Dunki Movie Review

 

Dunki movie - another gem by Rajkumar Hirani. Unique storyline, backed with superlative script, several scenes filled with humor and sprinkled with genuine emotions in his trademark style.

The title itself, Dunki, had never heard of before, while we would guess it would have a strong meaning just like the other uncommon name of his another movie 'PK'; the name Dunki was a slang commonly used by punjabi's/Indians for illegal crossing to UK; was a huge surprise in itself. The context itself, the brief history of the punjabi's need in UK post WWII, with the shortage of labor in UK, then a point where this easy and legal immigration was stopped by UK in early 1960s, was an education in itself. With several punjabi's, their  families, extended families already moved to UK, the consequences felt by the locals was explained within first few scenes and created empathy for all lead and supporting characters in the movie

The screenplay and direction was crafted with pure excellence for each scene, keeping a level of suspense on whats going to happen the next. The opening scene, involving Tapsee Pannu's character was reminiscent of Madhavan's opening scene in 3 idiots :). 

SRK was great especially in his comic timings, his physique looked not an year old older than 35. However, it's difficult to hide that with a clean shaven face. Adding a beard later, helped in hiding the wrinkles. This movie may not turn out to be as big commercial hit like Pathaan or Jawaan, but he looked the best in this movie in 2023

The small town/village set up appeared real (atleast to me) till the point Mrudula pointed to me that it feels like a set up. Real or set up, it made a good viewing experience. 

Vicky Kaushal had a special appearance. He performed the role of a small town punjabi brilliantly, with some of the best lines having strong underlying messages written for him. He made us laugh and cry with him. 

Tapsee Pannu looked convincing for her part. Looked beautiful throughout the movie. Performed well in the key scene involving paradoxically seeking asylum in UK, having the inner guilt to achieve what she needed

Boman Irani, as usual performed his part superbly. He did not have bigger role like munnabhai or 3 idiots though

Both the other supporting actors, did their job to perfection. One of them resembled Sunil Grover. Later learnt that he is Anil Grover, Sunil's brother 

Songs were few, were of good quality.   

What could have been better: 

While it was important to inject priority element to go back to India, else the story could not have proceeded. Hence one of the lead character had to have the deadly disease. So, no issue in adding this in the story line. However, there was no explanation around the tumor, what stage is it in? and if it's really last stage, how come she is able to roam around easily without any health issue. Also, when SRK was surprised to know her situation, there was no attempt to cure/treat her. May be the director had thought about all this, but wanted to control the length of the movie.  

Overall: 4 stars