Film: Bad Newz

Cast: Vicky Kaushal, Triptii Dimri, Ammy Virk, Neha Dhupia, Sheeba Chaddha
Director: Anand Tiwari

Rating: 4 Moons

Review by: Rupal Purohit

Karan Johar is evolving his concept of storytelling with societal informative content. Post the success of Good Newwz in 2019, which revolved around In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF), the ace filmmaker leveled up with Bad Newz –a spiritual sequel releasing today. Starring Vicky Kaushal, Triptii Dimri and Ammy Virk, this comedy drama gives a humorous twist to the intriguing medical phenomenon of Heteropaternal Superfecundation in which a woman becomes pregnant with twins fathered by two men.

Bad Newz is centered around Saloni Bagga (Triptii Dimri), an aspiring chef dreaming of getting a Meraki star. Her mother nags her to find a suitable guy and at a wedding she meets Akhil Chaddha (Vicky Kaushal) who is Karol Bagh’s most eligible bachelor. Love blooms between the two leading to marriage. But Saloni soon starts finding fault in Akhil’s Mamma’s Boy trait and overly expressive ways of showing affection. And the couple then divorce. Determined to get her Meraki star, Saloni moves to Mussoorie where she meets Gurbir Pannu (Ammy Virk), and they develop feelings for each other. Months pass, and Saloni discovers she is pregnant with babies from her ex-husband and current boyfriend. Here’s when the whirlwind of chaos kickstarts.

Bad Newz is a delightful rollercoaster of emotion, drama, and entertainment. The film is a blend of hilarious escapades, chaotic twists, and a generous dose of masala elements. It also exudes a vibrant Punjabi flavour, adding a cultural connection that enhances its appeal. With uproarious comic timing and energetic vibes, Bad Newz will captivate audiences with its mix of confusion, melodrama, and high-octane fun. 

Director Anand Tiwari has well presented a medical condition with humor collaborating with writers Tarun Dudeja and Ishita Moitra. They have added Bollywood links to relatably connect with the audience. Vicky Kaushal gives it all to Akhil Chaddha and steals the show with his stud personality and stellar acting prowess. While Triptii Dimri, who has done some contemporary films, shines in her first commercial film. Punjabi star Ammy Virk makes a righteous entry into Bollywood with the Dharma banner. On the other hand, even supporting actors Neha Dhupia, Sheeba Chaddha, and others are flawless. Ananya Panday and Neha Sharma play crucial cameos. 

Bad Newz offers some interesting soundtracks. From Punjabi hit numbers to love songs and emotional melodies, the film maintains the right tempo providing meaning to its scenes. It also hits nostalgia with a revamped version of Mere Mehboob Mere Sanam, a remake fairly accomplished. Along with the songs, the background score has the correct essence in the film throughout.

The film provides light-hearted entertainment with an incredible lesson on Heteropaternal Superfecundation. It is a comedy caper that will leave viewers entertained and intrigued; a cinematic treat that delivers laughter and a touch of unexpected depth, making it a good choice for a night out at the movies.