Netflix’s Ajeeb Daastaans explores relationship complexities

Netflix has launched the trailer for its new anthology film ‘Ajeeb Daastaans’. It will come out on April 16.

The diverse cast includes Fatima Sana Shaikh, Jaideep Ahlawat, Armaan Ralhan, Nushrratt Bharuccha, Abhishek Banerjee, Konkana Sen Sharma, Aditi Rao Hydari, Shefali Shah and Manav Kaul.

Shashank Khaitan, Raj Mehta, Neeraj Ghaywan, Kayoze Irani each helm a short film in the four-part anthology film produced by Dharma Productions’ digital arm ‘Dharmatic’.

The official description by the platform for Ajeeb Daastaans reads:

“Ajeeb Daastaans is an anthology of four strangely contrasting stories which delve into fractured relationships and unexplored spaces. The stories set in varied milieus, explore jealousy, entitlement, prejudices and toxicity, which are often entangled within the heart of their relationships.

“Each story also takes you on a journey where one would struggle with the moral dilemma of what’s right and what’s wrong, as the lines between them get blurred.”

In a recent event, each director talked about their respective short film in the anthology:

Shashank Khaitan: “My film Majnu explores the dynamics of three characters, their interpersonal relationships and how they keep evolving with each scene. Jaideep, Fatima and Armaan’s characters all want love on their own terms and the space to express themselves but are trapped within the norms of society, much like a lot of people around us.

“Working on a predefined theme about flawed relationships was a unique experience for me as this is the first time I made something so unusual yet realistic.”

Raj Mehta: “Khilauna was made with the intention of bringing an unexpected storytelling experience to the audience. The story and the title itself, might have different interpretations for each viewer and that is what makes it exciting. Nushrratt, Abhishek and Inayat have this multi-dimensional relationship which adds depth to the film.

“We have presented imperfect characters, much like real life with no clear blacks or whites. It is entirely on your perspective and hopefully the film will leave audiences feeling perplexed yet entertained!”

Neeraj Ghaywan: “Geeli Pucchi explores the intersectional realities of two women from disparate worlds. They are both longing for an emotional connection which they end up finding in one another.

“It was truly inspiring to see Konkana and Aditi bring these characters and their relationship to life. Geeli Pucchi is a complex ride of emotions and I am very excited to see the audience’s reaction to it.”

Kayoze Irani: “Ankahi is all about emotions – those that can be expressed and those that are left unsaid. What attracted me to the film was the fact that communication doesn’t need to be verbal and a lot can be said without words. Manav and Shefali were a treat to direct and they lift the entire storyline.

“It’s an amazing feeling when lines written on paper transform into a beautiful vision because of fabulous acting and chemistry. The sense of fulfilment after completing a film is immense and I can’t wait to share it with the audience.”

Here’s the full trailer of Ajeeb Daastaans:


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