Spooky sequel: ‘Stree 2: Sarkate Ka Aatank’ takes the horror-comedy crown
Stree 2: Sarkate Ka Aatank, directed by Amar Kaushik, is making waves as one of the most successful Indian films of the year. This sequel to the 2018 hit Stree has captivated audiences since its release on August 15, coinciding with India’s Independence Day. In just four days, the film grossed an impressive $33.7 million, surpassing the lifetime earnings of its predecessor, which stood at $21.5 million.
A haunting return to Chanderi
The original Stree was set in the quaint town of Chanderi, where men lived in constant fear of an evil spirit named Stree, who abducted them at night. The film, penned by the talented duo Raj & DK along with Sumit Arora, drew inspiration from the folk legend of “Naale Ba” from Karnataka. In Stree 2, written by Niren Bhatt, the town faces a new terror. This time, a headless entity is abducting women, and once again, the protagonists must rise to the occasion to save their community.
Star-studded cast and expanding universe
The film features a stellar cast, including Shraddha Kapoor, Rajkummar Rao, Pankaj Tripathi, Aparshakti Khurana, and Abhishek Banerjee. Stree 2 is the latest addition to Maddock Films’ Supernatural Universe, which began with Stree and continued with Roohi (2021), Bhediya (2022), and the upcoming Munjya (2024).
For those eager to dive into the eerie world of Chanderi, check out the trailer for Stree 2: Sarkate Ka Aatank.
Inflammatory influencers: ‘America’s New Female Right’ documentary
America’s New Female Right, a one-hour documentary produced by Mindhouse Productions for BBC Three and iPlayer, delves into the rise of young female content creators who are posting provocative content online. The film, set to air on September 2, follows British journalist Layla Wright as she travels from Liverpool to the U.S. to meet ultra-conservative influencers.
Exploring a controversial movement
Wright, 27, embarks on a journey to understand what drives these women, some as young as 16, to support a movement that seeks to reverse progressive policies. She shares her surprise at how unapologetically controversial these influencers are, despite living just a plane ride away from her home in the UK.
Behind the scenes
The documentary is commissioned by Fiona Campbell and Jack Bootle, with Tom Coveney and Anna Dickeson serving as BBC commissioning editors. Arron Fellows and Nancy Strang executive produce for Mindhouse, while Alana McVerry directs and produces. Wright, currently creator in residence at Mindhouse Productions, has been working with company co-founder and chief creative officer since 2022.
For a deeper look into this intriguing documentary, keep an eye out for its release on BBC Three and iPlayer.
Personal reflections for cinema, TV series, and music enthusiasts
As a lover of cinema, TV series, and music, I find it fascinating how storytelling evolves across different mediums. Stree 2: Sarkate Ka Aatank is a prime example of how folklore can be reimagined to create a compelling narrative that resonates with modern audiences. The film’s success is a testament to the power of blending traditional tales with contemporary themes, making it a must-watch for horror-comedy fans.
On the other hand, America’s New Female Right offers a thought-provoking exploration of the digital age’s impact on political discourse. The documentary’s focus on young female influencers highlights the complex dynamics of social media and its role in shaping public opinion. It’s a reminder of the importance of critical thinking and the need to understand the motivations behind the content we consume.
Expanding your horizons
For those interested in exploring more about these topics, I recommend watching the trailers and documentaries mentioned above. They provide valuable insights into the creative processes behind these works and offer a deeper understanding of the themes they explore.
In the realm of music, discovering new albums and songs can be equally enriching. Platforms like Spotify offer a vast library of tracks that cater to diverse tastes. For instance, if you’re intrigued by the themes of Stree 2, you might enjoy exploring soundtracks that blend traditional and modern elements.
By immersing yourself in these stories and sounds, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the art of storytelling and the myriad ways it can reflect and influence our world.