Bollywood’s latest offering, Bad Newz, presents a cinematic experience that is as varied as its title suggests. With its first half brimming with light-hearted humor and engaging performances, and the latter half descending into melodrama, the film is indeed a mixed bag. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes Bad Newz both entertaining and uneven.
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A Delightful First Half: Humor and Sparkle
The initial moments of Bad Newz are undeniably captivating. The film’s opening half is filled with playful antics and vibrant energy, thanks in large part to Ranveer Singh’s charismatic portrayal of a quintessential Delhi boy. Singh, who previously established his dominance in films like Band Baaja Baaraat and Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahaani, brings a unique blend of humor and relatability to his role.
In contrast to Singh’s previous roles, Bad Newz introduces us to a new facet of his acting prowess, though it’s not the only highlight. The film’s narrative successfully incorporates humor and sparkling dialogues, setting a high bar for its comedic elements.
The Shift to Melodrama: A Downturn in Tone
As the film progresses into its second half, the shift from humor to melodrama is stark. The once light-hearted story gives way to sighs and moans, which detracts from the initial enjoyment. This tonal shift is jarring and affects the overall coherence of the film.
Despite the engaging start, the latter part of Bad Newz struggles with emotional overreach. The melodramatic elements overshadow the film’s earlier charm, leaving viewers with a sense of disillusionment.
Rising Star Vicky Kaushal: The New Face of Bollywood Comedy
Enter Vicky Kaushal, who takes on the role of Akhil Chadha, a character that stands out as ‘sabton vadda’ (the biggest of all). Kaushal’s performance is a breath of fresh air, providing a strong counterpoint to Singh’s character. His portrayal of Akhil, who is both endearing and flawed, brings a new dimension to Bollywood comedy.
Kaushal’s performance is reminiscent of his earlier role in Manmarziyaan, though here he brings a refreshing variation. Akhil’s phonomania and mummymania add depth to his character, making him a standout in the film. His chemistry with Triptii Dimri, who plays Saloni Bagga, is noteworthy, though the film often sidelines her character in favor of focusing on Akhil.
The Legacy of ‘Good Newz’: A Comparative Analysis
Bad Newz arrives five years after Good Newwz, a film that challenged Bollywood’s conventional views on parentage and legacy. Good Newwz broke new ground with its bold portrayal of IVF and the complex issues surrounding conception. Kareena Kapoor Khan’s portrayal of a lactating mother was a significant departure from traditional Bollywood norms, showcasing a new level of honesty.
Bad Newz continues in this vein by exploring unconventional themes, such as the concept of superfecundation. While it doesn’t delve as deeply into societal issues as Good Newwz, it does address unique aspects of modern relationships and parenthood.
The Central Conflict: Akhil vs Gurbir Pannu
At the heart of Bad Newz is the comedic rivalry between Akhil Chadha and Gurbir Pannu, played by Ammy Virk. This face-off over who will be the real dad adds an intriguing layer to the plot. However, Saloni’s ambitions, including her desire to earn India’s first Meraki star, are overshadowed by this central conflict.
Despite this, the film’s resolution is predictable, and the anticipated winner becomes apparent well before the final scenes. This predictability, coupled with the melodramatic turn in the second half, diminishes the impact of the storyline.
Performances and Screen Presence: A Mixed Review
The performances in Bad Newz are a mix of highs and lows. Vicky Kaushal shines as Akhil, bringing charisma and energy to his role. Triptii Dimri, though given less screen time, delivers a strong performance and holds her own against Kaushal’s dominant presence. In contrast, Ammy Virk’s portrayal of Gurbir Pannu feels subdued, and his character seems overshadowed by the more prominent roles.
The film’s focus on Akhil, at the expense of other characters, creates an imbalance. The script’s obsession with showcasing Akhil’s growth arc leaves little room for the other characters to develop, resulting in a one-dimensional narrative.
Final Thoughts: A Film of Contrasts
Bad Newz is a film that offers both entertainment and frustration. Its initial half is a delightful mix of humor and energy, while the latter half succumbs to melodrama. Vicky Kaushal’s standout performance and the film’s attempt to address unconventional themes are notable achievements. However, the tonal inconsistency and predictable storyline prevent it from reaching its full potential.
For those seeking a Bollywood film with a blend of comedy and emotional depth, Bad Newz offers a mixed experience. While it doesn’t entirely succeed in maintaining its comedic momentum, it provides a glimpse into contemporary Bollywood’s evolving narrative style.