In the latest romantic comedy backed by Karan Johar, “Bad Newz” attempts to blend humor with romance through a fresh trio of actors—Vicky Kaushal, Triptii Dimri, and Ammy Virk. While the film promises frivolity, it struggles to rise above its predictable premise.
Bad Newz: Plot Overview
“Bad Newz” follows the chaotic journey of Saloni Bagga (Triptii Dimri), an ambitious chef aiming for culinary stardom. Her quest for love leads her to Akhil Chadha (Vicky Kaushal), a spirited Punjabi from West Delhi with whom she embarks on a whirlwind romance turned sour honeymoon. Enter Gurbir Pannu (Ammy Virk), Saloni’s boss in Mussoorie, and a night of unexpected events leaves Saloni pregnant with twins from two fathers.
Penned by Ishita Moitra and Tarun Dudeja, “Bad Newz” kicks off with promise but falters in execution. The initial half sets a playful tone, but the latter half struggles with pacing issues and repetitive sequences. Despite witty dialogues and occasional laughs, the film fails to sustain engagement.
Vicky Kaushal steals the show with his portrayal of Akhil Chadha, injecting charisma and authenticity into his role as a proud Delhiite. His performance, though occasionally over-the-top, anchors the film with energy and humor. In contrast, Triptii Dimri’s portrayal of Saloni feels underwhelming, lacking the spark needed for a comedic role. Ammy Virk impresses with his endearing portrayal of Gurbir, adding a touch of innocence and sincerity to the narrative.
Helmed by Anand Tiwari, known for his work in “Love Per Square Foot” and “Bang Baaja Baarat,” “Bad Newz” reflects his grasp of the rom-com genre. While Tiwari brings commercial appeal to the film, pacing issues and underdeveloped characters hinder its potential.
“Bad Newz” struggles with clichés and stereotypes, yet manages to weave in meta jokes and Bollywood references effectively. Moments referencing iconic films and characters add a nostalgic charm, but these aren’t enough to salvage its shortcomings. The film’s soundtrack, featuring a lively rendition of “Mere Mehboob Mare Sanam,” offers a brief respite.
In conclusion, “Bad Newz” emerges as a mixed bag—a testament to Vicky Kaushal’s star power amidst a narrative that falls short of expectations. While it attempts to blend humor and romance, its inconsistencies and lack of depth prevent it from achieving greatness.
As a viewer, I found “Bad Newz” to be an entertaining yet flawed attempt at modern romantic comedy. Vicky Kaushal’s magnetic presence and humorous timing elevate the film, but the overall execution leaves much to be desired. Triptii Dimri’s performance, though earnest, lacks the vibrancy needed for her character’s comedic journey. Ammy Virk shines in a supporting role, providing heartfelt moments amidst the chaos.
The film’s reliance on Punjabi stereotypes and familiar plot devices may resonate with some audiences, but it detracts from its potential to offer a fresh perspective. Anand Tiwari’s direction brings a certain flair, yet pacing issues hinder the film’s ability to sustain interest.
Closing Remarks
“Bad Newz” is a film that teeters between highs and lows, buoyed by standout performances and marred by narrative inconsistencies. While it may not be the perfect rom-com, it offers glimpses of humor and heart that could resonate with fans of the genre.
For those who decide to watch “Bad Newz,” stay tuned for a lively end credits sequence featuring Vicky Kaushal’s dance moves to “Tauba Tauba,” which adds a memorable touch to the overall experience.
