Netflix’s The Bastards of Bollywood, directed by Aryan Khan in his first venture behind the camera, is a striking exploration of the Indian film industry’s glitz, grit, and grim realities.
Initially teased with a censored title, The Bads of Bollywood, the series saves the full reveal of its provocative name for the finale—a clever move that mirrors the show’s bold, unapologetic spirit.
This review delves into the series’ strengths, weaknesses, and its significance as a debut project that dares to critique Bollywood from within.
A Promising Directorial Debut
At the helm of The Bads of Bollywood, Aryan Khan demonstrates a directorial vision that feels both confident and mature.
For a first-time filmmaker, his command over pacing, tone, and visual storytelling is remarkable.
The series moves at a brisk pace, with episodes that rarely linger on unnecessary subplots or bloated drama—a common pitfall in many streaming shows.
Each frame feels deliberate, with Khan’s direction exuding a clarity that keeps viewers hooked.
Khan’s stylistic choices are evident in the show’s slick production values.
The cinematography captures the duality of Bollywood: the dazzling premieres and star-studded parties juxtaposed against the gritty, behind-the-scenes power struggles.
The use of vibrant colors for glamorous settings contrasts sharply with muted tones in scenes depicting the industry’s darker side, creating a visual narrative that complements the story.
The soundtrack is another standout feature. The songs, carefully curated and composed, enhance the emotional weight of key scenes.
The background score, in particular, elevates moments of tension and drama, giving the series a polished, cinematic feel.
Khan’s ability to integrate music seamlessly into the narrative shows an understanding of Bollywood’s soul, where music often drives storytelling.
Cameos are a highlight, with Emraan Hashmi’s appearance stealing the show.
His brief but impactful role adds authenticity and star power, serving as a nod to Bollywood’s self-referential culture.
Other cameos, sprinkled throughout the series, keep the audience engaged, offering moments of delight that break the intensity of the central plot.
A Story That Cuts Deep
At its core, The Bastards of Bollywood is a commentary on the Indian film industry’s inner workings.
The storyline follows a group of characters navigating the treacherous waters of Bollywood, where talent often takes a backseat to connections, lineage, and power plays.
The series tackles themes of nepotism, the marginalization of outsiders, and the cutthroat competition among producers vying for control.
The plot, while not entirely original, is executed with enough flair to feel fresh. It follows a young, ambitious outsider trying to break into the industry, only to face systemic barriers erected by entrenched insiders.
Subplots involving rival producers, fading stars, and manipulative agents weave together to create a tapestry of ambition, betrayal, and resilience.
The narrative doesn’t shy away from exposing uncomfortable truths, such as the industry’s favoritism toward star kids or the exploitation of aspiring actors.
The climax is a standout, delivering a resolution that is both unexpected and thought-provoking.
Without giving spoilers, it’s safe to say that Khan takes risks with the ending, opting for a bold, unconventional approach that lingers with viewers long after the credits roll.
This choice elevates the series beyond a typical drama, giving it a weight that resonates.
Thematically, The Bastards of Bollywood is fearless. Khan doesn’t pull punches when critiquing Bollywood’s power dynamics.
The show highlights how opportunities are gatekept by a select few, how egos drive decision-making, and how the industry’s glamorous facade hides a ruthless underbelly.
For a debut project, this level of candor is impressive, especially considering Khan’s own background as the son of a Bollywood icon.
His willingness to shine a light on these issues suggests a filmmaker unafraid to challenge the status quo.
Performances That Anchor the Series
The ensemble cast delivers performances that range from solid to exceptional.
Raghav Juyal and Rajat Bedi are the heart of the series, bringing depth and authenticity to their roles.
Juyal, in particular, shines as a struggling outsider, balancing vulnerability and determination with nuance. Bedi’s portrayal of a seasoned industry player is equally compelling, capturing the cynicism and cunning required to survive in Bollywood.
Manoj Pahwa adds gravitas to the series with a performance that grounds the more dramatic moments.
His character, a veteran with a complex moral compass, serves as a bridge between the old guard and the new generation.
Bobby Deol and Lakshya Lalwani, while effective, don’t fully transcend the limitations of their roles. Their performances are competent but occasionally feel overshadowed by the stronger supporting cast.
The cameos, led by Emraan Hashmi, are a highlight. Hashmi’s natural charisma and screen presence make his scenes crackle with energy.
Other guest appearances, while brief, add flavor and keep the series rooted in Bollywood’s star-driven culture.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its strengths, The Bastards of Bollywood isn’t without flaws. Some subplots feel underdeveloped, failing to deliver the emotional depth they aim for.
For instance, a subplot involving the funeral of the protagonist’s father is meant to be a pivotal moment but lands flat due to rushed pacing and lackluster dialogue.
This scene, which could have added emotional weight, feels like a missed opportunity.
The dialogue, while sharp in places, occasionally stumbles. Some lines come across as forced or overly expository, disrupting the natural flow of conversations.
The heavy use of cuss words, intended to convey the industry’s raw edge, feels gratuitous at times.
Instead of enhancing the realism, the profanity sometimes distracts from the storytelling, coming off as an attempt to shock rather than a natural extension of the characters’ voices.
Certain narrative threads also feel shallow. While the series tackles big themes, it doesn’t always dive deep enough into the personal struggles of its characters.
For example, the emotional toll of rejection and failure on aspiring actors is touched upon but not fully explored, leaving some moments feeling surface-level.
A Confident Step Forward
Despite these shortcomings, The Bastards of Bollywood is a commendable debut for Aryan Khan.
The series balances style and substance, offering a visually engaging and thematically bold take on an industry that is both revered and reviled.
Khan’s ability to craft a cohesive narrative while juggling multiple characters and subplots speaks to his potential as a filmmaker.
The show’s willingness to critique Bollywood from an insider’s perspective is its greatest strength.
It doesn’t just tell a story—it holds a mirror up to an industry that often prefers to hide its flaws behind a veneer of glamour.
For viewers interested in the politics of filmmaking, the struggles of outsiders, or simply a well-crafted drama, this series delivers.
Final Verdict
The Bastards of Bollywood is not a perfect series, but it doesn’t need to be. Its strengths—sharp direction, a bold climax, strong performances, and a willingness to tackle tough themes—far outweigh its weaknesses.
Aryan Khan has announced himself as a filmmaker to watch, blending youthful energy with a keen understanding of Bollywood’s complexities.
Whether you’re a cinephile, a critic of the industry’s nepotism, or simply looking for an engaging drama, The Bastards of Bollywood is worth your time.
It’s a series that entertains, provokes, and leaves you eager to see what Khan does next.
Rating: 4/5