Rajkumar Hirani’s first OTT production, Pritam & Pedro, is a refreshing cybercrime thriller that combines humor, emotion, and suspense in a compact six-episode format. Directed by Avinash Arun, the series succeeds in delivering an engaging story without overstaying its welcome.
Inspired by the books Hidden Files and Return of the Trojan Horse by Amit Dubey, the show swaps Goa’s postcard-perfect beaches for a gripping crime backdrop.
Story
The series follows Inspector Pedro Gonsalves (Arshad Warsi), an old-school police officer who is reluctantly transferred to the cybercrime department after a professional setback.
His unlikely partner is Pritam (Vir Hirani), a gifted tech enthusiast whose digital expertise perfectly complements Pedro’s instinct-driven policing.
Together, they investigate the kidnapping of a sports minister’s son while uncovering secrets that connect multiple characters through a larger conspiracy.
Performances
Arshad Warsi is the heart of the show, balancing comedy, grief and determination with ease. His chemistry with debutant Vir Hirani is one of the series’ biggest strengths.
Vir Hirani makes a confident acting debut, portraying the socially awkward but brilliant hacker with natural charm.
Mona Singh delivers an understated performance as Stacey, Pedro’s wife, while Vikrant Massey impresses as a morally layered antagonist whose motivations add emotional depth to the narrative.
The series also features memorable cameo appearances by Sanjay Dutt and Boman Irani, reuniting much of the beloved Munna Bhai trio.
What Works
- Tight six-episode storytelling with no unnecessary detours.
- Strong chemistry between Arshad Warsi and Vir Hirani.
- Well-balanced mix of comedy, thriller and emotional drama.
- Relevant social commentary on cybercrime, online gaming and digital safety.
- Beautiful cinematography showcasing a different side of Goa.
Verdict
Pritam & Pedro is an entertaining cybercrime thriller that blends Rajkumar Hirani’s trademark warmth with Avinash Arun’s grounded storytelling. Packed with humour, emotional moments and a meaningful message about the dangers of the digital world, the series offers a satisfying watch from start to finish.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)