Special Ops 1.5: The Himmat Story

Review By Kamal K

'Special Ops 1.5' is just as sharp, tight, engrossing, and exhilarating as the original season one. The way the two web series have been linked together with one another, that is probably the best part of this new season. Furthermore, the makers have strewn subtle touches of humour throughout the show with the dialogues and one-liners being so refreshing. They serve as a wonderful counterpoint to the ongoing heavy-duty spy work. And, with only four episodes, Neeraj Pandey once again employs his wits. He knows nicely that any origin story about just one character and not the entire spy network doesn't warrant an entire 8-19 episodic season. The plot as well isn't as high-stakes as its predecessor, season one. Acting-wise, Kay Kay Menon is just knocking it out of the park. Especially the final emotional scene. Also, Vinay Pathak, Adil Khan, Parmeet Sethi, and Kali Prasad Mukherjee are all absolutely apt in their parts. Smaller or bigger screen space doesn't matter, as they all came together as a unit to make the bigger picture look absolutely outstanding.

The surprise package, however, is the newcomer Aishwarya Sushmita. She is someone who perfectly personifies the seductive, vulnerable, and treacherous powers of a honey trap in the world of espionage.

Negative

The final episode ends on a rushed and flat note in comparison to the quality that came before it, especially when compared to the crackerjack finale of the first season of 'Special Ops'. Also, the final killing of the main antagonist could have been extended a bit more and not done in just a jiffy. Aftab Shivdasani also feels like he tries too hard to fit into his role, and his character is a dead giveaway of a major change that occurs in 'Special Ops' after his wife is introduced on the show. Also, the main conflict on which the mission is based could have been explored a little more thoroughly. Not to mention Kay Kay Menon's make-up to make him look younger, is not at all on point. Even though you don't want to notice it but it somehow just is in your face every time.

Verdict

'Special Ops 1.5' is a raw gem in Neeraj Pandey's profile of spy thrillers. It may be slightly low than the first part, but it is deserving of every minute of your time for its taut script, sharp plot, engrossing screenplay and exhilarating performances by the entire cast. Besides his makeup, Kay Kay Menon didn't put a single foot wrong in the entire show and leads it from the front. Definitely a Must Watch.

Well firstly, A very big salute to all the undercover heroes who are working tirelessly to make our country safe from all the perspectives. Throughout the entire journey, I witnesses a sense of pride, trust and loyalty towards your country it's citizens their safety and towards your work. Himmat Singh's is the story of all the unsung heroes who do not expect anything in return, inspite of knowing that their lives are constantly put in danger, their mission can get compromised still they give their level best to never disappoint themselves and their people. Neeraj Sir always takes us all on a rollercoaster ride and this particular one made sure that it would be worth the three hours or four hours one has invested in his entire day. I am eagerly looking forward to the new season of this particular series as it has been left on a cliffhanger withe the nepal operation.

SpecialOps 1.5 is a middling prequel with nothing to write home about. The spy thriller is saved to a large extent by Kay Kay Menon's brilliant performance. However it fails to live up to the massive expectations set up by a terrific season 1. Overall a passable affair that lacks the thrills with hardly any surprises.

I binge watched all 4 episodes the moment it got released.

From the word go in episode one it catches our attention and makes us glued to the screen

The story the direction the editing is just wow

Generally the sequel fizzles out but this one lives to the expectations

The only sad part is that it got over in just 4 episodes

It's a must watch

Regards Dr Ronak Shah.

Very smoothly the story flows, well executed, very well acting and not stretching the story for like 8-9 episodes was also good.

But somehow we needed a little more in terms of content, same old concept, finding the rebel and killing him, losing your dear ones, being cheated by your own people.

But it's kk out there, you must watch it once!