Shahid Kapoor’s “O’ Romeo” Review
Shahid Kapoor’s latest film, titled O’ Romeo (directed by Vishal Bhardwaj), was released on February 13, 2026, just in time for the Valentine’s Day weekend.
As the fourth collaboration between Shahid and Bhardwaj (following Kaminey, Haider, and Rangoon), the film had high expectations but has received mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike.
Review HighlightsAspectCritic ConsensusShahid KapoorWidely praised. Critics agree he “owns the role” as Ustara, an eccentric, volatile gangster. His performance is described as intense, though some noted it borders on “performative aggression.”DirectionVishal Bhardwaj’s signature “poetic frames” and dark humor are present, but many felt the “magic” of Haider or Kaminey was missing.Story & ScriptThis is the film’s weakest point. Critics found the 178-minute runtime (nearly 3 hours) tedious, with a second half that meanders and a plot that feels “low on substance.”Triptii DimriReceived positive notes for her portrayal of Afsha, though some felt her chemistry with Shahid was hampered by an abrupt romantic shift in the writing.
The Plot & Vibe
Inspired by a chapter from Hussain Zaidi’s Mafia Queens of Mumbai, the film reimagines the story of gangster Hussain Ustara and Sapna Didi. It’s a “violent poetry” kind of movie—part gritty gangster saga, part melodramatic romance. Shahid plays a contract killer working for an inspector (Nana Patekar) who eventually falls for a widow (Triptii Dimri) seeking revenge.
Critical Ratings
The Indian Express: 2.5/5 — “High on style and swag, low on substance.”
India Today: 2.5/5 — “Struggles with an uneven screenplay and underwhelming emotional pay-off.”
Times of India: Mixed — Praised the performances and action but criticized the “forced violence.”
Movie Talkies: 2/5 — Called it “overlong, tedious, and painfully boring.”
The Verdict
If you are a hardcore Shahid Kapoor fan, it’s worth a watch for his performance alone. However, if you’re looking for the tight, gripping storytelling Vishal Bhardwaj is usually known for, you might find this one a bit self-indulgent and slow.
Would you like me to find the showtimes for O’ Romeo near you, or perhaps a breakdown of the soundtrack’s best songs?