Crew (2024): When Life Gives Lemons, They Smuggle Gold

Sometimes, you just want to sit back and enjoy a feel-good movie. Crew (2024), starring veterans Tabu, Kareena Kapoor, and Kriti Sanon, now available on Netflix, fits that bill perfectly. The standout feature of the film is the well-defined characters of the three strong female leads. They are practical, have a can-do attitude, and make the best of challenging situations. While the film might be criticized for being impractical and overly glamorous, it promises non-stop entertainment. Mangoidiots is happy to give it a Ripe. The story revolves around three flight attendants of the fictitious Kohinoor Airlines, who are in different phases of their lives and facing different challenges. Despite their varying expectations, they share a common struggle: they haven’t been paid salaries for months by the flamboyant airline chairman, a character unmistakably resembling Mr Vijay Mallya of Kingfisher Airlines. Taking matters into their own hands, they embark on a gold smuggling operation, with a clever twist on the familiar act of smuggling. The narrative keeps you engaged as you wonder whether they succeed, get caught, or find a way to continue. The film’s focus on female characters is a rarity in Indian cinema, and director Rajesh Krishnan deserves applause for this. Tabu and Kareena deliver outstanding performances, bringing life to their characters in their own unique ways. Kriti Sanon, while relying on her glamour, also delivers a memorable performance, particularly near the climax. The absence of clichéd fistfights, chases, or gun-shooting makes the screenplay relatable and refreshing. However, the songs felt unnecessary, and the actual smuggling and heist procedures appeared amateurish. But the focus is on the do-or-die spirit of the leads, and in that aspect, “Crew” soars high. The climax is satisfying, ensuring that the guilty face their due punishment. In conclusion, Crew (2024) is a delightful watch, offering a perfect blend of humor, drama, and strong performances. It’s a film that celebrates the strength and resilience of women, making it a must-watch.