Metro… In Dino (2025) Movie: Anurag Basu’s Musical Love Story Hits All the Right Notes
Metro… In Dino, directed by the talented Anurag Basu, is a spiritual sequel to his 2007 hit Life in a… Metro. This 2025 Hindi musical romantic drama brings together stars like Pankaj Tripathi, Konkona Sen, Sara Ali, Aditya Roy, Fatima Sana, Ali, Neena, and Anupam. Produced by T-Series Films and Anurag Basu Productions, the film explores urban relationships through a distinctive musical approach.
The film stands out in Bollywood’s romantic drama space by offering a fresh perspective on metropolitan life. With Basu’s signature storytelling that weaves multiple narratives together, this isn’t just another love story. The mix of seasoned actors like Tripathi and Sen Sharma with younger talents creates an intriguing generational blend that appeals to diverse audiences.
Plot Storyline
Metro… In Dino follows interconnected stories of characters living in Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi, and Bangalore. The narrative explores the bittersweet nature of modern relationships, examining how love shows up differently across age groups and backgrounds. Unlike typical linear storytelling, Basu uses his characteristic multi-layered approach where each character’s journey adds to a larger story of human emotions.
The film dives deep into urban life complexities where relationships face constant tests from career pressures, family expectations, and personal dreams. Each storyline represents a different side of love – from new romance excitement to long-term partnership comfort, from separation pain to unexpected connection joy. The musical elements serve as emotional bridges connecting various narratives, letting characters express their deepest feelings through song and dance.
What makes the plot engaging is its realistic portrayal of flawed, relatable characters navigating contemporary challenges. Rather than showing idealized love versions, the film embraces the messiness and unpredictability of real relationships, making it resonate with audiences who see their own experiences reflected.
Cast Performance
The casting proves to be one of the film’s strongest assets, with each actor bringing unique strengths to create a harmonious whole. Pankaj Tripathi, known for finding humor and depth in every character, delivers another memorable performance as Monty. His portrayal balances comedy with genuine vulnerability that anchors the film’s emotional core.
Konkona Sen Sharma playing Kajol brings her characteristic intelligence and emotional depth, creating a character that feels both contemporary and timeless. Her chemistry with other cast members, especially in group scenes, shows why she remains one of Bollywood’s most respected actresses. Sara Ali Khan and Aditya Roy Kapur represent the younger generation, with Khan’s Chumki bringing energy and authenticity while Kapur’s Parth provides the romantic anchor the story needs.
The supporting cast including Ali Fazal, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Neena Gupta, and Anupam Kher each contribute significantly. Gupta’s Shibani adds wisdom and experience layers, while Kher’s Parimal brings both humor and emotion. The chemistry between all cast members creates a believable world where these interconnected stories flourish.
What I Loved
Metro… In Dino excels in several key areas that make it a standout addition to contemporary Indian cinema. The film’s musical elements are seamlessly woven into the narrative, avoiding forced song sequences that often plague Bollywood films. Instead, music serves as a natural extension of characters’ emotions, with each song advancing the plot while providing memorable moments.
Anurag Basu’s direction showcases his maturity as a filmmaker, demonstrating his ability to handle multiple storylines without losing focus or emotional impact. His visual style, characterized by vibrant colors and creative cinematography, brings each city to life while maintaining cohesive aesthetics throughout. The way he weaves together different narrative threads shows his growth since the original film.
I found the film’s exploration of contemporary relationships authentic and relevant, addressing issues modern audiences face daily. From long-distance relationship challenges to workplace romance complexities, the film tackles these topics with sensitivity and humor. The dialogue strikes the right balance between naturalistic conversation and poetic expression.
Areas for Improvement
While Metro… In Dino succeeds in many areas, it occasionally suffers from pacing issues common in multi-narrative films. Some storylines receive more development than others, leading to moments where certain characters feel underdeveloped compared to their counterparts. The film’s runtime, while necessary for all stories, sometimes feels lengthy, particularly in the middle act where momentum occasionally slows.
Certain musical sequences, while well-executed, sometimes interrupt narrative flow, particularly when they occur at crucial dramatic moments. A few songs, though melodious, don’t advance the plot significantly and feel more like commercial concessions rather than integral story elements. Additionally, some romantic subplots rely on familiar tropes that don’t bring anything particularly new to the genre.
The film’s attempt to balance multiple tones – from light-hearted comedy to serious drama – sometimes results in jarring transitions that can momentarily pull viewers out of the experience. More seamless integration of these different emotional registers would have elevated the overall viewing experience.
Critical Reception and Popular Reviews
Metro… In Dino has received generally positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. Bollywood Hungama awarded the film 4.0 out of 5 stars, praising it as a refreshing, musical entertainer. Critics have particularly lauded Basu’s direction and the performances of the entire cast, with many noting the film’s ability to balance multiple storylines effectively.
Koimoi’s review highlighted the film as One Of The Finest Scripts To Come Out In Hindi Cinema, praising how it makes audiences Fall In Love With Love. The review specifically commended the excellent dialogues and emotional depth of Basu’s storytelling. India Forums described the film as a Musical Love Letter to the Lost, the Lonely, and the Longing, noting that the film doesn’t try to answer life’s big questions. It simply asks the right ones.
Public reviews have been largely positive, with audiences praising the relatability of characters and the film’s authentic portrayal of modern urban life. Many viewers have expressed appreciation for the musical elements and how they enhance rather than distract from storytelling. The film’s exploration of different types of love and relationships has resonated particularly well with urban audiences.
Final Verdict
Metro… In Dino stands as a worthy successor to Anurag Basu’s original vision while carving out its own identity in contemporary Indian cinema. The film successfully combines the director’s signature style with a more mature understanding of relationships and urban life. While it may have minor pacing issues and occasionally relies on familiar romantic tropes, the overall experience is emotionally satisfying and musically enriching.
The stellar performances from the entire cast, particularly Pankaj Tripathi and Konkona Sen Sharma, elevate the material beyond typical romantic drama fare. The film’s exploration of love in its various forms – passionate, comfortable, complicated, and healing – provides something for every viewer to connect with. The musical elements, when they work, truly soar and provide some of the film’s most memorable moments.
For audiences seeking a thoughtful, well-crafted exploration of modern relationships wrapped in beautiful music and strong performances, Metro… In Dino delivers on its promises. It’s a film that celebrates the complexity of human connections while acknowledging the challenges of contemporary urban life.
Rating: 4/5
