Mirzapur 2 fails to learn from the previous season’s mistakes

Watching the first two episodes of the second season of ‘Mirzapur’ will make you think of all the elements that made the previous instalment a success – loudmouth characters, excessive violence, profanity, and it looks like this time too, the web-series has stuck to its roots.

 The bloody world of Mirzapur seems to be bloodier in the second season, with revenge, lust for power, and greed echoing in every heart. Be it a politician who is looking forward to inaugurating a park that has his party symbol, mangoes, at the centre or a man who never wanted the life he lives but is forced into it after his father was killed in broad daylight, the second season of ‘Mirzapur’ appears to be much more ruthless. While the first season lacked a hero-like figure, it seems like that position will be held by Shweta Tripathi Sharma’s Golu and Ali Fazal’s Guddu this time.

 ‘Mirzapur 2’ takes a while to gain momentum. Unlike the first season, there’s no space for humour or even a splash of relief for viewers, which makes the episode viewing experience a bit exhausting. The only time there is some sense of ease is during the many conversations between Pankaj Tripathi’s Kaleen Bhaiya and Divyenndu Sharmaa’s Munna. Kaleen, who is a don, behaves like a regularly disappointed father who is aware that his son isn’t really up to handling the responsibilities that await him.

 Shows like ‘Mirzapur’ have a unique quality. They don’t require your undivided attention. Because of the lack of any kind of subtext, every emotion is spelt out. This makes them quite easy for home-viewing as they don’t demand you to completely cut yourself off from your surroundings.

 The new players include Sharad’s associate Tyagi (Vijay Verma), who comes with his dysfunctional family. Also thrown into the mix is the financial wunderkind Robin (Priyanshu Painyuli), whose collection of brightly patterned shirts is as abundant as tall tales about his mother.

 As far as the performances are concerned, ‘Mirzapur2’ has a strong cast which continues to deliver this time as well. Shweta Tripathi Sharma stands out as the wounded woman. Ali Fazal is more menacing this season with his pumped-up body and fierce eyes. He can barely walk after last season’s events but is like a wounded lion, ready to pounce on his prey whenever he gets the chance.