Watch The Indian Detective

The Indian Detective is a four-part Netflix series that features Russell Peters as Doug D’Mello, a police officer in Toronto. The series is both a drama and a comedy with a mix of Bollywood-styled song and dance routines. The story is about Doug, a cop who loves to crack jokes and lives in his own world. One day, while on suspension, he gets a phone call from his dad (Anupam Kher) back home in Mumbai. His dad needs his help to solve a murder case that the Mumbai police has filed away as a suicide.

Doug arrives in Mumbai and starts investigating the case, not realizing how deeply he will get involved. He discovers that the victim was about to expose a corruption scandal that involved his dad’s shady business dealings. Along the way, Doug meets a feisty lawyer named Priya (Mishqah Parthiephal) who provides him with some help and a lot of love interest.

As he investigates deeper, Doug uncovers a complex web of corruption and the involvement of the Mumbai police force in a dangerous drug cartel. The case takes him to different parts of the city and gets him embroiled in situations that he is ill-equipped to handle. His journey also helps him connect with his roots and understand his father better.

The Indian Detective works well as a comedy as well as a fish-out-of-water drama. Set in Mumbai, the series provides an insight into the city’s multi-faceted complexities - from its unrelenting traffic to its crowded bazaars.

Russell Peters, known worldwide for his stand-up, does a good job as Doug, the wise-cracking detective who is quick with a retort. But, at times, his performance feels forced, and he appears to be trying a bit too hard to be funny.

Anupam Kher as Doug’s dad brings gravitas to the role, and his scenes with Peters are particularly effective. He gives a nuanced performance as a man caught between his corrupt business practices and his love for his son.

Mishqah Parthiephal provides a love-interest subplot and has good chemistry with Peters. She plays Priya, a smart, independent lawyer who becomes embroiled in the case with Doug.

The show is shot well, and the colors of Mumbai provide a beautiful backdrop to the action. The music, too, is a strong point, combining Bollywood and Western musical styles to create a unique soundtrack.

The Indian Detective is a welcome change from the usual serious police dramas, and its humor and warmth make for an enjoyable watch. While not without its flaws, it is a fun and entertaining ride.

The Indian Detective is a series that ran for 1 seasons (4 episodes) between November 23, 2017 and on Netflix