Inspector Zende Review: Every once in a while, Indian cinema digs into its own history and pulls out a story so irresistible, it feels destined for the big screen. Inspector Zende, directed by Chinmay Mandlekar, who is a famous actor and stage director, nicely put it together to bring the ’90s vibe. Therefore, Inspector Zende is one such film — a slick, witty retelling of Mumbai cop Madhukar Zende’s extraordinary real pursuit of the notorious Charles Sobhraj (French serial killer). And judging by the first wave of reactions, Manoj Bajpayee’s latest is already striking a chord. Read my review of what I feel about the movie. if you are thinking of watching it on Netflix.
Inspector Zende Review (3/5): You get Humour, Crime and Drama all in one
Bajpayee, in the titular role, embodies Zende with the kind of gravitas only he can summon. I believe he was the perfect choice of the role and could bring feel of 90’s — stern one moment, slyly humorous the next. Moreover, opposite him, Jim Sarbh (who perfectly added a humorous feel and life to the story) steps into the shoes of Carl Bhojraj, a thinly veiled stand-in for Sobhraj. Sarbh is the ideal counterpoint to Bajpayee’s razor-sharp lawman because of his distinct French accent and face cut, which not only make him captivating but also give the story a sinister depth.
Girija Oak looks gorgeous in the role of Zende’s Marathi wife. Her portrayal as a Marathi housewife was evident in the film, and she has a traditional, stereotypical Maharashtrian appearance. The movie is full of well-known Marathi actors and adds another layer to support the plot and get additional substance to the Mumbai and Goa theme.
Moreover, what sets Inspector Zende apart from the usual biographical drama is its tonal daring. Mandlekar gives the story a healthy dose of 90s-style swagger, dark wit, and quirky comedy in place of the sombre procedural that I most experienced and enjoyed. But I think there is a weak plot and some lagging action; the Goa shots were badly done. Fans are already calling it “a banger” on X (formerly Twitter), complimenting the film’s writing, camera work, and chic lighting that give it its noir-meets-comedy vibe.
Yes, the second half drags a little, as thrillers often do when they slow down to savour their characters. But the payoff is worth it: a finale that left audiences stunned and applauding.
“#InspectorZende is a banger! 90s vibe, comedy + crime, #ManojBajpayee in serious mode = classic,” one fan declared. Another summed it up perfectly: “Didn’t mind Netflix’s latest, Inspector Zende — a rare based-on-real-life film that dares to be a goofy comedy. Helps that Manoj Bajpayee is in The Family Man mode.”
At its core, Inspector Zende is more than just a biopic. It’s a duel of wits, a dance of charm and authority, and a reminder that truth — especially when it comes with a punchline — can be stranger, and far more entertaining, than fiction. Go watch “Inspector Zende” on Netflix to enjoy your weekend with your family.
I’d give this film a ★★★ (3/5) rating. The film is lacking in substance and action, but it does have one promise. With the aid of outstanding acting and a supporting cast, it transports you to the 1990s in a light-hearted and nostalgic way. You can watch this movie with your kids, but some murder scenes make it a bit uncomfortable for kids. However, it is one of the best trending on Netflix as of today. If you want to deep dive about who Sobhraj was, born in Shaigao, his ill-fated life was already chronicled in the series “The Serpent“, co-produced by Netflix and the BBC
