Fukrey Returns is a sequel to the 2013 coming-of-age comedy film Fukrey. The film is directed by Mrighdeep Singh Lamba and stars Pulkit Samrat, Varun Sharma, Richa Chadha, Manjot Singh, Ali Fazal and Pankaj Tripathi in the lead roles. Read our review of the film:
Rating: 2/5
By Amann Khuranaa
The Plot
The story begins one year later from where the first part had ended. Choocha (Varun Sharma) and Hunny (Pulkit Samrat) continue to be chuddy buddies and make a living by playing the lottery. Like we saw in the first part, Choocha still sees weird dreams, which Hunny decodes to generate a sure-shot lottery number. Hunny now owns an SUV and has asked for his girlfriend's (Priya Anand) hand in marriage from her father. Zafar (Ali Fazal) is planning a Goa wedding with Neetu (Vishakha Singh) and Lali (Manjot Singh) is still a single man who is ridiculed by his father for being good for nothing. But it is Bholi Punjaban (Richa Chadha) who brings in the twist here. After serving a year in prison, she is finally a free woman, thanks to the shrewd politician Bhatia, who demands a sum of Rs 10 crore as a return favor. Bholi brings the Fukras together and orders them to arrange the whopping amount. From there on, begins a story packed with twists and turns.
The Good
First things first, the film is loaded with some genuinely funny jokes. Just like its prequel, Fukrey Returns is no slapstick comedy and to tickle your funny bone, it primarily relies on quirky writing and clever direction. The director milks the best from each one of the actors to bring in all the laughter. Cinematographer Andre Menezes' love for Delhi is palpable in a number of shots. From Connaught Place to the iconic Hanuman statue in Karol Bagh, Andre treats us to all the beauty the capital has to offer. Music of the film is decent. The title track and the song Tu Mera Bhai Nahi Hai stay with you.
The Bad
Fukrey Returns is no Fukrey when it comes to the storyline. In fact, that's one department where the film falters the most. It was the simplicity of the plot that made Fukrey connect with the audiences. Fukrey Returns, in that context, is a mess, which sucks away all the fun. There comes a point in the film when it runs out of jokes and begins to behave like a thriller with implausible twists and turns. Humour becomes a tad forced and actors too desperate as if trying to prove that the sequel is bigger and better. Sadly, it is not. Choocha has progressed from dreaming to promoting, a concept which absolutely fails to convince.
The Performances
Fortunately, Fukrey Returns is blessed with a stellar cast and is an outright winner in this department. The entire cast including Pulkit Samrat, Ali Fazal, Manjot Singh, Richa Chadha and Pankaj Tripathi play their parts with finesse. However, the actor who takes the cake is Varun Sharma. With his act of an innocently hilarious Delhi boy, it is Varun who leaves you squealing with laughter for the most part. The film wouldn't have been the same without this brilliant actor.
The Verdict
Fukrey Returns is a much weaker film in comparison to its prequel. Yes, it is a beautiful opportunity for you to revisit the hilarious world of Fukras. But be warned that it isn't the same anymore.