Poison is an exciting Indian Hindi-language crime thriller web series that premiered on ZEE5 in 2019. With its dark and gritty narrative, Poison takes viewers on a thrilling ride through the criminal underworld of Goa.
Starring Arbaaz Khan, Riya Sen, Freddy Daruwala, and Tanuj Virwani in lead roles, Poison packs a powerful punch with its clever plot twists and strong performances. The 11-episode series has received positive reviews for its fast-paced storytelling, high production values, and engaging characters.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about Poison – from the cast and characters to episode recaps and reviews. Whether you are planning to watch Poison or want to relive the excitement, this is your one-stop destination for all details on the ZEE5 crime thriller. 🕵️
- 1 All About Poison – Plot, Cast & Characters
- 2 Episode Recaps & Review
- 3 Why You Should Watch Poison
- 4 Poison vs Other Crime Web Series
- 5 Poison 2 – What to Expect from Season 2?
- 6 Frequently Asked Questions About Poison
- 6.1 When and where can I watch Poison online?
- 6.2 Is Poison available in languages other than Hindi?
- 6.3 How can I get a ZEE5 subscription to watch Poison?
- 6.4 Is Poison inspired by any real-life events or characters?
- 6.5 Will there be a Season 3 of Poison?
- 6.6 What makes Poison different from other crime web series?
- 6.7 Is Poison suitable for children/family audience?
- 6.8 How have critics rated Poison?
- 6.9 Conclusion
All About Poison – Plot, Cast & Characters
The Gripping Plot
Poison revolves around three main characters – Ranveer, Vikram, and Antonio – whose lives unexpectedly collide in Goa, leading to major upheavals.
Ranveer has just been released from prison after being wrongly convicted. He heads to Goa seeking vengeance against those responsible for his fate.
Vikram is an ambitious DSP aiming to become the next police commissioner of Goa. He sets his sights on capturing the notorious gangster Antonio Verghese who operates from Goa.
As Ranveer, Vikram and Antonio’s paths cross, the plot takes several twists and turns. Murders, mystery, revenge, corruption in high ranks – Poison has all the ingredients of an edge-of-the-seat crime thriller.
Meet the Cast & Characters
Arbaaz Khan as Antonio Verghese – The main antagonist, Antonio is a shrewd and ruthless underworld don based in Goa. His tentacles spread across businesses like casinos, trade, and politics.
Riya Sen as Sharanya – Ranveer’s girlfriend and support system. She stands by him through difficult times and helps him in seeking revenge.
Tanuj Virwani as Ranveer – The protagonist who has just been released from jail and is determined to punish those responsible for his fate.
Freddy Daruwala as Vikram – The ambitious DSP who will stop at nothing to capture Antonio and make a name for himself.
Raghuveer Yadav as Chief Minister Basodkar – The corrupt Chief Minister of Goa who is hand-in-glove with the criminal networks.
Bikramjeet Kanwarpal as DGP Sangram Singh – The Director General of Police who wants to rid Goa of organized crime.
Poulomi Das as Natasha – A bartender who gets entangled in the games between Ranveer, Vikram and Antonio.
Gaurav Sharma as Inspector Nagesh Kamte – Vikram’s subordinate who helps him in the mission against Antonio Verghese.
The supporting cast includes Anil George, Raaghav Chanana, Purnanand Wandekar, Mihir Mishra, and more who deliver commendable performances.
Episode Recaps & Review
Poison has a total of 11 episodes between 20-32 minutes each. Let’s take a look at what happens across the seasons:
Season 1
Episode 1 – The Hunter’s Scent
Ranveer is released from jail after 5 years. He returns to Goa to seek revenge from those who framed him – Antonio Verghese and corrupt minister Basodkar. Ranveer’s girlfriend Sharanya supports him in his mission.
Meanwhile, DSP Vikram also arrives in Goa with the aim of capturing Antonio who has been elusive so far. A thrilling cat-and-mouse game begins.
Episode 2 – The Web
Vikram starts tapping Antonio’s phone lines to trap him. But Antonio is alerted by his sources in the police department. Ranveer struggles to find clues against Antonio and realizes it won’t be easy.
Episode 3 – Shades
Ranveer’s path crosses with Vikram. Both are after the same man – Antonio. Ranveer starts working at Antonio’s casino as part of his revenge plan. Vikram cracks down on Antonio’s drug network.
