Aryan Khan’s directorial debut, The Ba***ds of Bollywood, released on September 18, 2025, on Netflix, has sparked conversations about Bollywood’s inner workings. The seven-episode series, produced under Red Chillies Entertainment, blends satire, drama, and industry critiques, focusing on an outsider’s struggle in the film world. While the show features bold themes, celebrity cameos, and unexpected twists, critics and audiences are split on its execution and depth.
What Is the Show About?
The series follows Aasmaan Singh (played by Lakshya), a newcomer whose debut film catapults him into fame. He navigates Bollywood’s chaotic landscape alongside his best friend Parvaiz (Raghav Juyal) and manager Sanya (Anya Singh). Their journey is complicated by industry veterans like superstar Ajay Talvar (Bobby Deol), who opposes Aasmaan’s relationship with his daughter Karishma (Sahher Bambba). The plot tackles issues like nepotism, media manipulation, and the dark side of fame, with characters often breaking the fourth wall to address the audience directly.
The Indian Express noted, “The problem is in the name itself. When ba***dly behaviour is on full display, we feel that promises have been kept… but it deflates into seen-before ordinariness.”
Star Performances and Cameos
Bobby Deol, fresh off the success of Animal, delivers a standout performance as the protective father and legacy star. Newcomers Lakshya and Sahher Bambba showcase chemistry, while Raghav Juyal provides comic relief. The series also features memorable roles from Mona Singh as Aasmaan’s supportive mother and Manish Chaudhari as a scheming producer.
Celebrity cameos include Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Karan Johar, and Ranveer Singh, among others. Karan Johar appears throughout the series, playing a version of himself who orchestrates media strategies and industry politics. While these appearances generate buzz, some critics argue they add little to the storyline.
Audience Reactions and Reviews
Viewers have praised the series for its entertainment value and self-aware humor. On IMDb, one fan called it “totally entertaining” and highlighted its take on Bollywood’s dark side . Another reviewer appreciated the bold themes, stating, “Aryan Khan has cooked… the drama will keep you hooked till the end” .
However, not all feedback is positive. Some audiences felt the series relied too heavily on clichés, with one IMDb review noting, “There’s no story but just 6-7 lines plot that has been dragged to 7 episodes” . Critics pointed out uneven pacing, with certain episodes feeling rushed while others dragged.
Technical Aspects and Production
The show’s production quality has received mixed responses. While cinematography and coloring, handled by Red Chillies Entertainment, are praised, the visual effects in later episodes are criticized for appearing subpar. The soundtrack, featuring artists like Arijit Singh and Vishal Dadlani, complements the narrative but isn’t considered groundbreaking.
The series is rated for mature audiences due to its use of strong language and themes. Episode 6 includes a scene that some viewers might find uncomfortable, adding to the show’s raw and unfiltered approach.
How Critics View the Series
Critics acknowledge Aryan Khan’s ambition but note the series’ inconsistencies. Scroll.in described it as a “scattershot satire” with amusing moments but uneven execution . The Indian Express awarded it 2.5 stars, calling it a “mixed bag” that struggles to balance satire with familiar tropes .
On the other hand, outlets like Times Now and India Today rated it higher, praising its wit and bold commentary. News18 highlighted its “daring satire” and sharp take on industry hypocrisy .
The Big Twist and Final Verdict
Without spoilers, the finale episode features a twist that recontextualizes the entire story. This revelation ties into the series’ exploration of nepotism and family dynamics in Bollywood. While some viewers found it shocking and satisfying, others felt it was predictable.
Overall, The Ba*ds of Bollywood offers a mix of entertainment and criticism, but its impact varies depending on viewer expectations. As NDTV observed, “It’s meant to be consumed like Bollywood itself: loud, colourful, problematic, indulgent, but great fun if you let it be” .
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