Cartel is a multi-starrer story of power play and vengeance that is impressive

When it was announced that versatile actress Supriya Pathak will be seen as a fierce matriarch, the cinema enthusiasts were euphoric and now she’s finally here as Rani Maai, in ALTBalaji's latest release Cartel was worth the wait. Cartel is currently streaming on ALTBalaji and has all the elements of a blockbuster thriller entertainer.

Cartel is the story of the first family of the business, that rules the divided factions of the underworld in the city of Mumbai, led by Rani Maai (played by Supriya Pathak). The fate of this family’s reign lies upon the shoulders of her three sons - Major Bhau (Tanuj Virwani), Abhay (Rithvik Dhanjani), and Madhu (Jitendra Joshi). While Supriya Pathak as Rani Maai as usual gets into the skin of her character and impresses, it’s the dynamics between the three Angre brothers that steal the show. Rithvik Dhanjani as the brat Abhay Angre, Tanuj Virwani as the stoic Major Bhau, and Jitendra Joshi as the hot-headed Madhu Bhau, want to make you root for the Angre family. 

The good part is, it's not just some mindless action drama, but it has a well-narrated plot woven with well-defined characters, the family aspect of Angres, and the business that they run with the power games they have to play to stay ahead of the enemy factions. Girija Oak, Monica Dogra, Anil George, Amey Wagh, Samir Soni, Divya Agarwal, Aditi Vasudev, Pranati Rai Prakash, Mrinal Dutt, Krishna Kaul, and the rest of the cast do a commendable job.

The other strong aspect of the show is the cinematography and dialogue. Right from the beginning, the makers have taken pains to ensure authentic sets and locations, great camera angle, and movements that enhance the storytelling weaved in with an impactful background score makes it worth a watch. Each episode will take you by surprise as the subplots unfold with every scene. “Goli kahi se bhi chale, marta toh koi apna hi hai”, “Harna buzdili nahi, har maan lena buzdili hai”,”Humare dhandhe mein kahaniyaan sirf shuru hoti hain” are dialogues you end up remembering as you watch.

For all the viewers who like edge-of-the-seat gripping thrillers, Cartel is for you. With 14 episodes each 40 minutes long, Cartel is the perfect pick for your weekend bingeathon.