“Darlings,” a 2022 Hindi-language dark comedy film directed by Jasmeet K. Reen, made waves in the Indian film industry with its impressive cast, witty screenplay, and debut producers. Alia Bhatt, Shefali Shah, Vijay Varma, and Roshan Mathew star in the lead roles of this movie produced by Red Chillies Entertainment and Eternal Sunshine Productions, marking the debut of Gauri Khan as a producer. The film premiered on Netflix on August 5, 2022, and received high praise from critics for its unique approach to storytelling and exceptional performances.
The film revolves around the lives of two married women, played by Alia Bhatt and Shefali Shah, and their quest for survival in a male-dominated society. The story is set in a lower-middle-class neighborhood in Mumbai, where a chain of unexpected events alters their lives forever. The film’s characters are not one-dimensional, but rather layered and nuanced, each with their unique motivations, fears, and desires.
“Darlings” boasts of a talented cast of actors who delivered noteworthy performances in their respective roles. Alia Bhatt is brilliant as the feisty and rebellious protagonist, Meera, while Shefali Shah is exceptional as her more conservative and timid counterpart, Lily. Vijay Varma, who plays Meera’s husband, is a standout, bringing a sense of vulnerability and complexity to his character. Roshan Mathew also deserves credit for his portrayal of Fuddu, a young boy who gets tangled up in the lives of the two women.
Jasmeet K. Reen’s directorial debut in “Darlings” is impressive, considering the film’s overall coherence and style. The film’s pacing is consistent, and its visual style is evocative, enhancing the story’s atmosphere and mood. The screenplay, written by Parveez Sheikh, is sharp, witty, and socially relevant. The film’s themes of women’s empowerment, patriarchal oppression, and class struggle are handled with nuance and sensitivity, making it a thought-provoking and entertaining watch.
“Darlings” received widespread critical acclaim for its exceptional performances, sharp writing, and impressive direction. The film has been hailed as a breakthrough for Bollywood, as it tackles complex social issues without resorting to preachiness or sentimentality. In its opening weekend, “Darlings” garnered more than ten million watching hours, a feat unparalleled for any non-English language original film worldwide. It has cemented its place as one of the most successful and relevant films in recent Indian cinema history.
“Darlings” is a dark comedy film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Its exceptional cast, sharp writing, and impressive direction make it a must-watch for all movie enthusiasts. The film’s success is a testament to the changing landscape of Indian cinema, where fresh voices and innovative storytelling are being welcomed and celebrated. “Darlings” is a breakthrough for Bollywood and a glimpse into the future of Indian cinema.