Monica(2011)
Monica is a 2011 Indian Hindi-language drama film directed by Sushen Bhatnagar. It stars Divya Dutta, Ashutosh Rana, and Rajit Kapur. The story follows Monica Jaitley, an ambitious journalist who rises through corruption. Her childhood sexual abuse drives her quest for power. The film is inspired by the Shivani Bhatnagar murder case and the 2G spectrum scam. It uses a courtroom framework to reveal Monica's life through flashbacks. Divya Dutta's performance earned comparisons to Shabana Azmi in Arth. The film received mixed reviews, with praise for Dutta's acting but criticism of its execution. It was released in theaters on March 25, 2011.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Amazon Prime Video, Airtel Xstream Play, Ultra Play
- Theatrical Release
- 25 March 2011
- Director
- Sushen Bhatnagar
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 2h 4m
- Rating
- 4.7/10
Storyline
Monica Jaitley is a journalist with a dark past. She wants power and success at any cost. But her corrupt deals with politicians and industrialists lead to a murder charge. Now she must fight for her freedom in court while her whole life falls apart.
“Her ambition was her downfall.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Monica
Cast reunions in this film: Divya Dutta & Rajit Kapur (3 films together), Ashutosh Rana & Divya Dutta (2 films together), Divya Dutta & Rajit Kapoor (2 films together), and Rajit Kapur & Rajit Kapoor (2 films together).
Trivia
- The film was originally titled 'Monica, O My Darling' but was released simply as 'Monica' to avoid confusion with other films.
- It was shot extensively in Lucknow, using real locations like the city's historic courts and bungalows to add authenticity.
- The role of the female judge was played by veteran actress Seema Biswas, known for her powerful performances in parallel cinema.
- Director Sushen Bhatnagar had previously worked mainly as an assistant director and writer before making this his debut feature.
- The film's plot was loosely inspired by real-life controversies involving journalists and politicians in Uttar Pradesh.
- Despite its thriller genre, the movie had a very limited theatrical release and gained more attention through television broadcasts.
- The soundtrack featured a background score that used classical Indian instruments to create a tense, dramatic atmosphere.