Charlie Chopra: Vishal Bhardwaj’s New Murder Mystery

Sony liv brings Vishal Bhardwaj’s upcoming web series, “Charlie Chopra.” A murder mystery set in Himachal Pradesh’s Solang Valley.

The series is a mix of horror and comedy. The story begins when members of the family don’t take Naseeruddin Shah seriously when he tries to summon the spirit of Lady Rose who confirms Brigadier’s death.

Eventually Brigadier Meherbaan Rawat played by Gulshan Grover, an army veteran is shockingly murdered on a snowy night in Manali. Jimmy, Charlie’s fiancee is the prime suspect due to their recent meeting. To clear Jimmy’s name, Charlie investigates the other family members, all of whom have a stake in Rawat’s property. This episode sets the stage for Charlie’s ongoing quest to prove her fiancé’s innocence.

The screenplay, written by Vishal Bhardwaj, Anjum Rajabali, and Jyotsna Hariharan, keeps a suspenseful and fast-paced story in the 44-minute episode. The cinematography skillfully captures the Solang Valley, adding mystery and enhancing the overall setting.

Director Vishal Bhardwaj, who is known for his critically acclaimed adaptations like Maqbool, Omkara, The Blue Umbrella and Haider brings the whole ‘Shah’ family (Naseeruddin , Ratna Pathak and Vivan Shah) under one series and presents “Charlie Chopra” as an intriguing spooky murder mystery.

While talking about drawbacks, this series is not promoted well. There are chances that it will go unnoticed by the mainstream audience. Wamika Gabbi’s breaking of fourth wall seems cool initially but becomes annoying by the end of the episode. Still a good start though. You can watch “Charlie Chopra” on Sony Liv.