Mirzapur 3 returns with Ali Fazal maintaining the lead, taking over from Pankaj Tripathi, in the much-awaited web series that continues its familiar blood-spattered streak.
After a four-year hiatus, the third season of Mirzapur is back with Ali Fazal and Pankaj Tripathi reprising their roles as Guddu Bhaiya and Kaleen Bhaiya, respectively. This time, the power dynamics have shifted, with bloodshed and gore taking center stage. However, despite some redeeming moments, Mirzapur 3 lacks substance and relies heavily on shock value.
The show, known for its violent tale of revenge, delivers visceral thrills along with quietly striking moments of beauty. But was the wait worth it? The series falters in many areas, from a weak storyline and an overload of main characters to predictable high points. Despite these shortcomings, it manages to charm with exceptional performances and an engaging first half.
Mirzapur is credited with introducing violence, bloodshed, and gore to the Indian OTT space, and the third season certainly takes it up a notch. At its core, the series narrates a story of Hindi heartland violence that intersects with Indian politics and law enforcement. It’s a snapshot of power games, sex, drugs, death, conflicted relationships, and betrayals.
What Works
The show picks up where the second season ended. Guddu Bhaiya (Ali Fazal) and Golu (Shweta Tripathi Sharma) revel in their power after claiming the Mirzapur throne. Kaleen Bhaiya (Pankaj Tripathi) grieves the death of his son Munna (played by Divyenndu) after narrowly escaping death himself.
Directors Gurmmeet Singh and Anand Iyer use locations effectively to enhance realism. Several scenes depict the changing storyline, such as the breaking of Kaleen Bhaiya’s statue symbolizing the takeover of Mirzapur and Madhuri (Isha Talwar) lighting her husband Munna’s pyre.
The directors use elaborate graphics to illustrate the expanding map of the Mirzapur universe, with bloodshed spreading through Eastern Uttar Pradesh, Northern Bihar, and Nepal. When it comes to performances, Ali Fazal, Shweta Tripathi Sharma, and Anjumm Shharma excel as Guddu, Golu, and Sharad, respectively, transferring their tension, conflict, and vengeance to the audience.
Anjumm Shharma and Vijay Varma stand out, showcasing layers of dark ambitions and emotional vulnerabilities. Harshita Gaur, Rajesh Tailang, and Sheeba Chadha provide strong support, elevating a flat screenplay with their emotive performances. The third season delivers on gore and variety, with engaging twists and turns.
What Doesn’t Work
The current season introduces numerous new characters alongside returning ones, making it challenging to connect all the dots. A slower plot pace might have helped. Isha Talwar impresses as Chief Minister Madhuri, though some moments reveal weak acting for an otherwise powerful character. The series draws parallels to Game of Thrones, maintaining its shock value, but falls short in delivering the anticipated faceoff between Kaleen Bhaiya and Guddu Bhaiya.
Fans have waited four years for a confrontation between the two characters, which is largely missing, except for the last 15 minutes. Pankaj Tripathi’s character takes a backseat, allowing younger generations and new rivalries to take the lead. Rasika Dugal is compelling as Beena Tripathi, but her character feels underwritten. Priyanshu Painyuli’s Robin, who made a promising entry in season two, is also underutilized.
The finale is underwhelming, lacking fireworks and leaving loose ends. The relentless rhythm of the series wastes the promise of the world they created. Despite these flaws, the show promises a fun binge-watching experience, best enjoyed with friends.
All in All
The stakes are high, the risks are high, and the drama is high, but the flair is low. The third season deserves a shot despite its predictable storyline, thanks to the performances, direction, and moments of horror soaked in blood. Produced by Excel Entertainment, Mirzapur season 3 is now streaming on Prime Video India.