Love him or hate him, the protagonist of this film makes sure you remember him. Kabir Singh (2019), starring Shahid Kapoor and Kiara Advani, is a gripping romantic drama set in modern-day India, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga. The film is a remake of the Telugu hit Arjun Reddy, and it explores themes of toxic love, obsession, and self-destruction in a brutally raw manner. With Shahid playing a deeply flawed character, the film’s gritty portrayal of a man spiraling out of control after heartbreak offers a jarring but fascinating watch.
At its core, the story follows Kabir, a brilliant but hot-headed surgeon, whose life takes a downward spiral after his relationship with Preeti (Kiara) falls apart. Kabir, unable to cope with the separation, turns to alcohol and substance abuse, pushing everyone who cares for him away. His love for Preeti consumes him, and his self-destructive tendencies drive much of the narrative. The story is about Kabir’s internal struggle to deal with his emotions and the consequences of his actions, as he battles his demons while refusing to let go of the past.
One of the most talked-about aspects of this film is Shahid’s portrayal of Kabir. His performance is nothing short of intense. Shahid completely transforms into the character, bringing a fierce energy and vulnerability to Kabir. He captures the anger, obsession, and pain with an authenticity that is at times difficult to watch but undeniably compelling. Shahid’s ability to switch from arrogant surgeon to heartbroken lover is impressive, and his performance stands as one of the highlights of his career. Kiara, in contrast, plays the quiet, introverted Preeti, offering a subdued yet impactful performance. Though her role demands less dialogue, her chemistry with Shahid carries much of the emotional weight of the film, especially in the softer moments.
The direction by Sandeep is another element worth discussing. Having directed the original Telugu version, Sandeep stays faithful to his vision but adds a Bollywood flair with grander production values. His handling of Kabir’s anger and emotional turmoil is both nuanced and bold, although the film’s pacing may feel uneven at times. Certain scenes drag on longer than necessary, while others, like the intense confrontations, are executed perfectly. Sandeep’s direction keeps the focus firmly on Kabir’s mental and emotional state, making the viewer feel both sympathy and discomfort towards the character.
Cinematography by Santhana Krishnan Ravichandran adds an almost poetic layer to the chaos. The way certain moments are shot, especially the close-ups during Kabir’s emotional breakdowns, make the scenes feel raw and intimate. The use of warm tones during Kabir and Preeti’s happier days juxtaposed against the colder, muted colors in Kabir’s self-destructive phase amplifies the shifts in the story. The college sequences are shot with a carefree vibrancy, capturing the lighthearted moments before the narrative takes a darker turn.
The music of Kabir Singh deserves a special mention. Composers like Mithoon, Amaal Mallik, and Vishal Mishra have contributed to a soulful soundtrack that perfectly complements the film’s tone. Tracks like “Bekhayali” and “Tujhe Kitna Chahne Lage” are hauntingly beautiful and resonate with the emotional depth of the story. The songs are not merely inserted for the sake of it but serve as extensions of Kabir’s inner turmoil, enhancing the emotional impact of his journey. The background score also adds to the intensity, especially in the more heated confrontations.
Costume design and production details align well with the characters’ journeys. Kabir’s transformation from the clean-cut surgeon to the unkempt, reckless alcoholic is visually represented through his wardrobe and physical deterioration. His appearance mirrors his mental state, further emphasizing his decline. Preeti, on the other hand, is styled simply but effectively to convey her innocence and vulnerability.
One aspect where the film polarizes audiences is its thematic exploration of toxic masculinity and self-destruction. The film doesn’t shy away from portraying Kabir as problematic—his violent outbursts, possessiveness, and addiction issues are front and center. However, the narrative also walks a fine line, as it often romanticizes his obsessive love and his journey toward self-destruction, which can be uncomfortable to watch. This has led to debates on whether the film glorifies toxic behavior or merely portrays it as part of Kabir’s flawed character arc. It’s up to the viewer to decide how much empathy they have for Kabir, but it’s undeniable that the film leaves a lasting impact by presenting a deeply complex and controversial character.
In conclusion, Kabir Singh is a film that is raw, emotional, and intense. While it may not be for everyone, given its controversial portrayal of toxic behavior and masculinity, it offers a powerful performance from Shahid and a hauntingly beautiful love story at its core. For those who can handle a flawed, messy protagonist and a story that doesn’t shy away from the dark side of love, this film is an intense ride. It’s not an easy watch, but it’s a memorable one. Recommended for fans of character-driven dramas with heavy emotional stakes, but not for those seeking light-hearted romance.
