Darlings Movie Filmy4wap
Cast:
- Alia Bhatt
- Shefali Shah
- Vijay Varma
- Roshan Mathew
Director: Jasmeet K. Reen
Producers: Alia Bhatt, Gauri Khan, Gaurav Verma
Music Directors: Prashant Pillai, Vishal Bhardwaj, Mellow D
Cinematography: Anil Mehta
Editor: Nitin Baid
Introduction:
Bollywood actress Alia Bhatt takes on a dual role as both the lead and producer in Darlings, a film that made its debut directly on an OTT platform. Let’s delve into how this film fares.
Storyline:
The narrative centers on Hamza Shaikh (Vijay Varma) and Badrunissa Shaikh (Alia Bhatt), who share a deep love that leads them to marriage. After securing a job in the Railway department, Hamza and Badrunissa settle into a modest apartment in Mumbai. However, three years into their marriage, Badrunissa becomes a victim of Hamza’s escalating abuse, fueled by his alcoholism. Despite her mother’s, Shamshunissa Ansari (Shefali Shah), insistence that she should leave or even kill him, Badrunissa clings to the hope of reforming Hamza, believing that having a child might change him. She also dreams of a better life, which Hamza dismisses. As Hamza’s brutality intensifies, Badrunissa faces a crucial decision—can she truly change her husband, or must she take drastic measures? The film unravels as Badrunissa navigates these dire circumstances.
Strengths:
Darlings offers a compelling showcase of Alia Bhatt’s remarkable acting abilities, which she first displayed in Gangubai Kathiawadi. In this film, she masterfully portrays a housewife enduring the torment of domestic abuse, infusing her character with both vulnerability and resilience. Her use of an English accent adds a layer of humor to the otherwise dark narrative.
Vijay Varma delivers a standout performance as the sadistic husband, embodying the role so convincingly that the audience can’t help but despise his character. The film’s dark comedy is skillfully woven into the storyline, enhancing the narrative without overshadowing its serious themes. A notable scene in the police station exemplifies this balance, showcasing the director’s ability to blend humor with the film’s underlying message.
Shefali Shah and Roshan Mathew also shine in their roles, contributing to the film’s emotional depth. Their characters evolve meaningfully as the plot unfolds, adding layers to the story.
Weaknesses:
While the first half of Darlings is strong, the second half loses some momentum. The initial setup creates high expectations, but the latter part of the film doesn’t fully capitalize on this foundation. Certain scenes become repetitive, and Badrunissa’s decision to stay with her husband despite the extreme abuse and her mother’s advice might not resonate with all viewers.
Moreover, the film could have further explored the psychological trauma experienced by the victim, providing a broader perspective on the issue of domestic violence.
Technical Aspects:
The film’s music complements the story, though it isn’t particularly memorable. Anil Mehta’s cinematography is commendable, capturing the mood and setting effectively. The production values are solid, and Nitin Baid’s editing ensures a cohesive narrative flow.
Director Jasmeet K. Reen tackles a sensitive and pressing societal issue with a unique blend of dark comedy. Her approach is thoughtful, avoiding generalizations while focusing on the victim’s perspective. The script includes impactful dialogues, such as a line by Shefali Shah’s character that critiques the superficiality of social media activism, adding a layer of relevance to the modern context.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Darlings is a thought-provoking film that addresses the serious issue of domestic violence with sensitivity and a touch of dark humor. While the latter half could have been stronger, the film is bolstered by exceptional performances from the cast and a well-crafted narrative. It’s a compelling watch for those seeking a meaningful film on OTT this weekend.