HIT The First Case

[spslf]

**Review Summary: *HIT: The First Case***

*HIT: The First Case*, directed by Dr. Sailesh Kolanu, is a Hindi remake of his own Telugu original, shifting the action from Telangana to Jaipur. It’s a police procedural that meticulously showcases investigative methods, from polygraph tests to narco analysis, while highlighting the advanced forensic facilities available. The story follows Vikram (Rajkummar Rao), a brilliant Homicide Intervention Team (HIT) officer battling PTSD, as he investigates the disappearance of his girlfriend, Neha (Sanya Malhotra), which seems connected to an earlier missing person case.

While the director keeps the narrative engaging with twists, red herrings, and a range of suspects—including a suspended officer, a mysterious divorcee, and even the victim's adoptive parents—the film falters in its execution. The characters feel underdeveloped, with motivations that lack clarity. The friction between Vikram and his colleague is unexplained, and several supporting characters behave inexplicably, weakening the plot. Moreover, Sanya Malhotra’s character, though pivotal, is absent for much of the runtime, and her predicament is never explored.

Rajkummar Rao is the film’s saving grace. He delivers a powerful performance, convincingly portraying Vikram’s emotional turmoil and determination, elevating an otherwise flawed script. His chemistry with Sanya Malhotra is natural, and she brings warmth to her limited role, leaving viewers wishing for more screen time.

The film’s investigative aspects are well-detailed and might appeal to fans of the genre. However, the convoluted storyline and lack of emotional depth detract from its impact.

**Verdict**: *HIT: The First Case* has a strong central performance by Rajkummar Rao and an intriguing premise, but the film’s uneven pacing and shallow characterizations hold it back. Watch it for Rao’s nuanced portrayal, but manage expectations regarding the storytelling.