Officer on Duty on OTT: Re-visiting our film review and why Kunchacko Boban's neat thriller worked

There’s something deeply compelling about a police procedural where a seemingly innocuous investigation spirals into a sinister web of crimes. When I first reviewed Officer on Duty during its theatrical release in the UAE this February, I was struck by its gripping first half, bolstered by strong performances and an intriguing setup. Now that the film will make its streaming/OTT debut this weekend on Netflix, it's the perfect time to revisit what makes this Malayalam thriller worth a watch—and where it falters.

Led by the ever-reliable Kunchacko Boban, Officer on Duty kicks off with an unsettling sequence that sets the tone for the morally ambiguous world it inhabits. Boban’s Hari Shanker, a police officer demoted for his insubordination and violent methods, is as flawed as they come. The opening moments establish his ruthless approach—he believes brute force is the quickest path to justice. A disturbing scene involving a suspected pickpocket and a public altercation on a bus cements his reputation as an officer who doesn’t hesitate to cross ethical lines.

The film’s first half is taut and engaging, weaving together multiple narratives seamlessly. A seemingly minor case of fake jewelry pawning soon unravels into something far darker—a series of heinous sexual crimes targeting young women. Veteran actor Jagadish delivers an affecting performance as a desperate father and state bus conductor caught in a web of unfortunate circumstances. His character’s journey, along with that of Hari Shanker’s crumbling personal life (marked by friction with his wife, played superbly by Priyamani), adds emotional depth to the film.

However, my reservations from my initial review still stand. The second half of Officer on Duty veers into a more black-and-white territory, losing some of its nuance. The introduction of its main antagonists—hoodie-clad, cocaine-snorting predators—feels slightly exaggerated. While Vishak Nair delivers a commendable performance, the script doesn’t allow for much depth in portraying the motivations behind the villains’ actions. Instead, the film leans into broad strokes, portraying them as irredeemably evil without exploring the implications of drug abuse in any meaningful way.

Despite its shortcomings, the film remains a gripping watch, thanks to its stellar lead performances and some pulse-pounding action sequences. The cinematography and music elevate the tension, making it an immersive experience. While the climax could have benefited from a more restrained approach, Officer on Duty still succeeds as an engaging crime thriller.

If you missed it during its initial release, now’s your chance to catch it on the OTT this week. It’s a well-made police procedural that delivers thrilling moments, even if it doesn’t fully explore the weight of its themes.

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