The highly anticipated third film of the year starring Shah Rukh Khan, “Dunki,” a groundbreaking collaboration with renowned filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani, has finally arrived in theaters today, on Thursday, December 21, 2023. Fans have been buzzing since Hirani first pitched the story in 2020, and the wait is finally over! This immigration-themed comedy-drama hits screens with a stellar cast, including Vicky Kaushal, Taapsee Pannu, and Boman Irani, along with SRK.
Directed by: Rajkumar Hirani
Produced by: Gauri Khan, Rajkumar Hirani, Jyoti Deshpande
Story by: Rajkumar Hirani
Screenplay: Abhijat Joshi, Rajkumar Hirani, Kanika Dhillon
Starring: Shah Rukh Khan, Taapsee Pannu, Vicky Kaushal, Boman Irani
Music by: Pritam
Cinematography by: Muraleedharan C. K., Manush Nandan
Edited by: Rajkumar Hirani
Production company: Jio Studios, Red Chillies Entertainment, Rajkumar Hirani Films
Distributed by: Pen Studios, Yash Raj Films
Plot
The film centers around three friends, Manu (Tapsee Pannu), Buggu (Vikram Kochar), and Balli (Anil Grover), residing in a small Punjab town, each harboring personal motivations to journey to England. They explore various avenues, encountering a dubious individual offering VISAs, significant funds, and unconventional conditions—Balli marrying a foreigner, Buggu posing as a doctor, and Manu mastering wrestling. Enter Hardy Singh (Shah Rukh Khan), a soldier and wrestling expert. Hardy, determined to fulfill their dreams, pledges to employ every means possible.
Their journey begins with enrolling in an English coaching class, led by Gulati (Boman Irani), to conquer the IELTS exam. In this pursuit, they cross paths with Sukhi (Vicky Kaushal). Passing the IELTS becomes their sole legitimate option, or they may resort to illegal immigration, referred to as “Dunki” in Punjab.
Movie Review
Rajkumar Hirani’s Dunki is a perfect mix of laughter, tears, romance, and even action, living up to its immense hype. Hirani’s script is a roller coaster of clever jokes and tear-jerking moments. It delves into the often-ignored stories of illegal immigrants, highlighting their struggles and showcasing the challenges faced even by those with legal visas.
-
Performances
Shah Rukh Khan shines as the charismatic Hardy Singh, adding another gem to his iconic repertoire. Tapsee Pannu matches his brilliance with her witty and cunning Manu, while Vicky Kaushal delivers a heart-wrenching performance as the melancholic Sukhi. The supporting cast seamlessly blends into the tapestry, adding to the film’s humor and emotional depth.
-
Cinematography and Soundtrack
Visually stunning cinematography and a diverse soundtrack elevate the experience. From the energetic beats of “Lutt Putt Gaya” to the emotionally stirring “Rasta Dekhunga” and Arijit Singh’s soulful “O Mahi,” the music perfectly complements the film’s emotional journey.
Locations
Dunki takes place in captivating settings such as Punjab, England, Iran, and Dubai. The dry expanse of the Iranian desert vividly depicts the difficulties encountered by illegal immigrants, emphasizing the risky nature of their the journey. While Dubai appears briefly in the second half of the film, the primary focus remains on Punjab and England. The dynamic ambiance of a small village in Punjab, where every person dreams of venturing abroad, is shown nicely. The film beautifully depicts the essence of aspirational goals, from airplane tanks covering the rooftops of those who acquired visas to English tuition establishments filling the streets. The scenes in London, England, illustrate the heartbreaking reality of the city for foreigners, giving a heartbreaking layer to the story.
Verdict
Dunki is a must-watch, a testament to Hirani’s storytelling prowess and the talent of its stellar cast. It’s a film that will leave you laughing, crying, and reflecting long after the credits roll. While Pathaan and Jawan showcased SRK in powerful roles that transformed theaters into stadiums, Dunki is the film where SRK truly showcases his acting prowess, displaying versatility in comedy, emotions, and the beloved romance genre. Prepare to witness the comeback of Bollywood’s favorite lover boy in another heart-wrenching love story.Lastly, Dunki is a love letter to India, reminding us of the beauty of our homeland while offering valuable life lessons.
MapsofIndia.com/MyIndia.in Rating: 4/5
