Pune Highway (2025) – A Psychological Thriller of Friendship and Secrets
Pune Highway is a 2025 Hindi-language psychological thriller directed by Bugs Bhargava Krishna and Rahul da Cunha. Adapted from their acclaimed stage play, the film delves into themes of friendship, guilt, and buried secrets. Featuring a compelling cast including Amit Sadh, Jim Sarbh, Anuvab Pal, Manjari Fadnnis, and Ketaki Narayan, the movie offers a suspenseful narrative that keeps viewers engaged.
🎬 Plot Overview
The story revolves around three childhood friends—Pramod (Amit Sadh), Vishnu (Jim Sarbh), and Nicky (Anuvab Pal)—who are drawn back together after the suspicious death of Mona (Ketaki Narayan), a woman connected to their shared past. As they confront the circumstances surrounding her demise, long-held secrets emerge, testing their bond and forcing them to face unresolved guilt from a traumatic incident years prior.
🎭 Performances
Amit Sadh and Jim Sarbh deliver standout performances, effectively portraying the emotional turmoil and complexity of their characters. Their on-screen chemistry adds depth to the narrative, making the characters’ internal conflicts palpable.
🎥 Direction and Cinematography
Directors Bugs Bhargava Krishna and Rahul da Cunha craft a tense atmosphere, maintaining suspense throughout the film. Cinematographer Deep Metkar’s visuals complement the narrative, capturing the psychological landscape of the characters.
📝 Critical Reception
Critics have offered mixed reviews for Pune Highway. The Times of India rated it 2.5 out of 5, noting that while the film maintains suspense, it suffers from uneven storytelling. Bollywood Bubble gave it a 3 out of 5, praising the emotional depth and performances but mentioning pacing issues. Subhash K. Jha highlighted the film’s unique approach to the murder mystery genre, appreciating its focus on character dynamics.
📅 Release and Availability
Pune Highway premiered at the 55th International Film Festival of India in 2024 and was released theatrically on May 23, 2025. Details regarding its availability on streaming platforms are yet to be announced.
Final Thoughts
Pune Highway offers a thought-provoking exploration of friendship and the shadows of past actions. While it may have narrative inconsistencies, the film’s strong performances and psychological depth make it a noteworthy addition to the thriller genre.