Watch Paatal Lok

Paatal Lok is a crime thriller series produced by Anushka Sharma and created by Sudip Sharma. The show premiered on Amazon Prime Video in May 2020 and is set in Delhi, India. The series follows Hathiram Chaudhary, a cynical cop played by Jaideep Ahlawat, who is tasked with investigating a failed assassination attempt on a high-profile journalist. Along with his team, Chaudhary begins to unravel a web of political and criminal conspiracies that go much deeper than he anticipated, leading him to the dark and foreboding underworld of Paatal Lok.

The show explores a range of themes including crime, corruption, social inequality, and religious tensions. Set against the backdrop of modern-day India, the series offers a stark critique of the country's political and social landscape. Despite its dark and gritty subject matter, Paatal Lok manages to captivate viewers with its intense storytelling, nuanced characters, and breathtaking cinematography.

One of the standout aspects of Paatal Lok is the exceptional performances by the cast, particularly by Jaideep Ahlawat in the lead role. Ahlawat's portrayal of Chaudhary is both complex and nuanced, showing his struggles with his personal and professional life as he uncovers the truth behind the assassination attempt. Neeraj Kabi, who plays the journalist Sanjeev Mehra, also delivers a powerful performance, showing the character's arrogance and inner turmoil as he grapples with his own past.

The supporting cast of the show is equally impressive, featuring a diverse range of talented actors who bring their characters to life with authenticity and depth. Abhishek Banerjee, who plays Hathoda Tyagi, a contract killer hired to carry out the assassination attempt, delivers a terrifyingly convincing portrayal of a man driven by revenge and violence. Swastika Mukherjee, who plays Dolly, an unhappy housewife trapped in an unhappy marriage, also gives a standout performance, showcasing her character's vulnerability and resilience in the face of adversity.

In addition to its strong performances, Paatal Lok is also notable for its impressive production values. The show's creators have paid meticulous attention to detail in recreating the gritty, dimly-lit world of the Delhi slums and criminal underworld. The cinematography is masterful, using shadow and light to heighten the tension and create a sense of foreboding throughout the series.

Overall, Paatal Lok is a compelling and sophisticated crime thriller series that delivers on multiple levels. With its complex characters, gripping storyline, and impressive production values, the show is a masterclass on how to create compelling, thought-provoking television. It is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas, but also anyone looking for a challenging and engaging viewing experience.

Paatal Lok is a series that ran for 2 seasons (17 episodes) between May 15, 2020 and on Amazon Studios