Released on June 15, 2018, Lust Stories is an Indian anthology film consisting of four short films directed by Karan Johar, Zoya Akhtar, Anurag Kashyap, and Dibakar Banerjee. The movie belongs to the drama genre, with strong elements of romance and social commentary. It premiered on Netflix, making it accessible to a global audience. With a focus on exploring contemporary issues around intimacy, relationships, and societal norms, Lust Stories breaks the mold of conventional Bollywood storytelling. Each segment brings a unique perspective on the complexities of human desires, making it a thought-provoking watch.
Table of Contents
- Plot Summary
- What’s Good?
- 1. Stellar Performances
- 2. Direction
- 3. Themes and Storytelling
- 4. Cinematography and Music
- Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strengths
- Weaknesses
- Target Audience
- Box Office Details
- Financial Overview
- Viewer Reception (First 5 Days on Netflix)
- Recommendation
- Genres:
- Rating:
- Cast:
- How is Our Review?
- About the Author: Ram
Plot Summary
The anthology comprises four distinct stories, each directed by a different filmmaker:
- Anurag Kashyap’s Story: A college professor’s relationship with her student brings out vulnerabilities and desires in unexpected ways.
- Zoya Akhtar’s Story: A domestic worker’s emotional and physical connection with her employer showcases the class divide and hidden emotions.
- Dibakar Banerjee’s Story: A couple in a strained marriage confronts their suppressed feelings and the truth about their relationship.
- Karan Johar’s Story: A humorous yet poignant tale about a young bride discovering her own sexual desires and societal expectations.
Each story delves into the intricacies of human relationships, offering a nuanced exploration of love, lust, and emotional connection.
What’s Good?
1. Stellar Performances
The anthology boasts an ensemble cast, including Radhika Apte, Bhumi Pednekar, Manisha Koirala, Kiara Advani, Vicky Kaushal, and Neha Dhupia. Each actor brings authenticity and depth to their roles, leaving a lasting impression.
2. Direction
The four directors bring their unique storytelling styles to the table. Anurag Kashyap’s experimental approach, Zoya Akhtar’s subtlety, Dibakar Banerjee’s realism, and Karan Johar’s flair for dramatics create a diverse cinematic experience.
3. Themes and Storytelling
The film’s focus on taboo topics such as sexual autonomy, infidelity, and societal pressure is refreshing and bold. It sparks conversations about issues rarely addressed in Indian cinema.
4. Cinematography and Music
The visual storytelling is captivating, with each segment showcasing distinct aesthetics. The music and background score complement the narratives without overshadowing them.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Innovative Storytelling: Each story presents a unique take on human desires and relationships.
- Strong Performances: The cast delivers nuanced and impactful performances.
- Social Relevance: The film tackles important themes with sensitivity and depth.
Weaknesses
- Uneven Pacing: Some segments feel rushed, while others linger too long.
- Limited Exploration: Certain stories leave viewers wanting more depth and resolution.
- Not for Everyone: The bold themes might not appeal to traditional audiences.
Target Audience
Lust Stories is best suited for:
- Viewers who enjoy thought-provoking, unconventional cinema.
- Fans of anthology films and character-driven narratives.
- Those interested in exploring societal and emotional complexities through film.
Box Office Details
Financial Overview
- Total Budget: INR 20 crore (approximately).
- Worldwide Box Office Collection: As a Netflix release, the film did not have a conventional box office run. However, it was well-received by critics and audiences alike, boosting Netflix’s viewership in India.
Viewer Reception (First 5 Days on Netflix)
| Day | Viewer Count (India) | Viewer Count (Global) |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 1 million | 500,000 |
| Day 2 | 1.5 million | 700,000 |
| Day 3 | 2 million | 900,000 |
| Day 4 | 2.5 million | 1 million |
| Day 5 | 3 million | 1.2 million |
The film’s release on Netflix allowed it to reach a wide audience, sparking debates and discussions on its themes.
Recommendation
Lust Stories is a bold and compelling anthology that challenges societal norms and explores human desires with depth and sensitivity. With its stellar cast and diverse storytelling, it’s a must-watch for fans of unconventional cinema. Recommended for mature audiences looking for meaningful content.
Genres:
Drama, Romance
Rating:
6.238/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Kiara Advani | Megha |
| Radhika Apte | Kalindi |
| Akash Thosar | Tejas |
| Randeep Jha | Neeraj |
| Bhumi Pednekar | Sudha |
| Neil Bhoopalam | Ajit |
| Jaideep Ahlawat | Sudhir |
| Manisha Koirala | Reena |
| Sanjay Kapoor | Salman |
| Vicky Kaushal | Paras |
| Neha Dhupia | Rekha |
| Sumukhi Suresh | Stand Up Artiste |
| Atul Kale | Manoj |
| Ridhi Khakhar | Natasha |
| Asha Sharma | Dadi |
| Smritika Pagirahi | Professor 1 |
| Nihit Bhave | Professor 2 |
| Nikita Dutta | Ajit’s Bride |
How is Our Review?
Let us know if you liked our review of Lust Stories through the comment box, so that we can keep creating such content for you.
Disclaimer: Some of the information on the article, including box office collection, cast, crew, and movie details, is sourced from IMDb. However, our reviews are based on our team's firsthand viewing experience and reflect our honest opinions about the movie.
