Director - Vishal Furia
Cast - Neha Sharma, Purab Kohli, Shruti Seth, Chandan Roy Sanyal, Sharib Hashmi, Amruta Khanvilkar, Sushant Divgikar
Writer - Anahata Menon, Seneca Mendonsa
Episodes - 8
 
36 Days, an adaptation of the UK's 35 Days, attempts to blend a murder mystery with intricate character dynamics in a scenic Goan backdrop. The series opens with the mysterious arrival of Benaifer (Shernaz Patel), a woman with a past, into a tranquil neighborhood. Her presence sets off a chain of events culminating in a shocking death, prompting a tangled web of suspicions and revelations.
 
The show introduces a diverse ensemble cast, each harboring their own secrets and motives. Chandan Roy Sanyal's portrayal of Tony Walia, a wealthy yet troubled character, stands out with its complex layers. Amruta Khanvilkar as Lalita brings a refreshing touch of comedic relief amidst the tension, while Chahat Vig's Siya adds a layer of mystery through her nuanced performance.
 
The narrative unfolds gradually, punctuated by dramatic twists and turns that keep viewers engaged. However, the series struggles with maintaining its momentum. The pacing falters in the latter half, with unnecessary musical interludes and predictable plot developments detracting from the suspense it initially builds.
 
Performance-wise, the cast delivers commendable efforts, with notable contributions from Sharib Hashmi as Vinod and Sushant Divgikar as Tara/Tarun. Neha Sharma's portrayal of Farah/Zaidi is a standout, carrying the weight of the narrative with her compelling presence.
 
Director Vishal Furia attempts to capture the essence of the original British series but falls short in translating its intrigue and depth. The focus on aesthetics over substance becomes apparent, leaving the script feeling flat and overly predictable. While there are moments of brilliance, particularly in character development and thematic exploration, the series ultimately fails to deliver a satisfying payoff.
 
In conclusion, 36 Days may appeal to fans of murder mysteries and ensemble dramas, but its shortcomings in narrative execution and pacing prevent it from achieving greatness. It offers glimpses of potential but ultimately leaves viewers wanting more substance and less style.
 
Pros: Strong performances from the cast, intriguing character dynamics, scenic location.
 
Cons: Pacing issues, predictable plot twists, superficial focus on aesthetics over storytelling.