Review of The Web Series: “The Freelancer”
I still don’t understand why DisneyPlus Hotstar is not releasing all the episodes of a web series at once. Releasing the show in parts with an incomplete story breaks the continuity and interest of the viewers.
Only 4 episodes out of 7 are released and the story is incomplete. When the remaining 3 episodes will be released is still a question.
In “The Freelancer,” a series created by Neeraj Pandey (known for “Special Ops” and “Baby”) and directed by Bhav Dhulia, we anticipated a gripping thriller and we got it, but sadly the story is incomplete.
Recently, there has been a surge in narratives featuring innocent Indian women trapped by ISIS-like characters (as seen in “The Kerala Story” and “Akelli”). However, these stories often fall into the trap of stereotypical characterizations. Beards and hijab-wearing women are too easily associated with terrorist groups aiming to conquer the world.
“The Freelancer” is based on Shirish Thorat’s book, “A Ticket To Syria,” and follows the story of Avinash Kamath (played by Mohit Raina), a former cop turned mercenary-for-hire. While he undertakes daring missions in dangerous global hotspots, he also cares for his fragile wife. Avinash’s life takes an unexpected turn when his dear friend and former colleague, Inayat Khan (Sushant Singh), dies under horrifying circumstances. Inayat’s daughter Aliya (Kashmira Pardeshi) is kidnapped by her husband and radicalized by a hijab-wearing figure who condemns those Muslims who embrace Western clothing and makeup.
Aliya finds herself somewhere on the Iraq-Syria border, desperately communicating with her mother (Ayesha Raza Mishra) while fearing for her life. Avinash, guided by the knowledgeable security expert Dr. Arif Khan (Anupam Kher), decides to wage war on those who have taken Aliya. With some assistance from a couple of CIA operatives, he embarks on his mission.
As expected “The Freelancer” is a solid thriller with the talent behind it, including Neeraj Pandey and Bhav Dhulia. However, it falls short at some point as it offers only sporadic action sequences. Avinash manages to outsmart even the Mossad, but the palpable sense of danger and suspense is notably absent. Mohit Raina, who delivered a commendable performance in “Mumbai Diaries,” does his best with the material, but the predictable writing hampers his efforts. Anupam Kher, a seasoned actor, and he has performed exceedingly well as he always does.
As far as Kashmira Pardeshi is concerned, she has performed very well, especially in emotional scenes where her performance looks real.
The background music is excellent provided by Sanjoy Chowdhury. The music has given more excitement to watch the show.
Each episode is about 50 minutes long which means you can watch these episodes at once.
A significant issue is that we have been provided with only half of the series, leaving viewers craving more, but not necessarily in a good way. Action-packed narratives like these are best consumed in one go to maintain the intensity, and splitting the series may have impacted its overall impact negatively.
Star Cast
Mohit Raina, Anupam Kher, Kashmira Pardeshi, Sushant Singh, Ayesha Raza Mishra, Manjari Fadnnis
Director
Bhav Dhulia
Music
Sanjoy Chowdhury
Newzdaddy Review
“The Freelancer” had the potential to be an engaging thriller and it has delivered the anticipated excitement. With the talent involved, including Neeraj Pandey and Bhav Dhulia, the series shows the consistent thrills and suspense needed to make it truly gripping.
However, viewer frustration may be exacerbated by the decision to release only half of the series at a time.
It is a complete family entertainer as the show does not have any vulgarity, abusive language or double-meaning dialogues.
I will not be able to give the ratings as the show is still not completed. Will provide the ratings after watching all 7 episodes of the show.