If you're a fan of murder mysteries like ‘Knives Out’ or Hindi whodunits such as ‘Neeyat’, Detective Sherdil is worth checking out. Helmed by debutant director Ravi Chhabriya, this Zee5 original stars Diljit Dosanjh as an offbeat and sharp-tongued detective navigating a tangled murder case in the scenic European city of Budapest.
What sets this film apart from other thrillers is its distinct tone, a quirky black comedy peppered with one-liners, satirical commentary and lighthearted banter, all while exploring darker themes like greed, betrayal, and family secrets.
Diljit Dosanjh leads with charm and wit
Known for his effortless comic timing and screen presence, Diljit Dosanjh delivers one of his most charismatic performances to date. As ‘Detective Sherdil’, he’s not your typical brooding sleuth, he’s fun, fashionable and razor-sharp. Despite the story’s serious undertones, Diljit’s humor keeps the pacing engaging, making the film accessible to a wide audience.
The cast and performances of 'Detective Sherdil'
His interactions with Diana Penty, who plays Officer Natasha, bring a solid dynamic to the investigation. Diana is both poised and assertive, and her portrayal of a no-nonsense cop is a refreshing shift from her earlier roles. She not only holds her own alongside Diljit but also brings depth and credibility to the partnership.
‘Lafangey’ to ‘Mismatched’: Why Gen Z loves adulting stories
Chunky Panday in a serious role? It works!
A surprising highlight of the film is Chunky Panday as ‘Bodhi Mama’. Best known for his comic antics, Panday takes on a more nuanced role here. His character is eccentric, mysterious and layered a major pivot from his usual screen persona. His performance in the second half is especially memorable, adding intrigue to the story line.
A powerful supporting cast
The film boasts a power-packed ensemble. Ratna Pathak Shah shines as Rajeshwari Bhatti, the elegant and enigmatic widow of the murdered billionaire. Her grace, dialogue delivery and presence elevate every scene she’s in.
Does ‘Detective Sherdil' represent the deaf and mute community well?
Banita Sandhu plays Shanti Bhatti, the deaf and mute daughter of the victim. She brings emotional weight to the role and expresses vulnerability with depth. However, the film misses a key opportunity here. Casting an actor from the deaf and mute community would have offered authentic representation, a step Bollywood is slowly but surely moving towards as seen in ‘Sitaare Zameen Par’.
Cinematography and direction
The visual appeal of ‘Detective Sherdil’ is undeniable. The film is shot beautifully, using Budapest’s architecture and vibe to create a stylish yet haunting atmosphere. The slick camerawork and vibrant production design elevate the storytelling.
While the premise is intriguing, the pacing could use some tightening. The film drags in places, particularly in the first act, but regains momentum thanks to strong performances and clever plot developments.
A stylish, fun weekend watch
Detective Sherdil is not groundbreaking in terms of plot, but it succeeds in giving the classic murder mystery a fun and fashionable twist. With solid performances, a compelling setting, and enough surprises to keep you interested, this Zee5 release is a worthy pick for your weekend binge.
