Vishal Bhardwaj’s O’Romeo, starring Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri, is a crime drama that merges romance with stylised violence. Inspired by Hussain Zaidi’s book Mafia Queens of Mumbai, the film traces the rise of gangster Romeo Ustara and his relationship with classical singer Afshan.
Shahid Kapoor delivers a commanding performance in the lead role, aligning with Bhardwaj’s operatic vision. Triptii Dimri portrays Afshan with restraint, grounding the narrative’s emotional arc, while their on-screen chemistry remains one of the film’s strengths.
The supporting cast adds depth, including Nana Patekar as an unpredictable police officer and Avinash Tiwary as a Spain-based crime figure. Vikrant Massey, Tamannaah Bhatia and Disha Patani appear in supporting roles.
Bhardwaj stages the underworld as heightened theatre, incorporating musical interludes and stylized set pieces. The soundtrack, composed by the director with lyrics by Gulzar, reinforces the film’s dramatic tone.
At nearly 3 hours, the narrative often lingers on its excesses. Elaborate action sequences and heightened violence at times test plausibility, shifting the tone towards spectacle rather than realism.
Despite its indulgence, the film’s performances and scale sustain audience engagement. The closing moments suggest the possibility of a sequel.