Episode 4 – Stalking
Ranveer continues to secretly gather evidence against Antonio while working at the casino. Vikram’s marriage runs into trouble as he neglects his wife for work.
Antonio learns that Ranveer is back in Goa and wants to seek revenge. He decides to keep an eye on Ranveer’s activities.
Episode 5 – The Game Begins
The rivalry between Antonio and Ranveer intensifies. Ranveer causes disruption at the casino, leading to losses for Antonio.
Antonio suspects Ranveer’s hand behind casino incidents. He decides to get back at Ranveer through Sharanya. The thriller gets more gripping.
Episode 6 – Tit for Tat
When Sharanya suddenly goes missing, Ranveer realizes it’s Antonio’s doing. Antonio demands that Ranveer back off, or else…
Vikram finds out about Ranveer’s revenge motive against Antonio. He asks Ranveer to cooperate so Antonio can be brought to justice.
Episode 7 – Confession
Sharanya has a narrow escape from Antonio’s trap. Ranveer and Vikram join forces to gather evidence against the crime lord.
Ranveer finds out journalist Rajan knew secrets that can expose Antonio and Basodkar. But Rajan is suddenly murdered.
Episode 8 – The Red Herring
Vikram hits a dead end after Rajan’s death. Ranveer and Sharanya break into Rajan’s apartment searching for clues but find nothing.
Antonio plays mind games with Ranveer by sharing details about events leading to his imprisonment. Ranveer struggles to focus on his goal.
Episode 9 – Checkmate
In a final showdown, Ranveer confronts Antonio with clinching evidence that can nail him. But Antonio still manages to slip away.
Vikram is shunted from the investigation by the corrupt DGP. Antonio looks to be winning until fate turns the tables.
Episode 10 – End Game
With Antonio escaping and no clues left, Ranveer is devastated. But a surprise discovery brings new hope.
In a tense climax, the DSP gets reinstated in the case. Together with Ranveer, they finally defeat Antonio at his own game.
Episode 11 – Poetic Justice
Antonio’s crimes are exposed, he gets arrested along with his accomplices. Ranveer is exonerated while Vikram is hailed as a hero.
Justice is delivered as the corrupt politicians and officials are unmasked. Ranveer can now move on with Sharanya and a clean slate.
Review
With its clever script, crisp editing and slick production design, Poison makes for an entertaining watch. The fast-paced narration keeps you hooked while the myriad twists and turns keep you guessing.
Performances by Arbaaz Khan, Riya Sen, and Freddy Daruwala are first-rate. Their on-screen rivalry, mind games, and vendetta fuel the suspenseful plot. The supporting cast provides able assistance.
Poison scores high on technical aspects as well. The striking visuals, background score, and action sequences enhance the viewing experience. Taut writing and well-etched characters are the hallmarks of this ZEE5 original.
On the flip side, some logical loopholes and predictable tropes prevent Poison from being extraordinary. But despite some flaws, it is still a cut above the average web series fare.
Overall, Poison is a binge-worthy crime thriller with enough masala, action, and drama to keep you thoroughly entertained. It may not break new ground but delivers solid entertainment within the popular genre. Watch it for the performances, production values and an engaging revenge saga.
Why You Should Watch Poison
Here are some key reasons that make Poison a must-watch crime thriller:
- Fast-paced narration – The story moves at a breakneck speed. The 11 episodes fly by quickly with no room for boredom.
- Clever plot twists – Just when you feel you have figured it out, the story takes a surprising turn keeping you hooked.
- Top notch performances – Arbaaz, Riya, Freddy are in top form. Their acting prowess is a highlight of Poison.
- Slick production values – With a big budget and excellent cinematography, Poison looks like a well-made theatrical film.
- Captivating visuals of Goa – The palm-fringed beaches, parties, casinos – Poison uses the exotic locale beautifully.
- Stylish action sequences – Riveting combat scenes choreographed by top action directors.
- Dark, gritty plot – Murders, revenge, corruption make it a gritty crime drama reminiscent of gangster flicks.
- Engaging background score – The pulsating background score by Sanjoy Chowdhury elevates the viewing experience.
So don’t miss out on the enthralling ride filled with crime, action, suspense and drama. Watch Poison today!
