Film: O'Romeo

Cast: Shahid Kapoor, Triptii Dimri, Avinash Tiwary, Nana Patekar, Farida Jalal, Disha Patani, Tamannaah Bhatia, Vikrant Massey

Director: Vishal Bhardwaj 

Rating: 4 Moons 

Storyline 

This is the Mumbai underworld of the 1990s, where Hussain Ustara (Shahid Kapoor) is a notorious gangster, chilling and utterly ruthless. The film is inspired by a book that chronicles the crimes committed by Ustara and other gangsters of that time. Afsha (Tripti Dimri), heartbroken by her husband's murder, approaches Ustara seeking revenge, and this is where their relationship begins its ups and downs, their journeys deepen amid the fire of revenge, the bonds of trust, and the complexities of the heart. 

In addition to Ustara and Afsha, the film also features Avinash Tiwari as the antagonistic gangster Jalal (a Dawood Ibrahim character), who adds to the conflict and confrontation. Nana Patekar, Tamannaah Bhatia, Disha Patani, Farida Jalal, and Vikrant Massey add to the thrill of the narrative. These characters portray the turmoil of the 90s, the hunger for power, and the deadly struggle between love and revenge, where every decision has a price and every gangster a destiny.

Acting

Shahid Kapoor creates something unique and magical every time he collaborates with Vishal Bhardwaj, and ‘O’Romeo’ proves that this pair's chemistry always works wonders. Tripti Dimri is back in great form after ‘Bulbbul’ and ‘Qala’. Nana Patekar and Farida Jalal are convincing in their respective roles, but the show-stealer is Avinash Tiwari, who breathes life into the film as the dangerous and fun villain Jalal. Tamannaah Bhatia has an important role, Vikrant Massey and Disha Patani also impress in their small roles.

Direction

Vishal Bhardwaj is in his most commercial avatar this time, deliberately adding masala, music, and big moments to make the story resonate with a wider audience. Yet his signature touch is clearly felt in every frame. This film showcases a new, interesting aspect of his thinking, more flash, more drama, and yet the same emotional depth. Had his influence been a little deeper, the film would have reached even greater heights, but overall, it's a strong and surprising directorial effort that establishes Vishal Bhardwaj in a new commercial era.

Dialogues 

The powerful dialogues that captured people's attention in the trailer are more powerful than the others in the film. Every scene features a dialogue that strikes at the heart and mind, and remains memorable even after the film ends. These dialogues are not just words, but express the characters' thoughts, pain, and their anger. This makes ‘O’Romeo’ a powerful film that leaves an impact through words.

Music

This is Vishal Bhardwaj's most commercial work and the biggest reason is its music. The songs, despite being commercial, are deeply connected to the story. From ‘Paan Ki Dukaan’ onwards, every track advances the story at some point – no song is added without reason. Each has its own emotion, purpose, and impact, strengthening the characters' thoughts and situations. Today, when songs are added just for show, the music of ‘O’Romeo’ is its greatest beauty.

Overall 

Despite being 2 hours 57 minutes, the story, revolving between suspense, emotion, crime and love, keeps you hooked, making it a must watch.