1: Mirzapur Series

The series is lauded for its ensemble cast, delivering career-defining performances:

However, the season belongs to the trio of "new blood":

Mirzapur Series 1 is a gripping and engaging crime drama that explores the dark underbelly of the city of Mirzapur. With outstanding performances from the cast, particularly Pankaj Tripathi and Ali Fazal, the series is a must-watch for fans of the genre. The show's themes of power struggles, loyalty, and family dynamics are well-woven throughout the narrative, making it a compelling watch. Overall, Mirzapur Series 1 is a great start to the franchise, and fans are eagerly awaiting the second season. mirzapur series 1

For Pankaj Tripathi’s performance alone, it is essential viewing. For the cliffhanger ending, it is mandatory. It is a solid 8.5/10—a defining show for the Indian OTT landscape.

The story begins with the introduction of Guddu and his brother, Bablu (played by Shweta Tripathi), who are small-time crooks. After a botched heist, Guddu and Bablu are forced to flee to Delhi, where they get involved with a local gangster, Daku. Upon returning to Mirzapur, Guddu and Bablu get caught up in a web of violence and power struggles between Akhandanand, his sons, Munna (played by Divyendu Sharma) and Bheem (played by Vivek Vaswani), and other rival gangsters. The series is lauded for its ensemble cast,

The writing deserves credit for weaving in local politics and caste dynamics without turning into a documentary. The subplot involving Rasika Dugal (Beena Tripathi) adds a layer of sexual politics and survival that is often missing in male-dominated crime sagas. Her character’s cunning provides a silent, dangerous undercurrent to the Tripathi household.

Are you looking for a review, a comparison to Season 2/3, or something specific about that post? Overall, Mirzapur Series 1 is a great start

If Mirzapur is a temple, Pankaj Tripathi is the presiding deity. His portrayal of Kaleen Bhaiya is a masterclass in restraint. In a genre defined by shouting dons and gratuitous violence, Tripathi plays the role with a calm, almost paternal menace. He speaks softly, smiles politely, and orders executions with the same ease as ordering tea. He is the anchor that keeps the show from drifting into caricature.

The series is set in the city of Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh, and revolves around the lives of two powerful men, Akhandanand Tripathi (played by Pankaj Tripathi) and Guddu Pandit (played by Ali Fazal). Akhandanand, also known as "The Don," is a powerful and ruthless gangster who controls the city's underworld. Guddu, on the other hand, is a young and ambitious gangster who wants to take over the city.