Rating: ⭐4.0/5
Power Play (Season 1) is a Hindi-language crime-thriller web series streaming on Hungama Originals through Airtel Xstream Play. Featuring Karan Singh Grover and Sagarika Ghatge in prominent roles, the series combines criminal investigations, concealed motives, murder mysteries, and provocative adult-oriented sequences. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of Shimla, the show attempts to deliver a suspense-driven narrative with a distinctly dark and mature presentation.
Across its 10 episodes, Power Play explores the complicated relationship between law enforcement, criminal activity, and personal agendas. Although its premise promises an intriguing investigative thriller, the execution occasionally struggles with narrative inconsistencies and underdeveloped character relationships.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Power Play |
| Season | Season 1 |
| Genre | Crime, Thriller, Adult Drama |
| Language | Hindi |
| Streaming Platform | Hungama Originals / Airtel Xstream Play |
| Total Episodes | 10 |
| Episode Duration | Approximately 35–40 minutes |
| Lead Cast | Karan Singh Grover, Sagarika Ghatge |
| Supporting Cast | Gaurav Gera, Ayaz Khan, Daljiet Kaur, and others |
| Audience Rating | 18+ (Adult Audiences Only) |
The narrative unfolds in Shimla, where an unsettling rise in criminal activity prompts authorities to establish a special task force. The investigation is led by ACP Sakshi Ranjan, portrayed by Sagarika Ghatge, who works alongside detective Sudhir Kohli, played by Karan Singh Grover. Their primary objective is to investigate a series of criminal incidents and uncover the individuals responsible for the growing instability.
However, the investigation gradually becomes more complicated as suspicious circumstances and concealed intentions begin to emerge. Sudhir Kohli appears to be operating with an agenda of his own, raising questions about his actual intentions and the extent of his involvement in the unfolding events.
As the investigation progresses, the distinction between investigators and individuals with hidden motives becomes increasingly uncertain. The series attempts to maintain suspense through unexpected developments, episode-ending cliffhangers, and revelations that gradually complicate the central mystery.
Overall, the performances provide reasonable screen engagement, but the characterisation remains one of the series' weaker aspects. Despite the cast's efforts, the writing offers limited emotional depth, making it difficult for viewers to establish a meaningful connection with several characters.
The series benefits from Shimla's atmospheric surroundings, which complement its darker crime-oriented premise. The setting helps establish an appropriately mysterious environment for the unfolding investigation. Its relatively compact episode structure also encourages a brisk narrative progression.
However, the overall presentation is held back by inconsistencies in storytelling and the uneven integration of its thriller and adult-drama elements. While the series attempts to maintain suspense through revelations and cliffhangers, stronger investigative logic and more cohesive editing could have significantly improved the viewing experience.
Power Play (Season 1) is an adult-oriented crime thriller that attempts to combine murder investigations, concealed motives, suspense, and provocative entertainment. Its Shimla setting provides a suitably atmospheric backdrop, while Karan Singh Grover and Sagarika Ghatge offer recognisable screen presence in the leading roles.
Unfortunately, the series struggles to translate its promising premise into a consistently compelling investigative drama. The storytelling occasionally feels illogical, several developments are predictable, and the limited emotional depth makes it difficult to establish a meaningful connection with the characters. Furthermore, its emphasis on bold and uncensored sequences sometimes comes at the expense of a tightly constructed crime narrative.
Ultimately, Power Play (Season 1) is an average, niche OTT offering best suited to viewers who enjoy adult-centric entertainment with a crime-thriller backdrop. Those expecting an intelligent investigative drama, sophisticated mystery, or emotionally engaging character development may find the series disappointing.
Final Recommendation: A moderately engaging adult thriller with an appealing setting and recognisable cast, but its inconsistent writing and limited narrative depth prevent it from becoming a memorable crime series.