Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Taapsee Pannu, Vicky Kaushak, Boman Irani, Vikram Kochhar, Anil Grover, and others
Director: Rajkumar Hirani
Rating: ⭐
***
Dunki Movie Review: Shah Rukh Khan’s Dunki is a cinematic misfire of colossal proportions, a tedious concoction of worn-out clichés and uninspiring storytelling that makes one question the decision-making behind this lackluster production.
The storyline, if one can generously call it that, is a patchwork quilt of tired clichés and uninspired sequences. Any semblance of originality is sacrificed at the altar of formulaic predictability, making each scene more cringe-inducing than the last. The film seems to revel in its lack of ambition, content to tread the well-worn path of Bollywood tropes without offering any redeeming qualities.
From the outset, the narrative plods along a predictable trajectory, leaving the audience to yawn through scenes that feel like a regurgitation of countless other forgettable films. Shah Rukh Khan’s character is a mere cardboard cutout of his earlier, more compelling roles, and the film offers nothing in terms of innovation or fresh perspective.
The supporting cast, despite their best efforts, is hamstrung by underdeveloped characters that lack depth or nuance. It’s as if Rajkumar Hirani raided the dusty archives of generic plotlines and assembled a cast to deliver forgettable performances. The interactions between characters lack authenticity, leaving the viewer emotionally detached from the supposed drama unfolding on screen.
Dunki’s pacing is a masterclass in inconsistency. The film meanders through tedious stretches of lethargic storytelling, only to abruptly shift gears into rushed and poorly executed sequences. The lack of a coherent rhythm robs the film of any chance to build tension or engage the audience, resulting in a cinematic experience that feels more like an endurance test than entertainment.
The cinematography and production design, while technically competent, fail to inject any life into the film. The visuals, like the plot, lack originality and struggle to leave a lasting impression.
What worked for me
The only thing that worked for me in the film was Vicky Kaushal’s character – A cameo that could have been a full fledged character.
Verdict
Dunki is a one-star disaster that tarnishes Shah Rukh Khan’s otherwise illustrious filmography. A tedious exercise in cinematic déjà vu, it offers nothing new or noteworthy to audiences. For fans expecting a refreshing addition to Khan’s repertoire, prepare for disappointment; Dunki is a forgettable plunge into the depths of predictability that should be avoided at all costs.