She

Netflix’s 2020 Indian crime drama, She, is a gripping and intimate show that explores the depths of power, sexuality, and self-discovery, all filtered through the lens of a conservative police constable, Bhumika Pardesi.

The thrilling narrative of She unrolls in the immense city of Mumbai, India, painting a vivid tableau of the country's urban landscape. This seven-episode series, created and written by Imtiaz Ali and Divya Johri, is rooted primarily in the genre of crime and mystery, with elements of socio-political commentary and gender power dynamics interlaid in a deeply layered narrative.

The central character of the show, Bhumika (Aaditi Pohankar), is a low-ranking female police officer who presents as timid and barely noticed in her professional life, constrained not just by her uninspiring job, but also a downtrodden home life. Her existence is ultimately mundane and conventional, dominated by financial struggles, a neglectful husband, and an ailing mother.

The story spins on its axis when Bhumika is unexpectedly asked to go undercover for a dangerous mission. This mission thrusts her into the dangerous belly of Mumbai’s underworld, pitting her against narcotics dealers and powerful crime lords. Despite the clear and present danger, this endeavor also presents her with an opportunity she's never had before – to break free from her shackles and demonstrate her resourcefulness, intelligence, and courage.

Throughout this mission, Bhumika’s weapon to navigate this perilous journey ironically becomes her femininity. She is asked to play a prostitute to extract information, and it is this very role that, while initially discomforting, eventually empowers her. For the first time, she understands the power, manipulation, and command that her femininity can evoke. This exploration of the role of womanhood and sexuality is a core component of the series narrative.

As the season unfolds, the audience sees Bhumika’s transformation from a meek and compliant figure to a woman who begins to regain agency over her life and body. It is within this transformation that the title of She resonates with the storyline. It isn't merely about the change in her personhood; it is the unveiling of the persona she had buried deep within due to societal constraints and her personal inhibitions.

The series is not without its dark undertones. There are various situations capturing violence, intimidation, and debauchery presenting the grim reality of the criminal underworld and the brutal realities of life on the streets of Mumbai. It continuously flirts with the lines of comfort and discomfort, familiarity, and alienation, employing shock value intelligently to keep the audience on the edge of their seats.

Aaditi Pohankar delivers a compelling performance as Bhumika, bringing an understated grit and resilience to her character that draws viewers in. Every strained smile, every fearful glance, and eventual, discernible confidence is brewed to perfection by her. The supporting cast, led by an enigmatic Vijay Varma, brings all the necessary elements to elevate this crime drama into a view-worthy endeavor.

Creator Imtiaz Ali, known for his filmography that extensively explores the themes of personal growth and self-discovery, gives female audiences a taste of empowerment and agency through Bhumika’s character arc. The lens through which he discusses feminism and gender roles is one of quiet defiance and resilience, allowing that discourse to speak volumes where dialogues fail. However, it does bear mentioning that the series may contain content that some viewers might find unsettling due to its portrayal of sexuality, making it advisable for a mature audience.

Despite being grounded in crime and mystery, She presents a wider, poignant narrative about self-discovery and personal freedom. It is a series which manages to critique societal norms and gender roles while keeping viewers hooked with its thrilling premise. The show’s narrative strength lies in its layered storytelling that results in a gritty, ravishing, and intriguing picturization of Bhumika’s journey from a meek constable to an assertive woman embracing her power and finding her voice.

She is fraught with tension, introspection, transformation, danger, and tiny sprinkles of feminist energy, making it a must-watch for those who enjoy their crime dramas laced with deeper socio-political undercurrents. Ultimately, She is a compelling showcase of the complex dynamics of gender and power, making it a unique offering in the realm of Indian streamed shows.