Dabba Cartel: Unveiling Secrets in 1960s Glamour
Dabba Cartel is based in Mumbai of the 1960s and the main characters are five women of the house who participate in an illicit and dangerous racket – gambling. As it is set against the background of crime, it covers such aspects as ambition, betrayal, love, and female friendship while illustrating the world of bookmakers. The plots are set in the 1960s which brings the glamour of the era in contrast with the rudimentary evil that is present in the criminal world. It raises questions about the conventions of the society of the 1980s, it rewrites the script of women in the Indian society through its two powerful female characters. Successfully, the actions and attitudes of all the characters look very realistic; their moral conflicts are very touching. Azmi has done a wonderful job in the movie and his experience gives the drama continuity and strength. His direction allows the depth of the characters depicted to be felt and the pace does not sag during the entire series.
The songs of the series are also taken from the 1960th’s hits and some new songs which tones up dramatic atmosphere of the 1960th and emotions which are depicted in the series. The music effectively helps immerse the viewer in the thrilling yet dangerous world of authenticity of the Dabba Cartel.
The cinematography in this movie portrays the glamour of sixties Mumbai with bright shots that give way to the black and shade of the story. This gives the audience nostalgia and adds depth to the story through enthusiastic use of colors for the costumes and other period-specific interior designs. It is sophisticated but there is rawness which makes it thrilling to gauge the period setting and the thrilling plot.
There is not so much ostentatious portrayal yet there is a good use of extravagant sets and practical effects to give the series a much-needed real touch.
The dynamics as well as the action sequences are well spliced with character dialogues, making it thrilling to balance between internal struggles and external threats. It is always well paces, allowing the viewers to remain interested, informed without trying to engulf them with a lot of information of the next scene. It utilizes suspense pauses so desired to create tension but does not let it become a hindrance to smooth flow of the narrative. It is very well written with the purpose of enhancing the plot and developing characters, and manages to communicate subtext and tension.
Nonetheless, like any other television drama, Dabba Cartel tends to have clichéd twists that decrease tension slightly. Certain tales seem underdeveloped, which is why I have some concerns with regards to character development Some aspects of Dabba Cartel made me feel like I was taking a plunge into the glamour and the grime of what was 1960s Mumbai. The series engages the viewers with a combination of good acting and focuses on the position of women in society as it tells the story of a crime fighter.
