Bad Newz | Movie Review

Director: Anand Tiwari
Star Cast: Vicky Kaushal, Ammy Virk, Triptii Dimri, Sheeba Chaddha, Faisal Rashid, Neha Dhupia, Ananya Panday, Neha Sharma
Language: Hindi
Available On: Theatrical release
Runtime: 140 Minutes
Review Rating: ⭐⭐⭐(3/5)

Script Analysis:
Bad Newz aims to be a fun, light-hearted take on relationships, throwing the characters into an unusual predicament: a rare medical phenomenon called Heteropaternal Superfecundation, where Saloni (Triptii Dimri) discovers she’s pregnant with twins, each from a different father. The fast-paced film relies on humor to navigate this quirky situation but struggles to maintain depth and consistency.

Tarun Dudeja and Ishita Moitra’s script brings forth interesting ideas but fails to fully develop them. While the 2019 film Good Newwz balanced humor with sensitivity, Bad Newz stumbles in exploring its characters and relationships. The interactions between Akhil (Vicky Kaushal), Saloni, and Gurbir (Ammy Virk) feel amusing, though some of the humor comes across as forced, especially in the rivalry between the two expectant fathers.

The film tries to balance conservative and unorthodox narratives but falters. Though it refrains from judging Saloni’s choices, it struggles to portray the complex emotions involved. Saloni’s arc becomes muddled, and the rushed resolution, including the announcement of her biopic, seems unnecessary and far-fetched.

Humor, at times, feels childish. While there are laugh-out-loud moments, the film doesn’t quite capture the same charm as its predecessor. Gurbir’s character, in particular, feels underdeveloped and sidelined, leaving the film’s climax unsatisfying.

Star Performance:
The performances save Bad Newz. Triptii Dimri impresses in her first major commercial role, bringing both vulnerability and strength to Saloni. She confidently handles her character’s confused emotions, and even in scenes requiring boldness, Dimri manages to remain dignified, thanks to Anand Tiwari’s direction.

Vicky Kaushal shines as the immature and hyperactive Akhil. Known for excelling in such roles, Kaushal delivers a lively, engaging performance, embracing his character’s impulsiveness. Ammy Virk adds sincerity and warmth to Gurbir, offering well-timed comic relief. However, his character needed more screen time to fully explore his role in the plot.

Supporting performances from Sheeba Chaddha as Akhil’s mother and Neha Dhupia as Saloni’s aunt are decent, though the script underutilizes them. The rest of the cast, including the actors playing Saloni’s family and Gurbir’s father, deliver adequate performances.

Direction and Music:
Anand Tiwari, known for his sensitive handling of relationships in Bandish Bandits, chooses a more lighthearted approach here. While Bad Newz provides entertainment, it lacks the emotional depth and nuance of his earlier work. His direction aligns more with Dharma Productions’ commercial style, focusing on humor and quick resolutions instead of exploring the emotional consequences of the story.

The music feels catchy but doesn’t leave a lasting impression. The re-creation of Mere Mehboob Mere Sanam from Duplicate pleases crowds but lacks originality. Karan Aujla’s “Tauba Tauba” provides brief entertainment but lacks staying power. Amar Mohile’s background score often overwhelms the scenes, becoming intrusive.

The Last Word
Bad Newz entertains if you’re looking for humor and witty one-liners. However, it skims over the emotional and social implications of its premise. The film relies heavily on its lead performances to carry it through a confused script and an unsatisfying climax. Watch it for laughs, but don’t expect it to leave a lasting impact.

Watch Verdict: Fun, but Forgettable

For more recommendations, read our Sarfira Movie Review here.