"Mai" on Netflix: A Mother’s Quest Lost in a Sea of Subplots
"Who killed my daughter?" This question, posed repeatedly by the titular protagonist of "Mai", a new Netflix series, initially serves as a simple reminder of the show’s core premise. However, it soon becomes a poignant reflection of the show’s own shortcomings. "Mai", a dark thriller centered around a grieving mother’s quest for revenge, gets bogged down in a dizzying array of subplots, ultimately losing sight of its central narrative.
A Tangled Web of Misplaced Focus
"Mai" attempts to juggle a plethora of narratives, including a child abandoned at birth, a police officer trapped in a loveless marriage, societal challenges faced by gay henchmen, a brother-sister-in-law rivalry, a cross-state medical scam investigated by a special forces unit, and a former escort with hidden power. This overstuffed approach, particularly for a six-episode series, results in a frustratingly disjointed viewing experience.
A Protagonist Driven by Chance, Not Conviction
Despite the series’ attempt to portray Sheel, played by Sakshi Tanwar (known for her role in "Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii"), as a transformative figure who evolves from a meek housewife to a ruthless strategist, the transformation feels unconvincing. Sheel’s discoveries rely heavily on luck, and her ability to survive perilous situations hinges on plot armor and the incompetence of others. This reliance on chance undermines her agency and leaves viewers questioning her effectiveness as a protagonist.
The Struggle for Character Depth
"Mai" suffers from a lack of depth in its character development, especially those of Sheel and Neelam, played by Raima Sen (credited as Raima Dev Varma). Sheel’s reflection on the loss of her daughter feels jarringly out of place, lacking the emotional resonance it could have had. Neelam, a former sex worker who becomes the mastermind behind the medical scam, remains a shallow and underdeveloped character.
Representation Gone Wrong
The series attempts to address societal issues, but often stumbles in its execution. "Mai" features a mute character, Supriya, played by Wamiqa Gabbi (known for her roles in "Godha" and "Grahan"), who is tragically killed off early on. This choice, along with a depiction of a character on the spectrum used solely as a tool for torture, raises concerns about how the show portrays marginalized communities. The saving grace is the inclusion of gay henchmen, despite their portrayal being far from remarkable.
Unbelievable Plot Points and Frustrating Decisions
"Mai" unravels further with its increasingly ridiculous and illogical plot twists. From the unbelievable way Sheel moves an adult body to the convenient appearance of a dead character’s twin as a new antagonist, the series veers into absurdity. The ludicrous actions of characters, especially in the finale, elicit laughter rather than suspense.
A Series Lost in Its Own Chaos
"Mai" ultimately fails to engage the viewer, leaving them feeling adrift in a swirling narrative with no clear focus or goal. Despite the series’ ambition, its chaotic execution and lack of compelling character development make it a disappointment. If only the creators had managed to focus on the essence of their premise, perhaps "Mai" could have been a powerful exploration of a mother’s grief and pursuit of justice. Instead, it remains a missed opportunity, another entry in the growing list of underwhelming Netflix India originals.
"Mai" is available for streaming on Netflix in India and worldwide since Friday, April 15.
