Director - Anubhav Sinha
Writer - Nikhil Ravi
Cast - Vijay Verma, Patralekhaa, Pankaj Kapur, Naseeruddin Shah, Arvind Swami, Dia Mirza, Amrita Puri, Anupam Tripathi, Kumud Mishra, Manoj Pahwa, Kanwaljeet Singh, Dibyendu Bhattacharya, Sushant Singh, Aditya Srivastava, Rajiv Thakur
Platform – Netflix 
 
Anubhav Sinha’s IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack, now streaming on Netflix, delivers a gripping and nuanced portrayal of one of the most intense hijacking crises in recent history. This six-episode series, co-written by Nikhil Ravi, excels in capturing the high-stakes drama and complex dynamics of the 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC 814, offering a compelling narrative that both entertains and educates.
 
What sets IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack apart from typical Bollywood thrillers is its realistic and restrained portrayal of heroism. Vijay Varma’s performance as Captain Sharan Dev is particularly noteworthy. Varma’s portrayal eschews melodrama for a depiction of quiet strength and professionalism. His Captain Dev remains calm and collected under pressure, presenting a nuanced hero who rises to the occasion without grandstanding. This approach lends the series a sense of authenticity that is both refreshing and engaging.
 
Anubhav Sinha, known for his ability to handle sensitive subjects with nuance, directs this series with a deft touch. The narrative is well-structured, balancing the immediate tension of the hijacking with the broader political and bureaucratic machinations occurring behind the scenes. Sinha’s direction ensures that the series maintains a taut rhythm, with each episode building suspense and providing new insights into the unfolding crisis.
 
The script, penned by Nikhil Ravi and supported by a team that includes Trishant Srivastava and British journalist Adrian Levy, is robust and well-researched. The series succeeds in blending factual events with dramatized elements, creating a compelling story that remains grounded in reality. The incorporation of real-life accounts, such as Captain Devi Sharan's memoir, adds credibility and depth to the narrative.
 
The ensemble cast enhances the series significantly. Vijay Varma anchors the show with his portrayal of Captain Dev, but he is ably supported by a talented roster of actors. Patralekhaa’s performance as flight attendant Indrani is particularly impactful, highlighting the personal sacrifices and emotional turmoil experienced by the crew. Dia Mirza and Amrita Puri bring a dynamic edge to their roles as journalists, their contrasting approaches providing additional layers of intrigue.
 
The veteran actors—including Naseeruddin Shah, Pankaj Kapur, Arvind Swami, and others—bring a depth and gravitas to the series. Their performances elevate the show, offering a rich tapestry of perspectives and adding to the overall tension and drama.
 
From a technical standpoint, IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack excels in creating a visually arresting experience. The cinematography by Ewan Mulligan and Ravi Kiran Ayyagari is particularly effective in capturing both the claustrophobic environment of the hijacked aircraft and the broader geopolitical backdrop. The series makes judicious use of visual effects, ensuring they enhance rather than overshadow the story.
 
IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack stands out as a masterful blend of intense drama and meticulous research. It offers a riveting portrayal of a harrowing real-life event while steering clear of sensationalism. With its strong performances, tight direction, and well-crafted script, the series is a commendable addition to the genre. It not only entertains but also provides a thoughtful reflection on the complexities of crisis management and heroism.