Psychological crime thriller series
Shalandra Bunseelall|Published
TV Series: Shaque: Trust No One
Cast: Parineeti Chopra, Jennifer Winget and Tahir Bhasin
Director: Rensil D’Silva
Rating: 7/10
THERE'S no doubt that Parineeti Chopra and Jennifer Winget are talented actresses. Given the right opportunity, both possess that rare spark capable of igniting truly fiery performances. And both have plenty of reason to celebrate personally and professionally.
On the personal front, Chopra has made her return to cinema after becoming a mother, while Winget recently married businessman William Ishmael in an intimate ceremony. Professionally, however, the celebrations are equally justified, with both actresses receiving praise for their work in Shaque: Trust No One, the mystery thriller from acclaimed producer Sidharth Malhotra and director Rensil D’Silva.
Set against the atmospheric backdrop of Shimla, the series follows Anvita, played by Chopra, a troubled mother whose newborn baby suddenly disappears from the hospital. Determined to be reunited with her child, she embarks on a desperate search that soon exposes a world of danger, deceit and anonymous clues, gradually leading her towards a deeply twisted mystery.
What makes Anvita’s journey even more complicated is the maze of relationships surrounding her. Her strained marriage, difficult relationship with her mother-in-law, growing suspicions about the medical establishment, religious practices and a new circle of friends all contribute to an increasingly complex web of human relationships.
As the title suggests, nothing - and no one - is quite what it seems. From the outset, the series establishes an atmosphere of suspicion and deception. Each episode provides enough twists and unanswered questions to keep viewers guessing, while the characters are deliberately written with shades of grey. Their vulnerabilities, secrets and individual histories make almost everyone a potential suspect.
The performances across the board are competent and, at times, impressive. Chopra occasionally veers into moments of confusion and melodrama, but she finds her rhythm as the story progresses and particularly shines in the concluding episodes. Ultimately, she delivers the emotional intensity the character demands.
Tahir Bhasin, known for hit performances in Force 2 and Mardaani, is restrained in a relatively restricted role, but does what is required of him. Harleen Sethi brings strength and conviction to her character, adding another layer to the increasingly complicated narrative.
One of the pleasant surprises is veteran actress Soni Razdan, who is in terrific form in a rare appearance. But the real star of the show is Winget. Under-rated and often underused, she delivers a magnificent performance. She has a commanding screen presence, and despite limited screen time, she leaves a powerful impression.
Shaque: Trust No One is perfect binge family entertainment and ultimately a tale of hope in an unpredictable world. The worldwide success of the series has already inspired a sequel. Check it out on Netflix
Shalandra Bunseelall is a TV and radio personality, Bollywood movie critic, and a horse racing TV analyst. He is also a close associate of the IIFA movement and can be contacted at shalandra@plp.co.za