Table of Contents
- Plot Summary
- What’s Good?
- Alia Bhatt and Shefali Shah’s Powerful Performances
- Vijay Varma’s Chilling Antagonist
- Direction by Jasmeet K. Reen
- Music and Background Score
- Cinematography and Production Design
- Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strengths
- Weaknesses
- Target Audience
- Box Office Details
- Budget and Collections
- Day-Wise Earnings
- Recommendation
- Genres:
- Rating:
- Cast:
- How is Our Review?
Darlings is a dark comedy-drama film that masterfully blends humor with a sensitive subject. Released on August 5, 2022, on Netflix, this Bollywood gem stars Alia Bhatt, Shefali Shah, Vijay Varma, and Roshan Mathew in pivotal roles. Directed by debutant Jasmeet K. Reen, the movie tackles complex themes like domestic abuse and empowerment, presented with a touch of wit and satire. With a compelling narrative and stellar performances, Darlings has earned its place as a thought-provoking entertainer that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.
Plot Summary
Set in Mumbai, Darlings follows the story of Badru (Alia Bhatt), a young woman trapped in an abusive marriage with Hamza (Vijay Varma). Despite enduring repeated violence, Badru hopes for Hamza’s transformation. Her mother, Shamshu (Shefali Shah), offers unwavering support but also urges Badru to take control of her life. When things spiral out of control, Badru and Shamshu hatch an unconventional plan to seek justice. The film’s narrative is a rollercoaster of emotions, blending moments of laughter with shocking realities, all without revealing too much about the twists and turns that lie ahead.
What’s Good?
Alia Bhatt and Shefali Shah’s Powerful Performances
Alia Bhatt delivers one of her career-best performances as Badru. Her portrayal captures vulnerability and strength in equal measure, making the character’s journey deeply relatable. Shefali Shah shines as Shamshu, bringing both humor and wisdom to her role. Together, their on-screen chemistry forms the emotional core of the film.
Vijay Varma’s Chilling Antagonist
Vijay Varma excels as Hamza, a character that evokes both anger and pity. His nuanced performance ensures that Hamza feels disturbingly real, adding depth to the narrative.
Direction by Jasmeet K. Reen
For her debut, Jasmeet K. Reen delivers a film that balances humor and gravity seamlessly. Her storytelling ensures that the dark subject matter is handled sensitively, while the satirical elements lighten the tone without trivializing the issues.
Music and Background Score
The music, composed by Vishal Bhardwaj with lyrics by Gulzar, complements the narrative beautifully. The songs enhance key moments, while the background score heightens the tension and drama, keeping viewers invested.
Cinematography and Production Design
Anil Mehta’s cinematography captures the bustling essence of Mumbai, while the production design brings authenticity to the film’s setting. The cramped apartments and narrow lanes become integral to the storytelling, reflecting the characters’ lives and struggles.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Engaging Storyline: The film’s unique blend of dark humor and drama keeps the audience hooked.
- Stellar Cast: The powerful performances elevate the film, making even the simplest scenes impactful.
- Themes of Empowerment: Darlings delivers a strong message about resilience and taking control of one’s destiny.
Weaknesses
- Pacing Issues: The second half of the film feels slightly stretched, with some scenes losing momentum.
- Simplistic Climax: While effective, the ending may feel a bit convenient for some viewers, lacking the complexity of the earlier narrative.
- Limited Exploration of Supporting Characters: Roshan Mathew’s character, Zulfi, while charming, could have been given more depth.
Target Audience
Darlings is a must-watch for fans of thought-provoking cinema and dark comedies. It will appeal to viewers who enjoy strong performances and socially relevant themes wrapped in an entertaining package. However, those seeking light-hearted escapism may find the film’s intense subject matter overwhelming.
Box Office Details
Budget and Collections
Darlings was made on an estimated budget of ₹50 crores. Although released exclusively on Netflix, the film generated significant revenue through its streaming rights, reportedly earning ₹80 crores. It was also lauded for its global reach, attracting viewers across different countries.
Day-Wise Earnings
As the movie was a direct-to-OTT release, traditional box office figures are unavailable. However, its massive viewership and positive word-of-mouth established it as one of Netflix India’s most successful films in 2022. Within the first week, the movie gained millions of views, trending in the Top 10 in multiple regions.
Recommendation
Darlings is a bold and refreshing take on serious issues, delivered with wit and emotional depth. Anchored by outstanding performances and sensitive direction, it’s a film that entertains while leaving a lasting impact. Highly recommended for those who appreciate meaningful cinema with a dash of dark humor.
Genres:
Comedy, Crime, Thriller
Rating:
6.9/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Alia Bhatt | Badrunissa Shaikh |
| Shefali Shah | Shamshunissa Ansari |
| Vijay Varma | Hamza Shaikh |
| Roshan Mathew | Zulfi |
| Rajesh Sharma | Kasim Kasai |
| Vijay Maurya | Inspector Rajaram Tawde |
| Kiran Karmarkar | Nagraj Rao Damle |
| Santosh Juvekar | Janardan Jadhav |
| Puja Sarup | Noor |
| Ajit Kelkar | Raman Kaka |
| Sachin Kathuria | Builder |
| Divya Vinekar | Female Constable |
How is Our Review?
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