My Review: “Lust Stories 2 (2023): A Captivating Dive into Modern Relationships and Desires”
I was filled with anticipation when I discovered that the second installment of this Emmy-nominated movie was available on Netflix. It features four distinct short stories, each approximately 30 minutes long, directed by four renowned Indian filmmakers.
Contrary to what the title implies, this movie offers a unique perspective on contemporary relationships and yearnings that extends beyond mere lust. Let me share my thoughts on each story.
The first story, directed by R. Balki and starring Neena Gupta, Mrunal Thakur, and Angad Bedi, stood out as my personal favorite. It fearlessly tackled the subject of pre-marital sex and explored why sexual compatibility plays a crucial role in fostering a happy and enduring marriage. The grandmother’s wise and amusing advice, including the hilarious reference to “Mt. Fuji,” added an extra layer of intrigue. This story boasted intelligent writing that resonated with me, devoid of any explicit lust. It shed light on the significance of both emotional and physical intimacy in sustaining a successful marital bond, countering the notion that marriage is solely a set of responsibilities.
The second story, helmed by Konkana Sen Sharma and featuring Tillotama Shome and Amruta Subhash, felt like a glimpse into the writer’s imagination. It revolved around the deep desires of a middle-aged, single working woman who accidentally witnesses her maid engaging in an intimate act in her bedroom but chooses to keep it a secret for reasons that become apparent when watching the story unfold. While this scenario may not be commonplace in our everyday lives, I appreciated the superb direction and acting, which lent a realistic touch to the narrative. Despite the inclusion of Marathi dialogues (with subtitles), which might enhance the viewing experience for those familiar with the language, the story presented an intriguing question mark for the audience to ponder upon.
The third story, directed by Sujoy Ghosh and starring Vijay Varma and Tamannaah Bhatia, felt like a product of sheer imagination. Initially, the unrealistic depiction of the landscape and the peculiar circumstances put me off. The protagonist unexpectedly encounters his wife, who had disappeared a decade ago, and they reconnect both emotionally and physically, albeit without delving into the details of what transpired during her absence. This raised confusion about how the protagonist remarried and had children while his first wife was alive and well. Furthermore, her attire seemed out of place. However, the sudden revelation towards the end shed light on the situation, prompting me to appreciate the clever direction and the intriguing twist.
The fourth story, directed by Amit Ravindernath Sharma and featuring Kajol and Kumud Mishra, proved to be the most intense and unsettling to watch. It brimmed with profanities and vulgar language, which, although suited the story and characters, didn’t particularly appeal to me. The tormented wife concocts a plan for revenge, desiring her husband’s demise, and for valid reasons. However, the path she chooses becomes needlessly convoluted. Given her husband’s heavy drinking and daily boat commute, it seemed like there could have been simpler ways to eliminate him from the equation. Without divulging the outcome, I must say that the climax sent shivers down my spine, catching me off guard.
Overall, I would recommend watching Lust Stories 2 as a one-time experience, specifically for mature audiences. It offers a captivating exploration of complex relationships and desires, showcasing the diverse talents of its directors and actors.
Q: Who are the directors of Lust Stories 2?
Answer: Lust Stories 2 features four eminent Indian directors: R. Balki, Konkana Sen Sharma, Sujoy Ghosh, and Amit Ravindernath Sharma.
Q: What makes Lust Stories 2 stand out from other movies?
Answer: Lust Stories 2 stands out for its unique approach to storytelling and its willingness to delve into intimate and sometimes controversial aspects of human relationships. The film goes beyond surface-level narratives and explores the complexities of desire, love, and sexuality. It offers a refreshing and thought-provoking perspective on these topics, challenging societal norms and encouraging open conversations. The collaboration of four esteemed directors further adds to its distinctiveness.
Q: Is Lust Stories 2 recommended for all audiences?
Answer: Lust Stories 2 is generally recommended for mature audiences due to its exploration of complex relationships and desires. The movie delves into various themes and includes explicit content and language, which may not be suitable for younger viewers. It is advised to exercise discretion and consider personal preferences before watching the film.
