#Review: “Guns & Gulaabs” – A Quirky Crime Drama Packed with Stellar Performances
Guns & Gulaabs presents a unique blend of crime and quirkiness, featuring standout performances by Rajkummar Rao, Dulquer Salmaan, Gulshan Devaiah, and Adarsh Gourav.
With its clever writing, polished execution, and exceptional acting, the show, crafted by Raj and DK, transports us back to the 1990s, revealing the intriguing and offbeat side of individuals who find a peculiar satisfaction in chaos. Set in a twisted and tumultuous universe, the Netflix series introduces us to a world filled with opium traders, trigger-happy gangsters, a ruthless assassin with an uncanny ability to cheat death, an anti-narcotics officer haunted by his past, and two unassuming men burdened with complex father issues.
The title “Guns & Gulaabs” symbolizes the duality of this amoral world. In the small town of Gulaabgunj, the line between right and wrong is blurred. A ‘line of control’ divides a local eatery, demarcating territories for two rival gangs. Amidst the hills and opium fields, innocent residents are caught in the crossfire of criminal factions competing for control of an illegal opium trade.
The series commences with shots of a poppy farm, schoolboy banter about love, and a thrilling chase that culminates in a daylight murder. The show promptly encapsulates the essence of its narrative – opium, love, and violence.
As the plot thickens, secondary elements like school rivalries add depth, culminating in a gripping and action-packed climax. In the backdrop of small-town noir intertwined with 90s nostalgia, the soundtrack is sprinkled with nostalgic Hindi film tunes.
The murder of Babu Tiger, a key associate of crime lord Ganchi (Satish Kaushik) and estranged father of Tipu (Rajkummar Rao), sets the story in motion. While Ganchi seeks revenge, Tipu’s feelings are conflicted. Jugnu (Adarsh Gourav), Ganchi’s reluctant heir, adds another layer to the complex web. Narcotics bureau officer Arjun Varma (Dulquer Salmaan) is transferred to Gulaabgunj with a mission to restore order.
Amidst shifting dynamics, a hired killer named Atmaram (Gulshan Devaiah) operates under the Sherpur gang’s leadership. The series unravels the schemes of its diverse characters, weaving together alliances, betrayals, and personal struggles.
Guns & Gulaabs brilliantly combines storytelling with visual nostalgia for the 1990s. The character names, chapter titles, and soundtrack all pay homage to that era. The series also features a love song reminiscent of the past.
Beyond the main quartet of performances, the show’s larger cast leaves a lasting impact. Guns & Gulaabs offers a fresh perspective on gender roles and masculinity, with TJ Bhanu’s portrayal shining particularly bright. While Pooja A. Gor and Shreya Dhanwanthary have smaller roles, their presence is felt.
In conclusion, Guns & Gulaabs captivates with its unique blend of style and storytelling. It’s a homage to the past while delivering a fresh narrative that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish.
Cast:
- Rajkumar Rao
- Dulquer Salmaan
- Adarsh Gourav
- Gulshan Devaiah
Director:
- Raj and DK
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