The Bads of Bollywood Review: I just wrapped up the last episode of The Basterds of Bollywood, and let me tell you, I didn’t see that ending coming. It’s bold, it’s loud, it’s messy, and yet, somehow, it’s fun. Aryan Khan’s debut as a creator doesn’t just dip its toes into Bollywood’s dark corners—it dives headfirst. And I have thoughts.
My Rating: 3.5/5
| Basic Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | The Basterds of Bollywood |
| Creator | Aryan Khan |
| Production Company | Red Chillies Entertainment |
| Platform | Netfilx |
| Genre | Drama / Satire |
| Language | Hindi |
| Main Cast | Laksh Lalwani, Raghav Juyal + cameos |
| No. of Episodes | 7 |
| Release Year | 2025 |
Aryan Khan’s Big Debut
Let’s be honest. When your father is Shah Rukh Khan, expectations aren’t just high, they’re sky-high. Aryan’s entry into storytelling had that same pressure. So, did he deliver? Kind of. The intent is there. You can feel his rebellious streak, his frustration with the industry, and his attempt to peel back the glittery mask of Bollywood. But it’s also uneven.
The Bollywood Masala Element
The show is dripping with masala affairs, betrayals, drugs, power games, and backstabbing. It’s basically Bollywood gossip blown up on steroids. If you’re someone who thrives on drama and controversy, you’ll be hooked. But if you’re not into the constant “who did what with whom” energy, it might feel exhausting.
Storytelling Style
The narrative blends satire with exaggerated drama. At its best, it feels like a mirror held up to the industry. At its worst, it slips into soap opera territory. The satire bites, but sometimes it tries too hard, landing unevenly.
Highlights That Stood Out
One of the boldest arcs is the drug officer subplot, a thinly-veiled nod to real-life scandals. Then you’ve got ego wars, actors sabotaging each other, songs being stolen, and contracts ruining careers. These parts feel raw and painfully real.
Characters and Performances
The cast does their job well. Laksh Lalwani, in particular, shines and proves he’s capable of carrying weight. But the scene-stealer? Raghav Juyal. His performance had layers humor, menace, and unpredictability. The cameos are also fun, dropping in like Easter eggs for Bollywood fans.
Visual Style and Direction
Here’s where the disappointment creeps in. Some sequences look sleek, but too often, it slips into cheap, TV-serial aesthetics. Honestly, for a show backed by Red Chillies, I expected a richer visual tone. At times, it just doesn’t feel premium.
Writing and Tone
The writing is sharp in flashes. Aryan Khan clearly knows the industry’s underbelly, and he isn’t afraid to call it out. But tonal inconsistency is the Achilles’ heel. One moment you’re laughing at the satire, the next you’re dragged into melodrama that feels unnecessary.
Entertainment Value
If you love Bollywood controversies, this is your playground. You’ll binge it, laugh at the digs, and relish the chaos. If you’re a casual viewer without an obsession for gossip, you’ll probably shrug and move on. It entertains, but not equally for everyone.
Comparisons and Inspirations
The vibe reminded me of Farah Khan’s meta-humor mixed with Shane Black’s irreverence. But unlike them, Aryan sometimes forgets his own mission, exposing Bollywood’s flaws by accidentally celebrating the same clichés he set out to mock.
The Final Episode
I won’t spoil it, but the last episode hits differently. It’s unexpected, daring, and the one moment where everything clicks. That finale alone elevated my overall experience.
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Strengths of the Show
- Bold, unfiltered take on Bollywood
- Strong performances, especially Raghav Juyal
- Entertaining cameos
- Last episode packs a punch
Weaknesses of the Show
- Visual inconsistency, at times, is cheap-looking
- Tonal imbalance satire vs melodrama
- Overindulgence in gossip and clichés
- Doesn’t always land its punches
My Overall Verdict
Here’s the deal: The Basterds of Bollywood is not groundbreaking, but it’s not boring either. I’d call it average fun, something you’ll enjoy while it lasts, but won’t revisit again and again. Aryan Khan has shown intent, boldness, and creativity. For a debut, that counts. With time and polish, he could deliver something truly remarkable.
Good & Bad in The Basterds of Bollywood
| What Worked (Good) | What Didn’t (Bad) |
|---|---|
| Bold and unfiltered storytelling | Cheap TV-serial visuals |
| Strong performances (Raghav Juyal, Laksh Lalwani) | Tonal inconsistencies |
| Entertaining cameos | Overindulgence in clichés |
| Final episode surprise | Satire that doesn’t always land |
| Real Bollywood references | Exhausting melodrama at times |
Conclusion
So, where do I land? The Basterds of Bollywood is Aryan Khan’s rebellious shout at an industry he grew up watching. It’s messy, sometimes frustrating, but undeniably watchable. I wouldn’t call it a masterpiece, but I’ll give Aryan credit for trying something this daring right out of the gate. The future looks interesting for him if he can tighten his craft.
FAQs
Q1: Is The Basterds of Bollywood worth watching?
Yes, if you love Bollywood gossip and masala. For casual viewers, it’s hit or miss.
Q2: How is Aryan Khan’s debut as a creator?
Imperfect but bold. You can sense his intent, even if the execution is uneven.
Q3: Who gives the best performance in the show?
Raghav Juyal is the standout, with Laksh Lalwani also making a strong impression.
Q4: Does the show reflect real Bollywood controversies?
Yes, many storylines are thinly veiled versions of actual scandals.
Q5: How good is the final episode?
The finale is easily the highlight, unexpected, daring, and memorable.
