Review : IC 814 : The Kandahar Hijack Story’ on Netflix

IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack Story, the latest web series directed by Anubhav Sinha, has made its way to Netflix, bringing one of India’s most harrowing real-life incidents to the small screen. The series dives deep into the chilling hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight 814 in December 1999, which left the nation on edge and resulted in a high-stakes standoff that ultimately saw the release of dangerous terrorists in exchange for the lives of over 150 hostages.

Plot Overview

The series meticulously reconstructs the events surrounding the hijacking, starting from the moment the plane was seized by five armed terrorists en route from Kathmandu to Delhi. What follows is a tense and nerve-wracking depiction of the week-long ordeal that saw the plane being flown to multiple locations before finally landing in Kandahar, Afghanistan.

IC 814 focuses on the multi-layered drama that unfolded during this crisis, from the terror inside the aircraft to the intense negotiations between the Indian government and the hijackers. The series also sheds light on the human aspect of the incident, exploring the emotional toll on the hostages, their families, and the officials involved in the negotiations.

Strengths of the Series

1. Gripping Narrative: Anubhav Sinha, known for his hard-hitting films, crafts a compelling narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The pacing is taut, with each episode building up the tension as the crisis deepens. The series effectively captures the desperation and fear of those involved, making it a gripping watch from start to finish.
2. Strong Performances: The cast delivers commendable performances, with standout roles from the actors portraying both the hostages and the government officials. Their portrayal of fear, frustration, and determination adds depth to the series, making the characters relatable and the stakes palpable.
3. Attention to Detail: The series does a commendable job of recreating the atmosphere of late 1990s India. From the set design to the costumes, the production team has paid careful attention to authenticity, immersing viewers in the era and the intensity of the situation.

Controversy and Criticism

Despite its strengths, IC 814 has not been without controversy. The series has come under fire for allegedly changing the names of two of the hijackers to Hindu names, a creative decision that has sparked backlash on social media. Critics argue that this alteration distorts the historical record and misrepresents the identities of the actual perpetrators, potentially misleading audiences.

While the series is a dramatized retelling rather than a documentary, this change has raised questions about the responsibilities of filmmakers when dealing with real-life events, particularly those as sensitive as a terrorist hijacking. The controversy has somewhat overshadowed the series’ release, with discussions about historical accuracy taking center stage in the public discourse.

Final Verdict

IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack Story is a well-crafted and intense series that effectively brings to life one of India’s most dramatic and tragic incidents. Anubhav Sinha’s direction, combined with strong performances and meticulous attention to detail, ensures that the series is both engaging and emotionally impactful.

However, the controversy surrounding the altered names of the hijackers cannot be ignored, as it touches on important issues of historical representation and creative responsibility. For viewers who can look past this aspect, IC 814 offers a gripping exploration of a dark chapter in India’s history. For others, the series may prompt important reflections on how real events are portrayed in entertainment.

Overall, IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack Story is a must-watch for those interested in gripping true-crime dramas, but it also serves as a reminder of the delicate balance filmmakers must strike when retelling real-life stories.