Some films are built on the idea of opposites attracting, and this movie plays into that trope with its quirky take on love and relationships. Plan A Plan B is a 2022 romantic comedy directed by Shashanka Ghosh, starring Tamannaah Bhatia and Riteish Deshmukh in lead roles. Set against the vibrant backdrop of modern-day Mumbai, the movie fits snugly into the rom-com genre, offering a blend of humor, romance, and a sprinkle of emotional depth. With the hustle and bustle of urban life as its canvas, the film tries to explore the complexities of love, commitment, and the age-old battle between head and heart.
The story introduces us to two seemingly incompatible characters—Nirali (Tamannaah), a free-spirited and optimistic matchmaker, and Kaustubh (Riteish), a cynical, no-nonsense divorce lawyer. Their lives intersect when Nirali rents an office next to Kaustubh’s, leading to a series of comedic interactions as their worlds collide. Nirali believes in the beauty of love and happily-ever-after endings, while Kaustubh, hardened by his profession, has little faith in relationships lasting. As the two butt heads over their contrasting views, a deeper connection begins to form, and their personal lives become intertwined in unexpected ways. While the plot may seem predictable, there’s a fresh twist in how the film navigates the question: Can a matchmaker and a divorce lawyer ever truly see eye to eye when it comes to love?
One of the most compelling aspects of the film is the performances of its two leads. Tamannaah shines as Nirali, bringing a bubbly charm to her role. She effortlessly embodies the hopeful, spirited matchmaker, and her lighthearted energy lifts the film. Whether she’s in a moment of comedic banter with Riteish or grappling with her own emotional dilemmas, Tamannaah adds depth to what could have been a one-note character. Riteish, on the other hand, is no stranger to comedy and once again proves his mettle as the snarky, dry-witted Kaustubh. His performance balances out Tamannaah’s vivaciousness, and the chemistry between the two is undeniable. Their banter, filled with witty retorts and contrasting views, forms the backbone of the film, and they play off each other’s strengths effortlessly. However, while both actors deliver strong individual performances, it’s their dynamic together that really makes the film work.
Shashanka Ghosh’s direction complements the lighthearted tone of the film. The pacing is smooth, and the narrative rarely lags, keeping the viewer engaged from start to finish. Ghosh ensures that the story never veers too far into melodrama, maintaining a fun and breezy atmosphere throughout. However, the film occasionally falters in its attempt to balance humor with emotional depth, sometimes glossing over the more serious themes to make way for another punchline. This tonal inconsistency, while not a dealbreaker, does prevent the film from leaving a stronger emotional impact. Editing by Anand Subaya is crisp, keeping the story flowing without unnecessary detours.
Visually, the film doesn’t disappoint either. Cinematographer Jayakrishna Gummadi captures the lively essence of Mumbai, with its bustling streets, cozy cafés, and chic office spaces. The camera work enhances the vibrant energy of the city, giving the film a warm and inviting visual tone. The production design deserves a mention too—Nirali’s workspace, filled with vibrant colors and quirky décor, contrasts sharply with Kaustubh’s sleek, monochromatic office, subtly highlighting their opposing personalities. This visual contrast helps drive home the thematic differences between the two characters and adds an additional layer to their interactions.
The music, composed by a team including Raajeev V. Bhalla and Amartya Bobo Rahut, fits well into the overall mood of the film. The soundtrack doesn’t necessarily stand out but provides a pleasant backdrop to the unfolding story. The songs, though catchy, are more functional than memorable, designed to heighten the emotions in key moments without being too overpowering. The background score, while serviceable, could have been more distinctive in highlighting the emotional beats, especially during the film’s quieter, more introspective moments.
One aspect that stands out in the film is its exploration of contrasting worldviews—optimism versus cynicism, faith in love versus skepticism. It’s not just about two people falling for each other, but about challenging each other’s beliefs. While this theme is a bit underdeveloped, it adds a layer of complexity to what might otherwise have been a straightforward rom-com. The film hints at deeper questions about modern relationships, commitment, and whether love is really about fate or effort. However, it often chooses to play it safe, prioritizing entertainment over introspection, which may leave some viewers wishing for a little more substance beneath the surface.
That said, Plan A Plan B is not without its flaws. The story, while engaging, is somewhat predictable, and anyone familiar with the rom-com formula will likely see the twists and turns coming from a mile away. The supporting characters, though entertaining, feel underdeveloped, often relegated to being mere comic relief rather than contributing meaningfully to the plot. Kaustubh’s backstory, which could have added more emotional weight, is touched upon but not fully explored, leaving some narrative threads feeling unresolved.
In conclusion, Plan A Plan B is a light, fun, and feel-good film that delivers exactly what it promises: a breezy romantic comedy with a touch of drama. It may not break new ground in terms of storytelling, but it excels in delivering charming performances, delightful banter, and enough heart to keep the audience invested. If you’re a fan of rom-coms and enjoy films that focus on the chemistry between two opposites, this is a film worth watching. While it may not linger in your memory for long, it will certainly entertain you for its 100-minute runtime. Recommended for a light watch on a weekend or whenever you’re in the mood for something sweet, funny, and undemanding.
