In the world of Bollywood crossovers, few films have stirred as much buzz—and backlash—as Abir Gulaal. Starring Pakistani heartthrob Fawad Khan and Indian actress Vaani Kapoor, this romantic drama finally hit screens worldwide on September 12, 2025, but only outside India due to a lingering ban. What was meant to be a nostalgic love story has instead become a lightning rod for critics who decry its messy narrative and lackluster execution. Despite the star power on display, the film has been labeled everything from incoherent to outright frustrating, leaving audiences wondering if the real drama is on screen or off.

A Tangled Tale of Love and Nostalgia

At its core, Abir Gulaal follows the blossoming romance between two young leads navigating life's twists through music, dance, and heartfelt moments. The story draws heavily from classic Bollywood tropes, featuring high-stakes dance contests where Vaani's character predictably triumphs, a playlist of throwback tunes, and homages to iconic films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and Chandni. Picture a rain-drenched duet reminiscent of Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol's chemistry in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai—it's all there, but without the magic that made those originals sparkle. Directed with an eye toward Yash Raj Films and Dharma Productions vibes, the plot meanders through clichés, piling on subplots that feel forced and unresolved, turning what could have been a breezy romance into a convoluted mess.

Critics' Verdict: Frustration Over Flair

The reception has been overwhelmingly negative, with reviewers pointing to the film's disjointed structure as its biggest flaw. BBC Asian Network's Haroon Rashid didn't hold back, calling it "one of the most frustrating romantic dramas" he's encountered in years. He slammed the "incoherent and inconsistent storyline" that squanders the leads' potential, adding that it looks "cheap" with shoddy color grading and unfinished edges. Gulf News echoed this, describing the runtime as "bloated" with pointless detours that drag the pacing to a halt, while suggesting cameos like Lisa Haydon's add nothing but filler. Even Khaleej Times lamented that Fawad Khan, known for his effortless charm, "deserves better" than this underwhelming vehicle. Overall, the consensus is clear: strong intentions drowned out by sloppy storytelling.

Stars Shine, But Script Diminishes

Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor bring their A-game to the table, exuding natural charisma that keeps viewers hooked despite the flaws. Fawad's subtle expressions and Vaani's vibrant energy recall their past hits, but the script demands little depth, reducing them to pretty faces in predictable scenarios. Supporting cast members struggle to make an impact amid the chaos, highlighting how the narrative's inconsistencies rob everyone of memorable moments. It's a testament to their talent that the film isn't a total wash, yet the frustration lies in watching such promise go unrealized.

Production Pitfalls and Visual Shortcomings

Technically, Abir Gulaal falters hard. The visuals scream low-budget, with uneven lighting and color palettes that clash awkwardly, making scenes feel amateurish. Editing is another sore point—jumps in logic and abrupt transitions amplify the incoherence, while the soundtrack, though nostalgic, feels shoehorned in without rhythm. For a film aiming to evoke golden-era romance, it ironically comes across as dated in all the wrong ways, lacking the polish expected from a big-banner project.

The Pahalgam Shadow: Controversy Lingers

The film's journey to screens was marred by real-world turmoil. Originally set for a May 9, 2025, release, Abir Gulaal faced immediate backlash after the tragic Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir, sparking calls for a ban on Pakistani artists in India. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) enforced a boycott, and the Information and Broadcasting Ministry upheld the decision, citing national sensitivities. Fawad and Vaani issued condemnations of the attack, but the damage was done—no Indian release in sight, even as rumors of a September 26 premiere were debunked by officials. This geopolitical drama has only amplified the film's divisive aura.

In the end, Abir Gulaal promised a cross-border fairy tale but delivered a cautionary tale of mismatched ambitions. While Fawad and Vaani's chemistry offers glimmers of hope, the rest is a frustrating reminder that nostalgia alone can't save a story from itself. For fans, it's worth a watch for the stars; for critics, it's a missed opportunity. As the ban holds firm, one can't help but wonder if a tighter edit could have changed the narrative—both on and off screen.

Read Also: Why Shane Nigam Won't Revisit a Film Like Bhoothakaalam: A Deep Dive into His Decision

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