Despatch review: Manoj Bajpayee shines, but script misses the mark

What happens when a seasoned actor like Manoj Bajpayee shoulders a film that stumbles with its script? Despatch revolves around Joy Bag, a journalist played by Bajpayee, and explores his personal and professional life. From the outset, the film aims to immerse viewers in Joy’s perspective, but this choice ends up narrowing the narrative rather than broadening its appeal. The character’s complexity -- his moral ambiguity, his relentless pursuit of stories, and his personal flaws -- is brought to life through Bajpayee’s nuanced performance. While Manoj Bajpayee’s performance is undoubtedly the highlight, it cannot compensate for the film’s numerous shortcomings.