Cirkus is a 2022 Bollywood comedy-drama directed by Rohit Shetty and produced under Rohit Shetty Picturez and T-Series. The movie stars Ranveer Singh, Varun Sharma, Pooja Hegde, Jacqueline Fernandez, Sanjay Mishra, Johnny Lever, and other comic actors in a period comedy setting.
The film is inspired by Shakespeare’s play “The Comedy of Errors” and is also an adaptation of the 1982 film Angoor. With its mix of slapstick humor, double roles, and colorful sets, Cirkus aims to provide a lighthearted entertainment experience.
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Plot Summary
Twins Separated at Birth
The movie is set in the 1960s and revolves around two sets of identical twins, who are separated at birth by Dr. Roy Jamnadas (Murali Sharma). He conducts an experiment by swapping two twins between two families to prove that upbringing shapes a person more than birth.
One pair of twins grows up in a circus family and the other in a well-off home. Both sets of twins are named Roy and Joy (Ranveer Singh and Varun Sharma in double roles).
The Confusion Begins
As fate would have it, both sets of twins unknowingly cross paths in Ooty, leading to hilarious confusion. People start mistaking one Roy for the other, leading to a chain of misunderstandings, mistaken identities, and comic chaos.
The Climax
As the misunderstandings escalate, both families, love interests, and villains get caught up in the mess. In the final act, the truth is revealed, bringing harmony and resolution to the chaos.
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Acting Performances
Ranveer Singh as Roy
Ranveer Singh plays dual roles, showcasing his comedic timing and energetic screen presence. While he tries his best, the script does not fully utilize his potential.
Varun Sharma as Joy
Varun Sharma, known for his comic roles, delivers his usual goofy expressions and humorous punchlines. However, his character lacks depth.
Pooja Hegde and Jacqueline Fernandez
Both actresses play love interests, but their roles are underwritten and lack importance in the story.
Johnny Lever, Sanjay Mishra, and Other Comedians
The real entertainment comes from the supporting cast, including Johnny Lever, Sanjay Mishra, Mukesh Tiwari, and Siddhartha Jadhav, who provide the best laughs with their classic comic timing.
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Direction and Storytelling
Rohit Shetty’s Comic Style
Rohit Shetty is known for his over-the-top action comedies, but Cirkus leans more into slapstick humor and nostalgic comedy. However, the script feels weak and outdated, lacking the punch that his previous films delivered.
A Weak Screenplay
While the film has a promising premise, the humor often feels forced. The first half drags, and the pacing issues affect the engagement level.
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Cinematography and Visuals
Colorful and Vibrant Aesthetic
The film’s 1960s retro look is visually appealing. The bright sets, vibrant costumes, and classic locations add to the nostalgic charm.
Action and Stunts
Unlike Rohit Shetty’s usual action-packed masala films, Cirkus focuses entirely on comedy, with minimal stunt sequences.
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Music and Background Score
Catchy But Forgettable Songs
- “Current Laga Re” – A high-energy song featuring Deepika Padukone, adding star power.
- “Sun Zara” – A romantic track with a classic melody.
- “Aashiqui” – A lighthearted song that fits the film’s playful tone.
While the songs are fun and peppy, they fail to leave a lasting impression.
Background Score
The background score is lively and upbeat, keeping the mood light-hearted.
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Pacing and Screenplay
The film suffers from slow pacing, especially in the first half. The comedic moments feel stretched, and the screenplay lacks freshness.
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Box Office Performance
- Opening Day Collection: ₹6.5 crore
- First Weekend Collection: ₹20 crore
- Total Box Office Collection: ₹35 crore (India)
Despite its star power and promotions, the film failed to attract strong box office numbers, becoming one of Rohit Shetty’s least successful films.
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Impact and Legacy
Cirkus was expected to deliver classic comedy, but its weak humor and outdated script led to disappointment. While it may find some appreciation on OTT platforms, it failed to create a significant impact in theaters.
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Verdict
Cirkus is a colorful but outdated comedy that relies too much on slapstick humor. While the supporting cast shines, the overall story and execution feel weak.
Pros:
- Vibrant and colorful visuals
- Strong supporting cast performances
- Some funny moments from Johnny Lever and Sanjay Mishra
Cons:
- Weak storyline and forced humor
- Slow pacing and outdated comedy
- Underdeveloped lead characters
Final Rating: 2.5/5
Cirkus is a missed opportunity that fails to deliver the expected entertainment. While it has some enjoyable moments, it lacks the magic of Rohit Shetty’s previous films.
