Loveyapa review: Junaid Khan, Khushi Kapoor’s cute, stubborn as a mule rom-com

New Delhi: At its core, Loveyapa is a charming rom-com that offers a sneak peek into the digital dating culture of Gen Z, with all its quirky ups and downs. Directed by Advait Chandan, the film presents a familiar yet engaging storyline, peppered with moments of youthful romance and social media-induced drama. A remake of the 2022 Tamil movie Love Today, this latest offering by Phantom Entertainment is a fresh vessel that mildly sinks at points.

The film won’t necessarily make you believe in love at first sight. It will keep you entertained and laughing, particularly with its relatable portrayal of modern relationships. But mind you, Gen Z are adults now! And this is a story churned out of a worn-out high school teen’s love life and accommodating it in the Gen Z era. Is it really worth your watch? Find out!

Loveyapa story

The story revolves around Gaurav (Junaid Khan) and Baani (Khushi Kapoor), two young lovers who met on Instagram and quickly became obsessed with each other. In an era where swiping left and right has replaced traditional courtship, their relationship seems to embody the digital age’s take on romance. However, the couple’s seemingly perfect relationship is tested when Baani’s father, Atul (Ashutosh Rana), insists they exchange their phones for a day to prove their trustworthiness. What follows is a comedic and emotional unravelling of secrets, misunderstandings, and the digital masks that many wear.

Loveyapa review: Performances

Junaid Khan shines in his feature film debut as Gaurav aka Gucci – Our surface-level West Delhi boy. His performance is grounded, avoiding the over-the-top theatrics often seen in Bollywood rom-coms. His chemistry with Khushi is at best, lukewarm…but their leisurely banter keeps the film afloat. The actor’s measured and patient dialogue delivery starkly contrasts with the rapid-fire pace of the film’s social media-driven narrative.

On the other hand, Khushi Kapoor’s portrayal of Baani aka Baani Boo is far less convincing. While she has a relatable presence, her delivery often feels forced, particularly when delivering Hindi dialogues. The awkwardness is palpable, and it’s clear that she still has a long way to go in terms of passing the rom-com level in Hindi films. There is a scene in Loveyapa where Khushi Kapoor’s character Baani is angry at her partner to the point she exudes smoke from her ears (VFX, of course) with a constipated straight face. Yes. That said, her on-screen energy pairs decently with Junaid, making them somewhat tolerable.

The supporting cast adds some charm to Loveyapa. Ashutosh Rana, as the overbearing but well-meaning father, is delightful. His interactions with the couple bring both humour and wisdom to the film, and his line, “repair, do not replace,” serves as a notable reminder of the fleeting nature of modern relationships. Comedian Kiku Sharda brings a dose of light-heartedness as a dentist caught in a loveless marriage, while Tanvika Parlikar and Grusha Kapoor offer solid performances in their respective roles. Aaditya Kulshreshth’s fleeting role makes you wanting for more.

Loveyapa review: What’s good?

While Loveyapa is undoubtedly aimed at a younger audience, its commentary on the darker side of social media, including body shaming and the rise of deepfakes is timely and relevant. The film valiantly attempts to address these issues without coming across as preachy. The filmmakers have taken the pulse of the times and catchy graphics to offer a fresh take on how technology and love intersect in today’s world.

WTF: Where’s the Flaw?

Still, Loveyapa doesn’t quite hit the mark as a stand-out rom-com. It’s a fun watch, but its predictability and indigestible twitch hold it back from being something you take back from. The film, though engaging, feels like it could have benefited from a more nuanced exploration of its central themes or maybe its casting of the lead characters. The plot runs on absurd comedy which is the saving grace yet stretched, thanks to the pig-headed chemistry of the lead pair.

Loveyapa review: Final verdict

Loveyapa is a film that taps into the spirit of the times, with its vibrant visuals and relatable message. For those seeking a lighthearted take on modern love in the age of Instagram, it may just do the trick. However, for those looking for a bit more emotional resonance or originality, it falls short of a stalwart rom-com.

Watch Loveyapa in theatres or Love Today on Netflix. Same thing 😉 Not love at first sight, but it might just grow on you.