After Ep 2's slight stumble, Ep 3 reminds us why The Hunt had us hooked from the start. This is the series firing on all cylinders again.
The investigation picks up serious momentum as the CBI team starts connecting crucial dots. Kukunoor's direction feels more confident here... the pacing issues from Ep 2 are gone, replaced by that taut, documentary-style storytelling that made the opener so compelling. The multiple storylines that felt scattered last episode now weave together with purpose.
Amit Sial continues to excel as Kaarthikeyan, but it's the ensemble work that really shines this time. Sahil Vaid gets more meaningful screen time, and the supporting cast feels more integrated into the investigation rather than just standing around looking official. The Tamil Nadu sequences particularly benefit from this improved chemistry.
What impressed me most? The episode doesn't rush toward easy revelations. Instead, it methodically builds tension through procedural details... the kind of authentic investigative work that separates good true crime from sensationalized garbage. The archival footage integration feels seamless, not forced.
My criticism from Ep 2 about wooden dialogue still applies occasionally, but it's much less noticeable when the overall narrative is this focused. The political pressure subplot that felt artificial before now carries real weight.
The verdict: Ep 3 proves The Hunt's early promise wasn't a fluke. When this series commits to its strengths (authentic procedure, strong performances, and respect for the source material) it's genuinely compelling television.
Bottom line: The Hunt is back on track. If this quality holds, we're looking at something special.
