First - Anurag Kashyap
The first episode highly relies on Radhika Apte's phenomenal acting chops. She is natural and convincing and her monologues are absolutely spot on. The entire chapter becomes quite comedic and funny thanks to her strong presence and understanding of the script's slightly ironic tone. Does the episode live up to her performance? Well, it is dictated by it, and so the episode is just as enjoyable as her performance, so it's great. I highly doubt it would have been equally as good had someone else been in charge of acting out this difficult role, but Anurag Kashyap should definitely be given credit for making it what it is.
Second - Zoya Akhtar
Not a big fan of Zoya Akhtar but growing to appreciate her talent especially after this fantastic and strong episode, which provides an important commentary on India's social hierarchy and addresses themes of class, arranged marriages, and the traces of some conservative values of Indian culture in modern-day India. The one who carries this entire thing on her able shoulders is the absolutely wonderful Bhumi Pednekar, who is unafraid to look earthy, real, and not at her prettiest. More than anything, her short performance, especially in that brilliant scene as she is filmed walking with the platter in her hands, looking all on the verge of a breakdown, is very strong and affecting. Great, great work.
Third - Dibakar Banerjee
I've been quite fond of Banerjee's filmmaking. I remember having really loved Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye! (2008) and the likes, but this chapter is sadly, just pointless. I really didn't get the purpose or message of the story and it dragged quite a bit. The only saving grace here, except for the nice exteriors, is obviously the excellent Manisha Koirala, who has rarely been less than good even in the most outrageous mainstream films of her career. She makes this episode quite watchable, but she deserved more.
Fourth - Karan Johar
Well, it's a nice one, indeed, but not that great and quite predictable. Karan Johar has improved a lot as a filmmaker but he's still clinging to a lot of clichés and often catches up on different social trends too late. The feminist message that women have desires too is a little too corny, a little too obvious, and quite preachy altogether. But it's a very enjoyable chapter nonetheless, mainly due to the wonderful and brave Kiara Advani, who gives a nuanced and restrained performance, especially in that famous scene. Good support from Vicky Kaushal does good to the entire episode.
