ZEE5’s latest crime thriller, Janaawar – The Beast Within, features Bhuvan Arora as Sub-Inspector Hemant Kumar, who embarks on a deep dive into identity, prejudice, and morality. While Arora’s portrayal of the committed tribal officer is a standout, the series ultimately falters due to its predictable and uneven storyline. Set in the town of Chhand, the seven-episode series centers on a brutal case involving a headless body, missing gold, and a disappeared man. Hemant deals with both job-related pressures and personal dilemmas while facing caste discrimination. Although the premise is captivating, it is hindered by a slow first half, filled with multiple minor crime incidents that clutter the narrative and stall the pace until the fifth episode.
By the time the true perpetrator is unveiled, much of the suspense has faded for those accustomed to crime thrillers. The writing heavily emphasizes themes like caste and morality, often sacrificing narrative tension. The exchanges between Hemant and Kailash, a lower-caste tea vendor, aim to illustrate empathy and trust, but these scenes come across as more didactic than impactful, leaving other characters largely unexplored. Direction by Shachindra Vats is adequate but fails to evoke genuine thrills or dread. Key plot twists that should have been shocking feel subdued, and while Arora delivers a calm, weighty performance as Hemant faces startling revelations, the overall plot does not match his intensity.
The series conveys a clear moral message—that everyone possesses a “beast within”—yet the storytelling lacks the sharpness required to make a lasting impression. Even significant moments, such as Hemant confronting his friend who has become a murderer, are approached with restraint rather than tension, diminishing their effect. In conclusion, Janaawar – The Beast Within features a compelling lead performance and tackles important social issues, but its predictable plot, slow pacing, and lackluster direction prevent it from being as engaging as it could have been. For crime drama enthusiasts in search of a gripping, suspenseful thriller, this series may feel disappointingly safe despite its promise.
