Shah Rukh Khan returns to the silver screen with “Dunki,” directed by the acclaimed Rajkumar Hirani. The film, which released in December 2023, promises a signature Hirani blend of humor, emotions, and social commentary. Does it deliver? Moviesda dives in.
The Story: Dunki follows the story of “Hirani” (played by Shah Rukh Khan), a man caught in the complexities of immigration. The film explores themes of displacement, longing for home, and the human spirit in the face of challenges. Joining Khan is Taapsee Pannu, whose character “Manu” adds another layer to the narrative.
Moviesda’s Take
The first half of Dunki is a classic Hirani experience. The director’s signature humor is on point, peppering the narrative with lighthearted moments that will have you chuckling. Khan, delivering a charming performance, embodies the character of Hirani with his usual charisma. The supporting cast, particularly Vicky Kaushal in a powerful cameo, adds depth and nuance to the story.
However, as Moviesda observed, the film falters in the second half. The plot meanders, the humor becomes repetitive, and the emotional moments, while present, lack the impact of Hirani’s previous works. The climax feels rushed, leaving a sense of incompleteness.
Moviesda’s Verdict
Dunki is a mixed bag. While the first half is engaging and entertaining, the second half fails to live up to the expectations set by Hirani’s previous films. Khan shines in his role, but the film ultimately feels uneven. If you’re a fan of Hirani’s style or Khan’s charm, you might still find entertainment in Dunki. However, Moviesda recommends keeping your expectations in check, as the film doesn’t quite reach the heights of Hirani’s best work.
Final Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Shah Rukh Khan returns to the silver screen, and Rajkumar Hirani directs, so expectations for “Dunki” were sky-high. Does it live up to the hype? Moviesda breaks it down.
The Premise
Hirani’s signature blend of humor and emotional depth tackles the struggles of illegal immigrants navigating a foreign land. Shah Rukh Khan plays “Hirani” (yes, the character shares the director’s name, adding a meta layer), a man yearning for a better life.
Moviesda’s Take
The film shines in its first half. Hirani’s masterful storytelling is evident, weaving humor and poignant moments seamlessly. Khan delivers a charismatic performance, showcasing his trademark charm and vulnerability. The supporting cast, including Taapsee Pannu and a powerful cameo by Vicky Kaushal, adds further depth to the narrative.
However, the second half falters. The plot meanders, and the humor feels repetitive. The emotional climax, while well-intentioned, stretches thin, diluting the overall impact.
Verdict
Despite its shortcomings, “Dunki” is a watchable film with a strong social message. Khan’s performance is a highlight, and the first half offers heartwarming moments and signature Hirani humor. However, Moviesda advises viewers to be prepared for a second half that doesn’t quite match the initial promise.
Final Rating
Moviesda gives “Dunki” 3 out of 5 stars. While it might not be Hirani’s best work, it’s still an entertaining experience with a relevant message.
worth watching?
For die-hard Shah Rukh Khan fans and those seeking a light-hearted film with a touch of social commentary, “Dunki” is a decent choice. However, viewers expecting another “PK” or “3 Idiots” might leave feeling slightly disappointed.
the cast of “Dunki”
- Lead Actors:
- Shah Rukh Khan
- Taapsee Pannu
- Supporting Actors:
- Boman Irani
- Vicky Kaushal (cameo appearance)
collection of “Dunki”
“Dunki” has performed quite well at the box office, grossing over ₹470.6 crore (US$59 million) worldwide. Here’s a breakdown of its collections:
- Domestic: ₹262.25 crore (US$33 million)
- Overseas: ₹196.68 crore (US$25 million)
wow what a movie bro