The Night Manager is a popular crime thriller show on OTT platforms, and it’s based on a British series that’s adapted from a book by John le Carré. Sandeep Modi is the show-runner, and Aditya Roy Kapur makes his OTT debut with this show. The story follows Shaan Sengupta, a night manager at a fancy hotel in Dhaka, who unknowingly becomes involved in an expose about a respected shipping tycoon, Shailendra Rungta, played by Anil Kapoor.
The show takes viewers on a journey from Dhaka to snowy Shimla and beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka. Unlike other spy thrillers, the story is straightforward and doesn’t have many twists and turns. It’s a well-made series with high production value and gorgeous cinematography that showcases luxurious properties around the world. The story is engaging, and viewers can enjoy it at a comfortable pace without any mindless gore or chases.
Anil Kapoor is a talented actor, and he plays the role of Shailendra Rungta convincingly. He portrays a seeming humanitarian who generously contributes to aid for humanitarian crises, but beneath the surface, he’s a deadly merchant of death. Aditya Roy Kapur also delivers a fine performance, portraying a character who’s been coerced into a deadly mission but is steadfast in his pursuit. Sobhita Dhulipala plays Rungta’s girlfriend, Kaveri, and while she gets ample screen time to show her oomph, her outing is mostly restricted to swimming shots and bare-dare scenes. Tillotama Shome, who plays RAW agent Lipika Saikia Rao, is the real hero of the show. She’s raw and real and holds the story together as a devoted agent who doesn’t give up in the face of challenges. Saswata Chatterjee, who plays Rungta’s key aide BJ, looks menacing, but his queer character is only interested in sleeping around rather than focusing on their dirty business.
The story is intriguing, and while it’s not heart-pumping all the time, there are a few moments that do set your heart racing. With only four episodes out so far, the last few minutes give a glimpse of what’s to come – steamy scenes, more schemes, and war shots, due in June.
The show begins with the Rohingya crisis in Bangladesh, but it only serves as a nominal setting, and it doesn’t delve into the refugee crisis. There are some inconsistencies in the screenplay that are difficult to overlook, but overall, the show reflects a world where war is a lucrative business, and the arms lobby reigns supreme. The current Russia-Ukraine crisis is a testimony to this fact.
In conclusion, The Night Manager is a slick and spectacular crime thriller that’s worth watching. It’s a well-made show with high production value, engaging story, and talented cast. While it’s not perfect, it’s an entertaining ride that will keep you hooked till the end.
