Kunal Kemmu’s latest film VIBE begins with the kind of carefree humour that promises an entertaining ride, but the film struggles to maintain the same energy after the interval. Starring Kunal Kemmu, Sparsh Shrivastava, Preity Zinta, Vanshika Dhir, Yashpal Sharma and Dinesh Lal Yadav, the film blends comedy with a spy-adventure storyline.
The story follows Hardik, played by Kunal Kemmu, who has recently returned from drug rehabilitation and is trying to rebuild his life. His friend Bugs, played by Sparsh Shrivastava, encourages him to join his technology company. Hardik soon develops feelings for an intern named Kareena, played by Vanshika Dhir.
What begins as a simple romantic interest quickly turns into something far more complicated. Hardik and Bugs unexpectedly find themselves involved with Madam H, a government agent played by Preity Zinta, who is working on a mission to capture a dangerous gangster.
The film immediately establishes its comic tone. Even the opening credits are treated with humour, with Kemmu using a voiceover to playfully explain some of the familiar terms associated with film credits. It is a clever introduction and prepares viewers for the film's unconventional approach.
The first half is where VIBE is most comfortable. The chemistry between Kemmu and Shrivastava works well, while the sharp dialogues and quick one-liners provide plenty of laughs. The situations become increasingly absurd as the two ordinary friends get pulled into an unexpected spy mission.
However, the film takes a noticeable turn after the interval. The story becomes more complicated as it introduces questions surrounding the gangster’s identity and a mysterious super-strength serum. These additional twists push the film away from the simple comic setup that worked effectively in the first half.
Kunal Kemmu remains one of the film’s strongest elements. As both actor and director, he brings an easy comic rhythm to the character of Hardik. Even when the screenplay loses momentum, his performance helps keep the story moving.
Sparsh Shrivastava is equally effective as Bugs and makes a strong comic partner for Kemmu. Vanshika Dhir, making her debut as Kareena, makes a positive impression and fits naturally into the story. Yashpal Sharma and Dinesh Lal Yadav also make their presence felt as members of Madam H’s team.
Preity Zinta plays Madam H, the government officer at the centre of the mission. Her performance has moments that feel somewhat restrained, particularly in the delivery of some of her dialogues, although the character itself adds another dimension to the story.
The music supports the film without becoming a distraction. With several composers involved, including Amit Trivedi, the soundtrack fits the film’s overall mood and complements its comic and adventurous tone.
Overall, VIBE has a strong opening and an enjoyable first half, driven by its humour, performances and brisk pacing. The second half, however, becomes increasingly complicated and loses some of the easy-going charm established earlier. The film works most naturally when it focuses on Hardik and Bugs and their chaotic journey into the world of espionage.
VIBE is directed by Kunal Kemmu and stars Kunal Kemmu, Preity Zinta, Sparsh Shrivastava, Vanshika Dhir, Yashpal Sharma and Dinesh Lal Yadav.
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