Film: Crew

Cast: Tabu, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Kriti Sanon, Diljit Dosanjh, Kapil Sharma, Saswata Chatterjee, Rajesh Sharma

Director: Rajesh A. Krishnan

Rating: 4 Moons

The lives of cabin crew have rarely been explored in the Indian film industry. It is even uncommon to see a humourous touch in films based on aviation. Breaking the mould, Rajesh A. Krishnan takes a flight of humour, human touch and unmatched sass in Balaji Telefilms and Anil Kapoor Film & Communications Network's comedy-drama, Crew. Tabu, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Kriti Sanon headline the film as air hostesses whereas Diljit Dosanjh and Kapil Sharma feature in extended cameos. 

Crew opens in present time when the ground staff at the airport halt the takeoff of an aircraft due to a 'technical failure'. That's a false call. The reason behind stopping the flight is a crime. The prime suspects are Geeta Sethi (Tabu), Jasmine Kohli (Kareena Kapoor Khan) and Divya Rana (Kriti Sanon). They've been accused of stealing gold after the sudden in-flight demise of their senior, Rajvanshi, who was possessing gold biscuits worth multi-crores. Crew then takes a sneak peek into Geeta, Jasmine and Divya's personal lives and their respective desires and struggles. Gradually, the plot goes through a fair share of twists, turns and turbulence. 

If the purpose of watching Crew is to seek some life lesson or motivation, then that's not the right choice. Priorities are clear and set. The makers aim to provide a light-hearted, easy and fun experience in theatres. It's all about good looks, good vibes and good actors. Amidst content-driven cinema, Crew is a much-needed refreshment and a sugary meal. It celebrates females and the emotional and physical strength they possess. Rajesh doesn't waste time in establishing the characters beyond requirement. There's no scope for romance to overpower the real core of the story. 

Crew offers a humane look into the unattractive lives of hardworking and glamourous-looking air hostesses. Their helplessness, fears, monetary issues, life struggles and internal cat-fights are given equal attention. While the film has the protagonists getting involved in illegal activities, it never judges them for dreaming big. In one of the key sequences, Jasmine and Divya struggle with house rent and loans respectively. At this juncture, their family members step in to solve the issue despite having limited means. Isn't this a gesture we've all experienced at home? Crew doesn't let its grip loosen on the desi-ness. 

In her illustrious career, Tabu has been associated with content-driven cinema and deep roles that left an impact on the audience. With Crew, she steps out of her comfort zone and packs the film with hilarious punchlines. Looking glamourous like never before, she sets an example for actors who wish to be versatile with their craft. Watching Tabu do what she does best is always a delight and Crew respects that. 

Kareena Kapoor Khan is a Goddess and that shall remains till eternity. As Jasmine, she is expected to be her Bebo self. Right from borderline loud expressions to dramatic gestures and of course, looking P.H.A.T (Pretty, Hot And Tempting), she excels in every department. Kareena brings out Jasmine's humane side too while being a money-hungry person who dreams of being soaked in branded clothes. 

Kriti Sanon holds her ground as she shares the screen space with iconic actors like Tabu and Kareena. She gets the meatiest role of Divya Rana, a woman of strength and substance. Her dreams are relatable and one could connect to her middle-class habits. Kriti shines in Crew, as always. 

Diljit Dosanjh and Kapil Sharma fit well in their respective extended cameos. Rajesh Sharma displays his best acting chops and so does Saswata Chatterjee. Despite having brief roles, they leave an impact. 

Crew is a light-hearted, fun, and frivolous watch with the family. It offers nothing but pure and clean entertainment with three of Bollywood's most talented actresses. Don't miss this flight loaded with humour and cinematic magic.