Dabba Cartel Review: A Promising Premise Hampered by Uneven Execution

“Dabba Cartel,” the new Hindi web series streaming on Netflix, presents an intriguing premise: a group of ordinary, middle-class women in Thane who find themselves entangled in the dangerous world of a drug cartel. While the series boasts a talented cast and moments of genuine suspense, it ultimately falls short of its potential due to uneven execution and a convoluted plot.

The Story:

Five women – Raji (Shalini Pandey), Sheila (Shabana Azmi), Mala (Nimisha Sajayan), Varuna (Jyothika), and Shahida (Anjali Anand) – from diverse backgrounds find their lives intertwined when they start a lunchbox delivery service that inadvertently becomes a front for a drug cartel. As they delve deeper into this criminal underworld, they face threats, betrayals, and moral dilemmas, forcing them to make difficult choices to protect themselves and their families.

The Highs:

• Strong Female Characters: The series shines in its portrayal of complex and multi-dimensional female characters who defy stereotypes. These women are not merely victims of circumstance but active agents who take control of their destinies, showcasing resilience and strength in the face of adversity.
• Talented Cast: The ensemble cast delivers commendable performances, with Shabana Azmi and Jyothika, in particular, shining in their roles.
• Moments of Suspense: The series has its moments of genuine suspense and intrigue, particularly in the initial episodes, as the women navigate their new reality and the dangers associated with it.

The Lows:

• Convoluted Plot: The plot becomes increasingly convoluted and far-fetched as the series progresses, with numerous subplots and characters that distract from the central narrative.
• Uneven Pacing: The pacing is uneven, with some episodes dragging while others feel rushed, hindering the overall flow and engagement.
• Unconvincing Twists: Some of the twists and turns in the plot feel forced and unconvincing, undermining the suspense and intrigue.
• Inconsistent Tone: The series struggles to maintain a consistent tone, wavering between moments of intense drama and light-hearted humor, which can be jarring for the viewer.

Overall:

“Dabba Cartel” had the potential to be a gripping and thought-provoking thriller, but its uneven execution and convoluted plot prevent it from reaching its full potential. While the strong female characters and talented cast are commendable, the series ultimately falls short of delivering a truly satisfying viewing experience.

Rating: 2.5/5