‘Detective Sherdil’: A Flawed Investigation Saved by Its Star
The new film Detective Sherdil presents itself as a classic whodunnit, placing star Diljit Dosanjh at the center of a complex murder case set against a lavish European backdrop. The film follows the clever detective as he is tasked with solving the high-profile murder of a billionaire. However, according to early reviews, what begins as a promising mystery ultimately fails to captivate, undone by a screenplay riddled with logical inconsistencies and implausible plot turns. The film’s primary saving grace, critics note, is the charismatic performance of its leading man.
A Promising Premise with a Shaky Foundation
The story kicks off when Detective Sherdil (Diljit Dosanjh) is assigned to investigate the murder of billionaire Pankaj Bhatti (Boman Irani) in Budapest. The suspects are a tight circle of eccentric family members, each with a motive. The case is complicated by a missing prime suspect and an unusual will that leaves 80% of the fortune to him. This setup, combining classic mystery tropes with quirky characters, lays the groundwork for what could have been a compelling thriller. The film does have its moments of cleverness and an unpredictable finale, but these are reportedly too few and far between.
A Case Undermined by Lapses in Logic
The central criticism leveled against the film is its faulty and often lazy writing. Critics point to numerous plot holes that undermine the investigation's credibility. For example, the detectives show a surprising lack of urgency, no post-mortem report is ever mentioned, and key suspects are not pursued with any real rigor. The methods Sherdil uses to track down a crucial witness are described as far-fetched and even silly. Furthermore, the relationship between Sherdil and his colleague Natasha (Diana Penty) is left frustratingly underdeveloped, with hints of a shared past that are never explained. These narrative flaws create a disjointed experience that prevents the mystery from building genuine suspense.
Performances That Rise Above the Script
Despite the script's shortcomings, the performances have been highlighted as a significant strength. Diljit Dosanjh, in particular, is credited with making the film watchable. His subtle comedic timing and inherent charm carry the narrative, ensuring the audience remains engaged even when the plot falters. Diana Penty is effective as the no-nonsense cop, and the veteran supporting cast, including Boman Irani and Ratna Pathak Shah, deliver solid performances. The ensemble of actors playing the unique family members also leave a mark, providing some of the film's more memorable moments.
Ultimately, Detective Sherdil is viewed as a missed opportunity. While it boasts a strong cast, a stylish look, and a few amusing scenes, it is let down by a weak foundation. The film fails to create a convincing or compelling mystery, leaving audiences with a watchable but ultimately forgettable experience, held together almost single-handedly by the screen presence of its star.
