Critic’s Rating: 3/5
Story:
Set against the backdrop of a lavish Jaipur wedding, Khel Khel Mein introduces us to a group of friends who agree to an innocent yet twisted game suggested by Vartika (Vaani Kapoor), a writer and sister of the bride. The rules are simple: keep your phones unlocked, and let every text, call, and notification be seen by everyone at the table. What begins as a playful night quickly spirals into a whirlwind of revelations, as secrets are exposed, relationships are tested, and lives are forever altered.

Rishabh (Akshay Kumar) is the Casanova of the group, hiding a charming yet flawed personality behind his smile. Kabir (Fardeen Khan) struggles with personal demons, while Happy (Taapsee Pannu) and Harpreet (Ammy Virk) face marital issues that come to the forefront during the game. Naina (Pragya Jaiswal) and Samar (Aditya Seal) also find their dark past coming to light in this high-stakes, emotionally charged evening.
Review:
Mudassar Aziz, known for his ability to blend humor with heart, brings his A-game to this film. His direction and writing stand out, with a script that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant. The confined setting of a hotel room’s dining table becomes the stage for a drama that feels expansive, thanks to Aziz’s tight screenplay and sharp dialogues. Rishabh’s heartfelt call with his 18-year-old daughter, who wants to stay over with her boyfriend, is a standout moment, showcasing the film’s ability to balance comedy with genuine emotion.
While the introductory scenes for each couple follow a somewhat predictable template, the core of the film—the evening’s events—keeps the audience hooked. The stories, though occasionally cliched, are elevated by the performances. Akshay Kumar is in top form, delivering a masterclass in comic timing as Rishabh, a man with unconventional views on relationships. Ammy Virk’s portrayal of a hotheaded Sardar is equally compelling, with an undeniable chemistry with Fardeen Khan, who also delivers a solid performance despite his character’s underdeveloped backstory.
Taapsee Pannu shines as the loud and lovable Punjaban, effortlessly transitioning between humor and poignancy. Vaani Kapoor, Aditya Seal, and Pragya Jaiswal also deliver commendable performances, each bringing depth to their roles.
Khel Khel Mein does have its flaws, notably in the predictability of its storylines. However, these are overshadowed by the film’s smart writing, strong direction, and stellar performances. It’s a movie that is best enjoyed with friends, though one might think twice before trying out the game in real life—there’s a reason why secrets are best kept hidden!
Conclusion:
Khel Khel Mein is an entertaining watch, filled with laughter, drama, and moments of heartfelt emotion. It’s not without its shortcomings, but it succeeds in keeping the audience engaged and amused. A solid 3-star rating from me.
Rating: ★★★☆☆
— Guruji Sunil Chaudhary, Leading Digital Success Coach