Radhika Apte Shines in 'Monica, O My Darling' with a Unique Role

Radhika Apte's Standout Performance

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

Apte portrays a police officer named Naidu, who is characterized by her edgy style of skinny jeans and boots. Her role involves investigating a case that could potentially implicate robotics expert Jayant, played by Rajkummar Rao. Apte's performance captures Naidu's intent to unsettle Jayant, showcasing her enjoyment in the role.

This character marks a shift for Apte, who is typically known for her intense portrayals. She previously exhibited a similar relaxed demeanor in Andhadhun (2018), where she played a cafe owner entangled with a blind pianist.

“I felt a wave of nerves – this was unlike any role I’ve taken on before,” Apte shared. “The comedic timing was crucial, and Vasan's confidence in me was a significant motivator. I wasn’t the conventional choice for this part.”

One appealing aspect of Monica, O My Darling for Apte was its gender-neutral storytelling, where both male and female characters defy traditional expectations.

“The focus is on characters rather than gender,” Apte noted. “Vasan has achieved a remarkable balance. Naidu leads a laid-back life, which contrasts sharply with my own anxious nature. I often feel guilty if it rains during a shoot, as if it’s my fault.”

Monica, O My Darling is now available on Netflix, a platform Apte has been associated with since its launch in India in 2018. That year, she featured 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 stars in a new release.

“This trend wasn’t initiated by my team or Netflix,” Apte clarified. “Anyone who thinks that is mistaken.” Netflix even released a video featuring Apte titled Omnipresent to address the joke.

Despite the ongoing humor, Apte recalls a funny incident at a birthday party in London, where a stranger asked her about Netflix. “I told him, how would I know? I don’t own it!” she laughed.

Recently, Apte also starred in the Hindi remake of Vikram Vedha, which was released on September 30. Despite its star-studded cast, including Hrithik Roshan and Saif Ali Khan, the film did not perform as expected, possibly due to the original's availability on streaming platforms.

In this remake, 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 partnership.

“As I grow older, I prefer working with people I connect with, and Pushkar-Gayatri are wonderful,” Apte expressed. “They have such a unique dynamic; during Vikram Vedha promotions, one was sad about traveling separately for the first time.”

Apte's selective approach to roles has led her to decline many offers this year. “I’ve turned down almost everything because nothing has excited me, whether films or series. There are limited roles for women, and I want to be very selective, even if it’s daunting to say no,” she explained. “I believe if I can’t fully commit to a project, I shouldn’t take it on. I’m at a stage where I want challenges that stimulate me intellectually, physically, and emotionally.”

Born in Pune, Apte began her career in Marathi theatre before transitioning to films in 2005. Although she had early successes, her breakthrough came with Badlapur in 2015, leading to more prominent roles, including the British film The Wedding Guest alongside Dev Patel.

Apte has continued to seek international opportunities, portraying the British spy Noor Inayet Khan in A Call to Spy in 2019. She has several upcoming projects with American and British producers.

Dealing with the pressures of the film industry and the challenges of Mumbai has been tough for Apte. “Bombay feels like a pool of insecurities,” she remarked. “The stress can push you into situations you’d rather avoid. It’s been challenging, and I often feel small and vulnerable. Rejection is common, and anyone who claims otherwise is not being truthful. You learn to cope and not take it personally.”

Over time, Apte has developed strategies to navigate the industry while pursuing her interests in reading and film. “I’ve learned to assert myself, recognize what I dislike, and envision changes I’d make if I had the power,” she shared. “I’ve also come to appreciate my craft. Despite the challenges, I’m still here because I love it. Meeting incredible people is one of the profession's greatest rewards.”

Having learned the importance of patience during her career, Apte is now exploring her creative side by writing and directing. “My writing is still in its early stages,” she admitted. “I’m working on four projects, including a thriller and a comedy. They may or may not come to fruition, but I’m learning how to structure and develop stories.”

After years of realizing others' visions, Apte is ready to pursue her own ideas and may eventually direct a film, potentially for Netflix or elsewhere.