Media Magick

Bollywood’s latest obsession seems to be thrillers and heist movies, a genre that, despite its allure, often results in filmmakers plunging headlong without considering the repercussions. “Chor Nikal Ke Bhaga” (CNKB) appears to draw heavy inspiration from a 2006 Hollywood flick—guess the name if you can—offering a mix of drama and suspense with a Bollywood twist. Starring Netflix’s new favorite Radhika Apte, alongside Yami Gautam, and the dashing Sunny Kaushal, with Sharad Kelkar in a significant role, let’s delve into what CNKB has in store.

The writers of CNKB have a knack for drama, spinning a web of intrigue and deception akin to crafty card players hustling the unsuspecting. Their storytelling, filled with unexpected twists, keeps audiences guessing, though at times it feels overplayed. Nonetheless, their cleverness is undeniable, creating a thrilling ride that leaves viewers both enthralled and uncertain.

The film’s plot centers around Neha Grover, a flight attendant played by Yami Gautam, and her boyfriend Ankit Sethi, portrayed by Sunny Kaushal. When Ankit incurs a debt to a ruthless loan shark, the couple hatches a plan to steal diamonds from a courier on their flight. However, their plan goes awry when the courier is switched mid-flight and terrorists hijack the plane. With multiple stories running simultaneously, the audience is kept hooked, constantly guessing the next twist.

On paper, the storyline promises a nail-biting thriller, but the execution is the true test. As tension builds and stakes rise, viewers are left wondering if the couple will succeed or fall victim to the hijackers.

The film, written by Shiraz Ahmed and Amar Kaushik, directed by Ajay Singh, presents a mid-air diamond heist with a twist that keeps audiences guessing until the end. However, the narrative gets bogged down by unnecessary scenes and stretches, detracting from its overall impact.

Yami Gautam once again showcases her versatility and acting prowess. Her portrayal of Neha Grover is convincing, though the film doesn’t fully exploit her potential. Despite this, Gautam’s fans will appreciate her solid performance, especially in the climax where she shines with a calculated yet predictable twist.

Sunny Kaushal delivers a commendable performance, reminiscent of Saif Ali Khan in “Ek Hasina Thi.” His portrayal of Ankit Sethi is engaging, showcasing his range and charisma. With the right roles, Kaushal could become a versatile actor in the industry.

Sharad Kelkar, despite his talent, is let down by weak writing. His character lacks depth and fails to leave a lasting impression. A stronger character, like Akshaye Khanna’s in “Drishyam 2,” could have elevated his performance significantly.

“Chor Nikal Ke Bhaga” has sparked mixed reactions. Some hail it as a triumph, while others criticize its lack of coherence. The film struggles with narrative fluidity, often feeling disjointed and overwhelming rather than emotionally engaging. The romantic subplot feels tacked on, failing to add significant depth.

Despite these issues, there are entertaining moments, particularly the sudden shifts in character dynamics. These instances, though uneven, provide some of the film’s best scenes. Ultimately, CNKB is an uneven but entertaining film that, with tighter editing and a refined script, could have been much more effective.

Verdict – Chor Nikal Ke Bhaga

For Bollywood buffs, CNKB offers quirky characters, an unpredictable storyline, and decently crafted heist scenes. Though not groundbreaking, it keeps viewers guessing until the end. Hint for movie buffs: remember “Inside Man” starring Denzel Washington and Jodie Foster? CNKB is a Bollywood attempt to recreate that magic, but ends up a potpourri of a typical Bollywood narrative.