Dark comedy-drama does not reach its potential

THE Bollywood film set in a lower middle-class neighbourhood in Mumbai recently premiered on Netflix.

Badru lives with an alcoholic and violently abusive husband. The young woman endures horrific beatings in the hope the man she married will change. Her mother, who lives opposite, thinks she should kill him, but Badru withdraws a police complaint that will end her nightmare and gives him another chance. He quits alcohol and all seems to be going well, until a horrific incident finally pushes Badru over the edge, and she decides to take revenge.

Although the film is billed as a black comedy-drama, there is more darkness than actual funny moments.

The first half is largely filled with the female character enduring beatings, which make it a difficult watch at times. The second half is about the revenge taken by the mother and daughter, with the help of a friend, who makes a surprise revelation.

A stretched-out screenplay and a second half that never quite matches the build-up means Darlings doesn't reach its potential. It is also a film that will likely divide audiences.

On one side, there is questionable messaging, silly musical breaks and unnecessary scenes that break the momentum. On the flipside, there are entertaining moments, some clever touches, great cinematography, and really strong turns from the lead cast. Alia Bhatt is

DARLINGS brilliantly engaging in her role and Vijay Varma delivers an outstandingly believable turn as the evil husband. Shefali Shah is the standout star and adds weight with a solid supporting role, which combines comedy, a strong presence, and drama with effortless ease.

Overall, it's an entertaining enough film, but could have been much more.