PROJECT CONTEXT
As part of an Indian adaptation of the globally acclaimed series Monk, the production team at Banijay engaged me to support the development of a key character.
The character, “Mistry,” is a detective living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). The intent was to create a portrayal that was not only compelling on screen, but also accurate, nuanced, and respectful to the condition.
THE CHARACTER CHALLENGE
Portraying OCD on screen often falls into two extremes:
- Over-dramatization for entertainment
- Oversimplification that lacks authenticity
The challenge in this project was to:
- Maintain behavioral accuracy
- Avoid stereotypical or exaggerated cues
- Ensure the character’s actions felt internally driven and consistent, not performed
SCOPE OF CONTRIBUTION
My role involved end-to-end body language and character development consulting for the lead actor, focused on translating psychological traits into on-screen behaviour, including:
- Translating real-world OCD patterns into performable body language
- Supporting the actor, director, and creative team with behavioral insights
- Ensuring consistency between character psychology and physical expression
RESEARCH
The foundation of the work began with deep research and structured material creation.
This included:
- A detailed study of behavioral patterns associated with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
- Analysis of the original character from Monk to understand baseline traits and adaptations required for an Indian context
- Development of reference material, including:
- Written behavioral breakdowns
- Curated visual references (images and video clips)
- Practical interpretation of symptoms into observable, repeatable actions
The focus was to convert research into usable performance inputs, not just theory.
WORKING WITH THE ACTOR
A key part of the process involved close collaboration with Ram Kapoor as he developed the character.
This included:
- Breaking down micro-behaviors and physical habits associated with OCD
- Helping the actor internalize patterns of movement, hesitation, and control
- Conducting dry runs and practice sessions to refine authenticity
The emphasis was on ensuring that behaviors felt natural and consistent, rather than consciously “acted.” This process reflects how body language experts support actors in building realistic and psychologically accurate performances.
CREATIVE COLLABORATION WITH THE TEAM
Beyond the actor, the process involved working closely with the director and creative leadership.
Key contributions included:
- Sit-down sessions to align on how the condition should be portrayed on screen
- Ensuring that behavioral choices supported the narrative tone and sensitivity
- Providing real-time feedback and refinements during discussions and rehearsals
This ensured that performance, direction, and storytelling remained aligned.
KEY BEHAVIORAL INPUTS
Some of the core areas of input included:
- Differentiating between subtle compulsions vs. visible behaviors
- Managing intensity levels across scenes (not every moment is heightened)
- Ensuring continuity in body language across emotional states
- Avoiding repetitive or exaggerated cues that reduce believability
The goal was to build a character that felt layered, controlled, and authentic.
IMPACT ON CHARACTER PORTRAYAL
The behavioural consulting contributed to:
- A more credible and sensitive representation of OCD
- Greater consistency in the actor’s performance
- Enhanced believability of the character within the narrative
The approach ensured that the portrayal remained grounded in reality while serving the story.
TESTIMONIAL
“The team at Banijay connected with Khyati to get her expert insight for the character of Mistry. Mistry is a detective with extreme OCD. It was crucial to get the body language right to make the character seem authentic and remain sensitive to this serious condition the character battles.
Khyati’s meticulous research, references and video clips provided in depth material for Ram Kapoor to study as he dived into the character. Khyati was also available for in person meetings, guiding the actor, director and creative team as Ram embodied the character. It was a great experience to work with her!”
ABOUT THE EXPERT
Khyati Bhatt is a specialist in nonverbal communication and behavioural analysis, working across industries including media, legal, and corporate environments. Her work focuses on translating human behavior into practical, observable insights for real-world application.
APPLICATIONS OF BEHAVIORIAL CONSULTING IN MEDIA
- Character development for actors
- Portrayal of psychological conditions like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
- Enhancing realism in storytelling
- Supporting directors with performance consistency
EXPLORE MORE
For body language consulting, character development support, or behavioural analysis for film and OTT productions, get in touch. Simply fill out the form below or call us on +91 99309 41534.
