“Pill” Review: Riteish Deshmukh Shines in His OTT Debut
Rating: 4/5 Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Bollywood actor Riteish Deshmukh makes a strong impression with his OTT debut in “Pill,” a gripping medical drama that premiered on JioCinema on July 12. Directed by Raj Kumar Gupta, the series delves into the dark and complex world of the pharmaceutical industry. With a stellar performance from Riteish Deshmukh and an engaging storyline, “Pill” offers viewers a thought-provoking and compelling experience.
Riteish Deshmukh’s Stellar Performance
Riteish Deshmukh steps out of his usual comedic roles to deliver a serious and powerful performance as Prakash, an employee at the Medicine Council of India. His portrayal of a diligent and principled officer is both convincing and captivating. Deshmukh’s dedication to maintaining a believable Uttar Pradesh accent throughout the series adds authenticity to his character. His ability to convey the inner conflict and moral dilemmas faced by Prakash is commendable, making his performance one of the highlights of the show.
Intriguing Plot
“Pill” takes viewers on an in-depth journey into the pharmaceutical industry, exploring the path a pill takes from creation to consumer. The series introduces a diverse cast of characters, including powerful pharma industrialists, corrupt doctors, medical representatives, compromised drug regulators, politicians, journalists, and whistleblowers. The plot thickens as Prakash, informed by newbie medicine inspector Gursimrat Kaur (Anshul Chauhan) about a failed inspection at a pharmaceutical giant’s plant, begins to uncover a web of deceit and corruption.
Compelling Storytelling
The storytelling in “Pill” is both engaging and thought-provoking. The series tackles real-life issues such as the negligence of pharmaceutical companies, corruption in the medical field, and the plight of whistleblowers. The dense plot is well-crafted, with each episode revealing new layers of the story. The series’ final two episodes ramp up the tension, transforming “Pill” into a thrilling courtroom drama with emotional stakes.
Strong Supporting Cast
The supporting cast of “Pill” delivers strong performances that enhance the overall narrative. Pavan Malhotra as Brahma Gill, the cunning head of Forever Care Pharma, and Nikhil Khurana as his arrogant son Ekam, effectively portray the antagonists. Akshat Chauhan brings energy and cheer to his role as Noor, an aspiring investigative journalist, while Anshul Chauhan’s portrayal of Gursimrat adds depth to the story. Neha Saraf, as Prakash’s wife, provides a relatable and touching depiction of marital dynamics.
Visual Appeal and Direction
Sayak Bhattacharya’s cinematography captures the picturesque landscapes of Uttarakhand, adding visual appeal to the series. The natural beauty of the region is juxtaposed with the dark undertones of the pharmaceutical industry’s corruption. Directors Raj Kumar Gupta, Parveez Sheikh, and Jaideep Yadav effectively maintain a balance between suspense and emotional depth, ensuring that the series remains engaging from start to finish.
Balanced Humor and Drama
Despite its serious subject matter, “Pill” incorporates moments of humor that provide relief and balance to the narrative. Riteish Deshmukh’s interactions with his family and colleagues offer lighthearted moments that resonate with the audience. This balance of humor and drama makes the series both enjoyable and thought-provoking.
“Pill” is a must-watch series that offers a deep dive into the pharmaceutical industry’s dark side. Riteish Deshmukh’s powerful and serious performance stands out, marking a successful OTT debut for the actor. With a compelling storyline, strong supporting cast, and a perfect blend of humor and drama, “Pill” is a thought-provoking and engaging series that deserves high praise. Don’t miss this gripping and insightful journey on JioCinema.
