Dunki (2023) Review!!

Synopsis – Four friends from a village in Punjab share a common dream: to go to England. Their problem is that they have neither the visa nor the ticket. A soldier promises to take them to the land of their dreams.

My Take – No actor has had a massive year as Shah Rukh Khan. Who following his return to the big-screen following a 4 year hiatus, starred in not one, but two blockbusters, Pathaan and Jawan, which along with providing unabashed entertainment went on box-office record-smashing sprees, eventually emerging as the top two highest-grossing Hindi films of all time in India.

Understandably, his 3rd release of the year comes with all the hype and sensation. Even though it sees him peeling off his action hero persona and return to his more familiar zone, an emotional drama.

Adding on the expectations is his prolonged first time pairing with master storyteller Rajkumar Hirani. A filmmaker who requires no introduction, considering his works include wholesome and engaging entertainers like Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. (2003), Lage Raho Munna Bhai (2006), 3 Idiots (2009), PK (2014) and Sanju (2018). Gaining reputation as one of those rare directors who manages to pull you into the plot on the basis of just pure story telling.

And while this one might not stand stall in comparison to his previous works, it still a commendable effort that thoroughly entertains.

Laced with director Hirani‘s signature style, the film deals with the perils of illegal immigration with infectious jollity, piercing drama and a clear-eyed awareness of the ethical and legal questions surrounding the act of entering a foreign country without a visa.

Riding high on emotions, the film’s writers Hirani, Abhijat Joshi and Kanika Dhillon ensure that we are thoroughly engrossed in this cinematic world full of love, laughter, tears, hope, and failure that is topped with music that soothes the soul. Also, there is no better way to end the year than witness Shah Rukh Khan‘s magnetic charm on the silver screen.

The story follows Manu Randhwa (Taapsee Pannu), Balindar ‘Buggu’ Lakhanpal (Vikram Kochhar), and Balli Kakkad (Anil Grover), natives of Laltu in Punjab, who find themselves grappling with diverse challenges within their Indian homes. Faced with the need to overcome these hurdles, they collectively decide to seek better opportunities in England, hoping for a brighter future. But the road isn’t easy. It’s paved with treacherous IELTS tests and exams that require them to learn English in order to get the required visa.

However, following their failing in the language test, which also comes with a solemn tragedy, Hardayal “Hardy” Singh Dhillon (Shah Rukh Khan), enigmatic army man, who had come over to the small town for a short period of time, makes a solemn promise to escort them to the land of their dreams. What ensues is a heartening narrative of a hazardous illegal expedition across deserts and seas, but more significantly, through the recesses of their minds.

Since the trailer made it clear that the film has Khan playing a young and an aged man, it’s no spoiler to know that the story mostly runs in flashback. We see how Manu met Hardy, how they got attracted to each other while taking the Donkey flight (illegal immigration) to reach London, and face several adversities on the way.

While the first half is layered and nuanced with the feel-good humor and simplistic approach that is signature Hirani, the second half switches tracks, tones and scenery. Motivation and angst turn into desperation. This odyssey becomes a crucible that examines and shapes them. Testing their bravery, intellect, and the tension of their divergent beliefs. The film unfolds as a tale of camaraderie, national boundaries, homesickness, and a love that transcends it all.

Here, director Hirani brings forth a story line that, while rooted in simplicity, navigates the complexities of immigrant life. Rather than relying on convoluted plot twists, he places emphasis on the emotional depth of the characters, leveraging the power of relatable storytelling. His choice to focus on the emotional quotient of the narrative is a deliberate and poignant one, highlighting the commonality of human struggles and dreams.

The film seeks to resonate with the audience by exploring the human aspect of the immigrant experience, tapping into universal emotions and connections. It makes a strong point about why the poor and non-English speaking Indians are not allowed visas in several countries.

Yes, the comedy works at times and doesn’t work at other places. Though the beats exist, the writing doesn’t provide the unpredictability that director Hirani‘s other films had.

Performances wise, Shah Rukh Khan plays a typical Hirani protagonist who is earnest and sincere from the word go. Bringing forth a multifaceted performance that transcend the boundaries of his recent action entertainers. Here, the superstar seamlessly embodies the character of an army personnel, showcasing a commitment that extends to any lengths to uphold promises and assist his companions.

Tapsee Pannu matches strides with him, delivers a spirited performance that is both commendable and competitive. One look at Manu and we know why she has been picked. The tough girl role is perfected by the actress and she nails it here as well. Vikram Kochhar and Anil Grover are more than adequate and generate a chemistry among them that’s usually a hallmark in Hirani films. Boman Irani showcasing his prowess at its best.

However, it is Vicky Kaushal who walks away as the show stealer of the feature. Credited as a special appearance, Kaushal astounds with an emotional outburst that significantly contributes to elevating the narrative to another emotional echelon. The core theme of seriousness is highlighted due to his act. On the whole, ‘Dunki’ is a classic Rajkumar Hirani entertainer that is both an emotional and hilarious roller coaster.