Buckle up for a fast-paced, adrenaline-pumping ride that takes you through thrilling action sequences and witty banter. Dishoom, directed by Rohit Dhawan, brings together a star-studded cast with John Abraham, Varun Dhawan, and Jacqueline Fernandez in the lead roles. Set in the Middle East, this action-adventure flick revolves around the high-stakes world of crime, abductions, and sports. With its slick visuals and entertaining set pieces, Dishoom is a classic buddy cop film that fits right into the action-comedy genre. The film’s glossy setting, set in the luxurious and desert landscapes of Abu Dhabi, adds to the grandiosity of its tone.
The story kicks off with the sudden disappearance of India’s top cricket player, Viraj Sharma (played by Saqib Saleem), just 36 hours before an important match between India and Pakistan. The Indian government has no choice but to call in the big guns—no-nonsense cop Kabir Shergill (John) and the goofy yet resourceful Junaid Ansari (Varun), a rookie from the local police force. Together, they embark on a wild mission to rescue Viraj before it’s too late. Along the way, they encounter Ishika (Jacqueline), a thief with her own agenda, and cross paths with the villainous Wagah (Akshaye Khanna), who has masterminded the kidnapping. What follows is a mix of high-octane action, chase sequences, and comedic exchanges as Kabir and Junaid race against time.
John and Varun’s dynamic as the mismatched pair is the beating heart of the film. John, as the brooding and tough Kabir, delivers a restrained yet impactful performance, sticking to his action-hero persona. His strong, silent type is a perfect foil for Varun, whose comedic timing and charm shine through as Junaid. Varun manages to add a playful touch to his character, ensuring that his light-heartedness doesn’t overshadow the seriousness of their mission. The contrasting personalities of the two lead characters—Kabir’s stern, no-nonsense demeanor against Junaid’s happy-go-lucky attitude—create plenty of humorous moments. One such scene that stands out is when Junaid, in his usual carefree manner, attempts to interrogate a suspect, leading to an unexpected and hilarious outcome.
Akshaye Khanna, in the role of Wagah, brings a touch of sophistication and menace to the film’s villain. His calm yet calculated approach to crime adds a layer of intrigue to the otherwise straightforward plot. Akshaye’s portrayal is understated but effective, making Wagah a memorable antagonist. Jacqueline as Ishika adds the glam factor, and although her role is primarily supplementary, she does leave an impression with her action-packed sequences and flirtatious chemistry with Varun.
The direction by Rohit Dhawan is focused on keeping the pace brisk and the energy high. The film is a visual treat with slick cinematography by Ayananka Bose that captures the exotic locales of Abu Dhabi with grandeur. From desert car chases to lavish skyscrapers, the film uses its setting effectively, giving it an international action-thriller vibe. The action choreography deserves special mention for its creativity and execution. Whether it’s John and Varun racing on motorcycles through the desert or engaging in hand-to-hand combat, the action scenes are well-shot and exciting without going overboard on violence. One particular helicopter chase sequence stands out for its intensity and scale, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats.
The film’s background score, composed by Abhijit Vaghani, complements the action sequences, adding intensity to every punch and explosion. The soundtrack, which includes songs like “Sau Tarah Ke” and “Jaaneman Aah,” adds to the entertainment quotient, with peppy beats and catchy tunes. These tracks serve as the perfect backdrop for the high-energy vibe of the movie, particularly in the lighter moments. The songs are well-placed in the narrative, ensuring they don’t disrupt the flow of the plot.
Costume design also plays a crucial role in distinguishing characters, with John in military-style outfits reflecting his tough-as-nails cop persona and Varun sporting more laid-back, casual attire to match his easygoing nature. Jacqueline’s wardrobe is stylish, as expected from her glamorous character, while Akshaye’s sleek, business-like suits enhance his role as a sophisticated criminal mastermind.
On the technical front, the film impresses with its clean editing, making sure there are no unnecessary detours from the central plot. The film’s pace rarely dips, although some moments in the second half feel slightly stretched. However, the editing keeps the narrative taut, especially during the action sequences, ensuring the audience stays engaged. Special effects are used sparingly but effectively, particularly in the high-octane chase scenes, adding an element of realism to the larger-than-life stunts.
One of the key themes of the film is the bond of camaraderie that develops between two unlikely partners. Kabir and Junaid’s evolving relationship is not just the backbone of the movie’s humor but also its emotional core. The movie subtly touches on themes like teamwork, loyalty, and personal redemption without getting too preachy. The sports backdrop adds an additional layer of tension, as the ticking clock towards the big cricket match raises the stakes. At its core, the film is about two very different individuals coming together for a common cause, learning from each other’s strengths and flaws.
In terms of plot, Dishoom doesn’t aim to reinvent the wheel. It sticks to a tried-and-tested formula, with predictable twists and a straightforward narrative. However, it compensates for its lack of originality with its fun execution, witty dialogues, and well-choreographed action sequences. The screenplay by Rohit Dhawan and Tushar Hiranandani is sharp and full of punchlines, particularly in Varun’s scenes, which are designed to elicit laughter amidst the tension.
Overall, Dishoom is an entertaining masala movie that knows its strengths and plays to them. It’s a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t take itself too seriously and delivers on its promise of action and laughs. While it may not offer much in terms of depth or complexity, it more than makes up for it with its high entertainment value. Fans of buddy cop films and light-hearted action-comedies will find this movie enjoyable. The film’s tight pacing, humorous dialogues, and charismatic performances make it a good choice for a weekend watch. If you’re looking for a fun, fast-paced ride with a good dose of action, this film will not disappoint.
