Review: 'Citadel: Honey Bunny'- Varun Dhawan & Samantha deliver high-stakes thrill & action

Citadel: Honey Bunny, an Indian adaptation of the American series Citadel, takes the spy thriller genre and reinterprets it with distinctively local flavors. Directed by Raj Nidimoru and Krishna DK, the show follows the journey of two friends-turned-agents, Rahi (alias Agent Bunny) and Agent Honey, through an unpredictable world of espionage. It stars Varun Dhawan and Samantha Ruth Prabhu in lead roles, with Kay Kay Menon, Emma Canning, and a promising Kashvi Majumdar rounding out the main cast. 

Plot and Progression

The plot spans two timelines, set in 1992 and 2000, offering a mix of drama, espionage, and familial bonds. Rahi, known as Bunny (played by Dhawan), is a stuntman-turned-agent, loyal to his agency and to Guru (Kay Kay Menon), a charismatic yet morally grey character. Rahi’s life collides with Honey (Samantha Ruth Prabhu), an actress trying to find her footing in a male-dominated industry. Initially bound by friendship, their lives become entwined with danger, betrayal, and espionage as they navigate Guru’s dark world and face conflicts that test their loyalty and courage.

The story also explores the complexities of family, focusing on Rahi and Honey’s relationship with their daughter, Nadia (Kashvi Majumdar), who, unknowingly, becomes part of their covert lives. The back-and-forth storytelling between the two time periods brings dimension to the characters but sometimes detracts from the narrative’s flow, often disorienting viewers.

Screenplay and Execution

The screenplay attempts to bring suspense through time-jumps and reveals, but it doesn’t always hit the mark. While the first half of the series focuses on establishing character backgrounds and motivations, it moves slowly and leaves the viewer grappling with too many elements at once. There are references to secret projects like Project Talwar and shadowy agencies, but these feel like placeholders for grander ideas that don’t fully unfold. The writing suffers from predictability, with twists and plot devices that are often formulaic.

Yet, credit must be given for the attempts to balance spy intrigue with emotional arcs. The dynamics between Rahi, Honey, and young Nadia add a layer of vulnerability to the show, which is rare in action-dominated narratives. This emotional element, however, struggles to keep up with the rest of the plot’s demands, resulting in fragmented pacing that hinders the show’s intensity.

The Performances

Varun Dhawan and Samantha Ruth Prabhu are the show’s pillars, carrying their roles with dedication. Dhawan shines as Rahi, delivering a nuanced performance that highlights his growth as an actor. He avoids the usual flamboyance, portraying Bunny as grounded, determined, and resilient. His chemistry with Samantha as Honey is organic, and their bond is palpable, especially in the more tender moments. Samantha, too, delivers in action sequences, displaying a rugged determination. 

Kashvi Majumdar, as young Nadia, is the heart of the series. Her portrayal is refreshingly genuine, adding innocence and depth that make the stakes feel real. Her moments with Dhawan’s Bunny are touching and showcase the best of the show’s emotional undertones.

Kay Kay Menon, a veteran actor, commands the screen with his role as Guru, the morally ambiguous leader of the covert agency. His charisma brings gravitas, yet his character lacks the depth to fully explore his potential as a compelling antagonist. Supporting roles, including Shivankit Parihar as Chacko and Soham Majumdar as Ludo, inject some much-needed lightness, contrasting with the heavy atmosphere.

Action Sequences and Setting

As expected from a Raj & DK production, the action choreography is well-executed, combining intensity with stylish cinematography. The sequences are bold and visually sharp, especially during the series’ climatic confrontations. A highlight is the close-combat choreography, where Samantha and Varun excel, managing to bring both physicality and emotional stakes to the fight scenes.  However, the show’s visual tone is marked by dimly lit scenes and an overuse of dark and blue filters, which, while aiming for a gritty aesthetic, occasionally compromises visibility and visual clarity.  The 1990s backdrop is well-realized, adding authenticity through period-appropriate costumes and set design. The creators have succeeded in capturing a nostalgic vibe with subtle touches — from the bustling streets to the grungy look of early spy technology. 

The Verdict

Citadel: Honey Bunny is a commendable attempt to bring a spy thriller to an Indian setting, blending action, familial bonds, and local elements to create a unique viewing experience. Varun Dhawan and Samantha Ruth Prabhu lead the charge with compelling performances, while Kashvi Majumdar emerges as the true heart of the series.

Rating

*** (3/5  stars)