Radhika Apte's Bold Role in 'Monica, O My Darling' Challenges Gender Norms

Radhika Apte Takes Center Stage

In Vasan Bala's film Monica, O My Darling, Radhika Apte is prominently featured, reminiscent of how classic villain Pran was introduced in his films with the phrase: 'And Pran'.

Apte portrays a police officer named Naidu, who is intricately involved in a plot that spirals from blackmail to murder. Sporting skinny jeans and boots, Naidu's mission is to unsettle Rajkummar Rao's character, Jayant, a robotics expert, a task Apte executes with enthusiasm.

This role marks a shift for Apte, who typically embodies intense characters. Her previous relaxed performance was in Andhadhun (2018), where she played a cafe owner entangled with a blind pianist.

Apte expressed her initial anxiety about this comedic role, stating, 'I was so nervous – I have never played a part like this.' She credited Vasan's confidence in her as a significant motivator, noting that she wasn't the conventional choice for the role.

One of the film's appealing aspects for Apte is its gender-neutral portrayal, where both male and female characters defy traditional expectations.

'You don’t see gender but only characters,' she remarked, appreciating the balance Vasan achieved. Naidu's laid-back demeanor contrasts sharply with Apte's own anxious personality, as she often feels guilty over minor disruptions during shoots.

Netflix Connection and Memes

Monica, O My Darling is now available on Netflix, a platform with which Apte has had a long-standing association since its launch in India in 2018. That year, she starred in Netflix's inaugural original series Sacred Games, along with the anthology film Lust Stories and the horror series Ghoul. Social media often humorously highlights Netflix's reliance on Apte whenever she appears in a new film.

Apte clarified, 'This trend wasn’t initiated by my team or Netflix. Anyone who thinks about it will realize it’s not accurate.' Netflix even released a video featuring Apte titled Omnipresent to address the meme.

Despite the ongoing jokes, Apte shared a humorous encounter at a birthday party in London, where a stranger asked her about Netflix, to which she replied, 'How would I know? I don’t own it, right?' It was a funny moment for her.

Recent Projects and Selectivity

Monica, O My Darling is Apte's second recent release, following her role in the Hindi remake of Vikram Vedha, which debuted on September 30. Despite featuring stars like Hrithik Roshan and Saif Ali Khan, the film did not perform as expected, possibly due to the original's availability on streaming platforms.

In the Hindi version, Apte took on the role of a lawyer originally played by Shraddha Shrinath. She enjoyed collaborating with directors Pushkar and Gayatri, a couple known for their harmonious working relationship.

Apte mentioned, 'As I grow older, I prefer working with people I connect with, and Pushkar-Gayatri are wonderful.' She recalled how one of them felt sad when they had to travel separately for the first time during promotions.

Taking a Step Back

Apte's fans may notice her reduced screen time as she has been selective about her projects this year. 'I have turned down almost everything that has come my way,' she admitted. 'Nothing has excited me, whether films or series. There aren’t many roles for women, and I’ve decided to be very choosy, even though it’s challenging to reject offers.' She emphasized the importance of being intellectually, physically, and emotionally engaged in her work.

Originally from Pune, Apte began her career in Marathi theatre before transitioning to films in 2005. Despite early successes, she faced a prolonged period of struggle before gaining recognition in Badlapur (2015), which led to more prominent roles, including international projects.

Future Aspirations

Apte has been exploring her creative side by writing and directing films. 'My writing is still in its early stages,' she shared, revealing that she is working on four projects, including a thriller and a comedy.

After years of executing others' visions, Apte is eager to bring her own ideas to life, hinting that she might direct a film in the future, potentially for Netflix.

Navigating Challenges

Apte reflected on the pressures of the film industry and life in Mumbai, describing it as a 'swimming pool of insecurities.' She acknowledged the challenges and rejections that come with the territory, stating, 'You learn not to take it personally.'

Through her experiences, she has learned to assert herself and pursue her passions, emphasizing the importance of enjoying her craft and the connections she makes along the way.