Review: 'Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba' yet again works for its plot twists; Sunny Kaushal's act add meat

Three years after the unexpected success of "Haseen Dillruba," Netflix brings us the much-anticipated sequel, "Phir Aayi Haseen Dillruba." This film, starring Taapsee Pannu, Vikrant Massey, and the new addition, Sunny Kaushal, continues the twisted tale of love, deception, and chaos that the first installment set in motion. While the original film received mixed reviews from critics but resonated with audiences, the sequel aims to up the ante with more twists and turns. But does it succeed in delivering the thrills?

The Story: Love, Lies, and the Unpredictable

"Phir Aayi Haseen Dillruba" picks up where its predecessor left off. Rani (Taapsee Pannu) and Rishu (Vikrant Massey), having survived the deadly aftermath of their first encounter, have relocated to Agra. However, their lives are far from peaceful. They live separately, meeting in public places while maintaining a facade of strangers. The plot thickens with the introduction of Abhimanyu (Sunny Kaushal), a compounder who falls for Rani, adding another layer of complexity to the already tumultuous relationship between Rani and Rishu.

The story delves into familiar territory, exploring themes of love, betrayal, and obsession. Just as in the first film, the presence of a third party in Rani and Rishu's life creates chaos, leading to a series of unpredictable events. While the basic premise might seem repetitive, the execution this time around is far more engaging. The narrative is peppered with twists that keep the audience on the edge of their seats, especially in the second half, where the pace picks up considerably.

Execution and Pacing: A Rollercoaster of Twists

One of the major strengths of "Phir Aayi Haseen Dillruba" lies in its execution. Director Jayprad Desai, along with writer and co-producer Kanika Dhillon, manages to craft a narrative that is both thrilling and entertaining. The film starts with a slow build-up, carefully setting the stage for the chaos that is to follow. The plot takes unexpected turns every few minutes, ensuring that the audience remains invested in the outcome.

However, the pacing, while mostly effective, does have its drawbacks. The film occasionally becomes too fast-paced, with twists being introduced almost too frequently, leaving little time for the audience to fully process the events before being thrust into the next one. This might work for some viewers who enjoy a non-stop thrill ride, but others might find it overwhelming and confusing.

Despite its many strengths, "Phir Aayi Haseen Dillruba" is not without its flaws. The film, while packed with twists and turns, suffers from a certain level of predictability, especially in the second half. As the plot progresses, it becomes increasingly clear where the story is headed, which takes away from the overall suspense. While Rani and Rishu were central figures in the first film, with Rani being a particularly strong and dynamic character, this sequel reduces her to a mere pawn in the game being played by the men around her.

Perfomances

Where "Phir Aayi Haseen Dillruba" truly excels is in its performances and technical aspects. Taapsee Pannu and Vikrant Massey, slip back into their roles effortlessly. Pannu, in particular, delivers a standout performance, especially in the film's climax, where her character's emotional turmoil is palpable. Massey, on the other hand, brings a nuanced portrayal of a man torn between love and madness, making Rishu both empathetic and terrifying.

The real surprise, however, is Sunny Kaushal. As the new entrant, Abhimanyu, Kaushal gets a meaty role that allows him to showcase his range. His performance is subtle yet impactful, making him a standout in a film dominated by established stars. His character’s layered portrayal adds a new dimension to the story, making the audience question his true intentions throughout the film.

The cinematography by Vishal Sinha deserves special mention. The film is visually stunning, with beautifully composed frames that enhance the narrative’s mood.

Verdict

From a technical standpoint, the film is a well-oiled machine. The editing is crisp, ensuring that the narrative flows smoothly, even when the plot becomes convoluted. The transitions between past and present are handled well, although the frequent shifts might confuse some viewers. Some plot twists might also feel like, what is happening and how is it even possible, buy you just need to swallow it and move on with the pulpy ride. 

"Phir Aayi Haseen Dillruba" is a worthy sequel that builds on the foundation laid by its predecessor while introducing new elements to keep the audience engaged. The predictability of the plot, coupled with the occasional overindulgence in twists, prevents it from reaching the same heights as the first film.

***1/2 (3.5/5) stars