The trailer for Netflix’s Inspector Zende has dropped, and it looks exciting. However, it also sparks a familiar feeling. We’re talking about the leading man here, folks, Manoj Bajpayee. On the surface, his character in the upcoming Netflix film feels like someone we’ve already seen.
From the iconic Srikant Tiwari in The Family Man to his other recent roles, Bajpayee has perfected the art of portraying the weary, middle-class hero. But here’s the paradox: while this character type might seem overplayed, it’s exactly what Indian audiences crave from him.
There’s no denying that the epic, record-breaking success of Prime Video’s The Family Man completely changed the way Indian audiences view a protagonist. Instead of being a larger-than-life hero who single-handedly defeats an army of villains, Bajpayee played a relatable family man, juggling a demanding wife, rebellious kids, and an infuriating boss. This struck a chord with a massive section of OTT viewers who were tired of cinematic exaggeration.
Now, we have Bajpayee as Inspector Zende, another character with a similar mix of moral conflict and dry humour. Does this role feel safe from the actor’s perspective? Hell yeah! Bajpayee could play this type of character flawlessly in his sleep.
But given the range he has, relying on this overplayed formula feels like a disservice to an actor of Bajpayee’s immense talent. His earlier, more diverse roles, from the ruthless gangster in Gangs of Wasseypur to the conflicted professor in Aligarh, showcased a versatility that now seems to be gathering dust.
Playing a character similar to Srikant Tiwari is definitely a safe bet for Manoj Bajpayee. Or should we say, it’s an even safer bet for the makers and Netflix, since this approach lets them cash in on a proven, highly successful formula.
Inspector Zende may be inspired by a real-life figure, but the trailer suggests a fictionalized portrayal we’ve already encountered before. And let’s not forget, it’s not the first Indian title to draw inspiration from the life of the notorious French serial killer Charles Sobhraj.
That said, what could actually work for Inspector Zende is its intriguing blend of humour, drama, and the gruesome crimes of Sobhraj. Whether this mix connects with viewers remains to be seen. Stay tuned for more updates.