravi on a relentless quest to find the perpetrator. As the story unfolds, we delve deeper into the dynamics of a police station in a small town, where each episode builds anticipation as the chase unfolds, leading us towards surprising revelations. The show masterfully balances the pace, keeping viewers engaged with its captivating plot twists and compelling storytelling.

The Vijay Varma Show

Vijay Varma's exceptional talent shines through once again in "Kaalkoot," where he portrays a budding cop, Ravi Shankar Tripathi, who initially lacks enthusiasm in life. Watching him embark on a journey of self-discovery while unraveling a crucial case is truly heartening. 

The character is beautifully crafted, making it relatable to many viewers, and the gradual transformation that unfolds is a treat to witness. Ravi Shankar Tripathi is undeniably one of Vijay Varma's strongest portrayals, and "Kaalkoot" allows him to showcase his brilliance. It just acts as a reminder that Vijay is not just capable but as flawless as he can be playing the 'bad guy', which he is primarily known for. From exuding charisma while riding his bullet to delivering a powerful climax scene where he embraces his imperfections, Vijay Varma effortlessly blends with the plot and the drama.

Other Performances

The show "Kaalkoot" not only highlights Vijay Varma's impressive performance but also boasts a talented ensemble cast that adds depth and richness to the narrative. Yashpal Sharma's presence on-screen is delightful as he injects humor and lightness into the story while maintaining a touching and relatable aspect as Jagdish ji, forming a strong camaraderie with Ravi Shankar.

Shweta Tripathi Sharma delivers a remarkable portrayal as Parul, the acid attack victim, bringing authenticity and emotional depth to her character as demanded by the script. Her performance adds a compelling layer of complexity to the storyline.

Seema Biswas, portraying Ravi's mother, is another standout character whose powerful performance enhances the emotional core of the narrative. As a single and devoted mother, she embodies perfect motherhood, skillfully portraying the worries and aspirations for her child's marriage.  

Touching the nitty gritty of the small town -setup

In "Kaalkoot," Sumit Saxena skillfully portrays a world that may seem unbelievable but undeniably exists. The show delves into the complexities of a small town Sirsi, showcasing the emotions of a single mother and the troubling conversations among police officers who admit to mistreating their wives. 

These nuanced portrayals shed light on pressing societal issues, including female foeticide, the flaws in the education system, corrupt politics, the institution of marriage, and the marginalized position of women in society. While the central theme revolves around crime, "Kaalkoot" prompts viewers to reflect on the darker aspects of small-town life, where a superficial sense of justice disguises deeper, hidden realities. Sumit Saxena's masterful storytelling unveils the layers of this intricate world, leaving the audience contemplative about the stark truths that often go unnoticed in such settings.

BGM & Music

Noteworthy are the theme songs in each episode of "Kaalkoot," some of which can be deemed masterpieces, thanks to their exceptional lyrics. The album holds these songs, allowing viewers to revisit and appreciate them individually. The background music (BGM) skillfully complements the show's dramatic moments, adding intensity and intrigue to the overall aura of the series.

The Verdict

Overall, Kaalkoot is a decent watch where Vijay Varma shines as police officer Ravi Shankar Tripathi and the nuanced writing gives it an edge. 

Rating - ***1/2 (3.5/5)

The show has begun streaming for free on Jio Cinema.