Entertainment

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; June 5: Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan returned to the big screen with Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, a romantic comedy directed by veteran filmmaker David Dhawan. However, the film's release has sparked sharply divided reactions, with several reviewers and moviegoers describing its brand of old-school comedy as outdated and lacking freshness, while others have praised it as a light-hearted entertainer aimed at family audiences.

The film, which also stars Mrunal Thakur and Pooja Hegde, revolves around a chaotic love triangle, mistaken identities, family misunderstandings, and a series of comic situations that echo the formula popularized by David Dhawan's blockbuster comedies of the 1990s and early 2000s. The project marks the fourth collaboration between David Dhawan and his son Varun Dhawan after successful films such as Main Tera Hero, Judwaa 2, and Coolie No. 1. 

The film attempts to recreate the magic of classic Bollywood entertainers through exaggerated humor, colorful visuals, chartbuster songs, and larger-than-life comic situations. However, many critics argue that while the formula may have worked decades ago, it feels increasingly disconnected from modern audience expectations. Some reviewers have described the screenplay as predictable and heavily dependent on recycled themes and jokes, making it difficult for the film to stand out in today's cinematic landscape. 

Number of early reactions on social media were particularly critical of the film. One viral review labeled it a “cringe remake” of the classic comedy Biwi No. 1, criticizing its screenplay, performances, and humor. Several online commentators also suggested that the movie relies too heavily on nostalgia and familiar storylines rather than offering something new to viewers. 

The criticism, the film has also found supporters. Some early viewers described it as a fun, one-time watch packed with comedy, romance, music, and family-friendly entertainment. Varun Dhawan’s energetic performance and comic timing have received praise from sections of the audience, while the chemistry between the lead actors has also been highlighted as one of the film’s strengths. 

Critics have noted that the movie’s biggest challenge lies in maintaining consistent humor. While certain scenes reportedly generate genuine laughter, many jokes fail to create the intended impact. Reviews suggest that the film delivers occasional entertaining moments but struggles to sustain momentum throughout its runtime. The story itself has been described as highly predictable, reducing the surprise factor that audiences often seek in contemporary comedies. 

Performance-wise, Varun Dhawan has been credited for bringing enthusiasm and energy to his role, although some reviewers believe he occasionally overplays certain comic sequences. Mrunal Thakur and Pooja Hegde have been praised for their screen presence, while supporting actors including Maniesh Paul, Jimmy Shergill, Chunky Panday, and Rakesh Bedi contribute to the film’s ensemble-driven narrative. Actress Mouni Roy has emerged as one of the most positively reviewed aspects of the film, with several critics highlighting her comic timing and late-entry track as a major highlight. 

The film also carries additional significance as it is widely being regarded as David Dhawan’s final directorial venture. The veteran filmmaker, who built a legacy on mass-market comedy entertainers, has stated that the project contains all the elements that defined his filmmaking career—humor, confusion, romance, music, and family drama. 

Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai begins its theatrical run, its reception reflects a broader debate within Bollywood about the relevance of 1990s-style commercial comedy in an era increasingly dominated by content-driven storytelling. Whether audiences embrace its nostalgic charm or reject its old-fashioned approach, the film has undoubtedly become one of the most discussed Bollywood releases of the week.