Murshid Review : A Riveting Crime Thriller with Depth and Drama

Murshid, a 7-episode crime thriller available on Zee5, is a gripping tale of power, loyalty, and redemption. With a stellar cast led by Kay Kay Menon, the series explores the dark world of organized crime, where every move can be a matter of life and death.

Plot Overview

Set in the gritty underbelly of a nameless city, Murshid follows the story of an ex-don, Murshid (Kay Kay Menon), who has been living in exile, far removed from his once-feared life of crime. However, his peaceful existence is shattered when his former accomplice turned rival, Farid (Zakir Hussain), ensnares Murshid’s son, Kumar Pratap (Tanuj Virwani), in a deadly gang war.

Forced out of retirement, Murshid must navigate the treacherous world he left behind to save his son and reclaim his position as the undisputed ruler of the city. The series unfolds as a tense cat-and-mouse game between Murshid and Farid, with each episode escalating the stakes as both men vie for control and revenge.

Performances

Kay Kay Menon delivers a masterclass in acting as Murshid, portraying the character with a perfect blend of gravitas and vulnerability. Menon’s ability to convey the internal turmoil of a man who is both feared and haunted by his past adds depth to the series. His presence commands the screen, making Murshid a character that viewers will remember long after the credits roll.

Tanuj Virwani, as Kumar Pratap, shines in his role as the conflicted son caught between loyalty to his father and the lure of power. His portrayal of a young man torn between two worlds is both compelling and relatable, adding a layer of emotional complexity to the narrative.

Zakir Hussain, as Farid, is the perfect antagonist. His menacing portrayal of a ruthless gangster who stops at nothing to achieve his goals adds a palpable sense of danger to the series. The tension between him and Menon’s Murshid drives the plot forward, making their confrontations the highlights of the show.

Direction and Writing

The direction of Murshid is sharp and focused, with each episode building upon the last to create a cohesive and engaging narrative. The director, Anirban Bhattacharya, skillfully balances action with drama, ensuring that the series remains intense without sacrificing character development.

The writing is another strong point of the series. The dialogues are crisp and packed with meaning, often hinting at the characters’ deeper motivations and histories. The plot is well-paced, with each episode revealing just enough to keep viewers hooked while maintaining an air of mystery and suspense.

Cinematography and Music

The cinematography of Murshid captures the dark and gritty atmosphere of the criminal underworld. The use of shadows and dim lighting creates a sense of foreboding that permeates the series, while the urban landscape serves as a fitting backdrop for the story’s high-stakes drama.

The music and background score complement the tone of the series perfectly. The soundtrack is intense and moody, heightening the tension in key moments without overpowering the scenes. The music is used sparingly but effectively, allowing the drama to unfold naturally.

Verdict

Murshid is a must-watch for fans of crime thrillers. With its strong performances, particularly by Kay Kay Menon, and its gripping storyline, the series stands out as a top-tier production in the genre. The themes of loyalty, power, and redemption are explored with nuance, making Murshid more than just a typical gangster story.

The series is not just about crime; it’s about the human condition, the choices we make, and the consequences we must live with. For those who enjoy a well-crafted, character-driven narrative, Murshid offers a rich and rewarding viewing experience.