Pharma review: Grounded, realistic, and deliberately restrained
Pharma review by Kausalya Rachavelpula
Pharma, starring Nivin Pauly in his OTT debut as a lead, is a series that deliberately avoids the usual trappings of mainstream streaming content. In an era dominated by fast-paced narratives, shocking twists and crowd-pleasing “mass” moments, the show opts for a grounded, almost documentary-like approach. It aims to mirror reality as closely as possible, and while this honesty is commendable, it also makes the series a slow and demanding watch.
The narrative follows K.P. Vinod, a medical representative navigating the morally complex world of pharmaceutical sales. Vinod is not introduced as a hero or a rebel but as an ordinary man driven by ambition, responsibility and circumstance. As he becomes increasingly involved in promoting a particular drug, uncomfortable truths begin to surface about its impact on patients. The story unfolds less like a thriller and more like a gradual moral reckoning, focusing on internal conflict rather than dramatic confrontations.
Nivin Pauly delivers a controlled and convincing performance that aligns perfectly with the show’s realistic tone. His portrayal relies heavily on subtle expressions, silences and restrained reactions, reflecting a man torn between career survival and ethical responsibility. There are no loud breakdowns or heroic outbursts, and that choice strengthens the believability of the character. Pauly carries the series with quiet confidence, even when the writing offers limited scope for emotional highs.
What truly defines Pharma is its commitment to realism. The series consciously avoids cinematic exaggeration. There are no punch dialogues, no shocking twists designed to spike adrenaline, and no stylised villains. Even moments that could have been heightened for dramatic impact are deliberately masked or understated. This creative decision reinforces the idea that corruption and moral decay in real life often operate silently, without spectacle. While this makes the show thematically honest, it also strips away the excitement many viewers associate with OTT dramas.
The pacing is the series’ biggest drawback. The story moves at a measured, often sluggish pace, with several scenes stretching longer than necessary. Conversations are repetitive at times, and episodes rarely end on compelling cliff-hangers. While the slow burn helps establish authenticity, it significantly reduces narrative tension. Viewers waiting for a major turning point or emotional payoff may find themselves disengaged, as the series maintains the same subdued rhythm throughout.
The supporting cast delivers performances that are serviceable but not particularly memorable. Most characters exist as functional parts of the system rather than fully explored individuals. While this reflects the impersonal nature of corporate environments, it also limits emotional investment. Stronger character arcs could have added depth without compromising realism.
On the technical front, Pharma maintains consistency. The cinematography is straightforward and unflashy, favouring natural lighting and practical settings. However, where the series truly stands out is its music. The background score by Abjaksh S. and Jakes Bijoy is one of the show’s strongest elements. Subtle yet effective, the music complements the narrative beautifully without overpowering it. The score adds emotional texture to otherwise muted scenes and plays a crucial role in sustaining mood, especially during moments of internal conflict. Instead of forcing drama, the music gently reinforces the unease and seriousness of the subject matter.
Direction-wise, the makers remain faithful to their vision, even when it risks alienating sections of the audience. A tighter edit and sharper pacing could have significantly improved engagement while retaining the show’s grounded nature.
In the end, Pharma is a good series with clear intent, but limited appeal. It is close to reality, sincere in its storytelling and thematically relevant. However, its slow pace, lack of twists and absence of cinematic highs prevent it from becoming truly engaging. This is a show best suited for viewers who value realism and social commentary over entertainment-driven drama.
Pharma may not thrill or surprise, but it stays honest — and that honesty is both its greatest strength and its biggest limitation.
