Ranneeti: Balakot and Beyond | Review

Cast: Jimmy Shergill, Lara Dutta, Ashutosh Rana, Ashish Vidyarthi, and more
Director: Santosh Singh
Release Date: April 25, 2024
Where to Watch: JioCinema
Rating: (3/5)

Synopsis
“Ranneeti: Balakot and Beyond” is a 9-part web series set against the backdrop of the Pulwama attacks and the subsequent Indian airstrikes on Balakot. The series offers a fictionalized account of the strategic operations conducted in the war-room, paying tribute to the unsung heroes who meticulously planned and executed the mission. It highlights that not all wars are fought on the battlefield, showcasing the intelligence and tactical maneuvers behind the scenes.

What’s Hot?
The series kicks off with a detailed portrayal of the Pulwama attack, setting the stage for the intense narrative that follows. Jimmy Shergill stars as Kashyap Sinha, an Intelligence Officer with a traumatic past, whose character is richly layered and expertly portrayed. The show gains momentum from the second episode as India prepares for a retaliatory airstrike, maintaining a gripping pace throughout.

Lara Dutta’s character as a power broker demonstrates the strategic use of social media in modern warfare. Ashutosh Rana plays a Pakistani Intelligence Officer, adding depth to the narrative with his stellar performance. The series also features a standout performance by Prasanna as Wing Commander Abhimanyu Vardhan, inspired by the real-life Indian Fighter Pilot Abhinandan Varthaman.

Director Santosh Singh delivers a superior cinematic experience, bringing the high-class warfare genre to the web with precision. The aerial action sequences are particularly thrilling, comparable to those in major films like “Fighter.” The series effectively combines action with detailed storytelling, creating a fast-paced narrative that rarely falters. The background score enhances the emotional depth, aligning perfectly with the story of martyrs and soldiers.

What’s Not?
Despite its many strengths, the series could benefit from crisper, less dramatic dialogue. While the narrative remains engaging, some lines feel overly theatrical, which slightly detracts from the overall impact.

Verdict
“Ranneeti: Balakot and Beyond” is a compelling watch for fans of action-thrillers, offering a fascinating glimpse into the strategic operations behind significant military actions. With its well-executed action scenes and intricate storytelling, this web series is perfect for a binge-watch session over the weekend. The gripping plot and strong performances make it a worthy addition to JioCinema’s collection.

Rating: Three Stars!
Overall: “Ranneeti: Balakot and Beyond” is a well-crafted war-room drama that excels in both action and narrative depth, despite minor shortcomings in dialogue. Its portrayal of intelligence and military strategy provides a fresh perspective on modern warfare.

Also Watch Trailer: Ranneeti: Balakot & Beyond | Official Trailer