From Atlantean depths to migrant journeys, “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” and “Dunki” dive into captivating narratives with star-studded casts. Sukanya unpacks their diverse themes in her review, exclusively for Different Truths.

As someone who’s been drawn to storytelling since a young age, the art of world-building has always held a special fascination for me. Creating immersive, intricate universes where characters thrive, and narratives unfold is an art form that never fails to captivate. “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” ventures into the depths of Atlantis, promising a visual spectacle and a chance to immerse audiences in a breathtakingly constructed world. However, despite the promise of this wondrous universe, the film struggles to keep its narrative afloat, much like a ship tossed in choppy waters.

Act 1: Diving into the Depths of Expectation

Director James Wan plunges audiences into an awe-inspiring visual feast. The underwater world of Atlantis dazzles with its grandeur, brought to life by stunning CGI and a sweeping score by Rupert Gregson-Williams. Yet, beneath the surface allure lies a narrative that feels pieced together rather than organically woven. The film attempts to navigate multiple plotlines—a compelling brotherly rivalry between Arthur Curry and his sibling, Orm, portrayed with fiery chemistry by Jason Momoa and Patrick Wilson, a revenge subplot involving Black Manta seeking retribution, and an awkward insertion of Climate Change as a thematic element. These threads, though promising, struggle for prominence, leading to a disjointed and overstuffed storyline.

Act 2: The Charismatic Lighthouse in Murky Waters

Amid this tumultuous sea of plots, Jason Momoa emerges as the lighthouse, guiding the film with his effortless charisma and wit. His portrayal of Arthur Curry injects life into otherwise lacklustre moments, especially in his dynamic with Wilson’s Orm, eclipsing the chemistry shared with the supposed love interest, Mera. Momoa’s delivery of one-liners and jokes lands with precision, providing much-needed levity in a narrative that occasionally flounders in predictability. The action sequences, while visually stunning, lack the tension and excitement necessary to fully engage the audience, leaving these moments feeling formulaic and, at times, forgettable.

Act 3: Treading Water Towards an Uncertain Horizon

Behind the scenes, the film’s journey mirrors the tumult within the DCEU itself. Production woes, casting controversies, and uncertain direction marred its creation. The mishandling of significant thematic elements like Climate Change reduces its impact to a level of fantastical absurdity, missing the opportunity for a meaningful exploration. The result feels like a missed opportunity—an ocean of potential navigated with hesitation and inconsistency. While Momoa’s magnetic presence and the visual splendour offer glimpses of brilliance, they aren’t enough to salvage a narrative struggling to find its direction in the vast, uncharted waters of the superhero genre.

 “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” sails on the strength of its visuals and Momoa’s charm, but it flounders in delivering a cohesive and compelling narrative worthy of the captivating world it attempts to build. For those seeking a dazzling display of special effects and Momoa’s undeniable charisma, there’s enjoyment to be found. However, for a film endeavouring to chart new depths within the superhero genre, it fails to anchor itself in a coherent and fulfilling storytelling experience.

***

“Dunki” as a cinematic endeavour brings forth an unconventional narrative rooted in the desire for a better life, captivatingly portrayed by a stellar cast. Shah Rukh Khan’s portrayal of Hardy, Taapsee Pannu’s Manu, and the supporting roles, including Vicky Kaushal’s impactful appearance, create a rich tapestry of characters. The direction by Rajkumar Hirani accentuates the emotional depth of their journey, set against the backdrop of illegal immigration via the “Dunki” route.

Act 1: Setting the Stage

The film’s premise challenges Bollywood stereotypes, weaving together the aspirations of individuals seeking a brighter future. The nuances of their struggles, the camaraderie among friends, and the desperation for change paint a refreshingly authentic picture for Bollywood aficionados. The narrative delves into the complexities of relationships, dreams, and the pursuit of happiness, steering away from predictable plotlines.

Act 2: Embracing the Story

The film beautifully amplifies the importance of side characters, allowing each to shine in their designated roles. The emotional spectrum they bring adds depth and authenticity to the storyline. The narrative, although unconventional, manages to strike chords with its emotional resonance and elements of humour—a trademark Hirani touch. The soundtrack, composed by Pritam, perfectly complements the storytelling, enhancing the film’s emotional beats.

However, amidst the engaging tale, some twists and turns tend toward excessive drama. Instances like the dramatic suicide due to an exam failure and the 25-year wait for the lovers’ reunion push the boundaries of believability, straining the otherwise realistic fabric of the narrative. These moments, while impactful, border on the verge of being overly melodramatic, affecting the film’s overall narrative balance.

Act 3: Curtain Call

“Dunki” leaves an indelible mark despite its occasional lapses into heightened drama. The film’s message about the pursuit of dreams and the lengths individuals go to for a better life resonates strongly. The performances, the departure from stereotypes, and the emotional depth render it a noteworthy addition to Bollywood’s repertoire. However, the excessive dramatic elements might sway some viewers, impacting their engagement with the storyline.

“Dunki” offers a thought-provoking experience, bolstered by a commendable cast and a narrative departure from Bollywood norms. While it ventures into uncharted territories, the overwrought dramatic moments might polarize audiences, overshadowing its otherwise earnest storytelling.

Picture design by Anumita Roy from IMDb

Sukanya Basu Mallik

Sukanya Basu Mallik is a renowned Indian writer, known for her works in various publications and for winning Best Manuscript Awards for fiction & non-fiction categories (Mumbai Litofest, 2018). She is currently pursuing a PhD at IIT Madras, focusing on organisational behaviour and art-based therapies for enhancing teaching-learning effectiveness using immersive technologies. She was recognised for her short story 'Healing of Wounds' at NCLF, led by Ruskin Bond.

See Full Bio