Detective Sherdil (2025) Movie: Diljit’s Budapest Mystery Falls Short of Expectations

Diljit Dosanjh steps into detective shoes for this new ZEE5 release that promises mystery and laughs. The movie brings together Diana Penty, Boman Irani, and Ratna Pathak Shah in what should be an engaging whodunnit.

Ravi Chhabriya directs this murder mystery set against Budapest’s beautiful backdrop. While the international location looks stunning, the story itself struggles to match the visual appeal.

Plot and Story Structure

Our hero investigates a wealthy businessman’s death in Budapest’s scenic streets. The victim is telecom mogul Pankaj Bhatti, whose murder sets the mystery in motion.

I expected twists and turns that would keep me guessing. Instead, the plot feels predictable with obvious clues scattered throughout the runtime.

The story tries mixing Indian humor with European mystery elements. This combination could work brilliantly, but here it feels forced and disconnected.

Budapest serves as more than just pretty scenery in theory. In practice, the location doesn’t add much beyond tourist brochure visuals.

Acting and Character Development

Diljit brings his usual likeable personality to the detective role. However, I noticed his character lacks the depth needed for a convincing investigator.

His comedy timing works in some scenes but feels restrained elsewhere. The script doesn’t give him enough material to showcase his natural flair.

Diana Penty gets limited screen time and even less character development. Her role feels like an afterthought rather than an integral part.

Boman Irani and Ratna Pathak Shah provide solid support when given chances. Their experience shows, but the writing doesn’t utilize their talents fully.

Direction and Production Quality

Chhabriya’s direction lacks clear vision about what kind of movie this wants to be. Sometimes it’s comedy, other times serious mystery, rarely both successfully.

I found the tone shifts jarring and unprofessional throughout the viewing experience. Good directors maintain consistent atmosphere, which this film clearly misses.

The cinematography captures Budapest beautifully with sweeping shots of historic architecture. Technical aspects like sound design and editing feel adequate but uninspired.

Production values suit the streaming platform release without feeling cheap. Costume design and set decoration support the international setting reasonably well.

Strengths and Major Weaknesses

Diljit’s screen presence remains the biggest positive element here. Even when the script fails him, his charisma keeps scenes watchable.

The Budapest locations provide genuine visual treats for viewers. European architecture and scenic beauty create an appealing backdrop throughout.

However, major problems outweigh these positives by significant margins. The writing feels lazy with plot holes and convenient solutions.

I struggled with the film’s identity crisis between comedy and mystery. Neither element gets proper development, leaving both feeling half-baked and unsatisfying.

Critics and Review Roundup

Professional critics haven’t been kind to this ZEE5 release overall. Bollywood Hungama gave it just 2 out of 5 stars for good reason.

OTT Play awarded 2.5 stars while noting the predictable plot. Most critics praise Diljit but criticize everything else consistently.

Hollywood Reporter India was particularly harsh in their assessment. They called it annoying and lacking substance, which feels accurate.

The critical consensus suggests missed opportunities despite strong star power. Reviews consistently mention script problems and directional confusion throughout.

Viewer Reactions and Public Response

Audiences seem divided between Diljit fans and general movie watchers. His supporters appreciate his efforts despite the film’s obvious flaws.

IMDb reviews mention too many unnecessary twists creating confusion. Many viewers expected better from this talented cast combination.

Social media reactions range from disappointed to mildly entertained. Budapest visuals get positive mentions while story criticism dominates discussions.

The direct streaming release probably helped avoid theatrical disappointment. Still, many felt let down by the wasted potential here.

My Final Thoughts

Detective Sherdil had everything needed for success but squanders most opportunities. Diljit’s charm and Budapest’s beauty can’t fix fundamental storytelling problems.

I wanted to like this movie more than I actually did. The concept sounds interesting, but execution falls short of expectations.

This feels like a missed chance to create something special. With better writing and clearer direction, this could have been genuinely entertaining.

For Diljit fans, it’s worth watching once on ZEE5. Everyone else might want to skip this confused mystery-comedy.

Rating: 2/5