Bachchhan Paandey Movie Review: Akshay Kumar & Kriti Sanon starrer is a masala entertainer, but don’t keep high expectations

When Akshay Kumar announced his film Bachchhan Paandey , the title reminded most of us of his character from the 2008 action comedy Tashan. He was the soul of the film and left most of us in splits with his hilarious comic timing and quirky look. But when the trailer of Bachchhan Paandey released, it was revealed that Akshay’s character will be very different. He has taken the concept of evil to a whole new level. The vibrant short clip introduced us to many characters and left us feeling quite excited. Well, the much awaited film has finally arrived in theatres and here’s what we thought of it.

Bachchhan Paandey begins with a brief introduction of Myra, portrayed by Kriti Sanon , who is an assistant director eagerly waiting for her big break. When she is kicked out of the sets after an egoistic director blasts her off for taking the reins, Myra decides to make a film herself. The subject of her movie is the biggest, baddest, most violent gangster out there-- Bachchhan Paandey. Her struggling actor buddy Vishu, played by Arshad Warsi , agrees to help her after Myra promises him the role of the second lead in her film. They follow Paandey closely and try to get more information from the people in his gang. One fine day Myra and Vishu get caught, and right when the gangster is about to murder them, they blurt out the real reason behind their snooping.

The plot is interesting and the film is entertaining. It is not as predictable as you must have thought after watching the trailer, but it also doesn’t have many surprise elements which will blow your mind. Every now and then you may feel that this action comedy is quite basic, but thankfully it picks up and hits you in the face with a funny dialogue or scene. There are two things about the film which stand out-- the cinematography and the background score. The makers have very creatively used popular songs to hilariously portray what the characters are feeling in that particular scene. Hats off to the team for these impressive elements.

Coming to the performances-- Kriti has done a good job of playing the role of an aspiring filmmaker, whereas Arshad is a delight to watch! His comedy is natural and his expressions are ‘ek number’. But we truly wish we got to see more of him in this film. Jacqueline Fernandez, who portrays the role of Bachchhan’s former lover Sophie, doesn’t have much to do in the very less screen time given to her. Pankaj Tripathi , the acting coach of Myra’s film, is a treat as always. His presence is like the cherry on top of a yum cake. Prateik Babbar, who is called Virgin in the film because he’s never killed anyone, has also done a fantastic job. His command over the UP dialect is on point!

And then there is the star of the show, Bollywood ’s Khiladi Akshay Kumar. If you are a fan of the superstar, you will without a doubt enjoy watching this film. He will leave you in awe as he turns into this menacing villain and impress you with his mannerisms, language and expressions. Watching Akshay do comedy and action together is total paisa-vasool. However, we do wish there was more of that, in place of the little senti drama, which looked unnecessary. Other than this tiny complaint, it feels like this character was written especially for Akshay because he fits in like a glove. And what crazy energy. Tussi kamaal ho sir!

All in all, Bachchhan Paandey is a fun watch as long as you don’t keep very high expectations from it. Instead of looking for a point in it, take a break from your hectic life and go with a free mind to watch this film only for entertainment. We are sure you’ll have a good time.