Monica, o my darling has obvious twists but successfully pays an ode to the 70s

Monica, O My Darling doesn't quite match the grit of a film like Sriram Raghavan's Andhadhun but doesn't completely fall flat too. Titled based on lines of the blockbuster Hindi track Piya Tu, the movie successfully creates a fabulous Indian drama crazy note. The movie directed by Vasan Bala previously known for Mard Ko Dard Ni Hota and 83, and starring Rajkumar Rao, Huma Qureshi and Radhika Apte is now streaming on Netflix. With thrill, music and full-on drama, Monica, O My Darling can be a good weekend watch.

This 2 hours 10 mins movie has a lot going on which can leave you baffled at times but leaves you smiling at the end. The director creates a vibrant set. There is a hint of old Bollywood which particularly impresses you. The stars of the film Rajkummar Rao, Huma Qureshi, and Radhika Apte have given a good performance which can be one of the reasons to watch the film.

However, the story of the film written by Yogesh Chandekar is great but could not be justified completely on celluloid. The experience is like you take someone on a very interesting and mysterious journey and leaving them in the middle. The twist and turns are obvious but the created vibe still entertains you.

The film revolves around Jayant Arkhedkar (Rajkumar Rao) who comes from a small town with big dreams. As the usual role of Rajkumar Rao, he is a man against whom the conspiracy is being plotted from all sides. The story shows how he wants to rise in his status at any cost. At any cost means signing a 'murder agreement' too. The ambitious man Jayant has an affair with the secretary, Monica (Huma Qureshi). Monica holds many such secrets of many men in the office and blackmails them for money.

Nevertheless, Huma Qureshi is an absolute eye candy in the film. As Vasan has kept the touch of the 70s in the film, Monica is dressed in beautiful glamorous gowns. The sassiness of Huma in the film says a lot. Although she was given limited screen time she spread her magic in that. The actor is talented and should be explored more. As always, Raj Kumar Rao has brought a good performance demanded by the character.

Moreover, Radhika Apte plays a corrupt cop in the film who is also a delight on screen. The film also has an amazing cast of Sikander Kher, Sukant Goel, Akansha Ranjan Kapoor, and Zayn Marie.

The film doesn't have a mind-blowing mystery but it does have some turns which you cannot guess. I will not go into details otherwise it will end up with spoilers. It can be a good weekend one-time watch. It may leave you a little confused but every murder mystery cannot be award-winning.