Special Ops 1.5 .... gallantry has a new name

Labelling the sequel season as The Himmat Story, this is actually prequel to the character build up of the fictitious intelligence officer, carrying out missions with his network of colleagues. The prequel connection actually traces back a young Himmat, getting suspended after his ambitious mission of catching the mastermind behind the Parliament attack fails and thus fails his theory that defied many. But he gets a call through Abbas Sheikh, his trusted aide in the Delhi police, as one of his R&AW colleagues goes rogue. Added to this is a package of sensitive materials, which are being hijacked by international syndicates for selling to the favourable bidders. Himmat is thus tasked to secure the materials and eliminate the threat of the rogue, Maninder, as well. In this, he is partnered with ex-army, Vijay Kumar, his old college buddy. As the case proceeds rapidly, so evolves the collateral complications. Treachery runs wild and Himmat loses his faith on life. Revenge drives both the good and the evil. A scary twist awaits yet the climactic finale is predictable. The style of narration followed has the disadvantage to forecast the events but still the spirit will keep the thrill gripping.

Created by Neeraj Pandey, the show is a thrilling ride of adventure blended with espionage. Every artist is outstanding in characterising the assigned portraiture. Similar in style but contrary to its predecessor, this time Abbas Sheikh and not Himmat, narrates from his perspective while being interrogated for some apprehensions regarding Himmat by Banerjee and Chadda, tasked with auditing the would be pensioners like Himmat Singh, who is on the verge of retirement. Vinay Pathak carries out the role in style and his charming gaits amplify the enjoyably merry suspense that he creates. Nothing more can be said of Kay Kay Menon but that he seemed to be crafted for the role of Himmat. His apparently unemotional attitude with the cold looks and calculated actions set the mood and drenches it with surprising emotions as he shares the screen with Gautami Kapoor as Saroj, both of whom play it from their heart to keep the moment unforgettable. Kapoor is another natural who blends into Saroj with perfection. Kali Prasad Mukherjee and Parmeet Sethi reprise respectively as D K Banerjee and Naresh Chadda as the investigative officers and breathe much needed relief as they reflect the silent admiration of the awestruck audience who will be impatient to interruptions as the heroics are revealed. Their depictions are perfect and comical expressions priceless. Aftab Shivdasani returns after a very long time and blends easily as Vijay Kumar, the only complaint that might be lodged will be, he has put up some weight.

So be ready to rock and roll in this four episode saga as you witness the various shades of a character and his essence.