Review of 'Illegal' on Voot: A Mixed Bag of Courtroom Drama

Introduction to the Web Series 'Illegal'

Illegal is a web series released on Voot Select OTT, directed by Sahir Razza and written by Reshu Nath. It is a courtroom drama that revolves around the lives and professional struggles of lawyers, delving into the impact of their work on their morality and mental well-being. The series aims to shed light on the challenges faced by lawyers in pursuit of justice and truth.

Narrative and Story Development

The series centers around the character of Niharika, played by Neha Sharma, who is on a mission to uncover the truth and eradicate wrongdoers. However, the 30-minute episodes can sometimes feel a bit dragged, with the story progression feeling somewhat slow. While the first episode sets a strong message with its gritty portrayal of crime and rape in India and their judicial trials, the series sometimes derails to explore supporting storylines or the backgrounds of other characters, which can leave the main narrative unexplored.

Character Performance and Production Quality

The acting in Illegal is generally average. With more refined performances and better direction, the series could have a more compelling impact. In terms of production quality, there could have been better shots in certain scenes, and the director’s portrayal needs improvement. Nevertheless, there are standout performances, with Piyush Mishra and Satyadeep standing out as exceptions. Many scenes and plots heavily resemble those of The Good Wife, which may make it difficult for viewers who are familiar with that series to find it fresh or original.

Controversial Depiction of Gender and Society

One of the main criticisms of Illegal is its generic portrayal of gender roles. Instead of showing the complex realities and struggles of both men and women, the series often portrays all men as 'badasses' and all women as 'angels.' This oversimplified depiction is inherently problematic and fails to reflect the nuanced, realistic complexity of societal dynamics. In response to this, the title GuiltMarzi and Illegal similarly criticize this generalized portrayal, aligning with today’s more nuanced and less stereotype-driven perspectives.

Comparative Analysis: 'Illegal' vs. 'The Good Wife'

Viewers familiar with The Good Wife might feel that they have seen it all before in Illegal. Many characters, scenes, and plotlines show a direct influence from the popular U.S. series. While this might make the series less original, it could be compelling for fans of The Good Wife who are looking for a similar narrative structure and storyline. However, for those seeking a more unique and fresh experience, Illegal might not be the best choice.

Conclusion: A Room for Improvement

In summary, Illegal on Voot is a mixed bag of courtroom drama. While it brings a strong message about the judicial system and societal issues in India, the execution leaves much to be desired. For viewers who are looking for a fresh and original storyline, this series might not meet their expectations. However, the standout performances and some relatable elements make it worth watching for those specifically interested in the kind of drama and legal proceedings portrayed.