Cast and Crew:

In the high-octane world of action-packed thrillers, COMMANDO Season 1 burst onto the scene in 2023, spearheaded by the creative prowess of director and producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah. The series assembled a fresh ensemble cast led by Prem Parija as Commando Virat, Vaibhav Tatwawadi as Kshitij, and the return of Adah Sharma as Bhavna Reddy. It was a bold attempt to breathe new life into the beloved 'Commando' franchise, known for its visceral action sequences.

Summary:

The narrative of COMMANDO Season 1 unfurls when a covert mission in Pakistan takes an unexpected turn for the worse. Commando Virat, played by Prem Parija, becomes the linchpin in a daring rescue operation aimed at safeguarding not only his nation but also his dearest friend and fellow commando, Kshitij, portrayed by Vaibhav Tatwawadi, who is held captive in Pakistan. The overarching question looming over the series is whether Virat can execute this audacious plan.

Hits and Misses:

This adrenaline-fueled journey treads a well-worn path, reminiscent of its 2019 cinematic predecessor, 'Commando 3,' which starred Vidyut Jammwal. COMMANDO Season 1 doesn't shy away from delivering intense violence, a characteristic that requires a certain level of nerve from the audience.

The series leans heavily on clichéd action thriller tropes, featuring the hero's grand entrance and the subsequent solo showdown with the antagonists. While the show boasts numerous well-choreographed action sequences, the narrative struggles to find its rhythm. The central premise of a valiant commando embarking on a mission to rescue one of his own and protect his nation from looming terror attacks is a well-worn concept in cinema. Over four episodes, each ranging from 35 to 45 minutes, the series offers little innovation.

One notable shortcoming is the convenient success of the protagonist's endeavors, often straining credibility. Furthermore, the potential for deeper character development among secondary characters (Shreya Chaudhry, Manini, Chadha) remains underexplored, leaving the overall narrative feeling somewhat undercooked.

Spotlight on Performances:

Despite its narrative limitations, COMMANDO Season 1 thrives in its core promise – delivering high-octane action, replete with visceral hand-to-hand combat and intense gunfights. Prem Parija, in his role as Commando Virat, shines in every action sequence with his slick kicks and punches, although some may argue he lacks the finesse of the original Commando, Vidyut Jammwal. Adah Sharma's return as Bhavna Reddy brings a charming punch to the hardcore action series, despite her peculiar dialect. Vaibhav Tatwawadi, portraying Kshitij, convincingly conveys the character's suffering during harrowing scenes of imprisonment and torture.

However, Tigmanshu Dhulia and Amit Sial, esteemed actors in their own right, fall short of delivering the menacing personas of RAW chief Bakshi and Colonel Jaffer, respectively. These characters, unfortunately, are one-dimensional and formulaic, leaving much to be desired.

Verdict:

In spite of its shortcomings, COMMANDO Season 1 succeeds in keeping action enthusiasts entertained. The series culminates with a memorable climax, leaving viewers intrigued and eager for the possibility of a next season. While the storytelling occasionally falters, the relentless action ensures that the adrenaline rush remains uninterrupted. The series stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the 'Commando' franchise, offering both nostalgia and a glimpse of potential improvements in future seasons.

Rating: 3/5 Stars
IMDB Rating: 6.1/10