While shooting a movie in Bhopal, Vijay Kumar, a prominent star, urgently needs a driver’s license to meet his filming deadline. However, a misunderstanding with motor vehicle inspector Om Prakash leads to a feud. As Vijay’s devoted fan becomes his adversary, insisting he obtain the license legally like any ordinary person, a process that could take a month, Vijay must leave for the US within a week. Will he secure the license before departing?
Selfiee review: Could a small-town traffic cop, Om Prakash Agarwal (Emraan Hashmi), challenging megastar Vijay Kumar (Akshay Kumar) over a driver’s license seem far-fetched? Perhaps. Yet, the witty dialogue and performances in the remake of the 2019 Malayalam film, Driving Licence, may overshadow the modest premise. Homage to Akshay’s celebrity status, with a film titled Don’t Angry Me, references to his numerous annual projects, his reputation as a producer’s actor, and even his trademark smile, offer delightful moments. However, Emraan’s transformation from a superfan to a nemesis is equally praiseworthy. He adeptly maintains his portrayal of a middle-class and humble man even while performing heroic deeds. A drawback, though, is his intermittent lapse in maintaining the Bhopali accent.
Director Raj Mehta, reuniting with Akshay after Good Newwz, skillfully handles the film’s initial half, keeping it lively and lighthearted, enriched with effortlessly delivered witty one-liners by the actor. However, the second half, focusing on the clash between the two protagonists, lacks the same comedic energy. Yet, it remains engaging, even if certain segments centred on the license test feel somewhat prolonged. The movie also satirizes media trials and the #BoycottBollywood movement, though the portrayal of exaggerated electronic media coverage feels repetitive and stale.
While the lead roles shine, Abhimanyu Singh as fading superstar Suraj and Meghna Malik as starstruck corporator Kamla Tiwari are truly remarkable. Abhimanyu provides comic relief as Vijay’s former roommate, now reduced to delivering cringe-worthy lines in questionable films and ads. Nevertheless, after a few instances, his role appears forced. Social media influencer Kusha Kapila, in a cameo as a tarot card reader, performs well. However, Meghna stands out, particularly in scenes showcasing her impeccable comic timing alongside Akshay. Diana Penty, as Vijay’s wife Naina, has limited screen time, but she embodies the elegant and supportive wife role effectively. Nushrratt Bharuccha, well-versed in the comedy genre, adeptly portrays a young Bhopali woman and Om Prakash’s wife, Minty.
The remix of ‘Main Khiladi’ by Anu Malik and Tanishk Bagchi is dance-worthy, while Lijo George-DJ Chetas’s title track and Vikram Montrose’s ‘Sher’ are energetically composed.
In summary, Selfiee offers an effortless and enjoyable viewing experience, with commendable performances and numerous moments that will induce laughter. If you’re seeking a side-splitting comedy for the weekend, this film could be a great choice.