There’s nothing quite like the thrill of a high-energy dance film that captures the essence of passion, ambition, and teamwork. This one takes that excitement to new heights. Starring Varun Dhawan, Shraddha Kapoor, and Prabhudeva, the film is set in modern-day India and the vibrant, competitive streets of Las Vegas, adding a cosmopolitan touch to the journey of Indian street dancers. Belonging to the genre of dance-drama, it is packed with elaborate dance sequences, heartwarming friendships, and the universal theme of redemption through perseverance.
The plot centers around Suresh, played by Varun, and Vinnie, played by Shraddha, who are part of a street dance crew in Mumbai. After a public humiliation during a local dance competition, where their team is accused of plagiarism, they set out on a path to redeem themselves. With the dream of winning the World Hip-Hop Championship in Las Vegas, the crew joins forces with Vishnu, played by Prabhudeva, a skilled but troubled choreographer. As the team trains rigorously, they battle internal conflicts, personal setbacks, and the pressure to prove their talent on the global stage. The film explores themes of loyalty, integrity, and the power of chasing one’s dreams, but keeps its climax under wraps for a high-stakes finale.
The performances in the film are commendable, especially Varun and Shraddha, who manage to impress with both their acting chops and dancing prowess. Varun, as the passionate yet guilt-ridden Suresh, brings an earnestness to his character that makes you root for him. His transformation from a local street dancer to an international contender feels genuine, largely due to his dedication to the role. Shraddha, while relatively new to intense dance roles, holds her own, particularly in the high-energy routines. Her character, Vinnie, is both fierce and vulnerable, and Shraddha portrays this with grace. However, it’s Prabhudeva who steals the show, especially in his dance sequences. His effortless movement and commanding screen presence elevate the film. As a mentor figure, his role is quieter, but his choreography and skill are truly the heart of the film.
The direction by Remo D’Souza, who helmed the prequel, is solid, though the storyline can feel predictable at times. Where he truly shines is in crafting breathtaking dance sequences. Remo brings a deep understanding of movement and rhythm to the screen, ensuring that each performance is visually stunning and emotionally charged. His experience as a choreographer is evident, as every dance routine, from street battles to polished stage performances, is executed with flair. The editing, however, could have been tighter. There are moments where the narrative drags, especially during some of the emotional beats that feel repetitive or drawn out. But the editing during dance sequences is sharp and dynamic, keeping the energy high and the audience invested.
The music by Sachin-Jigar is another major highlight. With tracks like “Sun Saathiya” and “Bezubaan Phir Se,” the soundtrack strikes the perfect balance between heart-pumping dance anthems and soulful, emotional tunes. The music seamlessly integrates into the narrative, heightening the intensity of the dance scenes while also serving as a vehicle for the characters’ emotional journeys. The background score complements the film’s dramatic moments without overpowering the dialogue or action.
Cinematography by Vijay Kumar Arora adds to the visual appeal of the film. The dance sequences, especially those set in Las Vegas, are beautifully shot, with the use of vibrant lighting and dramatic camera angles that amplify the choreography. The competition sequences feel larger than life, and the use of wide shots during group performances allows the audience to fully appreciate the complexity of the routines. However, there are instances where the film relies heavily on flashy visuals and over-the-top lighting, which can detract from the emotional core of certain scenes. While the spectacle is impressive, it sometimes overshadows the more intimate moments of character development.
Costume design, led by Manoshi Nath, is another aspect that stands out. The outfits worn by the dancers, whether in street battles or on stage, reflect the evolution of their journey. From casual, edgy streetwear to polished, professional costumes for the final competition, the clothing choices add an extra layer of storytelling. The contrast between the characters’ humble beginnings and their polished finale outfits mirrors their growth as dancers and individuals. The bold colors and designs of the costumes make the dance sequences pop, adding to the film’s vibrant energy.
One of the film’s underlying themes is the importance of teamwork and loyalty. Despite the occasional internal conflicts, the crew’s bond is unbreakable. The film also touches on issues of self-doubt, redemption, and the challenges of staying true to one’s identity in the face of adversity. While these themes are explored in a somewhat formulaic manner, they are still effective in adding emotional depth to the otherwise light-hearted, dance-focused narrative.
Another noteworthy element is the use of special effects, particularly during the larger dance sequences. While most of the film relies on the physical prowess of the dancers, there are moments where visual effects enhance the spectacle. This is particularly evident in the grand finale, where the combination of lighting, set design, and effects creates an unforgettable performance. However, the film wisely avoids overusing CGI, allowing the raw talent of the performers to take center stage.
Overall, the film is an entertaining watch, especially for fans of the dance genre. While the plot may not offer many surprises, the film compensates with its energetic dance numbers and charismatic performances. It’s a visual treat that blends Bollywood drama with international dance culture, creating a unique fusion that appeals to a wide audience. The dance choreography, particularly in the final competition scenes, is exceptional, making the film worth watching for the performances alone.
If you’re a fan of dance films or enjoyed the prequel, this one is a must-watch. It’s a feel-good film with a strong message about perseverance and believing in oneself. While the film doesn’t break new ground in terms of storytelling, it delivers exactly what it promises—an uplifting, high-energy dance extravaganza. Whether you’re watching for the choreography, the music, or the charismatic cast, this film is sure to leave you tapping your feet and rooting for the underdogs. For those looking for a movie that combines spectacular dance routines with a heartwarming narrative, this film fits the bill perfectly.
