Bad Newz (2024) is a delightfully fresh romantic comedy that turns the run-of-the-mill Bollywood love story upside down. Directed by Anand Tiwari and produced by the high-octane team at Dharma Productions and Leo Media Collective, this movie mashes up romance, comedy, and a touch of real-life medical intrigue into a narrative that’s unpredictable and laugh-out-loud hilarious. With an unusual plot based on real events, Bad Newz delves into the mayhem that ensues when two men realize they are both biological fathers of the same unborn child.
🎬 Plot Summary
Based in vibrant Mumbai, Bad Newz begins with Saloni (Triptii Dimri), a career woman who is independent and free-spirited, finding herself suddenly pregnant. But what begins as an intimate moment soon turns into national headlines when a standard DNA test picks up something medically unusual—and completely baffling.
Saloni’s pregnancy is a result of a rare biological phenomenon known as heteropaternal superfecundation, where twins have different fathers. In a twist no one saw coming, both Akhil Chadha (Vicky Kaushal), a flamboyant and charming Punjabi entrepreneur, and Gurbir Singh (Ammy Virk), a grounded, traditional Sardar with a golden heart, are revealed to be the fathers of the unborn twins—each to one of the babies. From here, the chaos begins.
🌀 The Comedy of Errors Begins
The following is a rollercoaster of feelings, egos, and ceaseless drama. Akhil and Gurbir, complete opposites in personality and life, are compelled to share the uncomfortable space of co-parenting with Saloni, who is every bit as perplexed by the circumstances as they are.
With news spreading, media hysteria and public interest turn their lives around. Akhil attempts to charm Saloni with his extravagance, and Gurbir offers old-fashioned virtues and honesty. Saloni meanwhile has to contend with morning sickness, unwanted advice from intrusive neighbors, and two potential fathers fighting over baby names and nursery colors.
❤️ Unlikely Bonds and Unexpected Twists
Even amidst the mayhem, the movie seamlessly shifts into more emotional real estate. We catch glimpses of layers of vulnerability beneath Akhil’s flashy façade and the isolation behind Gurbir’s serene exterior. Saloni, meanwhile, is not just the focal point of the triangle—she’s also the moral anchor, reminding both men (and us) about the values of love, responsibility, and consent.
The three men then set off on a journey together of parenthood—taking birthing classes, moving in, and even sharing therapy sessions. The script takes these opportunities to tug at the heartstrings of modern parenthood and masculinity, all while presenting big laughs.
😂 Humor With a Heart
What really makes Bad Newz stand out is its blend of clever comedy and emotional resonance. The movie doesn’t bank on plain slapstick; rather, it stakes a lot on situational humor, quick-witted dialogue, and the inherent craziness of the premise to serve up a really interesting cinematic experience.
Vicky Kaushal excels as Akhil, balancing comic timing and sincere emotion. Ammy Virk astonishes with a richly nuanced performance, pilfering scenes through understated expressions. And Triptii Dimri is the emotional binder—intelligent, sensitive, and irreducibly real.
🎥 Direction and Technical Brilliance
Anand Tiwari’s direction keeps the pacing tight and the tone consistent, even as the story juggles comedy, romance, and a touch of legal drama. The screenplay never loses steam, with each act introducing fresh dilemmas, character growth, and moral quandaries.
The photography captures the energy of urban India—from upscale penthouses to neighborhood baby showers—while the soundtrack injects the story with a cool young vibe. Tracks such as “Baby Daddy” and “Two to Tango” capture the film’s offbeat charm perfectly.
📌 Real-Life Inspiration: Heteropaternal Superfecundation
The plot of the movie is loosely based on a very rare but well-documented real-life medical phenomenon where twins may have different biological fathers. Though this may seem like science fiction, it is a real phenomenon that has happened all over the world—yes, even in India.
Bad Newz uses this rare case as a jumping-off point to explore modern relationships, social stigma, and the true meaning of family. Rather than sensationalizing the science, the film focuses on how people emotionally respond to an extraordinary situation.
💡 Themes and Messages
At its heart, Bad Newz is more than just a comedy—it’s a commentary on:
• Modern love and relationships
• Changing definitions of family
• Fatherhood in the 21st century
• Societal pressure and media spectacle
• Women’s agency in intimate choices
The movie gently satirizes patriarchal attitudes as it rejoices in the notion that families aren’t always typical.
⭐ Standout Performances
Vicky Kaushal, as ever, demonstrates his versatility. His turn as Akhil is both amusing and tear-jerkingly authentic. He lends a depth to the character who might have otherwise become caricatured.
Ammy Virk, known primarily for his Punjabi movies, makes a powerful Bollywood impression. His understated, reflective performance stands out.
Triptii Dimri grounds the movie with poise. Her Saloni is neither villain nor victim—she’s a woman attempting to rationalize an impossible scenario.
👏 Final Act and Resolution
Without spoiling too much, the climax of the film packs a strong emotional punch. Rather than choosing a traditional “winner” of the love triangle, Bad Newz remains faithful to its messages of mutual responsibility and unorthodox love. The ending highlights healing, co-parenting, and the messy process of becoming a family—even if that process doesn’t begin as most expect.
Conclusion: Is Bad Newz Worth Watching?
Bad Newz is a refreshingly different Bollywood release with an outlandish premise—twins with two dads! It gets off to a great start with humor, charm, and knowing Bollywood references, and it’s helped hugely by Vicky Kaushal’s energetic turn and Ammy Virk’s earthy charm. The music, particularly “Tauba Tauba,” maintains the energy level.
Nevertheless, the movie runs out of gas in its second half because of a blown-up screenplay, inconsistent tone, and formulaic drama. Triptii Dimri demonstrates flashes of brilliance but fails to shoulder the comedic burden. If you like lighthearted Bollywood comedies and Vicky Kaushal, it is a weekend watch. Just prepare yourself for a maudlin detour.
