Ayushmann Khurrana was not the first choice for the role of Aakash. The team initially considered other actors but eventually realized Khurrana brought a unique blend of charm and complexity required for the character.

Why it matters: Khurrana's performance became a defining part of the film, showcasing his ability to portray a character that is both endearing and morally ambiguous, enhancing the film's thematic elements.

The film's soundtrack includes essential motifs that align with the plot. The song 'Naina Da Kya Kasoor' was deliberately incorporated to reflect Aakash's mental state at critical moments.

Why it matters: This integration of music not only enhances the emotional depth of scenes but also creates a stronger connection between the audience and the character's internal struggles.

Director Sriram Raghavan envisioned 'Andhadhun' as a tribute to classic noir films, carefully crafting the screenplay to include twists and turns reminiscent of Alfred Hitchcock's work.

Why it matters: This artistic approach lends a layer of sophistication to the thriller, elevating its narrative structure through meticulous plotting and suspense.

Several scenes were scripted with the open invitation for actors to improvise, allowing for more authentic performances. A particularly notable example is Ayushmann Khurrana's interaction with the old man in the opening scene.

Why it matters: This flexibility in the script provided organic moments that contributed to the film's humor and relatability, making dialogues feel natural and spontaneous.

The portrayal of Aakash's blindness was approached with authenticity; Khurrana studied the nuances of non-visual cues and the behavior of visually impaired individuals to make his performance believable.

Why it matters: This commitment to realism not only augmented Khurrana’s performance but also elevated the film's integrity, creating a genuine representation of disability.

The team faced significant challenges while locating the perfect spots in Pune, particularly for interior scenes which had a vintage aesthetic aligned with the film’s tone.

Why it matters: The chosen locations enhanced the film's overall atmosphere, making it visually captivating and serving as a silent character within the storytelling.

To preserve the film's surprise ending, the script was kept under wraps and was only shown in parts to key crew members, ensuring that even some of the cast were unaware of the full plot.

Why it matters: This level of secrecy contributed to the element of surprise for audiences, making the film's climax all the more impactful and discussed.

The painting process depicted in the film showcases real techniques used by artists, with Khurrana being trained briefly to capture the essence of a serious musician and painter.

Why it matters: Authentic representation in these artistic sequences reinforces the credibility of Aakash's character, allowing audiences to engage more deeply with his journey.

One of the film's notable scenes involved a complex stunt that was inspired by a real-life incident, which the team decided to incorporate, adding a visceral element to the narrative.

Why it matters: This blend of fiction and reality heightens tension, making the scenes more gripping and relatable to audiences, thereby increasing the film's suspenseful atmosphere.

Radhika Apte, who played the role of Simi, brought a distinct approach to her character, focusing on her layers of deception which were not fully revealed until the latter part of the film.

Why it matters: This nuanced performance added depth to Simi, inviting viewers to continually reassess their perceptions of her motives as the plot evolves.

The screenplay was co-written by Raghavan and his long-time collaborator, who used insights from various sources to shape a fresh narrative while incorporating traditional thriller elements.

Why it matters: The rich collaborative process ensured a multi-dimensional script that simultaneously honored classic tropes while introducing innovative storytelling elements.

The film employs a distinct color palette, utilizing symbolic colors to represent the characters' psychological states and the themes of deception and trust.

Why it matters: The careful color choices enhance the visual storytelling, prompting audiences to form deeper analytical connections with each character's emotional journey.

Production was initially delayed due to casting issues and the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to adjustments in the story to better fit the time gap.

Why it matters: These delays pushed the creative team to rethink certain elements of the narrative, resulting in a more polished final product that resonated with contemporary audiences.

The cinematographer employed techniques that maximized the use of light and shadow throughout the film, particularly during tense scenes, to create a palpable sense of dread.

Why it matters: The cinematography's craft heightens suspense, immersing viewers in the mood and emphasizing the film's noir influences.

Despite being a thriller, the film incorporates moments of dark humor that emerge from character interactions, often contrasting heavy moments with levity.

Why it matters: This balance enriches the viewing experience by providing relief from tension, thereby making the darker themes easier to digest.

The film contains several references to classic films and music, including small visual cues and background music that nod to older works, enriching its cultural tapestry.

Why it matters: These Easter eggs not only reward knowledgeable viewers but also elevate the cinematic experience by creating a dialogue between 'Andhadhun' and cinematic history.

The editing phase was lengthy, particularly because the team had to balance pacing while ensuring that the narrative’s twists remained impactful.

Why it matters: This careful editing ensured that each moment built towards the film’s climax effectively, maintaining high engagement throughout the story.

The climax scene was particularly demanding, requiring multiple takes to achieve the desired intensity and subtext.

Why it matters: The effort put into this sequence resulted in a finale that felt both satisfying and thrilling, cementing it as a high point of the film that left audiences in awe.

Veteran actor Anil Dhawan’s casting as the piano teacher added a layer of authenticity, given his background in the arts and experience in the industry.

Why it matters: His seasoned performance provided a foundation for the main cast, enriching scenes through his ability to convey genuine emotions adeptly.

The crew made a concerted effort to include real environmental sounds and silence in critical scenes to boost the suspense and audience immersion.

Why it matters: The sound design plays a crucial role in enhancing psychological tension, making the viewers feel the weight of silence during pivotal moments in the plot.