The newest SonyLIV original, Jazz City, premiered on 19 March and, so far, is struggling to find its footing among viewers. Set against the smoky, neon-soaked backdrop of 1971 Calcutta (now Kolkata), the show attempts to blend the high-stakes espionage of the Bangladesh Liberation War with the rhythmic, sultry soul of a Park Street jazz club.
Overall, audience reception to the series appears mostly positive, but the same cannot be said for critics.
Jimmy Roy (played by Arifin Shuvoo) is a suave, cynical nightclub owner who wants nothing more than to keep the booze flowing and the band playing. His world is upended when an Indian intelligence officer, Sinha (Shantanu Ghatak), forcibly recruits him into the resistance movement.
As the series progresses, we see more refugees pouring into the city and the impact of West Pakistan’s Operation Searchlight intensifying, transforming Jimmy’s club into a den of revolutionaries, spies, and dark secrets.
Viewers are enjoying Jazz City’s romanticised, immersive, and moody portrayal of 1970s Calcutta, along with its sepia tones, vintage cars, and impeccably tailored suits. Having previously played Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in a biopic, Shuvoo brings a grounded gravity to Jimmy Roy.
However, the majority of critics do not seem to share this sentiment. They believe that the series suffers from issues of pacing and length. Many have pointed out the show’s slow pace, which can test viewers’ patience.
Critics also argue that the director, Soumik Sen, adopts a conversational, rambling style that leaves too many plot threads unresolved.
Ultimately, Jazz City is a rare misfire for SonyLIV in terms of critical acclaim, especially following hits like Freedom at Midnight. However, if you are looking for a stylish, atmospheric trip back to 1971 with a compelling lead performance, the audience’s verdict might matter more to you than the critics’ ratings. Stay tuned for more updates.