01 October,2026 10:49 PM IST | Mumbai | Aakruti Bagla
Drishyam 3 movie review (Pics/Special Arrangements)
Abhishek Pathak returns with Drishyam The Conclusion, billed as the final chapter of the franchise. With Ajay Devgn reprising his role as Vijay Salgaonkar, the film raises the stakes as the family faces another threat. As the mystery deepens and the pressure mounts, the big question is whether this finale can live up to its predecessors? Let's find out.
The mystery surrounding Sameer Deshmukh's death continues to haunt the Salgaonkar family, with Meera Deshmukh (Tabu) still consumed by grief and revenge. Enter SP Crime Branch officer Rajveer Singh Tomar (Jaideep Ahlawat), who finds concrete evidence against Vijay Salgaonkar (Ajay Devgn) and reopens the case, leaving even Vijay baffled. His allies Raghu Nayak and Savio are also caught by the police, tightening the pressure on the family. As Tomar pieces together the missing links, Vijay faces his biggest challenge yet. Will he finally get caught, or will he find another way to outsmart the system?
The biggest strength of Drishyam The Conclusion is how it keeps the uncertainty around Vijay alive throughout the narrative. As Saurabh Shukla's Murad aptly puts it, "Vijay kya karega, kya nahi, ye ya toh woh jaanta hai ya Allah." The line perfectly captures how seldom anybody can riddle out the mystery reveal the makers have in store for us.
Abhishek Pathak largely delivers on the promise of a crisp, engaging and twist-filled thriller. The narrative is packed with serpentine turns, with several applause- and whistle-worthy moments leading up to a satisfying climax. Pathak keeps the tension simmering while ensuring the intrigue does not dip.
The confrontation scenes are among the film's highlights, with the writing and performances keeping the exchanges engaging. The music stays in sync with the film's grim mood, while moments of humour are cleverly woven into the otherwise tense narrative.
Ajay Devgn slips effortlessly back into Vijay Salgaonkar's skin, bringing the character's calmness, maturity, vulnerability and quiet determination to life, often letting his eyes do the talking.
Jaideep Ahlawat makes a strong addition to the franchise as Rajveer Singh Tomar. His sharp characterisation and commanding performance make him a scene-stealer, particularly as he closes in on Vijay. Tabu is restrained yet impressive, while Shriya Saran, Ishita Dutta and Mrunal Jadhav as Anu remain dependable in their respective parts.
Kamlesh Sawant as Gaitonde is an absolute highlight, with his sarcasm and impeccable comic timing providing some of the film's most entertaining moments. Prakash Raj, who joins the story as Indrajit Shetty, also makes a strong impact with his powerful screen presence and layered portrayal.
However, the film does have its share of shortcomings. Ishita Dutta's presence feels largely inconsequential to the plot, despite her character remaining an important link to the case. She is given very little to work with. The lack of a serious confrontation or even sustained eye contact between Tabu and Ajay Devgn also feels like a missed opportunity.
Drishyam The Conclusion delivers the twists, tension and performances expected from the franchise, culminating in a climax that largely makes the ride worthwhile. As Jaideep Ahlawat's Rajveer says, "Is kahani pe sequel bana, blockbuster hogi," a line that neatly sums up the film's mood.
