Movie review : DUNKI
Shah Rukh Khan, the Kin Khan of Bollywood, is still mesmerizing the audience at the age of 58. I recently watched his recently released movie DUNKI, and even though it has some flaws, I'll put it on my list of good movies, or at least very close to it. One thing I really liked about DUNKI is that it shows the reality of illegal immigration - the path people take to settle abroad and the obligations that keep them there. It's pretty effective as it's shown, though the climax feels a bit half-baked and not entirely believable in some respects.
(Spoiler alert!) Despite its long length, the story revolves around three main characters: SRK as Hardy, Taapsee Pannu as Mannu and Vikram Kasar as Baggu. They each have their own family obligations that require them to move to England. Vicky Kaushal's character joins them midway through the film.
When Vicky Kaushal's character dies, it becomes a major turning point that leads others to the DUNKI flight. It's a make-or-break situation, and they all take it. The third act is where the story gets really interesting, as they face the harsh reality of illegal immigration and make some tough choices.
There is also a sweet love story between SRK and Taapsee Pannu's characters, who are separated for 25 years due to speaking out against their country to get citizenship in England. Hardy, being a former military officer, could not accept this, but he still waited for his love until old age.
As for the flaws, I personally found the humor in the movie to be a bit lacking. It didn't really make me laugh, and it felt forced at times. The first half of the movie relies heavily on humor to convey its message, which I don't think is necessary, especially given how long and drawn-out it is. The middle part focuses on the romance between SRK and Taapsee Pannu, but the exposition leading up to the climax, which should have been heartbreaking, felt off.
There is brutal death, trauma, violence and pain, but it is not edited in a way that truly affects the viewer. Rajkumar Hirani tries to influence it, but fails. Being a hardened ex-military officer, Hardy handles things smoothly and conveniently. There is some excitement, but it dissipates quickly.
Vicky Kaushal's performance on the other hand is outstanding. His character's death scene is particularly well-acted, his faded speech and shattered composure really conveying the tragedy. After watching it, you begin to feel the emotion behind their journey and ultimate decision to take the DUNKI flight.
However, the rest of the main journey and the deeper connections between the characters don't fully come through. Although the Vicky technique does a great job, there is still a sense of distance from their pain and struggle. They are human and capable of regret, but the overall effect on the viewer can be powerful.
Despite these flaws, the final work delivers. SRK gives a powerful performance, especially in the courtroom scene where his longing for home resonates deeply. The homecoming sequence is another tearjerker, and the very last scene packs a real emotional punch. DUNKI leaves you with a bitter ache in your heart, reflecting the realities of life that go beyond simple happy endings.
It is worth noting that Shah Rukh Khan shines beyond emotional scenes. You will see his screen presence in full force when he questions his brother about how he is living in England. That's his true essence as an actor—not just emoting, but embodying a character and making their choices come across to you.
Overall, DUNKI is a mixed test. It has its flaws, but the strong acting, especially in the final act, and the emotional weight of the film make it a worthwhile experience. While it may not be a perfect masterpiece, it offers a thought-provoking journey that stays with you long after the credits roll.