I love the vibe patriotic thrillers bring with them, as long as they don’t go over-the-top. IB71 is one such movie jisme you actually feel like serious shit is going on. No unwanted songs at random moments to spoil the vibe, no forced comedy and a dedicated performance by the lead cast makes for a good change in the sea of overly-animated patriotic thrillers of India. “IB 71” serves up a thrilling cinematic experience that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
Plot
Based on true events, “IB 71” unfolds the high-stakes mission of Dev Jammwal (played by the dashing Vidyut Jammwal), an intelligence officer. Pakistan and China are gonna attack India. India doesn’t know about it until it’s too late. Phat rahi hai? Ye hai real 2v1, gamers. With just 10 days remaining and limited resources, Dev goes full on ACP Pradyumn and comes up with a plan to shut down the Indian airspace, and stop Pakistan, yet again lmao. But the journey isn’t as easy as it seems. With a lot of twists and turns, it keeps you engaged throughout its runtime. And don’t worry cuz all your hows and whys will be answered in the movie, so sit tight and enjoy this thriller (agar Vidyut pe simp karne se phursat mile).
Performances
Okay I’ll be honest, I have loved Vidyut Jammwal for his physical and mental dedication. Like guy’s an inspiration, but I never really saw him as an actor. But this time around, he puts up a commendable performance as Dev, woh bina kisi hardcore action ke. You can almost feel his determination and intensity of a true patriot, while he also charms you with his rizz often during the movie. Anupam Kher, the king of versatility, brings his A-game as Intelligence Bureau Chief Avasti, but has only a little to do apart from disconnecting phone calls in anger. But it is Vishal Jethwa, who intrigued me the most. Idk if his accent landed or not, but this guy is on a roll. He delivers a wickedly entertaining performance as Qasim Qureshi, the brainwashed youth. He is cruel as well as unintentionally funny, striking a perfect balance and keeping us entertained.
Screenplay and Writing
While “IB 71” fires on all cylinders when it comes to action and suspense, the screenplay occasionally falters, causing some confusion among viewers. The first half feels like a jigsaw puzzle with too many scattered pieces. But as they say, you gotta wait for the best. Just as you go ‘mujhe pata tha ye bekaar hi hogi’, the second half comes roaring in and starts putting those pieces together. It’s a bit of a rollercoaster ride ngl, but once the story finds its groove, it keeps you hooked till the very end. Also, it feels like we kinda owe the writers for not only adding an unnecessary romantic angle, but also for providing the much needed comic-relief in the pool of political tension. All in all, they do a decent job keeping things tight.
Cinematography and Direction
Sankalp Reddy takes the director’s seat and steers “IB 71” with sincerity, ensuring that the core plot remains in focus throughout the film. No unwanted sub-plots or drags make it a good watch. The movie is also visually beautiful, transporting you back to the 1970s. Those snowy shots in Kashmir are the highlight of the movie. But it is the VFX that takes the beating. The plane looks fake AF from the outside, resulting in meh reactions. But uske alawa,the movie creates an authentic backdrop that immerses you in the era. You win some, you lose some.
“IB 71” is a pulse-pounding espionage rollercoaster ride that, for sure is gonna leave you pumped. It isn’t about bullets and punches this time. It is just mind games along with manipulations that drive the movie. While the screenplay may stumble in the beginning, the film quickly finds its stride and makes for an intriguing watch. “IB 71” is a good watch for fans of espionage thrillers who crave excitement and entertainment. Jai Hind! (School ki Independence Day wali vibes aagayi)
