Movie Review: Inspector Zende

You can't really call the movie Inspector Zende a typical crime thriller. While it's about the hunt for the infamous Charles Sobhraj, the film wisely steps away from the cat-and-mouse cliches and focuses on the human behind the uniform. It's a breath of fresh air, mainly because it's not trying to glorify the criminal or the chase.

Instead, the movie is a quiet, sometimes even funny, character study of Inspector Madhukar Zende. Manoj Bajpayee, as always, is a master of his craft. He plays Zende not as a superhero cop, but as an ordinary man with an extraordinary job. He's the guy who's worried about his family, his salary, and the daily grind of police work. The film's charm comes from this very ordinariness. The "hunt" for Sobhraj is less a dramatic showdown and more a series of relatable, and often clumsy, moments that highlight the real-life struggles of police officers.

The film's biggest strength is its grounded and humane approach. However, this is also where it stumbles a bit. The story meanders at times, and the pacing can feel slow. Jim Sarbh's portrayal of Sobhraj is compelling, but the character isn't given enough screen time to fully explore his sinister charisma. He's an intriguing presence, but the focus remains squarely on Zende, which, while a bold choice, leaves the antagonist feeling underdeveloped.

Ultimately, Inspector Zende is a flawed but enjoyable film. It might not be a high-stakes thriller, but it succeeds in its mission to tell a human story within the framework of a real-life manhunt. It’s a subtle and witty watch, made memorable by a top-tier performance from Manoj Bajpayee, that finds its heart in the everyday courage of its protagonist.