The much-anticipated sequel Abar Hawa Bodol has finally hit the screens, and it brings back the beloved characters from the 2016 hit. Directed by Aritra Sen, the film picks up a decade after the original, with Jeet (Parambrata Chattopadhyay) living alone in London, separated from his wife Tanuka (Raima Sen). He works at an Indian restaurant aptly named Balti, a sly nod to the British-born curry created to satisfy the UK's appetite for Indian food. Jeet can't help but envy Rajarshi (Rudranil Ghosh), the man with whom he swapped souls all those years ago. After a brief recap of that chaos, the film largely moves on, focusing instead on Jeet's present misfortunes and his desperate need for a way out.
The script zips along at a brisk pace, mixing suggestive humour with drug-fuelled antics and a fair amount of gross-out comedy. Somehow, thanks to the cast's commitment and impeccable body language, most of it works. The director also slips in glimpses of the awkward social realities many NRIs navigate, though these observations are never fully developed.
Performances That Shine
Rudranil Ghosh is a delight as Rajarshi, while the body-swapping premise gives both leads ample opportunity to bounce off each other. Parambrata convincingly captures Jeet's frustration and desperation. Through a handful of believable supporting characters, the film highlights both the contrasts and similarities between the two men.
Raima Sen lends a quiet calm to the proceedings. The real revelation, however, is Anusha Viswanathan as Kajal Lata, a young musician in love with Rajarshi. Reminiscent of fiercely talented artists like Mohini Dey, Kajal possesses a maturity beyond her years. Viswanathan makes her both strong and vulnerable, gradually revealing the insecurities beneath the confident exterior as she warms to the friend newly introduced into her partner's life.
Music and Comedy
Indraadip Das Gupta's music is another plus, with Dekhash Na Bhoy (written by Barish and sung by Javed Ali and Somlata Acharyya Chowdhury) and E Jibon (Javed Ali) standing out. There is plenty of physical comedy and a few surprise cameos, including director Aritra Sen himself. While some gags overstay their welcome, the performances carry the film through. Despite its flaws, the mix of humour and genuine emotional drama makes it an engaging, enjoyable watch.
Overall, Abar Hawa Bodol is a chaotic sequel that thrives on its strong performances and comedic timing. It may not reach the heights of its predecessor, but it offers enough entertainment to satisfy fans of the original.
