IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack Review: Can It Keep You on the Edge of Your Seat? Anubhav Sinha’s latest limited series, IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack, is now available on Netflix. Featuring an ensemble cast including Vijay Varma, Manoj Pahwa, Dia Mirza, Naseeruddin Shah, and Kumud Mishra, the series recounts the harrowing hijack of Indian Airlines Flight IC 814 on Christmas Eve 1999. Spanning six episodes, the series captures the intense seven-day ordeal that concluded on New Year’s Eve, offering a gripping portrayal of the chaos within India’s decision-making bodies and the long-term implications of the negotiations.
Strengths of IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack
IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack excels in maintaining a tight grip on the viewer’s attention throughout its six episodes. The series is a no-nonsense drama that showcases some of the country’s finest actors performing in complete harmony. Anubhav Sinha’s direction is commendable, seamlessly integrating real-life footage into the narrative to provide a realistic feel to the ongoing drama. The series also offers a nuanced perspective on the geopolitical landscape of the time, with short preludes that add depth to the storyline.
Areas for Improvement
Despite its many strengths, IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack does experience a slight dip in pace as it approaches the finale. The change in tempo is noticeable in the episodes following the landing in Kandahar. Which may leave some viewers feeling that a few of the talented actors could have been utilized more effectively. However, these minor critiques do not significantly detract from the overall impact of the series.
Stellar Performances
The series boasts a phenomenal ensemble cast, including Naseeruddin Shah, Pankaj Kapur, Vijay Varma, Manoj Pahwa, Kumud Mishra, Arvind Swamy, Dia Mirza, Amrita Puri, Patralekhaa, Dibyendu Bhattacharya, Rajiv Thakur, Dil John, Harminder Singh, and Pooja Gor. Each actor delivers a brilliant performance, contributing to the series’ compelling narrative. Vijay Varma, in particular, shines as Captain Sharan Dev, bringing a fresh perspective to the notion of heroism.
Final Verdict
IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack Review: IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack is a supremely well-made drama series. It captivates viewers from the first sequence and keeps them engaged until the very last scene. With its stellar cast and gripping storyline, it is a must-watch for anyone seeking a thought-provoking and intense viewing experience. The series is now available for streaming on Netflix.