Dabba Cartel Netflix Review: A Female-Led Crime Thriller That Packs a Punch

Netflix’s latest web series, Dabba Cartel, is an intriguing mix of crime, drama, and survival, led by a stellar ensemble cast featuring Shabana Azmi, Jyotika, Nimisha Sajayan, Sai Tamhankar, Lillete Dubey, Shalini Pandey, and Anjali Anand. The series, produced by Excel Entertainment, delivers an engaging narrative about a group of women who run a tiffin service while secretly operating an illicit trade. The show’s layered storytelling and strong performances make it a compelling watch, though it isn’t without its flaws.

Dabba Cartel Story: A Riveting Crime Drama

At its core, Dabba Cartel is the story of Raji (Shalini Pandey), a homemaker in Thane who manages a tiffin service along with her house help, Mala (Nimisha Sajayan). Their small business turns unexpectedly when Mala’s boyfriend convinces her to smuggle weed in the lunchboxes. This seemingly harmless decision drags them into a dangerous world of crime. When things spiral out of control, Raji’s mother-in-law, Sheela (Shabana Azmi), steps in. With a mysterious past and an unpredictable nature, Sheela proves to be the mastermind behind their survival.

Meanwhile, Varuna (Jyotika), a former corporate executive turned struggling salon owner, is battling financial instability and a crumbling marriage. The paths of these women intersect when they find an opportunity to change their fates through an illegal drug business. However, as the stakes rise, they must decide whether this new venture will be their escape or their downfall.

Powerful Performances Elevate the Narrative

Shabana Azmi’s portrayal of Sheela is undoubtedly one of the show’s highlights. With her effortless screen presence, she brings depth and intrigue to the character. Her calculated expressions and composed demeanor add an element of mystery, making Sheela a fascinating figure in the story.

Jyotika, playing Varuna, delivers a gripping performance as a woman struggling to regain control over her life. Nimisha Sajayan and Sai Tamhankar also shine in their respective roles, bringing authenticity to their characters who navigate class and gender struggles. Anjali Anand, as the quirky property broker Shahida, adds layers of humor and charm, making the dynamics between the women even more engaging.

The Writing: A Blend of Crime and Emotion

The series, penned by Vishnu Menon and Bhavna Kher, attempts to balance crime, suspense, and human drama. While the Dabba Cartel web series delivers some thrilling moments, it occasionally loses pace. The storytelling focuses less on the twists and more on the emotional complexities of the characters, which sets it apart from conventional crime dramas. However, certain moments could have been executed with more intensity to elevate the suspense.

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Director Hitesh Bhatia does a commendable job in blending the personal struggles of these women with the overarching crime plot. The women’s camaraderie, conflicts, and survival instincts form the emotional backbone of the narrative.

A Few Shortcomings

Despite its engaging premise, Dabba Cartel Season 1 isn’t without its flaws. The pacing could have been sharper, and some subplots feel underdeveloped. While the female-driven storyline is refreshing, a tighter script could have made the impact even stronger.

Additionally, while the show attempts to maintain suspense, some plot twists are predictable. A bit more unpredictability would have enhanced the overall impact.

Final Verdict: A Worthwhile Watch?

Despite minor drawbacks, Dabba Cartel stands out for its strong performances and unique premise. The show excels in showcasing female empowerment in a male-dominated crime world while keeping viewers engaged with its emotional depth.

For those looking for a crime drama with a fresh perspective, Dabba Cartel is worth a watch. While it may not be flawless, it offers an engaging blend of suspense, drama, and stellar performances that make it a compelling addition to Netflix’s crime-thriller lineup.

Rating: 3.5/5

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Watch the Trailer Here