Inspector Zende Review: If you’re tired of formulaic Bollywood cop dramas, Netflix’s Inspector Zende is a refreshing change. Released on September 5, 2025, the film mixes crime, comedy, and retro charm while drawing inspiration from real events. Manoj Bajpayee’s grounded portrayal of Inspector Zende and Jim Sarbh’s chilling performance as Carl Bhojraj make it a must-watch.

Inspector Zende Explained: Story, Cast, and What Makes It Stand Out

The Story of Inspector Zende

At its heart, Inspector Zende Netflix movie is inspired by real events. The story is based on Inspector Madhukar Bapurao Zende, the man who twice captured the notorious serial killer Charles Sobhraj. In the film, Sobhraj is fictionalized as Carl Bhojraj, giving the narrative creative freedom while holding on to the essence of the true story.

The plot takes viewers back to 1970s Bombay, where neon-lit pubs, smoky jazz clubs, and vintage Ambassadors set the stage for a cat-and-mouse chase. Zende is not your typical Bollywood cop—he’s witty, awkward at times, and relies on sharp observation instead of brute force.

The film highlights two key moments in history: Zende’s first arrest of Bhojraj in 1971, and his re-capture in 1986 after the criminal’s daring escape from Tihar Jail. Unlike a conventional thriller, the Inspector Zende plot mixes suspense with humour, turning small fumbles, witty one-liners, and awkward encounters into memorable cinematic moments.

Inspector Zende Cast and Crew

The Inspector Zende cast brings the story alive with stellar performances.

• Manoj Bajpayee as Inspector Zende: Bajpayee delivers a subdued yet brilliant performance, avoiding Bollywood theatrics and instead portraying a humanized, witty, and observant cop.
• Jim Sarbh as Carl Bhojraj: Playing the fictionalized version of Charles Sobhraj, Sarbh is effortlessly charming yet chilling. His elegance and menace keep audiences hooked.
• Supporting Cast: Sachin Khedekar, Girija Oak, and Bhalchandra Kadam add flavour and depth, perfectly fitting into the retro world.

The movie is directed by Chinmay D. Mandlekar, marking his directorial debut. Known as an actor and writer, he gives the film authenticity while taking the bold step of blending comedy with true-crime storytelling.

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Genre and Style: A Retro Crime-Comedy

This Inspector Zende review wouldn’t be complete without highlighting its unique genre. Neither a heavy true-crime drama nor a slapstick comedy, it carves a niche as a retro crime-comedy.

The aesthetics are drenched in nostalgia—from vintage Bombay cafés and old-school police stations to a funky jazz-and-funk-inspired soundtrack. Unlike typical Bollywood cop dramas, violence is never glorified. Instead, humour, observation, and clever strategies make the story stand out.

What Makes Inspector Zende Netflix Film Stand Out

Several factors make this movie worth watching:

• Fresh narrative: Proves thrillers don’t need clichés or slapstick to be entertaining.
• Inspired by real events: Based on Inspector Madhukar Zende’s daring arrests of Charles Sobhraj.
• Unique genre: A rare Indian crime-comedy with retro vibes.
• Manoj Bajpayee’s brilliance: A witty, human portrayal of a cop.
• Jim Sarbh’s villainy: Charismatic yet chilling as Carl Bhojraj.
• Retro Bombay nostalgia: Neon pubs, smoky clubs, vintage cars, and old-school police stations.

FAQs about Inspector Zende:

1. Is Inspector Zende based on a true story?
Yes. The film is inspired by the real-life Mumbai Police officer Madhukar Zende, who twice arrested the infamous serial killer Charles Sobhraj.

2. Who plays Inspector Zende in the movie?
The role is played by Manoj Bajpayee, known for his powerful, nuanced performances.

3. Who is the villain in Inspector Zende?
Jim Sarbh plays Carl Bhojraj, a fictionalized version of Charles Sobhraj.

4. What genre is Inspector Zende?
It is a retro crime-comedy, blending true-crime elements with humour and nostalgic 70s–80s Bombay aesthetics.

Inspector Zende review is not just another cop drama. It is a witty, fresh, and humanized take on a true story that gripped India. With Manoj Bajpayee at his understated best and Jim Sarbh playing a stylish yet terrifying villain, the movie balances suspense with humour like few Indian films have before.

Streaming now on Netflix, Inspector Zende is your perfect weekend watch if you enjoy retro nostalgia, quirky crime stories, and intelligent humour.