Tackling a unique love story with courage and charm, this film stars Ayushmann Khurrana and Vaani Kapoor in a refreshing take on modern romance. Set in contemporary Chandigarh, it unfolds within a vibrant gym and fitness scene, emphasizing the culturally rich but socially conservative backdrop of a North Indian city. Directed by Abhishek Kapoor, the film falls into the romantic drama genre, with layers of social commentary that give it a distinct edge, bridging lighthearted entertainment and meaningful introspection.
The story revolves around Manu, a burly fitness trainer and local bodybuilder preparing for an intense competition, whose life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Maanvi, a confident and mysterious Zumba instructor who joins his gym. As the two grow closer, Manu finds himself deeply attracted to Maanvi, despite their apparent differences in lifestyle and outlook. Their relationship takes a romantic turn, but as they move forward, a surprising revelation from Maanvi’s past challenges Manu’s preconceptions and tests the foundation of their relationship. With complex themes of acceptance, identity, and self-discovery, the film beautifully portrays a love that defies societal boundaries.
Ayushmann, known for selecting roles that push boundaries, delivers an outstanding performance as Manu. He portrays the rugged fitness enthusiast with authenticity, blending physicality with emotional depth. Ayushmann embodies Manu’s journey from confusion and prejudice to acceptance with finesse, capturing the internal conflict and growth of a man grappling with preconceived norms. Vaani, as Maanvi, is a revelation; her role demands vulnerability and strength, and she meets this challenge head-on. Her portrayal is sensitive and restrained, avoiding stereotypes and instead presenting Maanvi as a multi-dimensional character. Their chemistry is palpable, grounding the unconventional storyline in relatable, heartfelt moments that resonate well with audiences.
Abhishek Kapoor’s direction stands out as he brings to life an engaging narrative that could have easily slipped into melodrama. He approaches the subject with sensitivity and realism, maintaining a balanced tone between humor and gravity. The screenplay, co-written by Supratik Sen and Tushar Paranjape, is particularly commendable for addressing complex themes without losing the film’s inherent charm. Kapoor keeps the pacing brisk, using humor and drama in equal measure to ensure that the film never feels heavy-handed or overly moralistic. By keeping the emotional stakes high but grounded, the direction successfully amplifies the narrative’s core message: love, above all, should transcend societal biases.
The music, composed by Sachin-Jigar, complements the film’s vibrant and youthful energy. Songs like the titular “Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui” are upbeat and perfectly capture the gym culture vibe that’s central to Manu’s world. The soundtrack’s mix of catchy tunes and softer, introspective melodies provides a fitting backdrop for the characters’ evolving relationship. The background score, though subtle, enhances the emotional moments, especially in scenes where Maanvi confronts her past or Manu struggles to reconcile his feelings. The music doesn’t overpower the narrative but instead reinforces the themes of acceptance and love, making it an integral part of the storytelling.
The film’s cinematography by Manoj Lobo adds visual appeal, with a vibrant color palette that brings Chandigarh’s local culture to life. From gym workouts to intimate conversations, the camera work is dynamic, capturing the action and emotions with equal finesse. The use of natural lighting in outdoor scenes and contrasting gym lighting during training sessions emphasizes the two contrasting worlds of Manu and Maanvi, subtly underscoring the narrative’s thematic depth. Lobo’s attention to detail in capturing facial expressions and body language adds a layer of realism, allowing audiences to connect with the characters on an emotional level. The visuals are sharp and polished, highlighting Chandigarh’s mix of tradition and modernity, which aligns with the film’s storyline.
Costume design, especially for Vaani’s character, is worth mentioning as it reflects her individuality and confidence. Maanvi’s wardrobe is a blend of modern and understated, aligning with her personality, while Manu’s gym attire and rugged style reflect his muscular physique and macho attitude. These costume choices deepen our understanding of their characters without the need for explicit dialogue. The film’s subtlety in using costumes to differentiate the characters’ lifestyles and perspectives adds to the authenticity and depth of the narrative, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
Despite its strong points, the film does have moments where it teeters on the edge of predictability. Some scenes, particularly those focusing on Manu’s struggle with societal expectations, occasionally feel somewhat overstated. While these moments are intended to reinforce the film’s message, they risk oversimplifying the complexities of Maanvi’s situation. The screenplay, though engaging, occasionally lacks the nuance that could have enriched certain confrontations, making them feel a touch too on-the-nose. However, these minor flaws are overshadowed by the overall sincerity and sensitivity with which the film handles its subject matter.
In conclusion, this film is a bold and heartwarming take on love that transcends boundaries, challenging preconceived notions in a way that’s refreshing and socially relevant. Ayushmann and Vaani deliver performances that are both compelling and relatable, breathing life into characters that represent a new age of acceptance and self-love. Abhishek Kapoor’s direction ensures that the film is engaging without being preachy, making it accessible to a broad audience. For anyone looking to watch a love story that goes beyond the conventional, this movie is a thoughtful, engaging, and timely choice. It’s a reminder that while love might sometimes challenge our beliefs, it ultimately expands our understanding of acceptance. Highly recommended for those who enjoy romantic dramas with a meaningful twist, this film is a commendable addition to Bollywood’s evolving landscape.
