July 4, 2025: Metro In Dino Movie Review – Over the years, one of the most intriguing questions asked of actors working with Anurag Basu has been: Did he give you a script? Publicly, the response often stays diplomatic — “He has a unique style of working.” Off the record, however, actors reveal, “The script is in his head, and we go with dada’s vision.” This elusive, almost improvisational approach is brilliantly embodied in his latest film, Metro In Dino.
The film is a vibrant tapestry woven with bright colors, chaotic yet harmonious storytelling, and music that isn’t just an accessory but the heartbeat of the narrative. Unlike Jagga Jasoos (2017), Anurag’s earlier musical experiment that failed to hit the box office, Metro In Dino embraces music fully — the dialogue is often sung, turning the film into a daring musical journey.
An anthology exploring the many facets of love, Metro In Dino meanders through stories of love found, lost, and rediscovered at different life stages. From rekindling marital affection to confronting the tension between passion and duty, the film defies neat plot summaries — perhaps intentionally so. It’s a film about love’s unpredictable and multifaceted nature.
Written and directed by Basu, the film carries his signature touch, addressing themes ranging from identity crises and loneliness to infidelity (humorously mispronounced as ‘infertility’ by Pankaj Tripathi’s character) and loss, all compressed into a heartfelt 162 minutes.
The first half takes its time introducing the ensemble cast, but once the characters and their connections solidify, the narrative offers a comforting and immersive experience. The performances are a standout, especially Pankaj Tripathi, whose effortless comic timing shines as a flawed, insecure husband caught in a delicate marital situation opposite Konkona Sen Sharma. The duo’s chemistry is compelling. Neena Gupta and Anupam Kher deliver a nuanced track that is emotionally resonant, while Fatima Sana Shaikh and Ali Fazal depict the struggles of a couple navigating temptation. Sara Ali Khan and Aditya Roy Kapur add charm and relatability, with Sara particularly standing out for her fitting portrayal.
The film’s latter half becomes a bit tangled with subplots, edging towards melodrama and occasional repetition, which may test viewer patience. Yet, the heartfelt conclusion manages to salvage the narrative, wrapping it in a sweet, satisfying manner.
The real star, however, is the music. Pritam’s compositions are mesmerizing, supported by the lyrical brilliance of Sandeep Srivastava, Mayur Puri, Anurag Sharma, Qaisar Ul Jafri, Neelesh Mishra, and Momin Khan Momin. The soundtrack deserves far greater recognition, as it deeply immerses the audience and enriches the film’s emotional core.
Metro In Dino is, at its heart, a messy, musical, and profoundly human film — a spiritual sequel to Life… In A Metro (2007) — celebrating modern love in all its complex forms. It is not flawless, but its sincerity and vibrancy make it a rewarding watch. Those willing to embrace Anurag Basu’s unique vision will leave with their hearts full of music and renewed faith in love’s endless possibilities.