Inspector Zende Movie Review: Manoj Bajpayee's unassuming brilliance shines through in this clever comedy thriller

The film never takes itself too seriously, and this sincerity is infectious, making you a willing participant in the actors’ thought processes and the world they’ve created.

It feels less like a planned blockbuster and more like a passion project. The witty dialogue and perfectly timed gags add layers to the engaging narrative, ensuring the comedy hits all the right notes without undermining the core plot.

The hunt for Carl

Set in 1986, the plot begins with the dramatic escape of notorious criminal Carl Bhojraj (Jim Sarbh), modelled on the infamous Charles Shobhraj, from Tihar jail. The Mumbai police, anticipating his next move, are convinced his destination will be Bombay.

The formidable task of capturing Carl falls to Inspector Madhukar Zende (Manoj Bajpayee), who had successfully nabbed him a decade and a half earlier.

Zende’s first attempts to catch Carl and his four associates end in failure, but the humiliation he suffers at the hands of his firm yet understanding boss only strengthens his resolve. With sharp instincts and a quick mind, he deduces Carl has likely fled to Goa.

He heads there with a small team, launching a covert operation to track Carl down—without the knowledge of the local police.

Character-driven comedy

What truly makes ‘Inspector Zende’ work is its gallery of quirky, memorable characters. Almost every role has a distinctive trait that lingers after the film ends. Despite being a comedy-thriller, the events feel surprisingly real and grounded.

The grimy chawl where Bajpayee’s character lives and the meagre allowance given to his team for their Goa stay add a layer of authenticity. This is a film that deliberately avoids big guns and high-octane action, setting it apart from others in the genre.

Its focus on character-driven comedy and clever plotting makes it refreshing, proving that you don’t need explosions to create thrills. Subtle, human moments and genuine camaraderie among the characters give the film a heart that resonates, making their journey compelling.

Stellar performances drive the film

Manoj Bajpayee once again delivers a knockout performance as Inspector Zende. It’s a demanding role, requiring a blend of shrewd detective work and a touch of buffoonery. Bajpayee balances this duality with ease, mixing seriousness with comic flair and reaffirming his versatility.

Jim Sarbh, as Carl Bhojraj, looks the part and brings a cool, composed persona to the criminal, chilling in his precision yet disturbingly calm after the act. Bhalchandra Kadam, as Constable Patil, is a scene-stealer whose deadpan expressions guarantee laughter. The film's casting is one of its strongest points, drawing on well-known names from the Marathi film industry and perfectly capturing the regional milieu.

The chemistry between the cast members is palpable, a testament to their collective talent and a key reason why the film feels so cohesive and well-executed.

A unique comedy-thriller

This comedy-thriller is unusual in that it cloaks a serious real-life event in the guise of lighthearted comedy—and succeeds in taking you along for the ride. ‘Inspector Zende’ may not boast an earth-shattering plot, but its clever screenplay delivers with playful assurance.

Its greatest strength lies in finding humour and humanity within a grim situation, transforming a procedural chase into a string of funny, memorable moments. With subtle nods to the era and performances full of charm, the film feels like a breath of fresh air. It proves what can be achieved when strong writing and characterization take precedence over spectacle, making it both a thrilling ride and a comedy masterclass.

Rating: 3.5/5