Cirkus

Cirkus is a 2022 Indian Hindi-language period comedy film, directed by Rohit Shetty and produced by Bhushan Kumar, Rohit Shetty, Krishan Kumar, and Reliance Entertainment. The film is an adaptation of William Shakespeare's play "The Comedy of Errors" and is also inspired by the 1982 Indian movie "Angoor," which was based on the same play. Cirkus stars Ranveer Singh in a double role, accompanied by Varun Sharma, who also appears in a dual role, with Pooja Hegde and Jacqueline Fernandez playing the female leads. The ensemble cast of the film also includes actors such as Johnny Lever, Sanjay Mishra, Vrajesh Hirjee, and Sidharth Jadhav, among others, adding to the comedic flair of the film.

Set against the backdrop of the 1960s, Cirkus takes viewers through a vibrant and colorful era in Indian history, complete with iconic fashion, classic cars, and a nostalgia-inducing soundtrack. The central theme of the movie revolves around the humorous confusions and chaotic situations that occur due to mistaken identities, a classic trope commonly used in Shakespearean comedies. The mix-up is further amplified by the presence of two sets of identical twins, played by Ranveer Singh and Varun Sharma, separated at birth under unusual circumstances.

The story follows two pairs of twins who were accidentally mixed up by an absent-minded nurse at a hospital in Ooty. As a result, each pair grows up with the wrong sibling, completely unaware of the others' existence. Ranveer Singh's characters are named Roy and Joy, while Varun Sharma's characters go by the names of Tinku and Vinku. The fun begins when fate brings them to the same town years later, without their knowledge. As they navigate life in their respective environments, the residents and visitors of the town start encountering inexplicable situations as these lookalikes unknowingly cross paths time and again.

Roy is shown as an electric-man - a performer with the ability to conduct electricity without harm - who, along with his "twin" Tinku, runs a circus under the watchful eye of a character played by Johhny Lever. On the other side, Joy is a well-to-do individual leading a distinctly different life with his companion Vinku. Pooja Hegde's and Jacqueline Fernandez's characters become entangled with the chaos ensuing from the twins' closeness, each adding to the romantic and comedic elements of the plot.

The mistaken identity plot lends itself to numerous comedic scenarios. From mistaken romantic advances to confused business dealings, the characters find themselves in a whirlwind of misunderstandings and slapstick humor. The townspeople are baffled by the characters’ changing behaviors and erratic decisions that result from the twins being in the same vicinity without realizing it.

Cirkus is a showcase of director Rohit Shetty's signature style, which consists of larger-than-life sets, high-energy sequences, and melodious musical numbers. Choreographed dance routines are a spectacle, and the background score accentuates the comedic timing of the actors. The costume design and art direction pay homage to the 1960s, while the dialogue is a mix of clever one-liners and humorous exchanges fitting for the ensemble cast.

Ranveer Singh, known for his chameleonic ability to transform across roles, plays both his characters with distinct personalities and quirks, making it easier for the audience to follow the two separate but identical individuals. Varun Sharma complements Ranveer's performances with his comic timing and unique charm as the other set of twins. The chemistry between the four main leads leads to many hilarious encounters and mixes complicated relationship dynamics into the equation. The seasoned comedians, such as Johnny Lever and Sanjay Mishra, bring their experience to the table, delivering impeccable comic performances that anchor the film's humorous tone.

A feature of Cirkus is the use of situational comedy which unfolds within elaborately constructed set pieces that Rohit Shetty's films are known for. Car stunts, physical gags, and unexpected situations are crafted to keep the audience engaged and entertained.

Cirkus appeals to fans of comedy films and those looking for light-hearted entertainment. It continues the legacy of Bollywood comedy films that rely on ensemble casts and the strength of their performances to drive the narrative. Despite the challenges of presenting a story with multiple characters who look alike, the film manages to maintain a coherent storyline, all the while providing a feast of laughter and entertainment.

The film's production values, visual appeal, and comedy-infused storyline make it a family-friendly watch, suitable for viewers who enjoy vibrant comedies with a touch of nostalgia. Cirkus is an amusing ride that seeks to present an entertaining experience while paying tribute to the timeless works of William Shakespeare and the golden age of Indian cinema.