Filmmaker Anubhav Sinha's gripping Netflix series -- IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack -- is a masterclass in storytelling, boasting of an impressive ensemble cast that brings to life the harrowing episode of the hijack of a Delhi-bound Indian Airlines aircraft in 1999.
With a dream team of acting legends, including Pankaj Kapur, Naseeruddin Shah, Vijay Varma, Kumud Mishra, Arvind Swamy, Dibyendu Bhattacharya, and Manoj Pahwa, among others, the series is a treat for fans of exceptional performances. But what truly sets it apart is its razor-sharp script, which weaves together complex characters, political intrigue, and heart-stopping suspense, making the series a winner on all fronts.
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With its perfect blend of talent, direction, and writing, this series is an absolute must-watch, plunging viewers into the depths of a forgotten chapter in Indian history.
Based on true events
'IC 814' takes viewers back in time when the Indian Airlines flight from Kathmandu to Delhi was hijacked mid-air on December 24, 1999, by five masked hijackers.
The aircraft was flown to several locations, including Amritsar, Lahore, and Dubai before making its final landing at the Kandahar airport in Afghanistan.
After several days of negotiations with hijackers, the Indian government released three hardcore terrorists, in exchange for passengers and crew members onboard the aircraft.
The series deep dives into what happened inside the cockpit, the plight of the passengers, and the actions taken by the then Indian government and intelligence agencies.
Captain Devi Sharan was flying the Airbus aircraft along with first officer Rajinder Kumar and flight engineer Anil Kumar Jaggia. The series is based on the book 'Flight Into Fear', authored by Captain Sharan and Srinjoy Chowdhury.
What elevates 'IC 814' to next level
It is no easy task to bring together heavyweights like Pankaj Kapur, Naseeruddin Shah, Vijay Varma, Kumud Mishra, Arvind Swamy, Manoj Pahwa, Dibyendu Bhattacharya, Kawaljeet Singh, and Aditya Shrivastava.
While Varma essays Captain Sharan's role, Kapur is seen as then External Affairs Minister, Jaswant Singh.
Shah, Mishra, Swamy, Bhattacharya, Singh, Pahwa, and Shrivastava are seen as part of Indian intelligence agencies.
When you bring such a talented cast on the table, there is always a fear that a particular actor might overshadow the other. However, 'IC 814' soars through a combined effort of brilliant stars.
Credit also goes to the writers for ensuring that each character has been given equal importance. Rajiv Thakur, Harminder Singh, and Diljohn as three of the five hijackers, deserve a mention for their performance too.
While these male actors lead the show in their respective ways, Patralekhaa Paul and Aditi Gupta Chopra as the air hostesses and Diya Mirza and Amrita Puri as journalists were equally good in their roles.
Anupam Tripathi as the R&AW agent in Kathmandu too was able to leave an impression.
Yashpal Sharma and Sushant Singh's friendly appearances lend weight to the story as well. It is very rare for a filmmaker to rope in a dream cast like this, and that none of the actors leave you disappointed at any given time.
'IC 814' Recreates Horror of the Hijack
Known for directing films such as 'Thappad' and 'Bheed', Sinha, with 'IC 814', has proved yet again why he is considered as one of India's most acclaimed directors. He has masterfully directed the series, taking back the viewers in time and recreating the harrowing events of the hijack.
Whether it was the production design, recreating five airports, or the visual effects, the series leaves you impressed, especially the recreation of the landing scene at the Lahore airport.
But it's not only the technical aspects that deserve praise, but Sinha has given special emphasis on highlighting moments that show the plight of the passengers. The scene where faeces is spread across the toilet, and at the aircraft’s floor, is a stark reminder of the inhumane conditions the passengers endured for almost a week.
By incorporating such scenes, which might get neglected in grander narratives, Sinha shows that he has the knack for getting into details while also honouring the trauma that the passengers and crew went through.
'The Kandahar Hijack' story's biggest strength
Written by Sinha and Trishant Srivastava, the screenplay of 'IC-814' is taut, tense, terrifying, and terrific! Without wasting any time, 'IC 814' jumps right into action in Kathmandu.
Spread over six episodes, the series has a compelling narrative which keeps you on the edge. Use of archived footage brings authenticity to the narration. Some scenes, though, do make you feel that creative liberty has been taken.
Nevetheless, sticking to the facts and avoiding sensationalism ensures that the screenplay leaves the audience with a deep, thought-provoking yet unsettling experience that continues to linger even after the end credits.
The writing team has given an honest tribute to the real-life survivors in this thriller.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Published: 29 Aug 2024, 12:51 pm IST
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