As 2024 progresses, South Indian cinema continues to dominate, while Bollywood struggles to keep up. Even with potential hits like "Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3" and "Singham 3" on the horizon, Bollywood can't seem to match the sheer quality and captivating storytelling of South Indian films. This trend extends to the OTT platforms as well, with the latest sensation being the web series "Brinda," available on Sunny Live.
Overview:
"Brinda" is an eight-episode series, each approximately 40 minutes long, making it a binge-worthy show you can finish in about five hours. The best part? The story concludes within the first season, sparing you the agonizing wait for a sequel.
Warning:
Before diving in, it's crucial to note that "Brinda" isn't for the faint-hearted. The series features disturbing and grotesque scenes, coupled with a controversial theme involving deities that could trigger uncomfortable reactions. Viewer discretion is advised.
Plot Summary:
The series opens with a gruesome murder case: a man's body, tied with bricks and dumped in a sewer, surfaces. Interestingly, the cause of death isn't drowning but 16 stab wounds near the heart. The twist? The prime suspect is a migratory bird from Indonesia, a species thought to be extinct. This peculiar start unravels a chain reaction of murders in the city, all victims sharing a common trait—they are all bald, and not naturally, but forcibly shaved before death.
The investigation reveals a pattern, leading to a larger conspiracy. As the body count rises, the police delve deeper into a labyrinth of clues that keep the audience on edge.
Why "Brinda" Stands Out?:
"Brinda" takes viewers back to the golden era of Indian web series like "Sacred Games" and "Asur," where each episode ends on a cliffhanger, making it impossible to stop watching. The series blends mind-bending suspense with a touch of fantasy connected to deities, albeit in a non-traditional sense. The main focus remains on the murder investigation, presented with such intensity that it feels like you're right there in the police station.
By the fifth episode, the most shocking twist emerges, something no one could have anticipated. The villains are crafted with such depth and backstory that they almost steal the show, making the hero's role secondary.
Performance and Direction:
Trisha, already a beloved figure in the North, delivers a stellar performance that brings the phrase "beauty with brains" to life. The series avoids unnecessary romantic angles or personal subplots, maintaining a tight focus on the main story. This relentless pacing ensures the viewer's attention never wavers.
Pros:
- Unique spiritual-murder theme.
- No filler, just pure storytelling.
- The unpredictable twist in episode five.
- Strong emotional connection despite being a South Indian show.
Cons:
- The opportunity to incorporate more horror elements was missed.
- The Hindi dubbing, particularly for Trisha's character, could have been stronger.
Conclusion:
"Brinda" is a must-watch series of 2024, promising respect and admiration on par with films like "Maharaja." If you love a good mystery with a spiritual twist, "Brinda" should be on your watchlist.
If you enjoyed the review or have any feedback, feel free to reach out. Your opinions matter!