Netflix’s She (2020) is an Indian crime drama series that combines thriller, psychological drama, and social commentary, created by Imtiaz Ali and directed by Arif Ali. The show was released on Netflix in March 2020 and quickly gained attention for its bold storyline and a strong female lead.
Plot Summary:
The series follows Bhumika Pardesi (played by Shivani Raghuvanshi), a meek, lowermiddleclass woman from Mumbai, who is recruited by the Mumbai police for an undercover operation. Initially working as a constable in a maledominated police force, Bhumika is tasked with infiltrating the criminal underworld. As part of her mission, she is trained to use her femininity to extract information from powerful criminals.
Throughout the series, Bhumika grapples with her own insecurities, sexual exploitation, and emotional turmoil as she begins to discover hidden strengths within herself. Her journey is filled with selfdiscovery, as she navigates her personal vulnerabilities, confronts societal norms, and learns how to embrace her power while infiltrating the dangerous world of organized crime.
Key Themes of She (2020):
1. Female Empowerment & Transformation:
The series is deeply centered on the transformation of Bhumika from a shy, insecure woman to someone who learns to embrace her power and control her circumstances. The show explores how a woman can evolve from being oppressed and objectified to taking control of her own destiny. Her journey is not just external but internal, as she comes to understand her own worth.
2. Social Commentary on Gender & Identity:
One of the key aspects of She is its exploration of gender roles and societal expectations, particularly in a patriarchal society. Bhumika’s dual identity as an undercover agent challenges the typical stereotypes of women in both the criminal and the law enforcement worlds. The show addresses the objectification of women, the limitations imposed by society, and how women can sometimes be forced to use their femininity as a tool to survive or succeed.
3. Crime & Underworld:
Set in the gritty streets of Mumbai, She dives deep into the criminal underworld, portraying the complexity and danger of organized crime. The show highlights the psychological manipulation, corruption, and power dynamics within these circles, as well as the moral dilemmas faced by law enforcement agents.
4. Psychological Drama:
She is a characterdriven show that delves into Bhumika’s psyche. Her emotional and mental struggles are a significant part of the narrative. As she navigates the treacherous world of crime, she faces manipulation, betrayal, and her own vulnerabilities, which makes her arc deeply compelling. The psychological toll of her mission is portrayed vividly through her internal conflicts.
5. Corruption and Deceit:
As Bhumika gets deeper into her mission, she discovers the widespread corruption and moral ambiguity within both the criminal world and the police force. The show examines how the lines between good and evil blur in a world full of deception, power, and greed.
Characters:
Bhumika Pardesi (Shivani Raghuvanshi) – The protagonist, a shy, middleclass woman who transforms into a skilled undercover agent. Her character arc is one of selfdiscovery, strength, and resilience.
Abhay (Vishwas Kini) – A fellow police officer who plays a crucial role in training Bhumika and guiding her through her undercover work.
Jason (Sujoy Mukherjee) – A key antagonist involved in the criminal world. His interactions with Bhumika push her to confront her personal boundaries and desires.
Sandeep (Vijay Varma) – Another pivotal character who plays an important role in Bhumika’s journey.
Cinematography & Aesthetic:
The show adopts a dark, gritty visual style, in keeping with its themes of crime and suspense. The camera work is intimate, often focusing closely on the characters to reflect their internal struggles. The setting, especially the scenes in Mumbai’s chaotic streets, lends an authentic atmosphere to the series, immersing viewers in a world of crime and deception.
Reception:
She was praised for its strong female lead, bold themes, and gripping storyline. Critics appreciated the show for its unique take on crime thrillers, exploring not just the external conflict but also the internal turmoil of the protagonist. The transformation of Bhumika from a vulnerable woman to a confident and empowered agent was widely applauded.
However, some critics noted that the pacing could be slow at times, and while the themes were powerful, the execution could have been sharper in certain areas.
Seasons:
As of now, Season 1 of She has been released on Netflix. The show ended with a cliffhanger, leaving fans eagerly awaiting a potential second season to continue the story of Bhumika and her transformation.
Why Watch She?
Empowering Female Lead: Bhumika’s character is a compelling mix of vulnerability and strength, and watching her evolve throughout the show is deeply satisfying.
Dark and Gripping: The show is intense and filled with suspense, as it explores the complexities of crime, corruption, and identity.
Unique Perspective: She offers a fresh perspective on the traditional crime drama, focusing on the emotional and psychological challenges of its female protagonist in a maledominated world.
Exploration of Identity: The series invites viewers to question societal norms and consider how personal identity is shaped by external forces like gender and power dynamics.
If you’re a fan of crime thrillers with a psychological edge, or stories about the empowerment of women in difficult circumstances, Netflix’s She (2020) is a mustwatch. It’s a show that’s both thrilling and thoughtprovoking, with a standout performance by Shivani Raghuvanshi as Bhumika.
