Ishq Vishk Rebound review: uneven writing and flawed execution

The film 'Ishq Vishk Rebound' attempts to modernize the classic romantic comedy formula with a Gen Z twist, featuring a quartet of friends navigating the complexities of love and friendship in Dehradun. Produced by Tips, though not a sequel to the 2003 hit 'Ishq Vishk', it endeavors to capture youthful dynamics but falls short in execution.

The narrative revolves around Raghav (Rohit Saraf), Sanya (Pashmina Roshan), Sahir (Jibraan Khan), and Ria (Naila Grewal), whose intertwined relationships form the crux of the story. Unlike its predecessor's straightforward love triangle, this film expands into a foursome, where emotions ricochet among the characters, pausing briefly before bouncing into new configurations.

Raghav serves as the narrator, offering insights into the tangled affairs of his friends, Sanya and Sahir, who frequently seek his counsel when their on-again, off-again relationship hits obstacles. Sanya, raised by a single mother (Supriya Pilgaonkar), is portrayed as high-strung, a stereotype that Bollywood struggles to evolve beyond, while Sahir, an army cadet under pressure from his strict father, adds further tension. Enter Ria, an environmental enthusiast who catches Raghav's eye, disrupting the equilibrium among the friends.

The film attempts to inject depth by exploring themes like divorce and parental pressure, but these elements often feel clichéd and superficial. The adult characters, including fleeting appearances by seasoned actors like Sheeba Chadha, remain peripheral and underdeveloped, leaving much of the narrative weight on the young ensemble.

Despite its ambition, 'Ishq Vishk Rebound' stumbles in its storytelling. The dialogue, often clunky and uninspired, occasionally rises above with moments of genuine emotion. The cast, predominantly newcomers, displays potential, with Rohit Saraf and Pashmina Roshan leading the pack. Roshan, making her debut, shows promise beyond her initial stylized portrayal, while Grewal and Khan, though relegated to secondary roles, manage to leave an impression despite limited screen time.

One notable subplot follows Raghav's journey into the Mumbai film industry, drawing from his personal experiences to shape the script he's writing. This meta-narrative attempts to inject freshness but struggles amidst the film's broader narrative inconsistencies.

Critically, the music, usually a staple in Tips productions, fails to leave an impact. Lacking memorable tunes, the soundtrack misses an opportunity to enhance emotional resonance or narrative cohesion.

In essence, 'Ishq Vishk Rebound' aims to cater to a youthful audience with its updated take on romantic entanglements. However, its execution falters due to uneven writing and underdeveloped characters. While the premise of a foursome rather than a traditional love triangle offers potential, the film fails to capitalize on this concept effectively. Ultimately, while the young cast shows promise, the film's inability to deliver compelling storytelling and impactful music undermines its aspirations to resonate with its intended audience of Gen Z viewers.

Also read: Kudi Haryane Val Di Movie Review: A Cross-Cultural Romantic Comedy

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