"Dunki," released in 2023, is an Indian Hindi-language comedy-drama film that delves into the concept of "donkey flight," an unconventional method of illegal immigration. Directed and edited by Rajkumar Hirani, the film features a star-studded cast, including Shah Rukh Khan, Taapsee Pannu, Vicky Kaushal, and Boman Irani. Produced by Red Chillies Entertainment, Jio Studios, and Rajkumar Hirani Films, the movie explores the challenges faced by individuals seeking a better life through the Dunki route.
The film's journey began with its announcement in April 2022, followed by principal photography spanning various locations, including Mumbai, Jabalpur, Kashmir, Budapest, London, Jeddah, and Neom. The soundtrack, composed by Pritam, accompanied the narrative, while cinematography was skillfully handled by C. K. Muraleedharan, Manush Nandan, and Amit Roy.
"Dunki" hit theaters worldwide on December 21, 2023, receiving a mix of reviews from critics. Despite the varied opinions, the film managed to gross over ₹460.11 crore globally, making it the sixth highest-grossing Hindi film of 2023.
The plot revolves around Manu Randhawa, an elderly woman diagnosed with a brain tumor, seeking assistance from immigration lawyer Puru Patel to reunite with her ex-lover Hardy Singh Dhillon. The narrative weaves through their past in 1995, depicting Manu's journey with friends Buggu and Balli, their struggles to immigrate to London, and the eventual revelation of the harsh realities they face in the UK.
The cast includes Shah Rukh Khan as Hardy Singh Dhillon, Taapsee Pannu as Manu Randhawa, and Vicky Kaushal in a special appearance. The film explores themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the pursuit of a better life, culminating in a poignant and emotional conclusion.
The production, development, casting, filming locations, and soundtrack details contribute to the comprehensive overview of the movie's creation. The marketing strategy included teasers, trailers, and a series of song releases, building anticipation for the theatrical release.
In terms of critical response, "Dunki" received a diverse range of reviews, with some praising its entertainment value, emotional depth, and strong performances, while others criticized its pacing and narrative choices. The film's box office success solidified its position among the top-grossing films of 2023, both in India and internationally.