IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack Review: Rajiv Thakur’s Masterful Casting as a Terrorist Elevates This Unfortunate Yet Heroic Chapter Brilliantly
Cast: Naseeruddin Shah, Vijay Varma, Pankaj Kapur, Rajiv Thakur, Kumud Mishra, Manoj Pahwa and ensemble
Creator: Anubhav Sinha & Trishant Srivastava
Director: Anubhav Sinha & Trishant Srivastava
Streaming On: Netflix
Language: Hindi, English, Tamil & Telugu with English and Hindi subtitles
Runtime: 6 episodes of 40 minutes each
IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack is a poignant web series that revisits the traumatic events of December 24, 1999. The series delves into the eight harrowing days endured by the 200 passengers and crew of the hijacked Indian Airlines flight. The Netflix series is a powerful and thought-provoking series that sheds light on a significant event in Indian history. It serves as a reminder of the human cost of terrorism and the challenges faced by governments in dealing with such crises.
The series highlights the internal struggles within the Indian government as they grappled with the difficult decisions surrounding the hijack. The portrayal of the bureaucratic infighting and the media’s role in covering the event adds a layer of realism to the narrative.
One of the standout performances comes from Rajiv Thakur, a comedian known for his work with Kapil Sharma. Thakur portrays the Chief terrorist with a chilling intensity, showcasing his versatility as an actor. His performance adds a layer of depth and menace to the character. Ninad Kamat, the narrator, also deserves praise for his strong storytelling. His voiceover provides a compelling framework for the events, guiding viewers through the complex narrative.
While the series may have certain shortcomings, its strengths outweigh the weaknesses. The performances are commendable, the direction is solid, and the historical context is well-researched. The use of real footage adds authenticity and brings the events of the hijack to life.
