- One of the best web series of 2023
- The Railway Men deserve 4 Star
Set against the backdrop of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, The Railway Men is a poignant and gripping narrative that chronicles the extraordinary efforts of the unsung heroes who valiantly stepped up to save lives amidst the chaos and devastation.
At the heart of this harrowing tale is Iftekaar Siddiqui (Kay Kay Menon), the station master of Bhopal Junction, whose unwavering determination and leadership guide his team through the darkest of hours. Alongside him stands Imad Riaz (Babil Khan), a newly hired apprentice who proves his mettle in the face of unimaginable adversity. And then there’s Express Bandit (Divyendu Sharma), a notorious thief who sheds his criminal past to join forces with the Railway Men in their selfless mission.
As the clock ticks relentlessly towards the fateful night of December 2, 1984, the series skillfully weaves together multiple narratives, each highlighting the human cost of the tragedy. Kamruddin (Dibyendu Bhattacharya), the manager of the Union Carbide chemical plant responsible for the leak, grapples with the weight of his conscience as he witnesses the horrific consequences of his company’s negligence. Meanwhile, the intrepid reporter Kumawat (Sunny Hinduja) tirelessly pursues the truth, risking everything to expose the systemic failures that led to the disaster.
The Railway Men distinguishes itself from other disaster dramas by its unwavering focus on the human element. The series goes beyond the mere depiction of catastrophe, delving into the personal struggles and emotional turmoil of its characters as they confront the unthinkable.
Aayush Gupta’s screenplay, complemented by Rajat Poddar’s evocative production design, effectively captures the suffocating atmosphere of Bhopal in the aftermath of the gas leak. The series masterfully builds tension, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as the Railway Men race against time to save lives.
In a refreshing departure from the slow-burning pace often associated with disaster dramas, The Railway Men maintains a frenetic energy throughout its four-hour runtime. It seamlessly interweaves multiple storylines, showcasing the interconnectedness of the characters as they navigate the aftermath of the tragedy.
The Railway Men marks a significant milestone in Yash Raj Films’ foray into the OTT space, marking their first collaboration with Netflix. The series sets a high standard for future YRF productions, demonstrating their ability to deliver compelling and thought-provoking content.
With its meticulous attention to detail, raw emotional resonance, and unwavering tribute to the indomitable spirit of humanity, The Railway Men is a must-watch for anyone seeking a poignant and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
