Dono Movie Review: With the exception of his last refreshingly different film, Unchaai, celebrated director Sooraj Barjatya has consistently been the go-to director for safe romantic outings. The motifs, mood, and settings have always embodied the unmistakable Rajshri Banner style. From Maine Pyaar Kiya to Hum Aapke Hain Kaun and from Hum Saath Saath Hain to Vivaah, Barjatya has consistently used the megaphone to deliver unmissable romantic hits, drenched in traditional values and populated by virtuous characters. Dono: Rajveer Deol, Paloma Dhillon Seek Blessings at Mumbai’s Siddhivinayak Temple Ahead of Their Film’s Release.

Taking the mantle to carry this legacy forward, his son, Avnish Barjatya, makes his directorial debut with Dono, starring Rajveer Deol (Sunny Deol's son) and Paloma Dhillon (Poonam Dhillon's daughter). Avnish brings us a contemporary romantic tale, centered around two individuals who decide to give love a second chance. This narrative shines thanks to its refreshingly different writing and the unique perspective it offers.

Dev (Rajveer Deol) and Meghna (Paloma Dhillon) serendipitously meet at a destination wedding, each carrying baggage from their respective breakups. What adds a twist to this tale, considering the Rajshri parameters for all things romantic, is that their exes are also present at the same destination wedding. Will the vibrant backdrop of Bangkok serve as the perfect setting for a rom-com that goes beyond the usual mush? Will these two individuals give love another chance without the weight of their pasts, redefining the concept of love? To find the answers, you'll have to watch the film!

Watch the Trailer of Dono:

Dono offers an immersive love experience that will make you want to dive right in, especially if you're a romantic at heart. It explores heartaches and the fresh challenges that come with embarking on a "new chapter" without villainising anyone along the way. The film's standout feature is its crisp and refreshing writing. The dialogues feel relatable and unforced, even within a plot as humorous and intricate as this one. Dono Song 'Khamma Ghani': Rajveer Deol-Paloma Dhillon's Preppy New Track Crooned By Shivam Mahadevan and Shreya Ghoshal.

A Still From Dono (Photo Credits: Rajshri Films)

Avnish also has the rawness of new talent at his disposal, which both strengthens and weakens his innocent, colorful romantic tale. The nuanced layers of his beautifully written story demand the maturity of seasoned actors. Rajveer shines as Dev, exuding charm and vulnerability, while Paloma is spontaneous and confident, even in her endearing moments of drama. The pair carries the film for the most part but stumbles in places where gravitas is required.

A Still From Dono (Photo Credits: Rajshri Films)

However, the film's real strength lies in the fact that the creators have their collective heart in the right place. While it draws on key elements from the Rajshri tradition, they are sprinkled throughout to add extra flavor to a well-prepared delicacy. Some sequences could benefit from more maturity and nuanced performances, which seasoned actors might have provided. Despite these limitations, the lead pair does a commendable job. Junior Barjatya showcases his skills and the legacy he carries in a refreshingly modern way, where the blend of new-age sentiments seamlessly merges with old-school romance.

A Still From Dono (Photo Credits: Rajshri Films)

The only drawback that hampers the film's innocent charm is its runtime. Some sequences could have been trimmed, and certain scenes could have been edited together more cleverly to create a crisper viewing experience. Nonetheless, Dono works its magic with its brilliant writing.

Final Thoughts

Avnish Barjatya's Dono is a perfect romantic drama that will keep you entertained and the mush offered in the film is hard to resist, especially if you love your cinematic treats delivered romantically!

Rating:3.5

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 06, 2023 11:08 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).