Gustaakh Ishq Movie Review: Poetic Drama With Strong Performances Held Back by Underwhelming Storytelling

Gustaakh Ishq Movie Review: Gustaakh Ishq has finally hit the big screens today (November 28), offering audiences a romantic drama rooted in poetry, nostalgia, and heartfelt emotions. Headlined by Vijay Varma, Fatima Sana Shaikh, and veteran actor Naseeruddin Shah, the film attempts to deliver an old-world charm through a modern lens.

Directed by Vibhu Puri, Gustaakh Ishq unfolds against the backdrop of the 90s - a time when handwritten notes, soulful shayari, and slow-blooming romance still existed. The movie brings together an impressive cast, with Varma playing a determined young man, Shah portraying a celebrated poet with a mysterious past, and Shaikh stepping into the role of a spirited daughter caught in the emotional crossfire.

With poetry serving as its heartbeat, the film promises a tale of love, legacy, and longing - though not without its shortcomings. Let's take a look at the full review here:

GUSTAAKH ISHQ STORYLINE REVIEW

Gustaakh Ishq is set in the 1990s and introduces us to Nawabuddin, played by Vijay Varma, who lives in Delhi and dreams of saving his late father's printing press, the last symbol of his memory. His search for a solution leads him to rediscover Aziz (essayed by Naseeruddin Shah), a once-famous poet whose words were admired during his father's era. Aziz, however, abandoned the world of fame suddenly, leaving only whispers of his legacy behind.

Fascinated by Aziz's writings, Nawabuddin believes publishing his work will revive the press. His mission takes an emotional turn when he reaches Punjab to meet Aziz's daughter, Mannat (Fatima Sana Shaikh). During their first meeting, Mannat refuses to involve Nawabuddin and insists that Aziz has stopped writing forever.

But Nawabuddin's resolve only strengthens, and he eventually tracks down Aziz's shop to meet the shayar himself. Nawabuddin hides his true reason for visiting and requests Aziz to teach him shayari. In these sessions, emotions start shifting as Nawabuddin slowly falls for Mannat. How Aziz will react when he learns the real motive forms the core arc of the film.

The film's storyline is simple and ordinary, yet it carries a nostalgic flavor reminiscent of old Bollywood romances. The makers successfully recreate a 90s-like ambience - warm colors, lyrical expressions, and emotional stillness that many recent films have missed. The shayari and dialogues stand out beautifully and add soul to the narrative.

However, the first half is just passable, lacking the spark needed to hook the audience. The storytelling feels dull at points, and the pacing becomes a major issue in the second half, which drags and dilutes emotional impact. The music supports the narrative but doesn't leave a mark. The climax provides a slight emotional lift, but it doesn't fully compensate for the uneven narrative journey.

GUSTAAKH ISHQ PERFORMANCE REVIEW

If there is one reason to watch Gustaakh Ishq, it is the cast. Vijay Varma fits Nawabuddin perfectly, portraying sincerity and vulnerability with honesty. His chemistry with Fatima Sana Shaikh feels natural and sweet, giving the film its emotional pulse. Fatima brings warmth and innocence to Mannat, making her presence both impactful and endearing.

Naseeruddin Shah, as expected, delivers a masterclass in restraint and depth, elevating even simple sequences with his sheer presence. Sharib Hashmi, sadly, is underutilised.

GUSTAAKH ISHQ OVERALL VERDICT

Gustaakh Ishq is a sweet and simple romantic drama that shines in performances and poetic charm but falters in execution. It is engaging in parts, beautifully written at times, and visually nostalgic - but never truly transforms into something extraordinary.

Overall Rating: 3/5 - a decent effort that remains strictly average and somewhat underwhelming, despite its heartfelt intentions.