Mumbai’s OTT scene is buzzing with stories that tackle society’s toughest issues head-on, and the latest release ‘Accused’ fits right in. This gripping drama has sparked intense discussions, thanks in large part to Pratibha Ranta’s standout performance as a woman facing sexual harassment allegations. In an exclusive chat, Ranta opened up about the rigorous process she underwent to embody her complex character.
Ranta explained that diving into the role wasn’t straightforward. ‘I started by poring over the script multiple times,’ she shared. ‘Repeated readings helped me peel back the layers of her mindset and emotions. An actor can’t truly shine without internalizing the character, so reading sessions became the cornerstone of my preparation.’
She didn’t stop there. Ranta joined director Anubhuti Kashyap and co-star Konkona Sen Sharma for intensive workshops. ‘We dissected key scenes in detail,’ she recalled. ‘Sitting together clarified every doubt, showing me exactly the mental space I needed before facing the camera and how to steer each moment.’
On set, the vibe was relaxed yet electric. ‘Actors often improvise once immersed,’ Ranta noted. ‘When you’re deep in the emotions, fresh ideas emerge naturally. Those improvisations made scenes feel raw and real, like snippets from actual lives.’
‘Accused’ revolves around a woman accused of sexual misconduct, exploring the messy clash of claims, truth, and feelings. With Konkona Sen Sharma and Ranta leading the cast, the film handles this delicate topic with gravity.
For Ranta, the role’s emotional depth was its allure. ‘She swings from strength to fragility,’ she said. ‘Getting that required mental readiness, and the readings plus workshops were invaluable in unpacking those nuances.’
Stream ‘Accused’ now on Netflix and witness the powerful storytelling that’s captivating audiences.