The new reality show Rise and Fall, streaming on Amazon MX Player (12 pm, daily) and airing on Sony TV at 10:30 pm, offers a novel format that merges elements of Bigg Boss and The Traitors, but its intricate concept comes across as muddled, at least in the premiere episode.
Host Ashneer Grover, known for his sharp persona on Shark Tank, fails to bring his trademark sass to the show. Instead, his presence on stage feels awkward and uncertain. There are several moments when he appears ill at ease, especially during heated exchanges among contestants, making one wonder whether he ever grasped the role he was meant to play.
Contestants Shine, But Some Seem Lost
The lineup of 15 contestants boasts varied and strong personalities: Kiku Sharda, Arjun Bijlani, Dhanashree Verma, Kubbra Sait, Aahaana Kumra, Aditya Narayan, Pawan Singh, Anaya Bangar, Akriti Negi, Noorin Sha, Bali, Aarush Bhola, Arbaaz Patel, Nayandeep Rakshit, and Sangeeta Phogat.
Yet, the ensemble’s vibe is inconsistent. While some participants are outspoken and scheming, others appear passive, seemingly confused or content following the majority. The effect is a skewed energy that lacks balance.
Unscripted Interactions Are a Plus
One of the program’s strongest suits is its unscripted feel. The interactions among contestants come across as genuine and spontaneous, suggesting an absence of producer-led dialogues or prompts. This authenticity adds a refreshing dimension to the format.
Additionally, the show’s distinct concept and the presence of bold contestants hint at potential: the premise could carve out a space in the crowded reality-television landscape. But clarity and pacing remain key for long-term audience engagement.
A Slow Start and an Overcomplicated Concept
On the downside, Rise and Fall suffers from a sluggish opening that risks losing viewers in its complexity. The format, while original, isn’t clearly established. The first challenge, in particular, felt nearly impossible to participate in and came off more as an OTT-driven spectacle than engaging content.
For the show to truly engage, it needs more balance: a fair game where the so-called “rulers” must defend their power, not just judge others. That dynamic could sharpen the competition and deepen viewer investment.
Grover’s Role Needs Sharpening
Ashneer Grover’s involvement could have been a highlight, but instead, it falls flat. His uncertain presence undermines the show’s potential. Hopefully, as the season unfolds, his role will evolve from awkward to authoritative, helping anchor this experiment of a show.
Verdict: A Promising Format That Needs Work
Overall, Rise and Fall teases potential, with its unscripted energy and bold contenders, but it still needs to rise to the occasion. At present, it resembles a worker struggling in the basement, distant from the glamour of the penthouse it hopes to attain.
Viewers will be watching the show at 12 pm daily on Amazon MX Player and later at 10:30 pm on Sony TV to see whether it can transform its complicated concept into a compelling captive-reality hit.
By – Sonali