Manvat Murders (Sonyliv) Story :-
Between 1972 and 1974, a series of seven brutal murders struck fear into a small village in Marathwada. When a determined cop (Ashutosh Gowariker) assumes control of the investigation, can he unravel the mystery in time? This gripping tale is inspired by the autobiography of CID officer Ramakant S. Kulkarni, “Footprints on the Sand of Crime.”
Manvat Murders (Sonyliv) Release Date, Trailor, Songs, Cast :-
| Release Date | 4 October 2024 |
| Language | Hindi / Marathi |
| Genre | Drama |
| Episodes | 8 |
| Cast | Ashutosh Gowariker, Sonali Kulkarni, Sai Tamhankar, Makarand Anaspure, Mayur Khandge, Kishor Kadam |
| Director | Ashish Bende |
| Writer | Girish Joshi |
| Cinematography | Satyajeet Shobha Shriram |
| Music | Saket Kanetkar |
| Producer | Sanjay Dawra |
| Production | Sony Liv |
| Certificate | 18+ |
Manvat Murders (Sonyliv) Review :-
“In ‘Manvat Murders,’ viewers are drawn into an undeniable tension that grips them throughout its runtime. Amidst a series of brutal murders targeting women of all ages in a quaint Maharashtrian village, the audience is compelled to uncover the unfolding mystery. While the occult plays a role, lingering questions arise: is it mere eccentricity, or does a power struggle lurk beneath the surface, easily overlooked at first glance?
Director Ashutosh Gowariker portrays a sharp and relentless cop whose investigative approach, set in the 1970s, diverges from the norm. Preferring intellect over force, he skillfully navigates the complexities of the case thrust upon him. His portrayal echoes a Sherlock Holmes-like figure, captivating viewers with his astute methods and leaving them to ponder the intricacies of the mystery rather than rushing to hasty conclusions.”
Based on real-life murders that rocked the country in the early 1970s, this series delves into a shocking narrative filled with dark rituals, human sacrifice, and a quest for hidden treasure. The village folklore adds an intriguing layer to this gripping Marathi series. However, the storytelling can be frustrating at times—numerous characters are introduced rapidly, slowing the pace to a crawl with stretches lacking significant developments. The series often fails to deliver thrilling, adrenaline-pumping moments that might engage viewers.
The most compelling moments arrive belatedly, primarily in the final two episodes. The resolution of the case is less due to Ramakant’s efforts and more a result of a character’s desperate revelation to protect their child. Episode 8 reveals shocking truths that leave viewers astounded, yet the journey to this revelation feels drawn out with prolonged periods of stagnation. Additionally, the series occasionally adopts a preachy tone, with Ramakant imparting lessons as if lecturing a child. The lack of mystery is apparent early on, as the antagonist’s identity is clear from the outset.
Manvat Murders (Sonyliv) Trailor :-
However, the series is buoyed by standout performances from its main cast, particularly Sai Tamhankar and Sonali Kulkarni. In this narrative of desperation and superstition, both Tamhankar and Kulkarni deliver compelling performances that captivate viewers. Kulkarni portrays a menacing yet vulnerable antagonist with conviction, while Tamhankar skillfully portrays her character’s plight and vulnerability.
Ashutosh Gowariker’s performance is competent, but fails to leave a lasting impact. By the series’ conclusion, his character lacks the emotional depth to resonate, almost fading into obscurity despite attempts to emphasize his role as the star.
The series effectively portrays the dire consequences of superstition and misguided beliefs. It poignantly depicts how a woman’s yearning for a child leads her into the clutches of a deceitful godman who exploits her vulnerability. However, it falls short in creating a truly gripping mystery that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Final Thoughts
“Manvat Murders” offers a decent viewing experience that doesn’t consistently hold our attention throughout its runtime. While the final episode stands out, the series occasionally loses momentum and becomes repetitive at times. However, the standout performances, particularly from the female leads, deserve attention and praise.
