Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba - Movie Review MovieMig

The much-anticipated sequel to the 2021 hit “Haseen Dillruba” has finally arrived on Netflix, and it’s safe to say that “Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba” doesn’t disappoint. Directed by Jayprad Desai, this romantic thriller picks up where its predecessor left off, delivering a captivating story filled with twists, turns, and unexpected developments.

Starring the talented trio of Taapsee Pannu, Vikrant Massey, and Sunny Kaushal, with a special appearance by Jimmy Shergill, the film takes viewers on a rollercoaster ride through the complexities of love, betrayal, and survival. Set against the backdrop of Agra, the city of love, “Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba” weaves a tale that’s both intriguing and unpredictable.

Plot and Story

The story picks up two months after the events of “Haseen Dillruba.” We find Rani (Taapsee Pannu) living in Agra, running a beauty parlor, while her husband Rishu (Vikrant Massey), now using the alias Ravi, works as a delivery boy with a prosthetic hand. The couple, though living separately to avoid detection, stays in touch via phone and plans to escape to Thailand.

Their seemingly perfect plan takes an unexpected turn when a mild-mannered admirer, Abhimanyu (Sunny Kaushal), enters the picture. As Rani and Rishu’s scheme to run away together goes awry, Rani turns to Abhimanyu for help, setting off a chain of events that keeps the audience guessing until the very end.

The narrative unfolds through a series of flashbacks and present-day scenes, gradually revealing the intricate web of relationships and motivations that drive the characters. The addition of Jimmy Shergill as Mrityunjay, also known as Montu, a police officer investigating the case, adds another layer of complexity to the already tangled plot.

Cast and Performances

One of the strongest aspects of “Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba” is undoubtedly its cast. Taapsee Pannu once again shines as Rani, bringing depth and nuance to her character. Her portrayal of a woman caught between love, survival, and her own desires is both convincing and captivating. Pannu’s ability to switch between vulnerability and cunning keeps the audience on their toes throughout the film.

Vikrant Massey delivers another stellar performance as Rishu. His character’s transformation from the first film is palpable, and Massey skillfully portrays the internal struggles of a man living on the edge. The chemistry between Pannu and Massey is electric, making their on-screen relationship both believable and engaging.

The addition of Sunny Kaushal as Abhimanyu brings a fresh dynamic to the story. Kaushal’s portrayal of a seemingly innocent admirer with hidden depths adds an element of unpredictability to the narrative. His performance is nuanced, allowing the audience to question his true motives until the very end.

Jimmy Shergill, though in a supporting role, makes a significant impact as the determined police officer Mrityunjay. His presence adds gravitas to the scenes he’s in, and his cat-and-mouse game with the main characters keeps the tension high.

Direction and Cinematography

Director Jayprad Desai takes the reins from Vinil Mathew, who helmed the first film, and manages to maintain the essence of the original while adding his own touch. Desai’s direction shines in the way he builds tension and suspense, using the picturesque yet mysterious backdrop of Agra to full effect.

The film’s cinematography, handled by Vishal Sinha, deserves special mention. The camera work beautifully captures the essence of Agra, from its bustling streets to its iconic monuments. The use of light and shadow adds to the noir-ish feel of the film, enhancing the overall mood and atmosphere.

Screenplay and Dialogue

The screenplay, penned by Kanika Dhillon, who also wrote the first film, is tight and well-paced. Dhillon’s writing shines in the way she weaves together multiple storylines, keeping the audience engaged and guessing. The dialogue is sharp and often laced with dark humor, adding levity to even the most tense situations.

One of the strengths of the script is how it balances the continuation of the previous film’s story with new elements that make it accessible to viewers who haven’t seen “Haseen Dillruba.” The flashbacks are well-integrated, providing necessary context without feeling forced or disruptive to the flow of the narrative.

Music and Sound Design

The film’s soundtrack, composed by Sachet-Parampara and Anurag Saikia, complements the on-screen action perfectly. The songs, particularly “Haste Haste” and “Kya Haal Hai,” add depth to the emotional moments without overshadowing the narrative. The background score, with its subtle yet effective use of instruments, enhances the tension and suspense throughout the film.

The sound design deserves praise for its attention to detail, from the bustling sounds of Agra’s streets to the quieter, more intimate moments between characters. This attention to auditory detail helps immerse the viewer in the world of the film.

Themes and Subtext

“Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba” explores several themes that add depth to its thriller plot. The film delves into the complexities of love and relationships, questioning the lengths people will go to for those they care about. It also touches on themes of identity and reinvention, as characters struggle to leave their past behind and forge new paths.

The movie also subtly comments on societal expectations and the pressure to conform, particularly through Rani’s character arc. Her journey from a woman defined by her relationships to someone taking control of her own narrative is one of the more compelling aspects of the film.

Comparison to the Original

While “Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba” stands on its own as a film, comparisons to its predecessor are inevitable. The sequel manages to maintain the pulpy, noir-inspired feel of the original while expanding the narrative in new and interesting ways. The addition of new characters and the evolution of returning ones keeps the story fresh and engaging.

However, some viewers might find that the sequel lacks some of the shock value and unpredictability of the first film. The twists, while still effective, may not hit quite as hard for those familiar with the style and tone established in “Haseen Dillruba.”

Technical Aspects

From a technical standpoint, “Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba” is a well-crafted film. The editing by Hemal Kothari is crisp, maintaining a good pace throughout the 133-minute runtime. The production design effectively captures the essence of Agra, from its crowded markets to its more upscale areas, providing a rich visual backdrop for the story to unfold.

The costume design by Varsha Chandanani and Shilpa Makhija deserves mention for its attention to detail. The characters’ outfits not only suit their personalities but also subtly reflect their emotional states and the changes they undergo throughout the film.

Final Thoughts

“Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba” is a worthy sequel that expands on the world and characters established in the first film while offering plenty of new twists and turns. While it may not surpass the original in terms of shock value, it compensates with deeper character development and a more intricate plot.

The film’s strength lies in its ability to keep the audience guessing, thanks to strong performances from its lead cast and a well-crafted script. Jayprad Desai’s direction, combined with Vishal Sinha’s cinematography, creates a moody, atmospheric thriller that’s both visually appealing and emotionally engaging.

For fans of the original “Haseen Dillruba,” this sequel offers a satisfying continuation of the story. For newcomers, it serves as an intriguing entry point into a world of love, betrayal, and suspense. While it may not be perfect, “Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba” is certainly a compelling watch that keeps you engaged from start to finish.

Key Highlights

User rating: 3.7/5
Running time: 133 minutes
Premiere Date: August 9, 2024
Year: 2024
Country: India
Genre: Romantic Thriller
Director: Jayprad Desai
Actors: Taapsee Pannu, Vikrant Massey, Sunny Kaushal, Jimmy Shergill

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