Inspector Zende Review
Some movies catch you off guard. Inspector Zende does exactly that. It throws you into a crime thriller that feels straight out of the 90s and then pulls the rug by adding comedy that actually works. The mix is bold, fresh, and exactly what Hindi cinema has been missing for a while.
Manoj Bajpayee Steals the Show
It’s no surprise anymore that Manoj Bajpayee can transform any role, but here he goes a step further. Watching him as Inspector Zende feels like watching an actor in his absolute element. Every dialogue lands with weight, every expression feels lived-in, and the way he brings subtle humor into a character built for seriousness is a treat.
Zende isn’t a cardboard hero. He’s sharp, flawed, and deeply believable. This is something that Bollywood’s larger-than-life cops rarely manage to be. Honestly, after this, Singham feels like a cartoon.
Comedy in a Serious World
This film redefines how comedy can sit inside a thriller. It is not slapstick, not filler. The comedy aspect is woven right into the situations. Chor-police exchanges are written with so much wit that you laugh while still being hooked to the tension.
Manoj’s timing is deadly here. He doesn’t “crack jokes,” he delivers humor in moments you least expect it. That’s what makes the comedy feel original and not borrowed from any template. For Bollywood, this is the first real proof that a crime thriller can double up as a comedy without losing grip.
The Rest of the Gang
Jim’s French accent? Surprisingly convincing, not a gimmick. Carl Bhojraj’s entry? Stylish and memorable. What really works is how no actor feels wasted; everyone adds something.
Even small touches feel relatable. The middle-class quirks of the 90s, the little daily-life pauses; these are details that make you connect to the story on a personal level. It is one of the reasons the film feels rooted despite being larger-than-life in moments.
Craft and Storytelling
The direction and writing deserve serious credit. The camera work is clever, the lighting setup makes every frame look alive, and the editing ensures you do not feel the runtime drag. The first half moves so briskly you don’t realize when the interval arrives. Yes, the second half slows down, but not in a way that kills the experience. It almost feels like the makers gave us space before the climax.
And what a climax. A dance fight — something completely new for Hindi cinema. It’s quirky, chaotic, and while not perfect, it leaves you grinning. The final moments tie the film up beautifully and leave you satisfied.
The Extra Spark
There’s a warmth in how the film acknowledges its influences. A quiet tribute to Rishi Kapoor, a cheeky mention of Om Raut — these nods never break the flow, but they add charm for those who notice. The recreation of the 90s is another highlight. The feel of the middle-class life from that decade has been nailed to perfection. It doesn’t feel like nostalgia shoved in your face; it feels like stepping back into that world.
Final Word
Inspector Zende is a rare mix of grit and laughter, handled with confidence. Manoj Bajpayee delivers a performance that stays with you long after the credits roll, proving once again why he’s one of India’s finest. The writing, the detailing, the energy — it all clicks.
For Bollywood lovers tired of predictable cop dramas, this one is a reminder that even within a familiar setup, cinema can still surprise you. Inspector Zende is not just a character. He’s a new benchmark.
