Detailed Summary
Introduction and Setting
Andhadhun is a 2018 Indian black comedy crime thriller film co-written and directed by Sriram Raghavan. The film stars Ayushmann Khurrana, Tabu, and Radhika Apte. It tells the story of a blind pianist who unwittingly becomes embroiled in a series of murders after witnessing a crime.
The Story Unfolds
Akash’s Life and Deception
The film begins with Akash (Ayushmann Khurrana), a talented pianist who pretends to be blind in order to improve his piano skills. He meets Sophie (Radhika Apte), who is impressed by his music and helps him get a gig at her father’s diner. Akash’s life takes a dark turn when he is invited to perform at the home of yesteryear movie star Pramod Sinha (Anil Dhawan) and his wife Simi (Tabu).
Witness to a Murder
While at Pramod’s home, Akash unwittingly becomes a witness to Pramod’s murder by Simi and her lover, Inspector Manohar (Manav Vij). Though he pretends not to see anything due to his “blindness,” Akash becomes deeply entangled in the murder plot. Simi soon realizes that Akash is not actually blind, leading to a series of manipulations and power plays.
The Climax and Resolution
Unraveling the Conspiracy
Akash attempts to expose the truth but faces numerous obstacles. His blindness act becomes a double-edged sword as Simi and Manohar become increasingly suspicious and desperate. A series of tense and darkly comedic events unfold, including Akash being genuinely blinded, a blackmail scheme, and several more murders.
Final Confrontation
The climax of the film features a gripping sequence where Akash is kidnapped by Simi and Manohar. In a turn of events, Akash manages to escape and eventually regains his sight through a corneal transplant, but not before facing several moral and ethical dilemmas.
The Conclusion
A New Beginning
The film ends ambiguously, with Akash performing in a European city. Sophie, who believes he is still blind, encounters him but does not discover the truth. The ending leaves viewers questioning the morality and true nature of Akash’s character.
Movie Ending
Andhadhun ends on an ambiguous note, with Akash performing abroad, hinting at his complex moral journey and leaving the audience to ponder his true character and the consequences of his actions.
Post-Credits Scene
There are no post-credits scenes in Andhadhun.
Type of Movie
Andhadhun is a black comedy crime thriller that combines elements of suspense, dark humor, and drama, focusing on themes of deception, morality, and the unexpected twists of fate.
Cast
- Ayushmann Khurrana as Akash
- Tabu as Simi Sinha
- Radhika Apte as Sophie
- Anil Dhawan as Pramod Sinha
- Manav Vij as Inspector Manohar
Film Music and Composer
The film’s score was composed by Amit Trivedi, with additional background music by Daniel B. George, enhancing the suspenseful and darkly comedic tone of the narrative.
Filming Locations
Andhadhun was primarily filmed in Pune, Maharashtra, using various urban settings to create the realistic backdrop of the story.
Awards and Nominations
Andhadhun received numerous prestigious awards and nominations, including:
- National Film Awards: Won Best Feature Film in Hindi, Best Actor (Ayushmann Khurrana), and Best Screenplay.
- Filmfare Awards: Won Best Film (Critics), Best Actor (Critics) (Ayushmann Khurrana), and Best Story. Nominated for Best Film, Best Director, and Best Supporting Actress (Tabu).
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Ayushmann Khurrana trained extensively in piano playing and spent significant time with visually impaired individuals to prepare for his role.
- The film’s plot was inspired by the 2010 French short film L’Accordeur (The Piano Tuner), blending elements of dark humor and thriller genres.
Inspirations and References
Andhadhun is inspired by L’Accordeur and reflects broader themes of moral ambiguity, the thin line between perception and reality, and the unforeseen consequences of deceit.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
The final cut of Andhadhun closely follows Sriram Raghavan’s vision, with some additional content and behind-the-scenes insights available in special editions and DVD releases.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Akash’s performance at Pramod Sinha’s house where he witnesses the murder.
- The sequence where Akash’s blindness is revealed to be a facade.
- The darkly humorous and tense scenes involving Simi and Manohar’s attempts to cover up their crime.
- The final confrontation and Akash’s escape.
Iconic Quotes
- “What is life? It depends on the liver.” – Akash
- “Sometimes, you can’t see what’s right in front of you.” – Sophie
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The film includes numerous visual and auditory clues that hint at the twists and turns of the plot, enhancing the viewing experience upon multiple watches.
- The use of music and piano playing serves as a metaphor for the underlying themes of deception and revelation.
Trivia
- The film’s budget was approximately ₹32 crore (approximately $4.5 million), and it grossed over ₹456 crore (approximately $64 million) worldwide, making it a significant commercial success.
- Andhadhun was remade in Tamil as Andhagan, reflecting its widespread acclaim and popularity.
Why Watch?
Andhadhun offers a thrilling and darkly comedic portrayal of deception, morality, and the unexpected twists of fate, featuring standout performances, particularly by Ayushmann Khurrana and Tabu, and masterful direction by Sriram Raghavan. Its blend of suspense, humor, and complex character dynamics makes it a must-watch for fans of gripping and thought-provoking cinema.
Director’s Other Movies
Sriram Raghavan also directed:
- Ek Hasina Thi (2004)
- Johnny Gaddaar (2007)
- Agent Vinod (2012)
- Badlapur (2015)
Recommended Films for Fans
- Drishyam (2015)
- Kahaani (2012)
- Talaash (2012)
- Blackmail (2018)
- Badlapur (2015)
