Director - Prashant Nair, Randeep Jha and Avani Deshpande
Cast - Abhay Deol, Ashish Vidyarthi, Anupam Kher, Rajshri Deshpande, Rajesh Tailang, Ratna Pathak Shah, Shilpa Shukla, Shardul Bharadwaj 
Rating – 5
Streaming On – Netflix 
 
Trial By Fire, directed by Prashant Nair, Randeep Jha, and Avani Deshpande, presents an astonishing narrative that delves into the relentless pursuit of justice by Neelam and Shekhar Krishnamoorthy. The series revolves around the tragic Uphaar cinema hall disaster in 1997, where Neelam and Shekhar's children, along with 59 other victims, lost their lives due to the mismanagement of the theater staff and administration. The gripping storytelling and outstanding performances make "Trial By Fire" a remarkable and must-watch experience.
 
The series kicks off with Unnati and Ujjawal, the Krishnamoorthy children, excitedly heading to the Uphaar cinema for the first-day first show of "Border." Little did they know that this day would turn into a devastating tragedy, altering their parents' lives forever. The show captures the emotional turmoil of Neelam and Shekhar as they embark on an arduous journey to uncover the truth behind the disaster. Neelam's determination to seek justice for the victims drives the narrative, leading to the formation of a collective legal struggle with other grieving parents.
 
The brilliance of "Trial By Fire" lies in its ability to authentically capture the behind-the-scenes of a tragedy that grabbed headlines in 1997 and continued to resonate for years. The series meticulously portrays the Krishnamoorthy family's struggles, showcasing their relentless pursuit of justice against powerful figures, including Delhi's largest builder, the Ansals. The atmosphere throughout the series is somber, mirroring the gravity of the events and the emotional toll on the characters.
 
One of the series' strengths is its ability to evoke powerful emotions, and it does so by realistically portraying various situations. The depiction of a family's struggle against a formidable opponent, the Ansals, is moving and reflects the harsh reality of their legal battle. The screenplay is exceptional, capturing nuanced moments and delivering a powerful narrative that keeps viewers engaged.
 
Rajshri Deshpande's portrayal of Neelam Krishnamoorthy stands out as the heart and soul of the series. Her gripping performance as a grieving mother seeking justice resonates profoundly. Abhay Deol, playing Shekhar Krishnamoorthy, provides excellent support, showcasing a remarkable return to the spotlight. The series also features brief but impactful appearances by Anupam Kher and Ratna Pathak Shah, adding to the overall stellar cast.
 
The screenplay, based on the book written by Neelam and Shekhar Krishnamoorthy, infuses a thriller-like feel into the series, elevating its appeal. Prashant Nair's direction deserves praise for delivering a gripping narrative with meticulous attention to detail. The series unfolds as a must-watch, offering a compelling portrayal of a real-life legal battle driven by grief and the quest for justice.
 
"Trial By Fire" emerges as an outstanding series that not only sheds light on a tragic incident but also serves as a powerful testament to the strength of those who persevere in their fight for justice. Watch this series at the earliest for an immersive and impactful viewing experience.