Mrs. Deshpande Review: Madhuri Dixit in a Slow and Predictable Crime Series
Mrs. Deshpande is a six-episode mystery thriller directed by Nagesh Kukunoor, starring Madhuri Dixit in an unusual and dark role. The series introduces Madhuri as a convicted serial killer who helps the police solve a new set of murders that follow her old pattern. While the idea sounds intriguing, the execution feels slow, dated, and largely uninspiring.
The show opens inside a women’s prison, where Madhuri’s character lives a quiet, disciplined life. Known to fellow inmates as Zeenat, she wakes up early, exercises daily, and cooks for others with calm precision. Soon, it is revealed that she is actually Mrs. Deshpande, a notorious serial killer. Madhuri plays the role with restraint, offering subtle smiles and controlled expressions rather than dramatic outbursts.
Senior police officer Arun (played by Priyanshu Chatterjee) seeks Mrs. Deshpande’s help when a copycat killer begins committing murders using her methods. A younger cop, Tejas (Siddharth Chandekar), is assigned to work closely with her. The story follows their investigation, but it unfolds in a very straightforward manner, leaving little room for suspense or surprise.
The series is adapted from the French show La Mante (2018), but it often feels like an early 2000s Indian crime show. The visuals are basic, the tension is weak, and the killer scenes lack fear or urgency. Even moments that should feel intense come across as flat and predictable.
While Nagesh Kukunoor has successfully used a minimal style in past projects, that same dryness works against Mrs. Deshpande. The writing does not deeply explore the psychology of a serial killer. Instead, it reduces complex characters to simple backstories, missing the chance to examine manipulation, control, or inner conflict.
Madhuri Dixit’s performance is calm but not striking. The emotional depth needed for such a role is missing, making it hard to fully believe her character. Supporting performances also feel rehearsed, with dialogue delivery that lacks natural flow.Overall, Mrs. Deshpande has an interesting premise and a strong lead actor, but weak writing and dated storytelling prevent it from becoming a gripping thriller. It feels like a missed opportunity rather than a fresh take on the genre.
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