Series: Killer Soup

Cast: Manoj Bajpayee, Konkona Sensharma, Sayaji Shinde, Nassar, Lal, Anula Navlekar and ensemble

Director: Abhishek Chaubey

Episodes: 8

OTT Platform: Netflix

Rating: 3.5 Moons

“Why didn’t anyone cast Manoj Bajpayee and Konkona Sensharma in a project before?” is the question every film enthusiast asks. The wish is now granted. Both powerhouses of talent have united for Abhishek Chaubey’s dark thriller, Killer Soup, which premiered on Netflix today. 

Killer Soup is a concoction of dark humour, crime and thrill. It revolves around Swathi Shetty (Konkona Sensharma) who resides in the quiet town of Mainjur with her husband, Prabhakar Shetty (Manoj Bajpayee). She aspires to open a restaurant and serve her favourite Paya Soup to foodies. However, Swathi lacks culinary skills. So she cooks up a plan to save herself and her boyfriend Umesh Pillai (Manoj Bajpayee in a double role) from the cops after they accidentally murder her husband.  

Inspector Hassan (Nassar) comes on board to solve the murder but gets embroiled in emotional turmoil. As the plot thickens, flavours of drama, crime, thrill and family relationships enhance the taste of the dish. 

Killer Soup isn’t a conventional crime thriller. It might appear to be a murder mystery, but when you get deeper into the tale, the show explores subjects like how women navigate through a dominant society, greed, aspirations, and selfless love. Flashbacks and memories play a pivotal role in shaping the narrative. 

The 8-episode show is a slow-burn delicacy that has to be savoured peacefully and with ample time at hand. Killer Soup requires your complete attention. Even if you blink, there are chances you might miss a key dialogue or development. 

Abhishek Chaubey knows what his audience wants when it comes to crime thrillers. He goes completely out with Killer Soup as it makes for a dark and gritty watch from the word go, adding various layers to the narrative and characters. Killer Soup isn’t for those who desire to watch something light. However, grab your popcorn and sit back with zero interruption. Given the detailing that has gone behind making it, the end felt lukewarm. However, the end has a deeper meaning that might not please all. 

Killer Soup is elevated due to its fantastic star cast. Konkona Sensharma displays a masterful performance. While a stellar act was expected from her, she takes it several notches higher. There are moments you will feel scared of Swathi and her sinister intentions but Konkona balances the emotions with the character’s softness and desire to make a name for herself. From showing her vulnerabilities, insecurities to getting diabolic, she sucks the audience into her world and how. She captivates with her expressions; the enigma in her eyes could make you skip a heartbeat.

Manoj Bajpayee’s versatility deserves a special round of applause. It is challenging to pull off two diverse characters and the actor makes you believe he has done it effortlessly. While his Prabhakar is a man one wouldn’t like to start a family, Umesh is the exact opposite. Prabhakar has ego issues, toxicity and no respect for his wife. Umesh knows how to pamper his ladylove and make her feel special. He’s gentler and softer. Manoj is a killer performer and Killer Soup is yet another addition to the list of his masterpieces. 

Nassar delivers a knockout performance as Inspector Hassan. He stays back in your mind long after the show ends. Anula is a brilliant actor and her act as Appu leaves an impact. 

Killer Soup’s technical team is at par with the creative department. The cinematography is haunting and some moments will tease your brain. The background score enhances the thrilling moments.

Abhishek shapes a story that deserves your attention. Konkona Sensharma and Manoj Bajpayee assure you that the viewing time is worth dedicating to them and their tale.