Cast: Kareena Kapoor Khan, Tabu, Kriti Sanon, Diljit Dosanjh, Kapil Sharma, Rajesh Sharma, Kulbhushan Kharbanda

Director: Rajesh A Krishnan

Rating: ***

It's a rare occurrence in Bollywood when filmmakers venture into uncharted territories of storytelling. The memory of watching a Bollywood heist film led by women eludes me, signifying the industry's inclination towards traditional filmmaking formulas. However, amidst this landscape, there exist a few visionary production houses and filmmakers who dare to tread the path less taken, crafting cinematic gems that challenge norms and captivate audiences. With "Crew," featuring the stellar trio of Tabu, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Kriti Sanon, Bollywood embarks on a refreshing journey into heist comedies. But does it truly cement its place in this distinguished league? Let's delve deeper.

A Paradigm Shift in Feminist Cinema

What truly sets "Crew" apart is its departure from cliched feminist narratives laden with superficial themes like libido, singlehood, and boyfriends. Unlike its counterparts, "Crew" sidesteps didactic empowerment tales, opting instead for a riveting storyline set against the dynamic backdrop of the aviation industry. It unfolds the lives of Geeta Sethi(Tabu), Jasmine Rana(Kareena Kapoor Khan), and Divya Bajwa(Kriti Sanon), navigating their roles at Kohinoor Airlines.

Characters Beyond Stereotypes

Geeta Sethi: The Unwavering Pillar<.b>
Geeta embodies resilience, balancing her aviation career with a supportive family life, showcasing the strength of familial bonds amidst challenges.

Jasmine Rana: The Ambitious Trailblazer
Jasmine's aspirations soar high as she navigates corporate ambitions while upholding her values, epitomizing the modern-day go-getter.

Divya Bajwa: The Dreamer's Journey
Despite veering off her childhood dream of being a pilot, Divya's tenacity shines as she seeks fulfilment amidst professional hurdles.

Unraveling the Plot: Thrills and Temptations

As the trio grapples with financial turmoil amid an airline crisis, an unexpected turn leads them to uncover hidden gold, sparking a heist intrigue that promises escapades beyond mundane routines.

Crafting an Engaging Narrative

Plot Dynamics and Cinematic Flaws
While "Crew" introduces a novel premise, its execution falls short, stretching the narrative thin and missing opportunities for impactful storytelling. The screenplay lacks the punch needed for a seamless cinematic experience.

Performance Highlights and Missed Opportunities

The ensemble cast delivers commendable performances, yet the film's comedic elements fall flat, failing to leverage the talents of renowned actors like Tabu and Kareena Kapoor Khan.

Celebrating Cinematic Brilliance Amidst Challenges

Despite its narrative hiccups, "Crew" shines in visual aesthetics, showcasing the glamorous yet relatable lives of its protagonists. The film's production values and the ensemble's chemistry offer glimpses of brilliance amidst a flawed screenplay.

Looking Beyond the Horizon

While "Crew" may not achieve cinematic perfection, it serves as a testament to evolving narratives in Bollywood. Its celebration of female camaraderie and resilience resonates, urging audiences to embrace the essence of empowerment and unity portrayed on screen.

In conclusion, "Crew" beckons viewers to explore a world where women lead with grit, humour, and unwavering spirit. It's a journey worth experiencing despite its cinematic pitfalls, reminding us of the power of resilience and friendship in the face of adversities.