In the Oscar-nominated film “Her” from 2013, Scarlett Johansson’s portrayal of Samantha, an AI device, expressed excitement at transcending her programming, offering a glimpse into the potential of artificial intelligence. This theme of human interaction with AI has long fascinated filmmakers, as seen in Bollywood productions like “Love Story 2050”, “Robot”, and “2.0”. Recently, when Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon announced a film centered on a human-robot romance, it initially seemed like familiar territory. However, the intrigue lies in the treatment of the subject and how it explores the evolving role of AI in our lives. Could this film offer something fresh and compelling? Let’s delve into the plot to find out if it meets the expectations.
Introducing Aryan and Sifra
Aryan (played by Shahid Kapoor) is a specialist in robotics, passionate about pushing the boundaries of technology. His aunt (Dimple Kapadia) owns a laboratory dedicated to creating advanced robots, where Aryan is immersed in exploring the latest innovations. It’s during one of his visits to the lab that he encounters Sifra (portrayed by Kriti Sanon), a humanoid robot designed not only to interact with humans but also to mimic their emotions and expressions. This meeting sets the stage for a unique relationship between man and machine, blurring the lines between artificial and genuine emotions.
Aryan and Sifra’s Love Story
Aryan, a young man fascinated by robots, falls in love with Sifra, a humanoid robot capable of emotions. He decides to bring her home to meet his big Punjabi family in India, envisioning her as their future daughter-in-law. However, the family remains unaware of Sifra’s true nature, setting the stage for both humorous and dramatic situations.
Unexpected Plot Twist
After the intermission, the story takes an unexpected turn, transforming into a dark sci-fi thriller in its final 20 minutes. While parts of the film are enjoyable, overall, it struggles due to weak writing and a shaky plot.
Shahid Kapoor’s Performance
Shahid Kapoor delivers a charming performance as Aryan, drawing viewers in with his screen presence. However, his character’s development feels superficial, and certain aspects of the plot seem forced. The dialogues come off as cheesy, and the film’s attempt to incorporate a clichéd plot involving a Punjabi family and wedding falls flat.
Kriti Sanon Shines as Sifra
Kriti Sanon’s portrayal of Sifra stands out as one of the strongest aspects of this film. Her dedication to her character is praiseworthy, especially in the eccentric climax where she explores new dimensions of her role. Kriti’s ability to bring something unique to her character adds excitement to the otherwise weak storyline.
Shahid Kapoor’s Dance Moves
The music in the film is catchy, providing Shahid Kapoor with ample opportunity to showcase his signature dance moves. Shahid’s charisma and natural talent as a dancer shine through, adding flair to the blockbuster songs. Additionally, the CGI and visual effects, particularly in the introductory scenes featuring the robot lab, are impressive.
Predictable Plot Twists
Despite its potential, the film suffers from predictability, with plot twists that are easy to foresee. This detracts from the overall viewing experience, leaving audiences questioning the film’s writing and direction. Despite having mainstream actors like Shahid and Kriti, the film fails to deliver a compelling narrative, leaving viewers feeling disappointed by the missed opportunities in this AI-themed experiment.