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The sequel to the 2021 hit Haseen Dillruba, titled Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba, is a marked improvement over its predecessor. This time, the film fully embraces its dark, atmospheric narrative, delivering a story drenched in love, betrayal, and danger. It’s been a long time since a Hindi film has so unapologetically delved into the murky waters of adult, amoral romance, and it’s a thrilling ride from start to finish.
The story picks up with our central characters, Rani (Taapsee Pannu) and Rishu (Vikrant Massey), who are still on the run after the events of the first film. They’ve found temporary refuge in Agra, but their troubles are far from over. The relentless cop from the first film, played by Aditya Srivastava, remains hot on their trail, determined to bring them to justice.
However, this time the duo faces a more formidable adversary in the form of Mrityunjay (Jimmy Sheirgill), an unyielding investigator who describes himself as a ‘kadhphodwa’ (woodpecker) in a memorable scene. Mrityunjay’s relentless pursuit of the truth, driven by a personal vendetta, adds a layer of tension to the narrative, keeping the audience on edge. His character is a significant upgrade in the antagonist department, providing the kind of intelligent opposition that was somewhat lacking in the original.
The supporting cast is also stronger this time around, with the introduction of new characters who add depth to the story. Sunny Kaushal plays Abhimanyu, a mild-mannered compounder smitten with Rani, who harbors some dark secrets of his own. His knowledge of the Yamuna’s treacherous waters and the deadly crocodiles lurking within adds an element of suspense to the film. Meanwhile, Bhumika Dube, who impressed in the feminist romp Cheepatakadumka, shines as a cunning woman who uses her disability to achieve her goals, making her a memorable addition to the ensemble.
One of the film’s strengths lies in its writing, courtesy of Kanika Dhillon. She masterfully crafts characters that, despite their morally ambiguous actions, manage to elicit empathy from the audience. They can go to any lengths, even murder, to attain the object of their desire, but they are not inherently evil. They do what they do for love, especially as it is depicted in those grubby paperbacks with such titles as ‘Khooni Ishq’ and ‘Pyaar Ka Darinda,’ mention of said ‘upanyaas’, as in the earlier film, adding the right hint of luridness here.
However, Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba isn’t without its flaws. Some of the film’s settings, such as the overused backdrop of the Taj Mahal or the clichéd boat ride on the polluted Yamuna, feel too contrived. Certain plot twists, like the predictability of some deaths, come across as obvious red herrings, undermining the element of surprise. Additionally, a few dialogues are overly explicit when a subtler approach would have been more effective, and there’s a particularly frustrating scene involving a group of cops that feels out of place in an otherwise tight narrative.
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Yet, these minor quibbles are overshadowed by the film’s ability to captivate and surprise its audience. The contrivances and clichés are, in a way, part of the charm of pulpy, trashy fiction—a genre that Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba pays homage to with great affection. The film’s ability to keep viewers engaged, despite the occasional misstep, is a testament to its well-crafted script and compelling performances.
Taapsee Pannu once again excels as the scheming Rani, her vulnerability always just beneath the surface of her tough exterior. Vikrant Massey brings depth to Rishu, a man unwavering in his love, while Sunny Kaushal’s portrayal of a devoted lover breathes new life into a familiar trope. Jimmy Sheirgill is a standout as Mrityunjay, though a bit more consistency in his character’s pronunciation—Rishu or Rissu?—would have been welcome.
In the end, Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba is a delightfully dark and twisted tale that hits all the right notes. For those who enjoy stories where the lines between right and wrong are blurred, and where lust and danger are intertwined, this film is a must-watch. Here’s hoping there’s more to come.
Also read: Ulajh review: Janhvi Kapoor's Diplomatic Drama Falters Despite Cast
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