Put on your seatbelt and get ready for a tantalising journey into the bold and riveting realm of Lust Stories 2, the highly acclaimed second instalment that has taken the world by storm. Consisting of four enthralling tales meticulously crafted by a troupe of esteemed directors, the anthology fearlessly explores the depths of human desire and the myriad complexities surrounding it. It also makes you want to indulge in conversations that push the boundaries of societal norms. Still pondering whether to embark on this riveting adventure? Allow me to offer a glimpse into each story and why you should watch it.
1. Made for Each Other – R Balki
Directed and co-written by R. Balki (known for films like “Paa” and “Cheeni Kum”), the first segment features a spirited grandmother portrayed by Neena Gupta. In this story, the dadi believes that her granddaughter (played by Mrunal Thakur) should only marry her boyfriend (Angad Bedi) if they are sexually compatible. As a result, the young couple must convince their dadi that they can pleasure each other in order to proceed with their relationship.
This story would surely make half of the population of the country faint. Sex before marriage? Sex just for pleasure and not procreation? Should sex go hand in hand with love and compatibility? Should love and sex come after being married (especially in arranged marriages)? These are the ‘scandalous’ questions Neena Gupta forces two different generations to consider. I felt the entire story was well-directed and successfully conveyed its message through cute, yet too simplistic conversations between the Neena Gupta and Mrunal Thakur.
However, there is a scene in which the dadi expresses her belief that as long as the couple remains deeply connected through a strong sexual bond, nothing can come between them. I think it is important to note that this perspective portrayed in the film may not fully capture the complexities of relationships, including sexually toxic dynamics, breakup sex, or actual sex addiction. It’s essential to approach such portrayals in films with a critical lens and understand that they may not encompass the full range of experiences and nuances in real-life relationships.
2. The Mirror – Konkana Sen Sharma
This short film has been making the rounds for being a great watch, and justifiably so. In Konkona Sen Sharma’s “The Mirror,” Ishita (Tillotama Shome) returns home due to a migraine and unexpectedly finds her domestic worker, Seema (Amruta Subhash), having sex on her bed. Embarrassed and disgusted, Ishita runs out and later confides in her friend, Sameera. Unable to confront the situation, Ishita struggles with intimacy and experiences emotional turmoil.
In “The Mirror,” the mirror itself serves as a powerful metaphor and symbol. It represents a space of vulnerability and authenticity, where nakedness takes center stage. The film explores voyeurism that evolves into self-reflection and personal ownership. It challenges conventional perceptions of women’s sexuality by presenting a genuine, raw, and honest depiction. By peeling away societal expectations, “The Mirror” reveals a diverse spectrum of desires.
I absolutely loved the direction and was shocked to know Konkana Sen Sharma is the director. Is there anything that woman cannot do?
3. Sex with the Ex – Sujoy Ghosh
This one is an absolute favorite for many on the internet, and for an obvious reason – it features two of the top trending actors of our time: Tamannaah Bhatia and Vijay Varma. And boy, oh boy, they do not disappoint you. The story, the chemistry, the plot, the setting, and the acting deserve full points. Vijay plays a role that he owns, and Tamannaah sizzles on screen. The main focal point here is sex with your ex, mixed with a little bit of mystery and suspense.
Varma’s character in Lust Stories 2 is portrayed as an ultra-rich CEO, reminiscent of his roles in Gully Boy and Mirzapur. The story unfolds as his vintage Mercedes crashes into a remote village, where he encounters Bhatia’s character, a former flame. The progression of the plot becomes somewhat predictable yet intriguing. Without giving any more spoilers away, let me just say this part was definitely my favourite and should be on your watch list.
4. Tilchatta – Amit Sharma
This was a surprisingly dark short film. The story and the ending were both unexpected. Set in rural Rajasthan, this short film, directed by Amit Sharma (known for “Badhaai Ho”), features Kajol in the role of a woman who endures daily sexual abuse from her alcoholic husband, portrayed by Kumud Mishra. The film effectively showcases Kajol’s portrayal of an emotionally burdened wife and mother, while Mishra delivers a menacing performance that suits the role.
Amit Sharma is an adept storyteller, skillfully crafting intricate worlds that come alive on the screen. This short film explores the gripping tale of a courageous mother striving to secure a better future for her son, despite the torment inflicted upon her by a deeply troubled individual. The profound statement that she found a fleeting sense of safety within the confines of a brothel, rather than within the opulent walls of a palace, speaks volumes about the complexities showcased in Sharma’s narrative.
In this thought-provoking short film, the climax scene delivers a powerful impact, leaving a lasting impression on viewers. However, it raises unsettling questions about a torturous King’s decision to bring a sex worker into his role as queen. Despite the challenging subject matter, the cinematography and score excel throughout the film. Notably, Kumud Mishra displays his versatile acting skills, making it a noteworthy performance for the actor. Additionally, Kajol’s venture into the world of OTT platforms showcases her willingness to explore new horizons.
My rating:
If you have watched Lust Stories 2 or are planning to, please let me know what you think in the comments below.
◆Khyati Speaks◇ 