From ‘The Family Man’ To ‘Dream Girl 2’: 5 Must-Binge Series And Films With Dual-Life Protagonists

In the world of entertainment, there's something uniquely captivating about characters who lead double lives. From superheroes donning their civilian identities to undercover spies hiding in plain sight, these characters navigate a delicate balance between two worlds, often with thrilling and dramatic consequences. Whether in web series, audio series, or films, the theme of duality has been a rich source of storytelling.

Today, let us explore some must-binge series, audio series, and movies that brilliantly showcase the art of characters living double lives. These narratives delve deep into the complexities of identity, the secrets we keep, and the unexpected twists that can arise when two worlds collide. So, prepare to be intrigued, entertained, and perhaps even inspired by these riveting tales of characters leading dual lives. It's time to dive into a world of intrigue, deception, and the compelling exploration of what it means to be truly oneself.

‘The Family Man’

The Family Man on Prime Video is a thrilling series that delves into the double life of Srikant Tiwari, portrayed by Manoj Bajpayee. By day, he's a typical middle-class family man, but by night, he's a covert intelligence officer working for India's National Investigation Agency. Alongside his friend JK Talpade, Srikant tackles high-stakes cases. In the first season, he juggles preventing a potential terrorist attack with navigating the challenges of his family life. Season two takes a global turn, focusing on a Tamil Tigers-esque resistance group from Sri Lanka. The upcoming third season is rumoured to hint at a link between the COVID-19 pandemic and an attack on India's North-eastern states, promising more intrigue and suspense. Manoj Bajpayee's portrayal of Srikant brilliantly captures the complexity of living a dual life, making "The Family Man" a must-watch for fans of characters with secret identities.

‘Koel Malhotra Ki Secret Life’ 

Koel Malhotra Ki Secret Life  is an enthralling audio series on Pocket FM that introduces listeners to Arpita, a woman leading a double life. From her humble beginnings in Benaras to her marriage in Gurgaon, Arpita's journey takes an unexpected twist. Disappointed in her loveless marriage, Arpita accidentally becomes Koel Malhotra, a popular Radio Masti personality who offers advice to listeners. This audio series masterfully weaves together Arpita's dual roles, her struggles to save her marriage, and her newfound fame as Koel. As she addresses love problems and social injustices, Arpita's story is one of empowerment and resilience. With its compelling narrative, themes of love and identity, and the complexity of modern relationships, Koel Malhotra Ki Secret Life is a must-listen. The suspenseful plot, well-developed characters, and unexpected twists make it an engaging audio experience that keeps you hooked until the end. Listen as Arpita navigates her secret life while facing challenges from all sides, and discover the emotional roller-coaster that awaits in this captivating series.

‘Dream Girl 1 and 2’

Dream Girl is a Zee5 comedy-drama that follows Karam (Ayushmann Khurrana), a talented actor skilled in impersonating female voices. He takes on a unique job at a call centre, assuming the identity of 'Pooja' to entertain clients and earn money. The film explores themes of identity, loneliness, and the unexpected twists of life, with Karam juggling his dual persona and dealing with admirers and complications. As for "Dream Girl 2," it's rumoured to be streaming on Netflix, but details are scarce. In the first instalment, Karam's life took a hilarious turn as 'Pooja.' The sequel, if it materialises, promises more comedy and chaos as Karam navigates love, debts, and dual identities. These films offer a blend of humour and heartfelt moments, making them must-watches for those intrigued by characters leading double lives.

‘Dahaad’

Dahaad is a gripping Hindi-language crime thriller on Prime Video that delves into the world of dual lives. In the small village of Mandawa, Rajasthan, Sub-Inspector Anjali Bhaati (played by Sonakshi Sinha) stumbles upon a chilling mystery. Twenty-seven women have mysteriously disappeared across the state, but the locals remain indifferent. The series takes a dark turn as Vijay Varma's character captivates viewers with his portrayal of a cold-blooded murderer who skillfully leads two lives. At home, he appears to be a patient and supportive father and husband, but as he steps out, he transforms into a ruthless predator who preys on women. His ability to seamlessly transition between these contrasting personas is both chilling and enthralling. Inspired by the real-life serial killer Cyanide Mohan, Dahaad keeps audiences on the edge of their seats as it explores the depths of deception and the dual nature of its characters.

‘Haddi’

Haddi on Zee5 is a crime drama film that promises an extraordinary cinematic experience. Starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Anurag Kashyap, and Ila Arun in pivotal roles, the film boasts a stellar cast that adds depth to its narrative. What sets Haddi apart is Nawazuddin Siddiqui's remarkable dual role, one of which portrays a transgender character. Siddiqui's exceptional versatility shines as he delves into intriguing dimensions of identity and storytelling. The film explores diverse characters, complex relationships, and a thought-provoking plot that challenges norms. With its star-studded cast and Siddiqui's captivating dual performance, Haddi promises to be a must-watch. It offers a blend of compelling acting and thought-provoking storytelling, making it a riveting addition to the world of cinema. Don't miss this unique cinematic experience, now streaming on Zee5.