Blackout (2024) plunges viewers into a single, blackout-stricken night in Pune, India. Crime reporter Lenny D'Souza (Vikrant Massey) finds himself at the center of the chaos after a car accident leads him to a van full of dead men and cash. The ensuing events involve a motley crew of characters, including a hilarious alcoholic (Sunil Grover), dimwitted thieves (Karan Sonaware & Saurabh Ghadge), and a damsel-in-distress (Mouni Roy).
Vikrant Massey shines as the harried Lenny, perfectly capturing his desperation and growing paranoia. Sunil Grover steals the show with his delightfully unhinged portrayal of Bewdya, offering genuine laugh-out-loud moments. The blackout creates a tense atmosphere, and the initial car crash sparks curiosity about the hidden secrets within the van.
The film tries to juggle too many characters and subplots, leading to a messy narrative that loses focus. The introduction of new characters in the second half feels forced, and some plot twists are predictable. Blackout attempts to be a dark comedy, but the humor lands inconsistently. The attempts at emotional drama also feel out of place. The camerawork and editing are serviceable but don't particularly stand out.
Blackout has its moments, thanks to the strong performances of Massey and Grover. However, the uneven screenplay and tonal inconsistencies prevent it from reaching its full potential. If you're looking for a fast-paced, light-hearted comedy, this might not be the best choice. But if you're curious about a film that takes a wild ride through a blackout night, it might be worth a watch with lowered expectations.
