Watch Criminal Justice: Behind Closed Doors (Bengali)

Criminal Justice: Behind Closed Doors is an engaging and thought-provoking Bengali language web series released in 2020 as part of the Disney+ Hotstar platform. It is a compelling courtroom drama based mainly upon the British television series Criminal Justice, following its first season under the same name. As the title suggests, this drama throws light on the hidden, and often ignored aspects of our society, dealing mainly with the theme of gender-based violence. While the series has been adapted into several languages, the depth of its subject has been aptly retained in the Bengali version, making it equally captivating for the regional audience.

The series unfolds through eight gripping episodes that portray a murder case of a prominent Bengali filmmaker. The prime suspect is his own wife, a seemingly demure homemaker whose hands allegedly hold the bloodied knife. The story brings the viewer face to face with the chilling reality of domestic abuse and the underlying societal issues that often dictate the course of justice. The cloak of "closed doors" can hide a multitude of sins, crimes, and injustices, which are often explained away or overlooked. Through its storytelling, the show pushes the audience to question, "Is it really as it appears?".

The central character around whom the series revolves is the accused woman, Anuradha Chandra. Her portrayal builds great intrigue as the viewer grapples with understanding her perspective. She epitomizes a silent victim who opts to stay mum throughout the case proceedings and refuses to defend herself, raising many questions. The character showcases the societal conditioning of accepting wrongs in the marriage and maintaining the family's reputation at all costs.

The show introduces a young, earnest lawyer, Madhav Mishra, who not only fights for Anuradha in the court but gradually becomes the voice against the prevailing patriarchal attitudes and societal biases. Mishra's dedication to unravelling the truth, his continuous struggle with his moral compass in the face of blatant injustices, and his witty remarks add multiple layers to the storyline. As the audience, you travel with Madhav in his quest to uncover the truth, empathize with his commitment, admire his tenacity, and understand his occasional skepticism and vulnerability.

In addition to having engaging characters that connect with the viewers, Criminal Justice: Behind Closed Doors is remarkable due to its realistic screenplay. Each character and each dialogue is carefully written, maintaining a strong cultural relevance to the Bengali ethos. However, unlike some traditional dramas, this contemporary series does not shy away from delving deep into the societal norms, the legal system's loopholes, or the blatant discrimination against women. Instead, it portrays it with authenticity, boldness, and sensitivity, making it a powerful narrative.

The series also stands out for its pristine portrayal of the legal proceedings. It demystifies the judicial process, revealing the complex dynamics not only within the court but also within the defense team, the prosecution, and the jail where Anuradha is held. From aggressive investigation sessions, heated courtroom exchanges, to the subtle politics of the prison, the series provides a raw, unfiltered glimpse into the gritty reality of the Indian justice system.

There are strong subplots running parallel to the main narrative, including the challenges faced by Madhav in his personal life, the plight of the victim's teenage daughter, and the complexities of marital relationships in general. These subplots are well-integrated and contribute to the overall emotional gravity of the series.

Criminal Justice: Behind Closed Doors brings forth exceptional performances from its star-studded cast, delivering emotionally charged and impactful moments throughout the series. The deft direction, detail-oriented scripting, excellent dialogues, and the spine-chilling background score enhance the overall viewing experience.

Overall, Criminal Justice: Behind Closed Doors is a brave departure from traditional, 'safe' narratives. It is a riveting reiteration of the timeless adage: truth is often stranger than fiction. It's a must-watch for those fond of courageous storylines, edge-of-the-seat thrillers, and crime dramas as an ode to the spirit of resilience, a stand against the injustice and an appeal for a more compassionate society. Even though the story is placed within the Bengali cultural milieu, its emotionally gripping narrative succeeds in transcending regional boundaries.