Plot:
Manu (Taapsee), Bali (Anil Grover), Buggu Lakhanpal (Vikram Kochhar), and Sukhi (Vicky Kaushal), who come from Laltu in Punjab, make a decision to travel to London for different reasons. They come to understand the importance of English for clearing the IELTS exam and join a coaching center to prepare. Hardy (Shah Rukh Khan), a soldier, assists them in achieving their goal using the Dunki method (also known as the Donkey Flight method), which involves an illegal way of crossing borders. The movie explores who Hardy is, why he decides to help them, why they opt for an unlawful route to reach London, and the various experiences they encounter during this journey.
Performances and Technical Aspects:
Shah Rukh Khan’s performance in Dunki stands out. For those who missed his impressive acting in Pathaan and Jawan, Dunki will satisfy that expectation. Taapsee Pannu delivered a commendable performance and has a significant role in the movie, standing shoulder to shoulder with the main character. Anil Grover and Vikram Kochhar impress with their comedic timing, leaving the audience entertained.
Coming to technical aspects, while the music and background score are commendable, certain CGI scenes seem subpar. Additionally, editing issues affect the portrayal of SRK’s backstory.
Highlights:
The first half of Dunki excels in humor, showcasing Hirani’s signature style and delivering engaging comedic moments. SRK shines, especially in a court scene, proving his prowess beyond stardom as a talented actor. Taapsee Pannu delivers well in a substantial role, while Anil Grover and Vikram Kochhar impress with their comedic timing.
The film sheds light on an unfamiliar subject, earning appreciation for its attempt to raise awareness.
Drawbacks:
Despite the successful humor, the film lacks Hirani’s characteristic emotional depth seen in his previous works like 3 Idiots and PK. Vicky’s cameo could have been more impactful, and the interval sequence lacks the desired impact. At times, films tend to become tedious and lose the grip on the audience. It’s also because of slow pacing, or a failure to maintain the audience’s interest. When the plot fails to progress or lacks depth, viewers may find themselves disengaged, leading to a feeling of boredom, mainly in second half.
Verdict:
Dunki introduces an intriguing concept but falls short in execution and turns boring most of the times. While humor thrives, the absence of Hirani’s profound emotional touch is noticeable. Shah Rukh Khan’s performance, along with the supporting cast, adds value. Despite its flaws, the film might interest viewers who are forgiving of its shortcomings.
Rating: 2/5
