Bard of Blood

Bard of Blood is another Red Chillies Production released as a Netflix Original. The story revolves around an ex-communicated Indian spy, being dragged back into field because of uncertain circumstances.

Kabir Anand (played by Emraan Hashmi) is an Indian field agent who has succeeded in all his past missions except the one which he did with his friend in Balochistan. Unfortunately, he lost his friend and his so-called spy status as he blamed himself for the loss of his friend’s life.

Things soon turn south, as 4 Indian spies are captured by Talibans in Balochistan. In a dramatic turn of events, Kabir Anand loses his mentor, gets blamed for his murder and with this espionage hanging on his head, he decides to rescue the captured spies. Too much even for a spy to handle. But there is always a past and no matter what – the PAST haunts you. Will the extraction operation by successful, if yes, does the whole team stay intact??

Emraan Hashmi is one of the finest actors of Bollywood and has acted brilliantly. Though acting in movies and web-series in totally different ball game, our very own Bollywood’s hit song machine is exceptional and convincing. Dialogue and intelligence displayed are at par. The love and ruthlessness is present and no to forget the patriotism for the country. But like other Indian spy movies, underlying chord remains the same just with different symphonies.

Vineet Kumar as ‘Veere Singh’ is again out of the ordinary and has done justice to his role of undercover agent. His look in the series defines sheer brilliance. Shobhita Dhulipala as ‘Isha’ has acted decently but rawness is missing. Kirti Kulhari is simply beautiful and elegant yet witty at the same time. Jaideep Ahlawat in a negative role has lived the character on screen in a realistic way. Good job from whole of cast.

Screenplay and cinematography is splendid. Drone and air shots are worth watching. The shooting though done in Leh-Ladakh, it does give resemblance to windy deserts of Balochistan. A special mention to the costume designer. The way ‘Talibans’ have been portrayed is powerful. Casting is decent and appreciation to the casts who have played the Talibans.

The age old Bollywood theme of Indian, Pakistan and terrorism is somewhere reflected, though not directly. Use of Pashto language by Talibans is apt but at times seems forceful. There are some scenes where drama is shown with couple of people fighting a whole terrorist convoy without a single bullet being hit. (BOLLYWOOD – I tell you).

The story has always kept its focus and does not lose the plot. The twists and turns are not present and tale seems to be straight-forward. The end of the season though leaves you in awe and shock and you will be eagerly waiting for Season 2. The plot for next season is catchy and spectators will definitely get binged to Netflix.

The 7-episode series seems to be stitched together with all the proper elements except creativity. Nothing new is shown and though the action and thrill are present, there is not originality. Unlike other web series, love has not been coerced and seems to be important part of the whole anecdote.

No comparisons with any other series as every flick has its own uniqueness, merits and demerits. A watchable one and thumbs up recommendation for action and SPY movie lovers.

There are loopholes but otherwise the series is flawless and you will be glued to your seats. With no confusion in the plot, most questions answered except for an open door for follow-up part, a laudable effort in the form “BARD OF BLOOD”.

Watch the trailer on YouTube here.