8.1 / 10 (based on 15666 reviews)
Illegal is a racy legal drama that follows an idealist lawyer, Niharika Singh, taking on her powerful mentor, Janardhan Jaitley in a battle that constantly pushes the line between legal and illegal.
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Main Cast: Neha Sharma, Piyush Mishra, Akshay Oberoi, Satyadeep Misra
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2 seasons, 18 episodes
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In the realm of legal dramas, where the courtroom is often a battleground for high-stakes drama and moral dilemmas, “Illegal – Justice, Out of Order” emerges as a noteworthy entry. This Indian web series, which premiered on Voot in 2020, has carved a niche for itself by offering a fresh perspective on the legal system, its complexities, and the human stories entangled within it.
The Premise
At its core, “Illegal – Justice, Out of Order” is a gripping narrative that revolves around Niharika Singh, played with finesse by Neha Sharma. Niharika is a young, dynamic lawyer who moves from Bangalore to Delhi to work for a renowned legal luminary, Janardhan Jaitley, portrayed by Piyush Mishra. The show delves into various legal cases, ranging from rape to murder, while also unraveling the personal conflicts and ethical dilemmas faced by its characters.
Characters and Performances
The series thrives on the strength of its characters and the performances of its cast. Neha Sharma’s portrayal of Niharika Singh is both compelling and relatable. She brings a certain vulnerability and determination to her character, making her journey from a relatively naive lawyer to a formidable force in the courtroom believable and engaging.
Piyush Mishra, as Janardhan Jaitley, is another standout. His character is layered, often oscillating between being a mentor to Niharika and an antagonist in his own right. The dynamic between these two characters is one of the driving forces of the series, enriched by Mishra’s experienced and nuanced performance.
Supporting characters, including Kubbra Sait as Meher Salam, Akshay Oberoi as Akshay Jaitley, and Satyadeep Misra as Puneet Tandon, add depth to the narrative. Each character is well-defined, with their own set of motivations and challenges, making the story’s universe feel expansive and real.
Legal Cases and Moral Quandaries
One of the series’ strengths is its handling of the legal cases. “Illegal – Justice, Out of Order” does not shy away from exploring complex, sensitive issues. Each case serves not only as a plot device but also as a means to challenge the characters’ morals and ethics. The show does an excellent job of presenting these cases in a manner that is both engaging and thought-provoking, often leaving the audience pondering the fine line between legal justice and moral righteousness.
For instance, the rape case that becomes a central plot point is handled with sensitivity and nuance, highlighting the challenges faced by survivors in the legal system. Similarly, the storyline involving corporate malfeasance raises questions about the ethics of lawyering and the compromises lawyers often have to make.
Realism and Representation
“Illegal – Justice, Out of Order” stands out for its attempt to portray the legal system realistically. While it does take creative liberties, as most dramas do, the show makes a concerted effort to depict the workings of the Indian legal system, the challenges of litigation, and the nuances of legal proceedings.
Moreover, the series deserves credit for its representation of strong female characters. Niharika Singh and Meher Salam are not just token female figures; they are complex characters with their own narratives, strengths, and vulnerabilities. This representation is significant in a genre that has historically been male-dominated.
Criticisms and Areas of Improvement
No show is without its flaws, and “Illegal – Justice, Out of Order” is no exception. Some critics have pointed out that the series occasionally suffers from pacing issues, with some episodes feeling slower than others. Additionally, while the series aims for realism, there are moments where the legal proceedings might feel oversimplified or dramatized for the sake of narrative convenience.
Another area of improvement could be the development of certain supporting characters. While the main cast receives ample attention and development, some of the secondary characters feel underexplored. A more in-depth exploration of these characters could add even more layers to the already rich narrative tapestry of the show.
Conclusion
“Illegal – Justice, Out of Order” is a compelling addition to the legal drama genre. It combines gripping legal cases with deep character studies, set against the backdrop of the Indian legal system. The series shines a light on important social issues, challenges the audience’s perceptions of justice, and provides a platform for strong female characters.
While it may have its flaws, the show’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. For fans of legal dramas, “Illegal – Justice, Out of Order” offers a fresh, engaging, and thought-provoking viewing experience. It’s a reminder of the power of storytelling in highlighting the complexities of the legal system and the human stories within it.