Guns & Gulaabs: A Slow-Burning Tale of Crime and Nostalgia
Australian Perspective on Raj & DK’s Latest Netflix Series
After the fast-paced and action-packed hits, “The Family Man” and “Farzi,” director duo Raj & DK have chosen a different approach with their debut Netflix series, “Guns & Gulaabs.” Set in the early 90s, the show revolves around a large opium deal in a quiet farming town and features a countdown to execute the order. However, unlike their previous works, “Guns & Gulaabs” embraces a deliberately slow and wistful pacing, capturing the essence of the vast opium fields that permeate the series.
An Immersive Setting and Ensemble Cast
The series is set in the fictional town of Gulaabgunj, where the local leader Ganchi, portrayed by the late actor Satish Kaushik, slips into a coma, leaving his inexperienced heir Jugnu, played by Adarsh Gourav, in charge. Jugnu must oversee a significant drug deal known as the “Calcutta deal,” all while managing rival factions and a new Narcotics officer named Arjun, played by Dulquer Salmaan.
The story also intertwines with the adventures of three mischievous school kids who find themselves caught up in the illicit dealings. Their portrayal of childhood infatuation and the trials of adolescence adds a surprising and poignant layer to the narrative. This exploration of young love and growing up is reminiscent of Wes Anderson’s film “Rushmore.”
Nostalgia and Cultural References
As expected from Raj & DK, “Guns & Gulaabs” brims with nostalgia for the 90s. The series incorporates popular cultural elements from the era, such as Bryan Adams and Foreigner’s music, cassette collections, and references to iconic movies and literary works. The inclusion of these references adds depth to the storytelling and serves as a reminder of the cultural landscape during that period.
Subversive Characters and Performances
The characters in “Guns & Gulaabs” initially appear as clichés and archetypes from the 90s. However, the writing cleverly subverts these expectations. Two male leads exhibit calm and methodical behavior under stress, deviating from the typical hero tropes of Hindi cinema at the time. Chandralekha, played by TJ Bhanu, is strangely intrigued by Tipu’s violent tendencies, offering an unconventional perspective on their relationship. The show challenges traditional character roles and features nuanced performances from the talented ensemble cast.
A Departure from Raj & DK’s Signature Style
“Guns & Gulaabs” may test the patience of avid Raj & DK fans, as it deviates from their signature style of fast-paced storytelling. The series can feel random and directionless at times, quickly moving from one scene to another without fully exploring certain plot points. Additionally, the final episode attempts to speed up the narrative and wrap up loose ends, veering away from the leisurely mood established earlier in the show.
A Charming Blend of Crime and Nostalgia
Overall, “Guns & Gulaabs” is a charming and unhurried series that successfully blends elements of crime and nostalgia. It captures the essence of the 90s in India while offering a fresh take on the crime genre. The slow-burning pacing allows viewers to savor the immersive setting and eccentric characters, even though it may not adhere to the expectations set by Raj & DK’s previous works.
The seven-episode series, featuring Rajkummar Rao, Dulquer Salmaan, Adarsh Gourav, Gulshan Devaiah, and a talented supporting cast, is currently streaming on Netflix.
Note: This report is a work of fiction and does not reflect any real events or individuals.
<< photo by Jennifer Kalenberg >>
The image is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual situation.
