Shefali Shah and Kirti Kulhari-starrer series ‘Human’, which explores the twisted world of unethical human trials, was earlier planned as a movie, says Mozez Singh, the writer and co-director of the 2022 show.

The Disney+ Hotstar series, directed by Vipul Shah and Singh, revolves around the process of drug testing on humans and highlights the heart-wrenching reality of the corrupt and deceitful world of pharma companies, hospitals, and politicians.

On the one-year anniversary of  ‘Human’, Singh said he was thrilled when Vipul Shah approached him to make a feature film on human drug trials in 2019 but the desire to explore the subject in depth later lent itself to a series format, a PTI report from Mumbai stated.

“He initially offered me a film script on the world of human drug trials. As soon as I read the script, my mind started wandering in different directions. The subject was very interesting and we could do a lot more with it but I needed more time.

“I looped in my co-writer Ishani Banerjee to ideate with me and then we came back with the story of what is now the show ‘Human’,” the director told PTI in an interview.

Known for Vicky Kaushal-led 2016 film ‘Zubaan’, Singh said the team did extensive groundwork and research on the subject of human drug trials and realised the epicentre of this menace is Madhya Pradesh, where the show is set.

In order to present an authentic take on the subject, the team met researchers, doctors, brain specialists, and heart specialists among others.

“We had consulting doctors on board, who were constantly advising us on the right medical information for the show.

“We had surgeons helping us, we got a lot of support from the medical world, humanitarian world from Bhopal for six to seven months even before we started writing,” Singh added.

‘Human’ is narrated through the eyes of two principal female characters, Dr Gauri Nath (Shah), who is at the centre of human drug testing and her junior surgeon Dr Saira Sabarwal (Kulhari), and a young slum dweller named Mangu (Vishal Jethwa).

Singh said both Shefali Shah and Kulhari were the apt choices for the show.

“It’s always interesting to tell a story through the eyes of the woman,” the director said, adding that the two are “truly amazing and gifted actors.” Shefali Shah said she feels grateful to be part of the show that addressed a poignant issue.

“I am glad I could be a part of the show which is talking about a really important thing and play a character which is always going to be the furthest away from me, and that’s why it’s so much exciting.

“The show is going to be there for posterity for people to see forever,” the actor, known for her performances in films such as ‘Monsoon Wedding’, ‘Dil Dhadakne Do’ and the series ‘Delhi Crime’, said in a statement.

As per reports, ‘Human’ is getting a second season. Singh said even though he is not associated with the upcoming installment, he has full faith the team will maintain the essence of the show.