Vibe Movie Review: Kunal Kemmu’s Comedy Loses Its Way in an Overstretched Plot

New Delhi, September 19, 2026: Kunal Kemmu returns to the director’s chair with Vibe, following the success of Madgaon Express, but his latest comedy struggles to recreate the pace and charm of his debut.

Kemmu plays Hardik, a carefree stoner and serial tripper whose comic instincts frequently get him into trouble. The character draws on the actor’s familiar comic persona, but the film’s writing does not give him a consistent emotional or narrative arc.

The story also follows Bhagirath (Sparsh Srivastava), a software company employee who manages to get Hardik a job despite his lack of seriousness. Their lives take an unexpected turn when Hardik becomes entangled in a larger conspiracy involving a planned terror attack.

The intelligence operation is headed by Madam H, played by Preity Zinta, adding a thriller element to what initially appears to be a straightforward workplace comedy.

However, the film’s screenplay frequently moves between characters and storylines without building enough momentum. Unlike Madgaon Express, where the humour developed progressively through escalating situations, Vibe often relies on Kemmu’s improvisational energy to carry scenes.

Hardik’s characterisation is another weak point. His behaviour towards Kareena (Vanshika Dhar), an office intern he likes, creates an uncomfortable contrast with the film’s attempt to present him as an innocent romantic. Some sequences appear to treat inappropriate behaviour as harmless comedy, making the character difficult to connect with.

There are moments when the film attempts to soften Hardik’s image, including a romantic date at a planetarium that leads to a warm exchange between the two characters. Yet these scenes do little to resolve the contradictions in his personality.

The supporting performances provide occasional energy, but the uneven writing and frequent tonal shifts prevent the film from settling into a clear comic rhythm.

Vibe ultimately has the ingredients for a lively comedy but struggles under an overlong and unfocused screenplay. Kemmu’s natural comic timing remains evident, but this time it is not enough to give the film the momentum that made Madgaon Express work.

Verdict: Vibe has flashes of Kunal Kemmu’s familiar comic energy, but its inconsistent characterisation, tonal shifts and stretched narrative make it a laborious follow-up.