Darlings

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*Darlings* blends domestic noir with dark comedy to deliver a thought-provoking morality tale on domestic violence. The film highlights how normalized abuse often goes unnoticed, with society turning a blind eye to it. This undercurrent is brought to life through the story of Badrunissa "Badru" Shaikh (Alia Bhatt) and her abusive husband, Hamza Shaikh (Vijay Varma), set primarily in their modest chawl home.

Initially romantic and forgiving, Badru endures repeated physical and emotional abuse, believing her love can change Hamza. Her mother, Shamshunissa (Shefali Shah), however, remains skeptical, urging Badru to leave. A tragic incident finally shatters Badru’s illusions, leading her to take matters into her own hands. What follows is a spiraling narrative that explores the dangers of revenge and the moral dilemmas of fighting back against oppression.

The film doesn’t delve into revenge porn but instead asks: Does vengeance make us as monstrous as the abuser? This message, coupled with the psychological scars of abuse, elevates the narrative beyond a simple tale of retaliation.

The performances are the film’s backbone. Alia Bhatt captures Badru’s journey from a submissive wife to a determined woman with remarkable depth. Shefali Shah complements her with equal finesse, portraying a mother’s pain and resilience. Together, they create a relatable and emotionally charged dynamic. Vijay Varma delivers a chilling performance as the manipulative and remorseless Hamza, embodying the textbook abuser. The supporting cast, including Roshan Mathew as the mysterious Zulfi and Vijay Maurya as the confused inspector, adds layers to the story.

The film’s confined setting—the cramped chawl—enhances the tension while providing an intimate backdrop for the drama. Moments of absurdity punctuate the narrative, adding a surreal charm that underscores the dark humor.

**Verdict**: *Darlings* deftly balances humor and hard-hitting social commentary, making it a gripping watch. Anchored by stellar performances and a strong message, it offers a nuanced take on domestic violence and the moral complexities of justice.