Introduction
The 2021 release of Haseen Dillruba brought a unique blend of pulp fiction and Bollywood drama, capturing attention with its thrilling twists and strong performances by Taapsee Pannu, Vikrant Massey, and Harshvardhan Rane. While it received mixed reviews, the film stood out as a compelling thriller. Now, the much-anticipated sequel, Phir Aayi Haseen Dillruba, is here.
However, it struggles to replicate the gripping mystery and edgy narrative of its predecessor, despite retaining some of the twists that made the original memorable.
A Shift in Storytelling
Rather than picking up directly where the first film left off, Phir Aayi Haseen Dillruba opens in a police station and then flashes back to past events, slowly moving forward to the present. Rani Kashyap (played by Taapsee Pannu) desires a fresh start in life, while her husband Rishu (Vikrant Massey) stays close by under a new identity. Their plan to escape and live happily ever after is disrupted when Mrityunjay, also known as Montu (Jimmy Shergill), enters the picture.
Introducing New Dynamics
The sequel introduces Abhimanyu (Sunny Kaushal), a man deeply in love with Rani—not in a lustful way, but with a warm, genuine affection. Rani devises a plan to involve him in her already complicated situation, leading to further chaos. The unfolding story delves into the question: “At what point can someone sacrifice themselves for love?”
Characterization and Depth
One of the key strengths of the original Haseen Dillruba was its bold, loud, and outrageous characters. However, the sequel struggles to recreate this dynamic. The characters in Phir Aayi Haseen Dillruba lack the depth and richness that made the original so engaging. The absence of societal reflections and supporting characters, like the parents and friends from the first film, is noticeable. The sequel leaves us with only the character of Poonam, whose focus on seducing Rishu feels one-dimensional.
Performances and Chemistry
Despite these shortcomings, the performances help elevate the film. Vikrant Massey and Taapsee Pannu once again showcase their undeniable on-screen chemistry. Sunny Kaushal adds a new layer to the narrative with his portrayal of Abhimanyu, playing his role with a subtle menace that contrasts with his innocent appearance. Although Vikrant Massey, who was the standout in the first film, receives less focus this time, he still delivers a solid performance. Taapsee Pannu remains the heart of the movie, seizing every opportunity to display her talent.
New Additions and Challenges
The sequel also introduces Harshvardhan Rane as Neel and Jimmy Shergill as Montu. While Shergill’s portrayal of Montu, with an exaggerated Bihari accent, can be distracting, he gives his best effort in an underdeveloped role. Director Jayaprad Desai faced a tough challenge in continuing the story, and while the sequel is a solid continuation, it lacks the unpredictability and sharpness of the original.
Visuals and Music
One of the highlights of Phir Aayi Haseen Dillruba is its music, particularly the work of Sachet-Parampara, who skillfully incorporate “Ek Haseena Thi” into the plotline. The cinematography by Vishal Sinha also stands out, providing stunning visuals that enhance the film’s atmosphere.
Conclusion
Phir Aayi Haseen Dillruba is a decent watch, especially for fans of the original, though it’s hard not to compare it to its predecessor. The sequel falls short of the first film’s unpredictability and character depth, but it’s still an entertaining ride. If the story continues, it’s hoped that Kanika Dhillon will return with a sharper, more cutting narrative that stays true to the themes that made Haseen Dillruba a standout film.
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