Empowering story with richly-layered South Asian characters
After escaping an abusive marriage, an Indo-American woman in her 50s faces community backlash for defying cultural norms. As she rebuilds her life and develops a thriving fashion design career, she unexpectedly discovers a chance at love.
Preeti Kumar (Rashmi Rustagi) is trapped in an oppressive marriage and begins to reevaluate her life. Though fearful of the response of her conservative community, Preeti is tired of living an unhappy life. Along her journey to reclaiming her sense of self, she forms richly supportive friendships which help give her the confidence to pursue her long-held dream of being a fashion designer. Along the way, Preeti also discovers the possibility of a healthy romance in this inspiring story of personal transformation.
Drawing inspiration from real-life stories and anchored by a standout performance from lead actress and writer Rashmi Rustagi, Gayatri Bajpai’s film is an empowering story fortified by richly-layered South Asian characters.
Very touching film about a very serious subject
Really well made film about a very sensitive subject, domestic violence, but encased in a fascinating journey into the dynamics of Indian culture and how those dynamics serve to complicate the protagonist’s journey out of abuse.
The acting was top-notch with compelling characters and just enough humor to lighten the mood when things got heavy.
Charming and endearing.
Based on many such true stories, this movie is well made and inspiring
It happens in every country and every culture – domestic abuse. This movie is such a story, and it is inspiring because it shows how a woman can escape from traditional family morals and create a better life for herself. A good roadmap for personal liberation. Also a good learning for the family and many of the viewers of the movie. I liked it.
A thought provoking movie on a very relevant topic!
Designed by Preeti is the culmination of many years of hard work by Rashmi Rustagi and her talented team of actors and production team. It is a sensitive and positive treatment of the delicate topic of domestic abuse. It gives you a glimpse into a South Asian perspective on marriage, friendship etc.
Definitely worth a watch!
So relevant
The themes of this film are so important in today’s world. I especially appreciate the way that the abuse in the film was not sensationalized. So often we associate DV with ‘violent’ and aggressive abuse when it is often much more subtle and invisible and in turn extremely harmful. I hope that these messages become more mainstream.
A powerful and compassionate film on domestic violence
Domestic violence is a serious issue that many people endure silently across cultures, ethnicities, and religions around the world. Designed by Preeti opens the door to an important conversation about a reality that so many, particularly women, are forced to navigate.
Watching Designed by Preeti was eye-opening. The film is beautifully directed, supported by strong performances, and grounded in a thoughtful script that captures the complexity of the subject with sensitivity and care. At the same time, it weaves in moments of human connection, including a subtle love story that brings warmth and balance to an otherwise difficult theme.
I strongly encourage everyone to watch this film, not only to better understand this issue, but to develop greater empathy. If someone in your life-a mother, sister, or friend-is going through something similar, this film may help you show up with more compassion and support.
A must-watch film!
A must-watch film. Rashmi has played the role beautifully of a woman who endures silent abuse and finally finds the courage to break free and stand on her own and build her life back step by step. This film deals with a heavy and emotional subject, but what I appreciated most is that it doesn’t make the experience overly dark or overwhelming. It is an engaging film portraying a heavy subject. The film feels empowering and highlights the importance of women being both financially and emotionally independent.