London Files: A Hilariously Bad Cop Show That’s Almost Unbearably Unwatchable
"London Files," starring Arjun Rampal and streaming on Voot Select, is a cop show so bad, it’s almost entertaining. The series, rife with nonsensical plot twists, wooden acting, and a finale that feels like a bizarre fever dream, is an unintentional comedy goldmine. Join us as we dissect this train wreck of a show and explore exactly what makes it so hilariously awful.
From Unconvincing Cop to Unbelievable Plot: The Fall of "London Files"
"London Files" introduces us to Om Singh (Arjun Rampal), a detective seemingly still clinging to his job at the Met’s Homicide and Major Crimes division despite a personal life in shambles. His son’s tragic past weighs heavily on him, and his own reputation is tarnished, yet somehow, he manages to be pulled into a case involving the disappearance of Maya Roy (Medha Rana), the daughter of media mogul Amar Roy (Purab Kohli).
The series attempts to weave a narrative about xenophobia, class differences, and toxic masculinity, but it feels like these themes are thrown together haphazardly without any real depth or exploration. The writing is riddled with gaping plot holes and illogical decisions, resulting in a narrative that feels utterly contrived and unbelievable.
For example, when Om is investigating a suspect, he inexplicably calls out their name and gives himself away in a blatant attempt to create an episodic cliffhanger. Later, he stumbles upon clues for his current case through sheer coincidence: a bizarre moment where old family items miraculously connect to his investigation. These moments, along with Om’s unconvincing detective work, make you question if the writers even understand the basics of effective storytelling.
The Cast Isn’t Saved by the Script (Actually, It’s The Other Way Around)
Arjun Rampal, as Om Singh, gives a lackluster performance, failing to convey the character’s internal struggles or even a basic sense of professionalism. His portrayal of a troubled detective feels more like a man who just stumbled onto a film set and decided to give it a shot.
Purab Kohli, as Amar Roy, sadly appears only briefly before disappearing from the narrative. Gopal Dutt, who is billed as second lead, feels miscast as a villain, failing to deliver the necessary gravitas. It’s unfortunately clear that even the actors couldn’t salvage this sinking ship of a screenplay.
A Finale That Goes From Bad to Unbearably Bizarre
The climax of "London Files" is a bizarre spectacle of its own. The villain’s grand plan, to threaten to blow up a building unless the government revokes an anti-immigration bill, is as predictable as it gets.
However, the hostage situation itself feels like a scene ripped from an ’80s Bollywood melodrama, as Om and Maya find time for a heart-to-heart conversation while the villain’s brainwashed followers passively watch the drama unfold. The finale culminates in a truly horrendous montage, leaving the audience with the overwhelming feeling that they have witnessed one of the worst things the world of Indian OTT has produced.
In Conclusion: Avoid "London Files" At All Costs
"London Files" is a train wreck of a series. It’s riddled with plot holes, unconvincing performances, and a finale that’s so bad, it’s almost funny. If you’re looking for a well-crafted, compelling thriller, this show is not for you. But if you’re looking for a good laugh at the expense of a truly terrible television experience, then "London Files" might be just the thing for you. Just don’t expect anything more than a collection of hilariously bad moments strung together under the guise of a cop show.
