An exploration of modern romance with a twist, Tuesdays and Fridays stars Anmol Thakeria Dhillon and Jhataleka Malhotra in their Bollywood debuts. Set against the scenic backdrops of London and Mumbai, the film, directed by Taranveer Singh, tells a contemporary love story in the romantic-comedy genre, offering an unconventional look at relationships in the digital age. Its narrative, though rooted in familiar themes of love and commitment, is given a unique structure through the characters’ quirky “two-day dating” rule, which serves as both a source of tension and charm throughout the film.
The plot revolves around Varun, a successful novelist based in London, and Sia, a spirited lawyer. Both are commitment-phobic, yet intrigued by each other’s personalities. They agree to date on only two days of the week—Tuesdays and Fridays—keeping their interactions light and casual while avoiding attachment and commitment on the remaining days. The two navigate their contrasting worldviews and independent lifestyles, building a slow-burn connection within the boundaries of their unorthodox dating arrangement. The film captures their journey of self-discovery and explores whether love can thrive when constrained by rigid rules.
One of the most notable aspects of this film is the acting, especially as both lead actors are new to the Bollywood scene. Anmol brings a fresh, boyish charm to the role of Varun, handling the character’s internal conflicts and wit with ease. Jhataleka shines as the fiercely independent Sia, balancing her confident exterior with vulnerability when it comes to matters of the heart. The chemistry between the two, though subtle, grows naturally as the film progresses, lending authenticity to their relationship. Both newcomers display considerable talent and screen presence, suggesting promising futures in the industry. Their performances lend a relatable, down-to-earth quality to their characters, making their unconventional love story more engaging for viewers.
Direction by Taranveer Singh is commendable, especially in how he navigates the non-linear dating structure and emotional undertones of the film. His approach to storytelling combines lightheartedness with introspective moments, which gives the film depth despite its whimsical premise. Singh’s focus on character-driven scenes ensures that the audience remains invested in Varun and Sia’s personal journeys. His creative choices—like contrasting the two characters’ worlds visually through locations in London and Mumbai—reinforce the movie’s theme of exploring the balance between independence and connection. However, the pacing does falter slightly, especially in the second half, where some scenes feel prolonged, but Singh manages to bring the focus back effectively toward the end.
The cinematography by Arkodeb Mukherjee deserves appreciation for its crisp visuals and beautiful framing, capturing the film’s settings in a way that enhances the romantic feel. London’s iconic landmarks and Mumbai’s bustling streets serve as stunning backdrops, adding visual appeal and amplifying the film’s charm. The contrast between the cityscapes of London and Mumbai adds depth to the characters’ inner worlds—Varun’s life in structured London contrasts with Sia’s dynamic energy from Mumbai, highlighting the difference in their approaches to relationships. Mukherjee’s use of soft lighting and vibrant colors enhances the romantic atmosphere, giving the film a polished and cinematic look that feels appropriate for the genre.
Music and background score by Tony Kakkar and Tanishk Bagchi add a catchy vibe to the film, with songs like “Ashleel” and “Tere Bina” capturing the playful yet emotional essence of the story. The music complements the film’s pace, helping transition between lighter and more serious moments effectively. While some tracks lean towards the peppy and fun, others provide emotional resonance, aiding in the development of Varun and Sia’s relationship. The musical composition elevates key scenes, creating an immersive experience and ensuring that the soundtrack remains memorable even after the film ends.
Costume design also plays a significant role in defining each character’s personality. Sia’s wardrobe is modern, stylish, and slightly edgy, matching her independent, no-nonsense attitude, while Varun’s attire leans towards a more refined, subdued style. The costumes not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal but also enhance the characters’ individuality, subtly reflecting their backgrounds and personalities. The attention to detail in costume design helps establish each character’s sense of self and independence, aligning well with the film’s exploration of identity and relationships.
Editing by Nitin Baid is mostly effective, though there are instances where the narrative feels a bit stretched, especially in the second half. Certain subplots could have been tightened, and while the overall pacing of the film remains steady, a crisper edit could have amplified its impact. That said, Baid’s work shines in scenes that require quick transitions between emotional beats, as he successfully keeps the viewers engaged without disrupting the storyline.
Overall, this film is an endearing attempt at modernizing Bollywood romance with its unique two-day dating rule and fresh pairing of new actors. While the storyline may feel overly light at times, it still resonates because of its relatable theme of balancing independence with vulnerability in relationships. Anmol and Jhataleka deliver compelling performances, and Singh’s direction provides a creative touch, though a more tightly edited script could have improved the viewing experience. For those who appreciate light-hearted romances with a bit of experimentation, this film offers a refreshing perspective on contemporary love, even if it’s not without its flaws.
