‘Pritam and Pedro’ Review: Arshad Warsi Leads Heartfelt Cyber-Thriller

Rajkumar Hirani’s OTT debut blends humor and cybercrime, marking the promising acting arrival of his son, Vir Hirani, alongside veteran Arshad Warsi.

The highly anticipated series Pritam and Pedro premiered on JioHotstar on July 3, 2026. Created and produced by acclaimed filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani, the six-episode cybercrime thriller marks a significant departure from his traditional theatrical roots, bringing his signature blend of emotional storytelling and situational comedy to the digital streaming landscape. The series stars Arshad Warsi as a tech-averse police officer and debutant Vir Hirani as an introverted cyber expert, teaming up to solve a high-stakes kidnapping case in Goa.

A Clash of Generations and Tech

The narrative follows Inspector Pedro Gonsalves (Arshad Warsi), a seasoned "boots-on-the-ground" officer who finds himself relegated to the cybercrime cell as a disciplinary measure. His lack of technological proficiency is contrasted sharply by Pritam (Vir Hirani), a young computer whiz who agrees to assist Pedro in exchange for help retrieving a sentimental recording of his late grandmother.

The plot thickens when the son of a prominent sports minister is kidnapped, plunging the duo into a web of digital surveillance and sophisticated hacking. According to the official series premise, the investigation pits them against a formidable antagonist portrayed by Vikrant Massey, whose character introduces layers of moral complexity that challenge the protagonists' worldview.

Production and Direction

Directed by Avinash Arun Dhaware—known for his acclaimed work on Paatal Lok and Three of Us—the series employs a moody, atmospheric visual style that captures North Goa beyond the standard tourist lens. While the cinematography and performances have received praise, the show’s screenplay, co-written by Rajkumar Hirani, Abhijat Joshi, and Suyash Trivedi, has sparked debate. Critics note that while the series is bolstered by its "feel-good" core, it occasionally leans on familiar tropes and predictable narrative shortcuts.

"The series is a compact comedic cybercrime thriller that manages to balance fun, heart, and a touch of thrill," stated reviewers from major entertainment outlets. The project also features notable cameos from Boman Irani and Sanjay Dutt, further rooting the series in the creative spirit of the Munna Bhai franchise.

Official Sources

• JioHotstar: The official streaming platform for the series.

• Rajkumar Hirani Films: Production entity behind the series.

• Times of India (Entertainment Desk): Provided casting and production updates.

Why It Matters

Pritam and Pedro signifies a notable shift in how major Indian filmmakers are approaching the OTT space, prioritizing character-driven storytelling over high-octane spectacle. For fans of the "Hirani style," the series offers a familiar warmth, while its focus on cybercrime—inspired by Amit Dubey's books Hidden Files and Return of the Trojan Horse—addresses modern anxieties regarding digital security and online exploitation.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Cast: Stars Arshad Warsi, Vir Hirani, Vikrant Massey, Mona Singh, and Boman Irani.

• Creator: Rajkumar Hirani (OTT debut).

• Genre: Cybercrime comedy-thriller.

• Format: Six-episode limited series.

• Setting: North Goa.

FAQ

Is 'Pritam and Pedro' a movie or a series?

It is a six-episode web series streaming on JioHotstar.

Who is the director?

The series is directed by Avinash Arun Dhaware.

Is this Vir Hirani's first acting role?

Yes, Pritam and Pedro marks the full-fledged acting debut of Rajkumar Hirani's son, Vir Hirani.

What is the series based on?

It is inspired by cyber-consultant Amit Dubey's books Hidden Files and Return of the Trojan Horse.

Source: JioHotstar, Times of India, MensXP, NDTV