In the realm of sequels, it’s often a challenging task to meet the towering expectations set by their predecessors. This holds true for “Scam 2003: The Telgi Story” following the remarkable success of “Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story.” While it retains the visual appeal, excellent casting, and emotional depth, the storytelling leaves something to be desired, especially for a sequel.
Scam 2003 Review: Abdul Karim Telgi’s Journey
The series revolves around Abdul Karim Telgi, a former fruit seller from Karnataka whose aspirations for a better life led him to Mumbai. Telgi’s dream of amassing wealth and escaping poverty propels him into the world of forgery, where he pursues quick riches through illicit means.
Scam 2003 Review: No Prerequisite Viewing
Unlike some series that demand prior knowledge, “Scam 2003” can be enjoyed independently, even if you haven’t watched “Scam 1992.” The director, Tushar Hiranandani, attempts to replicate the visual style of the first installment, and the iconic music cues still manage to send shivers down your spine. However, the writing falls short of conveying the unwavering determination of the central character. The balance between dramatic dialogues and conflicts seen in the first part seems somewhat lacking here.
Scam 2003 Review: Gagan Dev Riar Shines
One standout aspect of the series is the remarkable performance of Gagan Dev Riar as Telgi. From his initial appearance as a fruit seller on a train, he exudes an authentic aura. Riar employs subtle nuances and effective body language to portray the character’s emotions convincingly. His charismatic portrayal during scenes where he manipulates a sincere government employee is particularly captivating. Supporting actors, such as Talat Aziz and Shashank Ketkar, also deliver commendable performances, contributing to the series’ freshness.
Scam 2003 Review: Uneven Storytelling
The writing of “Scam 2003” shoulders the responsibility of making Telgi’s journey believable. However, it selectively focuses on certain aspects, leaving gaps in Telgi’s life, notably the seven-year stint in the Gulf, which is merely narrated through voiceovers. Unlike “Scam 1992,” where Sucheta Dalal’s character serves as the narrator, this version adopts Telgi’s perspective. It’s somewhat bewildering to witness everyone in Telgi’s hometown in Karnataka conversing in fluent Hindi.
Scam 2003 Review: A Two-Part Release
Sony LIV has chosen to release the series in two parts, with the second installment set to stream in November. Perhaps watching the entire series in one go will provide a more compelling and holistic viewing experience. While “Scam 2003: The Telgi Story” is engaging, it doesn’t quite match the intrigue and energy of its predecessor, “Scam 1992.”
Scam 2003 Review: Final Verdict
In the grand tapestry of scams and scandals, “Scam 2003: The Telgi Story” adds another chapter, chronicling Abdul Karim Telgi’s journey from a humble fruit vendor to the mastermind behind a massive stamp paper scam worth Rs 30,000 crore. While it maintains some of the legacy of “Scam 1992,” it falls short in certain storytelling aspects.
