Kunal Khemu returns with Vibe, an intelligently crafted Hindi spy-comedy that marks a slick, westernised shift in his filmmaking style. Wearing multiple hats as the writer, producer, director, and lead actor Khemu delivers a fast-paced, genre-bending ride that is simultaneously a no-nonsense action film and a deliciously nonsensical thriller. I would not call it a comedy nor a spy thriller, but simply put it as an intelligently made comic film.
What’s more is that the spotlight is on Preity Zinta, and there is also a newcomer Vansihka who debuts in Bollywood with this spy thriller. If you are looking for a tight, engaging entertainer that leaves you with a massive smile, Vibe hits all the right chords.
Chaos, Clues, and a Mid-Way Twist in Vibe
The film follows Hardik (Kunal Khemu) and his tech-nerd best friend Bugs, alias Bhagirath (Sparsh Shrivastava). The duo finds themselves unexpectedly recruited by a high-ranking intelligence agency tasked with protecting the nation. Hardik’s mundane office life gets complicated when he falls for a stunning new colleague, Kareena (Vanshika Dheer).
Without giving away too many spoilers, the narrative shifts gears drastically right before the interval when an unexpected explosion tragically kills Vanshika. What follows is a globe-trotting, high-stakes adventure that takes the characters from local hubs straight to the exotic streets of Bangkok. While the film structuralises itself almost like a “storyless” sequence of chaotic events, it beautifully balances laugh-out-loud comedy, genuine tragedy, and breath-taking fight sequences that will take your breath away.
Preity Zinta steals the show with her stellar performance
The true highlight of Vibe is its ensemble cast, anchored by a phenomenal Preity Zinta. Returning to the screen in a refreshing avatar completely devoid of a traditional romantic hero, Zinta shines as the strict, no-nonsense spy chief. She commands the screen with absolute authority and brilliant comic timing.
While Kunal Khemu delivers a highly competent performance, it is Sparsh Shrivastava who completely steals the spotlight, outshining Khemu in multiple scenes with his flawless portrayal of the nerdy sidekick. Newcomer Vanshika Dheer fits her role perfectly, while seasoned actors Yashpal Sharma and Dinesh Lal Yadav provide stellar supporting performances. Audiences are also treated to a brief but impactful introductory cameo by veteran actress Sharmila Tagore, who effortlessly proves her mettle in her limited screen time. The film has a running time of 145 minutes.
Does it vibe with the new-gen?
Managing the responsibilities of writing, directing, producing, and acting is a monumental task, but Kunal Kemmu navigates it seamlessly without leaving any noticeable loopholes. Vibe is an exotic, fast-moving adventure that keeps you hooked from the opening frame till it’s midway. Post interval it’s sheen wears off a bit. Nevertheless, it is a fresh, modern take on the Indian spy genre that doesn’t take itself too seriously but delivers maximum entertainment. You would vibe with a smile after watching the film.
– Review by Jyothi Venkatesh
Cast of Vibe:
Preity Zinta as Madam H
Kunal Khemu as Hardik
Sparsh Shrivastava as Bhagirath aka Bugs
Vanshika Dhir as Kareena
Salem Kali as Adib
Yashpal Sharma as Rawal
Dinesh Lal Yadav as Bansi
Rajesh A Krishnan as Bugs’s boss
Sharmila Tagore as Home Minister
Uorfi Javed as Dr. Chanchal
Hiten Paintal as Abu Al Sayeed
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Credits of Vibe:
Production companies – Amazon MGM Studios, Drongo Films
Written & Directed by Kunal Khemu
Produced by Kunal Khemu, Chirag Nihalani
Cinematography – Kaushal Shah
Edited by Anand Subaya, Sanjay Shrirang Ingle
Music by Amit Trivedi
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