Paatal Lok Season 2 Review: Jaideep Ahlawat led crime-thriller-drama show delivers yet another gritty and compelling chapter
Paatal Lok Season 2, directed by Avinash Arun, and starring Jaideep Ahlawat, Ishwak Singh, Tillotama Shome, Gul Panag and many others, now streams on Prime Video. Read our review.
Name: Paatal Lok Season 2
Director: Avinash Arun
Cast: Jaideep Ahlawat, Ishwak Singh, Tillotama Shome, Gul Panag, Nagesh Kukunoor, Jahnu Barua
Rating: 3.5/5
Plot:
The second season of Paatal Lok dives deep into the investigation of the mysterious and gruesome death of Mr. Jonathan Thom, the founder of the Nagaland Democratic Forum. Found dead in his hotel room at Nagaland Sadan, his death sets off a chain of events that inspector Hathiram Chaudhary (Jaideep Ahlawat), must navigate. Alongside him, his former assistant, now superior, Imran Ansari (Ishwak Singh), adds a new layer to their dynamic, as they explore the political underbelly that might have driven this murder.
What Works For Paatal Lok Season 2:
Paatal Lok Season 2 retains its gritty, raw essence that made the first season a critical darling. The series continues to be grounded in its portrayal of the socio-political landscape of India, with focus on the political unrest in Kohima, Nagaland, this time around. The authentic narrative style is preferred over the sensational and over-dramatic style that most shows try to use. The engagement factor is high, with the plot picking up pace after an initially slow start.
Season 2 of Paatal Lok successfully draws its viewers into its complex web of intrigue. The background score and sound design are top-notch. They enhance the intended tension of the show. The dialogue-driven proceedings shall keep the audience glued; Giving makers, bragging rights for the strength of their script and their immaculate execution too.
What Doesn't Work For Paatal Lok Season 2:
While the season largely maintains its quality, there are moments where the plot feels slightly forced and contrived to push the story forward. For example, there is a scene where Hathiram sees two suspicious men looking at him and it feels like they want Hathiram to notice them. Scenes like this seem a bit too convenient for advancing the narrative. These instances, though minor, slightly detract from the otherwise seamless storytelling, giving a staged feel to the spontaneity of events.
Watch the Paatal Lok Season 2 Trailer
Performances In Paatal Lok Season 2:
The performances in Paatal Lok Season 2 are nothing short of exceptional. Jaideep Ahlawat as Hathiram Chaudhary continues to be the soul of the series with his nuanced portrayal of an honest cop in a corrupt system. Ishwak Singh's evolution as Imran Ansari brings fresh dynamics to the screen. Tillotama Shome as the new addition to Paatal Lok, nails it in her cop avatar. Gul Panag as Renu Chaudhary provides her strong supporting presence through the second season of the show. The ensemble cast, including talents like Nagesh Kukunoor and Jahnu Barua, also does commendable work. They add to the show's overall impact
Final Verdict Of Paatal Lok Season 2:
Paatal Lok Season 2 largely lives up to the high expectations set by its predecessor. It's a testament to good storytelling that it remains engaging despite a few narrative hiccups. The series is a pride for Indian content on a global stage, showcasing the capability of Indian cinema to delve into complex, layered narratives.
If you're looking for a series that combines thriller elements with social commentary, Paatal Lok Season 2 should definitely be on your watchlist. Paatal Lok is now streaming on Prime Video. Watch now!