Overview

• The Netflix original, written and directed by Chinmay D. Mandlekar, began streaming on September 5 with Manoj Bajpayee as Inspector Madhukar Zende and Jim Sarbh as the fictionalised Carl Bhojraj.
• Reviewers highlight a light, comic caper tone and meticulous 1970s–80s period detail across Mumbai and Goa, noting the film’s retro look as a standout element.
• The story is inspired by Zende’s real pursuit of Charles Sobhraj, touching on the 1986 Tihar jailbreak and the Goa manhunt without presenting a grim true-crime treatment.
• Critical reaction ranges from positive to underwhelmed, frequently applauding Bajpayee and the humor while flagging uneven pacing, tonal wobble, and a less menacing antagonist.
• Social-media chatter shows the film trending with shout-outs to its wit and performances, alongside comments about a slower second half and comparisons to other recent Sobhraj portrayals.