- By Srishti Pandey
- Fri, 21 Jun 2024 12:21 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Ishq Vishk Rebound movie Review: Bollywood romance movie Ishq Vishk Rebound feels like a Luv Ranjan movie that isn’t directed by Luv Ranjan. This Gen-Z romantic comedy, titled after the 2003 classic Ishq Vishk (starring Shahid Kapoor and Amrita Rao in their first-ever films), stars Rohit Saraf, Pashmina Roshan, Jibraan Khan and Naila Grrewal.
Directed by Marathi writer and actor Nipun Dharmadhikari in his Hindi directorial debut and produced by Ramesh Taurani and Jaya Taurani under Tips Films, the movie centres around three childhood friends—Raghav, Sanya and Sahir, played by Saraf, Roshan and Khan, respectively.
The story explores how love and friendship become increasingly complicated as time passes, affecting the trio's bond as they navigate their individual paths. Sanya dates Sahir, while Raghav is in a relationship with Riya (Neha Grrewal). After both couples split, Raghav and Sanya gradually fall in love despite Raghav's insistence that rebound relationships are doomed.
The film employs a story-within-a-story trope, with Raghav, an aspiring screenwriter, narrating his rebound love story on screen while struggling to decide the climax of his screenplay. The narrative captures the Gen-Z experience of red flags-green flags, breakups, hookups and the cyclical nature of modern dating.
Rohit Saraf shines as the undisputed lead, his charm and cuteness carrying the movie. His endearing screen presence is reminiscent of his role in Netflix’s Mismatched (also co-directed by Dharmadhikari), fitting well as a twenty-something navigating life, love and career.
Jibraan Khan, remembered as Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol’s son Krish in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham or K3G as Gen-Z would call it, impresses as the second lead. He particularly stands out in Badshah’s Gore Gore Mukhde Pe, occasionally overshadowing Saraf. Khan's portrayal of Sahir is convincing.
Hrithik Roshan’s cousin, Pashmina Roshan, portrays the modern Gen-Z girl who represents her generation's struggles, blaming parents for their problems but ultimately figuring things out as part of growing up. While Pashmina’s performance as Sanya is decent, Naila Grrewal as Riya, despite a brief role, leaves a positive impression. However, the star of the movie is undoubtedly Saraf, who is sure to win hearts.
Ishq Vishk Rebound attempts to cover a wide array of relationship dynamics within its one-and-a-half-hour runtime—fading love in a marriage, friends growing apart and the struggle to stop living out parents' dreams. In its effort to resonate with urban youth, the movie crams in too many messages, making it feel less cohesive.
The soundtrack, featuring new versions of Chot Dil Pe Lagi and Ishq Vishk Pyaar Vyaar from the original movie, is average but well-shot and choreographed, adding a nostalgic touch. Despite the engaging music, the writing has several loopholes, and the development of Raghav and Sanya’s romance could have been more believable and genuine.
Dharmadhikari’s directorial debut brings another romantic comedy to Bollywood, yet it lacks novelty. The film feels like a rehash of similar movies produced in recent years. It also features Kusha Kapila, Supriya Pilgaonkar, Akarsh Khurana and Sheeba Chadda, who make notable impacts in their brief appearances.
Ishq Vishk Review | Final Verdict
Rating: 2.5/5
Ishq Vishk Rebound is a film for those who want to relive the Luv Ranjan world with movies like Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar and Pyaar Ka Punchnama. Despite its hits and misses, it manages to be a one-time watch for Saraf fans and those in the mood for a modern rom-com. The movie’s core message is to hold on when the world is falling apart, a trait that can make us better humans.
Ishq Vishk Rebound delves into the chaos and complexities of modern love and friendships, offering a mix of nostalgia and contemporary romance. It’s a testament to the evolving dynamics of relationships, even if it sometimes feels like a well-trodden path in Bollywood.