“Bawaal” is the latest offering by Amazon Prime Video, starring Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor. Directed by Nitesh Tiwari, known for his work in “Dangal” and “Chhichhore,” the film blends romance and comedy in a unique way. This is the first time Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor have been paired together in a movie. Embracing the trend of releasing films directly on OTT platforms, the makers chose the direct-to-OTT route for “Bawaal” during the lockdown, considering the wide range of audiences it can reach. But is “Bawaal” worth your time? Let’s find out in this comprehensive review.
Plot Summary
“Bawaal” tells the story of Ajay, a man from Lucknow, who is image-conscious and tries to present himself as someone he’s not. Portrayed by Varun Dhawan, Ajay works as a history teacher at a school, despite having no interest in the subject, solely to hold onto his job. He gets married to Nisha Dixit, played by Janhvi Kapoor, a seemingly perfect woman whose appearance and family background align with Ajay’s macho image. However, according to Ajay, she is a “faulty piece,” the reasons for which you’ll discover while watching the film.
| Movie | Details |
|---|---|
| Title | Bawaal |
| Cast | Varun Dhawan, Janhvi Kapoor, Manoj Pahwa, Anujman Saxena, and more |
| Language | Hindi |
| Genre | Romantic drama |
| Director | Nitesh Tiwari |
| Streaming on | Amazon Prime Video |
| Launch date | 21st July 2023 |
| BL Verdict | 2.5 stars |
Their love story encounters obstacles soon after marriage when Ajay slaps an MLA’s son, causing turmoil in his professional life. In a bid to salvage his image, Ajay devises a plan to travel to Europe and share videos of historical World War II locations with students. Nisha accompanies him, and their journey as lovers truly begins.
What Shines
Varun Dhawan’s portrayal of Ajay as a boy-next-door character is impeccable. He excels in comedy, reminiscent of Govinda’s comic timing. Nitesh Tiwari successfully captures the essence of a romantic drama, ensuring that the characters in “Bawaal” feel authentic, thanks to their dialect and accents. The film’s songs, including “Dilon Ki Yeh Dooriyan” and “Tumhe Kitna Pyaar Karte Hain,” add depth to the characters’ emotions. The supporting cast, led by Manoj Pawah, delivers commendable performances. “Bawaal” strikes a balance with all the elements of a Bollywood masala entertainer – songs, romance, drama, and a meaningful message.
What Lacks
The storyline of Ajay and Nisha’s journey through Europe, delving into the history of World War II, at times feels more like a history lesson than a romantic drama. While the film attempts to depict the horrifying incidents of World War II sincerely, Janhvi Kapoor, though giving her best as a simple girl, occasionally feels out of place due to her glamorous persona. Considering the title “Bawaal,” one might expect a more dynamic and thrilling movie, but the film doesn’t quite deliver in that aspect. While it carries a meaningful message, it lacks a strong connection with the audience.
The Verdict
“Bawaal” is a one-time watch film with a good message, but it’s best not to set high expectations. Despite its flaws, the movie has moments of entertainment and laughter in the first half. If you’re in the mood for a romantic drama with some light-hearted comedy and a dose of history, “Bawaal” might just be worth your time. However, don’t anticipate a blockbuster; instead, enjoy it for the lessons it offers.