IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack Review – A Riveting Retelling with Rajiv Thakur Stealing the Spotlight as a Terrorist

An In-Depth Review of IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack – A Tense, Unforgettable Tale

IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack is a gripping web series that revives one of the most traumatic events in Indian history—the hijacking of an Indian Airlines flight in 1999. Helmed by Anubhav Sinha and Trishant Srivastava, this series brings together an ensemble cast led by Naseeruddin Shah, Pankaj Kapur, and the unexpected but brilliant casting of comedian Rajiv Thakur as a terrorist. Streaming on Netflix, this six-episode series takes viewers on a nerve-wracking journey, blending the harsh realities of the hijack with moments of personal heroism.

A Chilling Narrative of a Fateful Flight

IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack begins with a powerful punch, diving straight into the heart of the story—the hijacking of an Indian Airlines flight on December 24, 1999. This tragic event, which saw 200 passengers and crew members held hostage for seven days, remains a haunting memory for those involved. The series does not shy away from depicting the intense psychological and emotional turmoil experienced by both the hostages and those desperately working to secure their release.

The story unfolds with a sense of urgency and tension, as the hijackers, disguised as passengers, seize control of the plane. The series does a commendable job of juxtaposing the personal trauma of the passengers with the bureaucratic challenges faced by the Indian government, highlighting the complexities of negotiating with terrorists.

Rajiv Thakur’s Stellar Transformation as a Terrorist

One of the most surprising yet effective casting choices in IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack is that of Rajiv Thakur, a comedian known for his appearances on The Kapil Sharma Show. Thakur’s portrayal of the chief terrorist is nothing short of a revelation. He brings a chilling intensity to the role, proving that he is capable of much more than just making people laugh. This casting masterstroke adds a layer of unpredictability to the series, making it even more engaging.

The Government’s Struggles: A Race Against Time

As the series progresses, we see the immense pressure on the Indian government to act swiftly and decisively. The narrative explores the internal conflicts among top officials, with some advocating for negotiation while others push for a more aggressive approach. This bureaucratic tug-of-war adds a layer of complexity to the story, showcasing the difficult decisions that had to be made in a highly volatile situation.

The series also delves into the media’s role during the crisis, with Dia Mirza and Amrita Puri playing journalists caught between ethical dilemmas and the need to report the truth. This subplot, though seemingly tangential at first, becomes a crucial element in understanding the broader impact of the hijack on Indian society and the mistakes made during the Mumbai attacks.

Brilliant Performances Anchor the Series

The ensemble cast of IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack delivers powerful performances across the board. Veteran actors like Naseeruddin Shah and Pankaj Kapur bring gravitas to their roles as high-ranking government officials, while the supporting cast, including Manoj Pahwa, Arvind Swamy, and Kumud Mishra, provide solid backing. The series balances historical accuracy with dramatic storytelling, making it accessible to viewers who may not be familiar with the actual events.

However, the emotional depth of the series falters in certain areas. While the political and strategic aspects of the hijack are well-explored, the series falls short in conveying the psychological trauma experienced by the hostages. There are moments, such as a scene where an air hostess struggles to clean a clogged toilet, that could have been more impactful had they been given more attention.

Missed Opportunities in Emotional Storytelling

Despite its strengths, IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack does have some shortcomings. The emotional weight of the hostages’ ordeal feels underdeveloped, and the series occasionally loses balance between the intense drama of the situation and the personal stories of those involved. Certain scenes that could have provided deeper insight into the passengers’ plight are glossed over, leaving viewers wanting more in terms of emotional resonance.

Additionally, the series’ attempt to humanize the terrorists by showing their interactions with the crew doesn’t always hit the mark. These moments, while intended to add complexity to the characters, sometimes feel out of place and detract from the overall tension of the narrative.

Final Verdict: A Dark Chapter Retold with Grit and Precision

IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack is a compelling watch, despite its minor flaws. Anubhav Sinha and his team have done an admirable job of bringing this dark chapter of Indian history to life, balancing the real and the fictional to create a series that is both informative and engaging. With its stellar performances, particularly by Rajiv Thakur, and its tense, fast-paced narrative, this series is a must-watch for those interested in understanding the complexities of the Kandahar hijack.

In conclusion, IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack may not be perfect, but it’s a powerful reminder of the courage and resilience displayed during one of India’s most challenging moments. It earns a solid 4 stars for its bold storytelling and standout performances.