Phir Aayi Haseen Dillruba is the sequel to the 2021 thriller Haseen Dillruba. Directed by Jayprad Desai, this film attempts to build on the original’s blend of romance, mystery, and dark humor. However, it struggles to recreate the magic of its predecessor, leaving audiences with mixed feelings.
Plot and Narrative Structure
The story picks up with Rani Kashyap (Taapsee Pannu) and her husband Rishu (Vikrant Massey), who are trying to start anew after the events of the first film. The narrative follows a non-linear path, similar to the original, with flashbacks and twists that attempt to keep viewers engaged. However, the sequel departs from the whodunnit elements that made the original compelling, opting instead for a more predictable storyline centered on a love triangle involving a new character, Abhimanyu (Sunny Kaushal).
The film starts with an intense scene involving Rani in a dire situation, setting the tone for what could have been a thrilling ride. However, as the story progresses, it becomes clear that the twists and turns are less surprising, and the plot seems to recycle many elements from the first film without adding significant new depth.
Characterization and Performances
Taapsee Pannu once again shines as Rani, delivering a performance full of intensity and nuance. Her character remains the heart of the film, and Pannu makes the most of the material given to her. Vikrant Massey, while still effective, has a less prominent role this time around, and his character’s development feels somewhat sidelined compared to the original.
Sunny Kaushal’s portrayal of Abhimanyu brings a fresh dynamic to the film. He plays the earnest, almost too-good-to-be-true suitor with a subtle menace that adds tension to the love triangle. However, the character’s motivations and impact on the story are not as fleshed out as they could be, leaving a sense of missed potential.
Jimmy Sheirgill joins the cast as Mrityunjay, a police officer who adds another layer to the unfolding drama. While his performance is solid, the character is not as well-developed, and his role in the plot feels more like a narrative device than an integral part of the story.
Direction, Writing, and Cinematography
Director Jayprad Desai had the challenging task of following up a film that had a unique blend of pulp fiction and modern thriller elements. While he manages to maintain the film’s dark, moody atmosphere, the sequel lacks the original’s edge. The screenplay by Kanika Dhillon, which was sharp and provocative in the first installment, falls short here, relying on clichés and predictable twists.
The film’s cinematography by Vishal Sinha is visually appealing, capturing the moodiness of the setting and the intensity of the characters’ emotions. The use of music, particularly the track “Ek Haseena Thi,” is well-integrated into the narrative, enhancing key moments.
Overall Impression
Phir Aayi Haseen Dillruba is a decent follow-up, but it doesn’t quite capture the intrigue and excitement of its predecessor. While the performances, especially by Taapsee Pannu, are commendable, the film’s predictable plot and lack of fresh ideas make it less engaging. Fans of the original may find some enjoyment in revisiting these characters, but the sequel ultimately feels like a missed opportunity to deepen the story and explore new territory
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