Scam 2003, directed by Tushar Hiranandani, delves into the 2003 Stamp Paper Counterfeiting scandal, a staggering 30,000 crore rupees affair. Drawing inspiration from the book ‘Telgi Scam: Reporter’s Ki Diary,’ the series is now available on Sony LIV. Let’s explore the narrative and assess its strengths and weaknesses.
Synopsis:
Gagan Dev Riar portrays Abdul Karim Telgi, the mastermind behind the stamp paper scam, whose lavish spending on a bar dancer thrusts him into the spotlight. As Telgi gains affluence, politicians and police officers, initially aiding him, turn the tables by demanding escalating amounts for protection. Unbeknownst to Telgi, they plan to make him a scapegoat. The story takes a turn with the kidnapping of a prominent Karnataka star, leading to demands for a hefty ransom. Abdul, at the government’s behest, raises the money, but encounters resistance from a few honest officers.
Highlights:
While the stamp paper scam may not match the fame of the Harshad Mehta Scam, its potential is effectively explored in Scam 2003. The first volume depicts Telgi’s rise to power, while the second installment focuses on his downfall. The personal and family aspects of Telgi are emphasized in Volume 2, enhancing the emotional depth. Notably, Gagan Dev Riar and Sana Aman Sheikh deliver compelling performances, with Sheikh’s character offering insightful reflections on the impact of criminals on their families.
The initial three episodes are engaging, and Gagan Dev Riar excels with his impactful and subtle acting. Mukesh Tiwari also stands out with a solid performance, complemented by Sana Aman Sheikh’s apt portrayal.
Drawbacks:
Despite commendable research efforts, certain developments remain ambiguous, causing confusion for the audience. The pacing slows down in the last two episodes, losing some momentum. Dinesh Lal Yadav’s character, though played well, lacks depth. The ending lacks the desired punch.
Technical Aspects:
Ishaan Chhabra’s music and Stanley’s cinematography contribute decently to the series. The jail sets are well-designed, and production values are commendable. While Tushar Hiranandani’s direction is generally good, the final episodes could have benefited from improved editing.
Conclusion:
Scam 2003 Volume 2 initiates strongly but concludes on an ordinary note. Gagan Dev Riar’s stellar performance enhances the overall appeal, but some aspects could have been better handled to avoid confusion. Despite its shortcomings, the show remains watchable due to its powerful subject and engaging moments.”