Language: Hindi, English
Age Rating: U/A
Genre: Dark Comedy, Satire, Social Drama
Released In Theatres: May 30, 2025
In this Dilli Dark movie review, we explore how debutant director Dibakar Das Roy crafts an audacious, socially reflective satire that offers a rare and timely look at racism, identity, and belonging in India’s bustling capital. With a standout performance by Samuel Abiola Robinson and razor-sharp social commentary, Dilli Dark dares to tread where few mainstream Indian films venture.
Plot: An Outsider in the Heart of Delhi
Set in the unpredictable lanes of Delhi, the film follows Michael Okeke (Samuel Abiola Robinson), a Nigerian MBA student navigating a complex web of stereotypes, survival, and subtle racism in urban India. As he juggles life as a delivery agent and an ambitious student, his daily struggles expose the deeply embedded prejudices of a society that claims to be inclusive—but isn’t.
Michael’s journey is filled with microaggressions and absurd encounters—from being judged at a supermarket for buying fairness cream to being eyed with suspicion in public spaces. The film brilliantly mirrors the duality of the city: one that thrives on diversity yet marginalizes the different.
Check Out: Dilli Dark – African Actor Leads Bold Dark Comedy Ushering a New Era in Indian Cinema
Performances: A Cast That Elevates the Satire
Samuel Abiola Robinson delivers a sensitive and powerful portrayal of Michael, offering both vulnerability and quiet defiance. His restrained expressions and internalized pain make Michael an unforgettable protagonist. Robinson masterfully embodies a man who is both visible and invisible—a walking symbol of ‘otherness’ in Delhi.
Shantanu Anam as Debu, Michael’s sardonic sidekick, provides much-needed comic relief with dry wit and perfect timing. Geetika Vidya Ohlyan, in the role of a self-styled spiritual guru ‘Maa,’ brings an eccentric energy that walks the fine line between satire and social critique. Her scenes are both entertaining and thought-provoking, adding another layer to the film’s critique of hypocrisy in urban spirituality.
The supporting cast, including Saumya Jakhmola and Stutee Ghosh, enriches the narrative, each adding texture and authenticity to the complex ecosystem that the film portrays.
Go Behind the Scenes with Samuel Abiola Robinson
For fans who want a deeper look into the making of Dilli Dark and the lived experiences that inspired it, don’t miss this exclusive Indian.Community podcast interview with Samuel Abiola Robinson. In the episode, he shares personal insights on filming in Delhi, dealing with real-life stereotypes, and the emotional weight of playing Michael.
🎧 Watch the full podcast here
Direction and Tone: Satirical with Sharp Edges
Dibakar Das Roy makes an assured directorial debut, confidently using satire as a lens to explore larger issues of race, class, and cultural disconnect. What makes Dilli Dark unique is its ability to hold a mirror to Delhi itself, portraying the city not just as a backdrop, but as a living, breathing character—flawed, vibrant, and often cruel.
The screenplay juggles humor and pain with impressive finesse. While the second act briefly wavers in pacing, especially when delving into philosophical musings, it regains balance with a strong emotional payoff in the final act.
Cinematography and Soundtrack: Delhi in Every Frame
The visual palette is gritty yet electric, with Delhi’s chaos and charm captured through sharp cinematography. Crowded alleys, late-night neon glows, and candid moments of urban loneliness are all rendered with visual clarity.
The soundtrack, especially the rap anthem “Hum Kaale Hain, Dilli Wale Hain”, is a masterstroke—bold, catchy, and thematically resonant. It underscores the film’s central conflict with unapologetic swagger, amplifying the protagonist’s inner rebellion.
Strengths and Shortcomings
What Works:
- Samuel Abiola Robinson’s nuanced lead performance
- Sharp, daring social satire
- Strong supporting cast and direction
- Memorable soundtrack and visual storytelling
Where It Stumbles:
- Slightly uneven pacing in the middle
- Some subplots (like the spiritual satire) could feel stretched
Cultural Relevance and Impact
As highlighted in this Dilli Dark movie review, the film fearlessly addresses a topic rarely discussed in Indian cinema: the racial bias faced by African nationals in India. With rising global discourse around race and identity, Dilli Dark holds a mirror to Indian society’s own flaws—making it not just a film, but a conversation starter.
Final Verdict: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ (4.5/5 Stars)
Dilli Dark is a bold, inventive, and necessary piece of cinema. It’s a film that entertains with wit while leaving a lasting impression with its message. Despite minor flaws, it stands tall for its originality, performances, and social commentary. If you’re looking for a film that combines humor, heart, and hard truths—this is it.
Should You Watch It?
Absolutely. Whether you’re a fan of offbeat cinema or someone who appreciates films that provoke thought and reflection, Dilli Dark delivers on all fronts. It’s not just a story of one man, but of every outsider who dares to belong.