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The Hunt Review: A Gripping Chronicle Of The Rajiv Gandhi Assassination Case Delivered With Precision

Author Admin Estimated read time 3 min read



The Hunt: The Rajiv Gandhi Assassination Case, streaming on Sony LIV, is a political thriller that ambitiously tackles one of India’s most seismic historical events; the 1991 assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Nagesh Kukunoor and adapted from Anirudhya Mitra’s book Ninety Days, the series follows the intense 90-day investigation led by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) under IPS officer D.R. Kaarthikeyan, portrayed by Amit Sial. While the show delivers a gripping narrative and strong performances, it occasionally stumbles in balancing historical accuracy with dramatic flair, resulting in a compelling yet imperfect retelling.

The series excels in recreating the tension and urgency of the 1991 manhunt. Kukunoor, known for films like Iqbal, crafts a taut procedural that captures the complexity of the investigation, from decoding LTTE’s encrypted communications to navigating political pressures. The trailer’s haunting opening, a phone call asking, “Is Rajiv Gandhi alive?”, sets the tone for a story steeped in espionage and betrayal. Amit Sial delivers a standout performance as Kaarthikeyan, embodying the relentless determination of a man unraveling a web of conspiracy. The ensemble cast, including Sahil Vaid, Bagavathi Perumal, and Shafeeq Mustafa, adds depth, with each actor bringing nuance to the high-stakes investigation. The production values, backed by Applause Entertainment, are commendable, with meticulous attention to the era’s aesthetic, from Tamil Nadu’s dusty rally grounds to Colombo’s tense diplomatic corridors.

However, The Hunt has its shortcomings. At times, the series leans too heavily into dramatization, sacrificing historical nuance for cinematic effect. Certain creative liberties, such as embellished interpersonal conflicts within the SIT, feel contrived and dilute the authenticity promised by its source material. The pacing, while generally brisk, falters in the middle episodes, with repetitive sequences of investigative dead-ends that could have been trimmed for sharper storytelling. Additionally, the portrayal of the LTTE’s motivations feels somewhat one-dimensional, missing an opportunity to explore the broader socio-political context of the Sri Lankan Civil War, which fueled the assassination. This lack of depth may leave viewers unfamiliar with the history wanting more clarity.

The series’ strength lies in its emotional resonance, particularly in scenes depicting the human cost of the tragedy, such as the impact on victims’ families and the nation’s psyche. Kukunoor’s direction, paired with Mitra’s detailed accounts, ensures the investigation feels visceral, with moments like Amit Sial’s reflection on “a patch of dried blood” evoking the assassination’s lingering horror.

Overall, The Hunt is a commendable effort that blends historical gravitas with thriller elements, anchored by stellar performances and Kukunoor’s deft direction. While it doesn’t always strike the perfect balance between fact and fiction, it remains a must-watch for those drawn to real-life political dramas, offering a poignant look at a pivotal moment in India’s history.

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