Netflix to premiere Alia Bhatt-starrer Darlings soon

Alia Bhatt’s maiden film as a producer, Darlings (2022), is being premiered soon on Netflix. Co-produced by Red Chillies Entertainment and Bhatt’s Eternal Sunshine Productions, the feature film, directed by Jasmeet K Reen, also stars Shefali Shah, Vijay Varma and Roshan Mathew.

Earlier this year, during promotions for Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022), the actress had disclosed, “Although nothing is confirmed yet, Darlings will possibly come on OTT.” While she did not confirm the platform, many reports had speculated that the film would arrive on Netflix.

The makers unveiled a humorous video in which the cast tries their best to avoid, and ignore, questions about the film's digital premiere on Netflix.

Reen’s directorial debut is a dark comedy that explores the lives of a mother-daughter duo trying to find their place in Mumbai, seeking courage and love in exceptional circumstances while fighting against all odds.

She stated, “I couldn’t have asked for a better feature film debut — working with a pool of versatile and talented actors has been an absolute pleasure. I am delighted that Red Chillies and Eternal Sunshine are taking the film across the globe with Netflix.”

Bhatt said, “Darlings holds a very special place in my heart, it’s my first film as a producer that too with Red Chillies. We are very proud and happy how the film has shaped up and we hope it will entertain and engage audiences the world over.”

The film also reunites music heavyweights composer Vishal Bharadwaj and lyricist Gulzar.

Gaurav Verma, co-producer and COO of Red Chillies Entertainment, added, “A script nurtured in-house, and later produced with the incredible Alia, and supported by a stellar cast in Shefali Shah, Vijay Varma and Roshan Mathew, helmed by Jasmeet, who has a lot of promise, Darlings is very special to all of us. Gulzarsaab and Vishalji have given soul to the film with the songs. We couldn’t have asked for more.”

Pratiksha Rao, director of films and licensing at Netflix India, said with Darlings, the streaming giant is continuing its long-standing partnership with Red Chillies Entertainment and is excited to be the home for Alia Bhatt’s first production. "Darlings, by debut director Jasmeet K Reen, is a must-watch, a perfect storm of a riveting plot, fresh storytelling brought to life by powerful performances,” she said.

The release date of the feature is yet to be announced. The film went on the floors in July and was wrapped up in September last year.