3 days ago
Netflix's 'Aap Jaisa Koi' Revives Hope for Bollywood Romance
Netflix's latest Hindi original, Aap Jaisa Koi, directed by Vivek Soni, brings back the magic of yesteryear romance with a fresh yet familiar touch.
From dreamy visuals to a comforting soundtrack and emotionally layered performances, the film gently nudges the viewer to believe in old-school love again, even if the themes occasionally feel overdone.
Visual Nostalgia That Warms the Heart
The first thing you notice in Aap Jaisa Koi is how breathtakingly beautiful it looks. Shot by the talented Debojeet Ray, the cinematography crafts a whimsical world bathed in warm hues, soft lighting, and gentle camera movements that evoke a distinct sense of longing. Every frame feels like a love letter to vintage Bollywood.
Complementing this is the impeccable work of production designer Aparna Sud, who recreates a setting that feels timeless yet grounded. From quaint bungalows to old school cafés, the visuals are rich in texture and charm. The film's emotional tone is further shaped by creative leads Ram Solanki and Shubham Sanjay Shinde, who ensure that the old-school aesthetic never feels forced—it flows naturally and deepens the film's nostalgic soul.
A Soundtrack that Sings to the Soul
The music of Aap Jaisa Koi is one of its strongest assets. Justin Prabhakaran 's original score is tender, minimal, and utterly moving. His compositions act like a second narrator, guiding the emotional currents of the story without overwhelming the viewer.
Adding to the emotional depth are two standout songs by Rochak Kohli — Jab Tu Sajan and Dhuan Dhuan. These tracks feel lifted straight from the golden era of Bollywood romance, with melodies that tug at the heart and lyrics that echo timeless love stories. The entire soundtrack is an ode to simplicity—no flashy beats, just soul-stirring music that lingers long after the credits roll.
Authentic Performances, Subtle & Strong
The cast of Aap Jaisa Koi deserves high praise for grounding their characters in realism while keeping them emotionally accessible. Each actor brings depth without leaning into melodrama, preserving the delicate tone of the film.
R. Madhavan and Fatima Sana Shaikh are especially compelling as the romantic leads. Together, they create a pairing that feels fresh and genuine. Their chemistry is understated yet affecting, rooted more in glances and quiet conversations than in dramatic declarations. Their performances anchor the film and make the romance believable and touching.
A Familiar Yet Comforting Story
Written by and Jehan Handa, the story of Aap Jaisa Koi offers a poignant look at the modern dating landscape. It explores how tradition clashes with modern values, and how women often find themselves bending to fit into someone else's version of love. These themes—though relevant—aren't particularly new.
While the romantic arc is sweet and effective, the subplots about societal pressure and emotional compromise tread familiar ground. That said, Vivek Soni's directorial vision brings cohesion and warmth to the screenplay. His ability to blend the film's aesthetics with emotional storytelling makes Aap Jaisa Koi a visual and emotional delight, even if it doesn't break new ground thematically.
Netflix's Aap Jaisa Koi is a nostalgic balm for anyone missing the sincerity of old Bollywood love stories. Despite narrative familiarity, the film's breathtaking visuals, soul-stirring music, and heartfelt performances make it a standout romantic drama in the streaming landscape. If you're in the mood for something tender, timeless, and tastefully told, this one's worth your watch.
