Kaala & Scam 2003: The Telgi Story – TV Series Reviews

Bejoy Nambiar’s latest Disney+ Hotstar crime-thriller series, Kaala (2023), emerges as a mixed bag, blending moments of decent stuff and undeniable cliches. Within this, two actors, Avinash Tiwary (also impressive in Bambai Meri Jaan) and Jitin Gulati, shine like beacons of talent, proving that lesser-known Indian actors are making their mark in the digital realm.

Jitin Gulati’s performance, in particular, is a revelation. He seizes the narrative, delivering a tour de force that is captivating. The plot, which revolves around the intriguing concept of reverse hawala, holds immense promise. It’s evident why Hotstar invested in this show, given its clever premise. However, the narrative falters when it comes to explaining the intricacies of money laundering, leaving viewers yearning for a deeper exploration of this critical element.

One significant shortcoming lies in the show’s pacing, which fluctuates unevenly. While certain moments are undeniably enthralling, others border on exasperating, resulting in an inconsistent viewing experience. In conclusion, Kaala is commendable, it pushes boundaries within the financial thriller genre despite its occasional missteps in execution and pacing.

Scam 2003: The Telgi Story revolves around our titular character, who became the mastermind behind one of the most ingenious schemes that spread across multiple states and shook the entire country. This narrative, though financially significant, has remained hidden from public consciousness until now. Kudos to the filmmakers for bringing this dark chapter in Indian history to the forefront and depicting the intricate workings of an enormous fraud.

At the heart of the series is Gagan Dev Riar’s outstanding portrayal of Abdul Telgi and Scam 2003 goes beyond historical retelling; it carries a poignant message about the perils of unchecked greed, notably through Hemang’s character. The production team’s extensive research is evident, particularly in their portrayal of Telgi’s post-conviction life. The segments involving the Nashik printing press are captivating.

However, the series has its flaws, particularly in pacing, which lags, especially in the early episodes, lacking the tightness of Scam 1992. The emotional depth falls short, with limited exploration of Telgi’s family connections. Overall, Scam 2003 sheds light on a monumental stamp paper scam and offers commendable performances, primarily from Gagan Dev Riar. While the subject matter is riveting, pacing and emotional depth leave room for improvement.

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