Poison vs Other Crime Web Series
Web Series | Where to Watch | Genre | Key Actors |
---|---|---|---|
Poison | ZEE5 | Crime Thriller | Arbaaz Khan, Riya Sen, Freddy Daruwala |
Sacred Games | Netflix | Crime Drama | Saif Ali Khan, Nawazuddin Siddiqui |
Rangbaaz | ZEE5 | Crime Drama | Saqib Saleem, Ranvir Shorey |
Breathe | Amazon Prime | Crime Drama | Madhavan, Amit Sadh |
Mirzapur | Amazon Prime | Crime Thriller | Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal |
Inside Edge | Amazon Prime | Crime Drama | Richa Chadha, Vivek Oberoi |
Abhay | ZEE5 | Crime Thriller | Kunal Kemmu, Elnaaz Norouzi |
While there are several crime web series on online streaming platforms, Poison stands out with its raw action, bold narrative and production values. Along with Sacred Games, it is among the better Indian crime thriller web shows in recent times.
Poison 2 – What to Expect from Season 2?
After the success of its first outing, Poison returned with a second season in 2020. Here’s what viewers can look forward to in Poison 2:
- The second installment will take forward the story of the first season while raising the stakes even higher.
- This time the action shifts to Mumbai from Goa. However, Arbaaz Khan returns as the devious Antonio Verghese along with other main cast members.
- With Antonio escaping punishment earlier, DSP Vikram is more determined to nab him. Their fierce face-off continues.
- New characters are introduced adding more layers to the complex narrative. The entry of a new female lead spices up the proceedings.
- Production values have been scaled up with more stylised action, exotic locations, and expensive sets.
- The background score acquires a more modern, edgy tone in keeping with the urban setting.
- Like season 1, viewers can expect many twists and turns with the plot taking unpredictable routes. Red herrings galore!
- Performances by the ensemble cast continue to be one of the highlights, lending authenticity to characters.
- At 12 episodes, Poison 2 is longer allowing for more in-depth exploration of subplots and character arcs.
With its winning formula of crime, action, drama and suspense, Poison 2 promises to be as entertaining a rollercoaster ride as its prequel, if not better. The stage is set for an even deadlier Poison!
Frequently Asked Questions About Poison
When and where can I watch Poison online?
Poison is available to watch online exclusively on ZEE5. Both Season 1 and 2 can be streamed via the ZEE5 website or mobile app.
Is Poison available in languages other than Hindi?
Poison has been made originally in Hindi. However, it is also available with English subtitles on ZEE5 for non-Hindi audiences. But the primary language remains Hindi.
How can I get a ZEE5 subscription to watch Poison?
You need to purchase a premium subscription on ZEE5 to access all content including Original shows like Poison. ZEE5 offers monthly and yearly subscription packs at reasonable prices starting INR 599 per year.
Is Poison inspired by any real-life events or characters?
Poison is a work of fiction with characters and events imagined by the writers. However, it does draw inspiration from the real underworld crime scenario of Goa and Mumbai.
Will there be a Season 3 of Poison?
After two successful seasons, there have been talks of renewing Poison for a third outing. However, ZEE5 has not officially confirmed Poison 3 yet. If greenlit, Season 3 can be expected to premiere sometime in 2022 or later.
What makes Poison different from other crime web series?
Some unique aspects of Poison that set it apart include:
- Fast-paced, thriller-style narration with many unexpected twists.
- Arbaaz Khan’s portrayal of an eccentric yet shrewd villain.
- The backdrop of Goa’s underbelly instead of the usual Mumbai/Delhi.
- High production values giving it a slick, cinematic appeal.
- Foot-tapping background score that elevates the viewing experience.
- The protagonist being an anti-hero seeking personal revenge rather than a cop.
Is Poison suitable for children/family audience?
Poison has been rated 16+ with some violence, action sequences, mature themes, and occasional use of profanity. As such, parental guidance is advised for viewers under 16 years. Not aimed at children or family audiences.
How have critics rated Poison?
Poison has received mostly positive reviews from critics who praised the performances, direction, and production design. On review aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes, Poison has a healthy 77% ‘fresh’ rating. Most critics agreed it makes for an engaging crime thriller.
Conclusion
With its high entertainment quotient, top-notch production values and solid performances, Poison is one of the better Indian web series in the crime fiction genre.If you enjoy dark, gritty thrillers with ample twists and turns, Poison must be on your watchlist. Watch the series to experience the ominous world of casinos, crime, corruption and vengeance in exotic Goa.Both seasons of Poison are streaming now on ZEE5.