Watch Hasmukh

Hasmukh is a Netflix original series that premiered in 2020. The comedy-drama show stars the popular Indian comedian, Vir Das in the titular role of Hasmukh Sudiya, with Ranvir Shorey and Amrita Bagchi playing prominent supporting characters. The show opens with Hasmukh, a struggling stand-up comedian from Saharanpur, a small town in the northern part of India, who dreams of making it big in the entertainment world. However, his talent is often overshadowed by his extreme stage fright and nervousness, which ruin his performances. He idolizes his boss and mentor, Jimmy, played by Ranvir Shorey, who is a successful comedian in Mumbai. Jimmy's success motivates Hasmukh to pursue his dreams and move to Mumbai, the city of dreams.

Once in Mumbai, Hasmukh discovers that breaking into the entertainment world is not as easy as it seems. He finds it challenging to book gigs and is often rejected by the local club owners. Determined to succeed, Hasmukh takes a job as a servant in Jimmy's house, hoping to get a break in the industry. However, he is still plagued by stage fright, and his awkward performances draw ridicule rather than applause.

One night, after a particularly abysmal performance, Hasmukh meets a stranger who advises him to channel his anger and frustration into his comedy performances. The stranger tells him that he needs to kill someone every time he wants to perform well on stage. Hasmukh, initially horrified at the suggestion, soon realizes that it works, and he starts to transform into a dark and twisted comedian.

As he becomes more popular, Hasmukh struggles with the duality of his personality, constantly trying to hide his Jekyll and Hyde persona from everyone around him. But as his violence intensifies, his desperation to keep his murderous secret from his loved ones becomes more difficult.

Throughout the show, Hasmukh's story unfolds in a mix of comedy, drama, and suspense. There are some thought-provoking social commentaries among the lighter moments of hilarity. The show's dark humor, combined with an insight into Indian societal structure and the struggle of small-town people trying to make it in a big city, delivers a uniquely compelling watch.

The stand-up performances are an essential part of the storyline, and Vir Das does an excellent job of portraying them. Through his stage presence, posture, and facial expressions, he successfully depicts Hasmukh’s nervousness, fear, and later his rage, aggression, and madness.

The supporting cast is integral to Hasmukh's success in making the audience laugh. Ranvir Shorey stands out as Hasmukh's close friend, who is wholly unaware of his homicidal tendencies. He brings in a lighter tone, a jocular camaraderie, and a guiding mentorship, even though the conversation gets darker as events move along.

Amrita Bagchi plays the role of Hasmukh’s love interest, who is also struggling to make it in the city. She played the role of the anchor and an unwavering supporter for Hasmukh when he is trying to gain confidence and showcase his talent. Her performance is adequately nuanced, delivering the warmth and empathy required of the character.

The series also touches upon the prevalent nepotism in the entertainment industry and the exploitation of newcomers by influential insiders. It highlights the struggle and the emotional burden that comes with the pursuit of stardom while juxtaposing the ethics and morality of a small-town man who takes on the cultural hypocrisy of an urban setting.

In conclusion, Hasmukh is a must-watch show for people who love dark comedies with sociopolitical commentary on the side. The show's blend of comedy and suspense keeps you hooked until the end. It is a fresh and unique take on the trials and tribulations the entertainment industry can bring upon an aspiring artist. It wouldn't be a surprise if you find yourself rooting for the twisted, homicidal comedian that is Hasmukh Sudiya.

Hasmukh is a series that ran for 1 seasons (10 episodes) between April 17, 2020 and on Netflix