Review: the Indian Series ‘Marzi’ is a Blend of Perfect Performances, Combining a Social Motto Within the Confines of the Thriller Genre

“Marzi” is an Indian crime thriller based in the cold and riveting town of Shimla. Just as the town is filled with chilled breezes and scenic beauty, it hides a story just as chilling and spine wrecking deep within. It is adapted from the book “Liar” by the William brothers, Harry and Jack Williams. 

“Marzi” is the story of Sameera Chauhan (Aahana Kumra), a school teacher, Anurag Saraswat (Rajeev Khandelwal), a doctor, and the turn of events that leads to a “rape” investigation against Anurag. Sameera and Anurag go on a date and the next morning, Sameera cannot remember the events, but recollects that her “consent” (Marzi) was not present when Anurag and she have sex. After a brief consultation with her ex-fiancé Nitin (Rajeev Siddhartha) and her sister Isha (Shivani Tanksale), she files a police complaint with the local police station stating that she was drugged that night and Anurag took advantage of her unconscious state. 

The police and Anurag try and blame Sameera for being drunk, vocal, and provocative. However, it is unclear with the investigation if Anurag actually indulged in those acts. Sameera writes a post on social media stating that “Anurag Saraswat has raped me;” this affects Ayan, Anurag’s son, and his social life at school, where Sameera is a teacher. Sameera decides to investigate with the help of her ex-fiancé and her sister; the case becomes deeper and we are confronted with Anurag’s past crimes in Mumbai against his deceased ex-wife and her best friend. 

“Marzi’s” story is intriguing and keeps the audience invested in the plot; its twists and turns are devised so eloquently that it is difficult to not connect with the characters. The background score and location is the underdog of the series. The performance by Pavleen Gujral (Rashmi) as the police inspector changes the line of the events in the climax. The spectacular casting of the leads personifies the elements of mystery in an unfathomable manner beyond expectation. 

The series is comparable to “Pink” (2016) by Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury; however, the thriller element distinguishes the two pieces vividly. “Marzi” is conventional yet new to an Indian genre which is defenestrating the commercial nature of cinema. This story is of several women whose voices are silenced against sexual harassment and assault, stories which are declared sham and baseless. 

“Marzi” is a perfect blend of performances, direction, and an amazing storyline. I recommend it to fans of the mystery and thriller genre. The series imbibes a social motto with an element of the thriller genre. 

“Marzi” is available for streaming on Voot (currently only available in India).