Watch Darlings

"Darlings," released in 2022, is a riveting Hindi-language dark comedy-drama that brings to light the complex and often under-discussed subject of domestic violence, blended with elements of humor and suspense. Directed by Jasmeet K. Reen in her directorial debut and produced by Gauri Khan, Alia Bhatt, and Gaurav Verma, the film features a talented cast led by Alia Bhatt, along with Shefali Shah, Vijay Varma, and Roshan Mathew in pivotal roles. The movie is set against the backdrop of a bustling Mumbai, encapsulating the lives of its inhabitants with an intense narrative that stretches the boundaries of a traditional Bollywood story.

In "Darlings," Alia Bhatt plays the role of Badrunissa "Badru" Sheikh, a young, spirited woman with dreams in her eyes and love in her heart. Shefali Shah portrays Badru's mother, Shamshunissa, a resilient and caring woman with a sharp wit. They both share a strong mother-daughter bond, providing support and humor in their day-to-day struggles. Their dynamic and chemistry form the backbone of the story, as they navigate the challenges and intricacies of their lives in a congested Mumbai chawl. Shamshunissa has her own share of past sorrows and insights, which adds depth to the narrative and her interactions with her daughter.

Vijay Varma plays the role of Alok, Badru's husband, a man whose charming demeanor masks a darker, volatile side. Badru's love story with Alok starts out with optimism and the promise of lifelong companionship, but as the plot unfolds, the darker aspects of their marriage come into view. The movie does not shy away from the grim realities of domestic violence, and through the lens of Badru's experiences, it aims to shed light on the adversities faced by many women in similar situations. The film grapples with the themes of love, pain, and retribution, questioning the social norms and silence that often surround the issue of domestic abuse.

Adding to the ensemble is Roshan Mathew, playing the character of Zulfi, a mild-mannered and empathetic man who becomes entangled in the lives of Badru and her mother. Zulfi's character provides an interesting contrast to Alok, offering a different male perspective and a fresh dynamic that complicates the central conflict.

Set against the hustle and the cacophony of the city, "Darlings" uses its urbane setting not just as a backdrop but as another character that influences the story. Mumbai’s diversity, local trains, cramped living spaces, and crowded streets become part of the narrative, emphasizing the societal structures and the claustrophobia that can often contribute to the sense of isolation faced by victims of domestic abuse. The film uses this setting to reflect Badru and Shamshunissa's psychological state as they seek ways to cope with their circumstances.

The screenplay of "Darlings" weaves together dramatic tension with unexpected moments of comedy, striking a delicate balance between the seriousness of its themes and the light-hearted moments that portray the resilience of its characters. The dialogues, penned aptly to resonate with the audience, oscillate between impactful and comedic, enabling viewers to connect emotionally with the story's message while also providing some respite through humor.

Alia Bhatt’s portrayal of Badru is praised for its nuance and depth, as she deftly balances vulnerability and strength. Through her character, the film explores the intricacies of an abuse survivor's journey, the dichotomy of love and hurt, and the quest for dignity in a relationship mired in power imbalances. Shefali Shah brings her own brand of charismatic acting to her role as Shamshunissa, reflecting both the heartache and the courage of a mother in a performance that anchors the film with gravity and grace.

Vijay Varma is convincing as Alok, reflecting the complexities and unpredictability of a character that is central to the narrative. His performance is crucial in portraying the transformation and nuances required by the story, offering a glimpse into the psychology behind his actions without simplifying the severity of the issues at hand.

"Darlings" also tackles the subject of complicity and societal pressures, questioning the role of neighbors, friends, and extended family in perpetuating a cycle of silence and stigma around domestic violence. While sparking conversations about accountability and justice, the movie does not offer easy answers, instead prompting viewers to reflect on the societal change needed to address such pervasive issues.

The film's cinematography captures the essence of Mumbai while adding to the emotional undertone of the scenes. The aesthetics, production design, and music of "Darlings" complement its storytelling, setting the tone for a cinematic experience that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

Overall, "Darlings" is lauded for its bold narrative choice, the performances by its stellar cast, and its ability to combine drama with dark humor while discussing a sensitive topic. The film is a significant addition to the Indian cinema landscape, offering more than just entertainment; it's a conversation starter that pushes boundaries and encourages dialogue on critical social issues. With its potent mix of storytelling and social commentary, "Darlings" is a film that invites reflection long after the credits roll.

Darlings is a 2022 comedy with a runtime of 2 hours and 14 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.