Cast: Vikrant Massey, Deepak Dobriyal, Akash Khurana, Darshan Jariwala, Ipshita Chakraborty Singh

Director: Aditya Nimbalkar

Rating: ***1/2

The OTT landscape is no stranger to hard-hitting, dark content, and Sector 36 firmly joins this growing list of intense thrillers. Directed by Aditya Nimbalkar, this film is inspired by the chilling 2006 Noida serial murders, an event that shocked the entire nation. The movie delves deep into the mind of a psychopath, exploring the disturbing psychology behind such heinous crimes.

Plot Overview: A Gruesome Tale of Crime and Trauma

At the core of Sector 36 is Prem Singh, portrayed by Vikrant Massey, a character driven by childhood trauma. His portrayal as a paedophile and murderer paints a disturbing picture, where the boundaries of fiction and reality blur. Massey's character is both chilling and unsettling, especially for parents of young children, as the film highlights how perpetrators could often be individuals we know-relatives or friends.

The plot centers around Prem's twisted relationship with Mr. Bassi, an ageing, influential figure in Delhi. Prem serves his master by providing kidnapped children for his sadistic pleasures, while also engaging in organ trafficking. The horror and brutality of these crimes mirror the real-life Nithari killings, which shook the conscience of the country.

Deepak Dobriyal Shines: A Transformation of Character

One of the highlights of Sector 36 is the transformation of Inspector Ram Charan Panday, played by Deepak Dobriyal. Initially shown as a disillusioned police officer willing to sweep cases under the rug, he eventually undergoes a moral awakening. His decision to pursue the abductor behind the disappearance of multiple children from Sector 36 forms the crux of the narrative.

Dobriyal's performance is masterful, especially during the film's intense climax, where he interrogates Prem Singh. His portrayal of shock and rage while hearing Prem's ghastly confessions is nothing short of captivating. This performance exemplifies the depth and range Dobriyal brings to his character, adding weight to the film's grim subject matter.

Vikrant Massey: A Descent into Darkness

Vikrant Massey's portrayal of Prem Singh marks a stark departure from his previous roles. While he inspired audiences in 12th Fail, Sector 36 showcases his ability to dive into the darkest corners of human behavior. His character's descent into necrophilia and cannibalism is haunting and grotesque, pulling viewers into the twisted psyche of a psychopath.

However, there are occasional moments where Massey's character slips out of the accent, particularly when he transitions into English in a few scenes. Despite this minor flaw, Massey's performance is largely compelling and contributes to the film's disturbing tone.

Supporting Cast: Strong Performances Across the Board

Akash Khurana deserves praise for his portrayal of Mr. Bassi. His introduction scene establishes him as a character to be feared, and his frustration when he fails to prey on his granddaughter adds an unsettling layer to the film. Khurana's Punjabi accent is also delivered with precision, enhancing his role.

Darshan Zariwala, as Deepak's senior officer, adds credibility to the police procedural aspect of the film, although his role is more understated compared to the other main characters.

Production Value: A Shift for Dinesh Vijan

Dinesh Vijan, known for his light-hearted comedies and supernatural universe, co-produces Sector 36. His decision to back such a dark and disturbing project is noteworthy, especially considering his previous ventures like Stree 2. The film's production is tight, and the pacing is urgent, ensuring the viewer's attention remains focused throughout.

However, where the movie falters is in its decision to include a song post-climax. The use of a montage featuring news articles feels cliched and disrupts the overall tone of the film. It feels like a misstep in an otherwise well-constructed narrative.

Final Thoughts: A Gripping Yet Disturbing Watch

Sector 36 is not for the faint-hearted. The film's exploration of dark themes, including paedophilia, necrophilia, and organ trafficking, makes it a disturbing watch. The performances, especially by Deepak Dobriyal and Vikrant Massey, elevate the film beyond a simple crime thriller. While the climax and some pacing issues could have been handled better, the film remains a gripping, hard-hitting experience.

If you're looking for a movie that explores the darker side of human psychology and societal failures, Sector 36 delivers. Its brutal realism and powerful performances make it a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers, but be prepared for a deeply unsettling experience.