Patchy Despatch : My quick take on Manoj Bajpai’s “Despatch” (Zee5)
Ah, Despatch on Zee5—a film where Manoj Bajpayee decided to celebrate his 101st movie by quite literally “baring” it all. Yes, the powerhouse actor dons the legendary emperor’s gown (read: nothing) in a bold attempt to distract us from a plot so tedious it feels like an eternity crammed into 150 minutes. My reaction by the end? A heartfelt “Kyun, Manoj bhai, kyun?”
The movie claims to be a thriller about investigative journalism, but honestly, it’s more of an investigation into how much patience the audience has. Manoj plays Joy Bag, a crime reporter uncovering a nexus involving builders, politicians, and cricketers—a premise with potential, but executed like a disjointed web series that even its own makers seem to have given up on.
Inspired by the life of J Dey, the iconic journalist who covered the Mumbai underworld, the film tries to replicate the tension and intrigue of those turbulent times. But instead of gritty storytelling, we’re treated to an odd mix of skin shows and investigative montages that go nowhere. And yes, Manoj’s langoti darshan (or should I say without 😜) is the cherry on this bizarre sundae. Kyun, bhai? Kyun?
If you were hoping for something on par with Hansal Mehta’s Scoop—a gripping portrayal of journalism—you’re in for disappointment. In “Despatch”, female characters exist solely to jump into bed, while Joy Bag (should have called Bang instead of Bag) stumbles through his investigation looking perpetually troubled (and occasionally pants-less).
Zee5 really nailed the grading for this one. On an A-to-Z scale, Despatch deserves nothing less than a solid “Z.” Watch it if you’re a die-hard Manoj Bajpayee fan willing to endure anything, or if you’re feeling particularly masochistic. Otherwise, skip this thrill-less thriller. And if you do watch it, please—no kids around. Make it a midnight guilty (or cringy) pleasure. But be warned: it’s not a movie you’ll forget anytime soon. Not because it’s memorable, but because your patience might never recover. Else try watching “Bhaiyaaji” it might look like an Oscar winner in comparison.
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