The much-anticipated third installment of the beloved Jolly LLB 3 franchise has finally arrived, bringing with it a potent blend of sharp legal wit, satirical humour, and heartfelt drama. With both of the franchise’s iconic “Jollys”—Akshay Kumar and Arshad Warsi—sharing the screen for the first time, anticipation was at an all-time high. The film largely delivers on its promise of double the trouble, double the laughs, and a memorable courtroom clash that stays true to the series’ winning formula.
The story centers on a searing issue of land acquisition and farmer suicide, a topic handled with the franchise’s signature mix of sensitivity and satire. Director Subhash Kapoor wastes no time in establishing the central conflict, pitting the two lawyers against each other in a case that is both deeply personal and nationally significant. Akshay Kumar’s Jolly Mishra, with his mischievous charm and quick-witted one-liners, is a delight to watch. He seamlessly slips back into the role, providing the film with its high-energy, crowd-pleasing moments. On the other side is Arshad Warsi’s Jolly Tyagi, whose understated sarcasm and dry humour are a perfect foil. The chemistry between the two actors is the film’s undeniable highlight, as they bicker, strategize, and deliver punchlines with impeccable timing. Their dueling monologues are a treat, a testament to their contrasting yet equally effective styles.
However, as the title suggests, the film’s true owner is neither Jolly but the ever-charming and perpetually exasperated Judge Sundarlal Tripathi, reprised with masterclass precision by Saurabh Shukla. While the Jollys bring their A-game, Shukla owns every single scene he is in. He effortlessly commands the courtroom with his signature sighs, sardonic interjections, and an air of weary wisdom. The film gives his character more layers this time, including a new, delightful romantic subplot that adds a fresh dimension to the series’ most beloved character. Shukla’s performance is so captivating that you simply cannot look away from him. He is the heart and soul of the film, and his presence elevates every scene from a simple courtroom banter to a masterclass in comic timing and nuanced acting.
The supporting cast, including Huma Qureshi, Amrita Rao, and Seema Biswas, all deliver strong performances, though some of their characters feel slightly underutilized. Gajraj Rao as the antagonist is brilliant, bringing a calm menace to the role, though his character could have been written with more depth. Despite a few minor flaws—like a couple of unnecessary songs and a few scenes that feel slightly over the top—the film largely succeeds. The writing is sharp, the dialogues are witty, and the emotional beats, while sometimes subtle, land effectively.
In the end, Jolly LLB 3 may not be a perfect film, but it’s an entertaining and thoroughly engaging watch that honors the spirit of the franchise. It makes you laugh, it makes you think, and it reminds you why this series has become a cultural phenomenon. The dual charm of Akshay and Arshad, combined with the pure magic of Saurabh Shukla, makes this courtroom showdown a resounding victory. It’s a must-watch for fans and a worthy addition to one of Bollywood’s most beloved franchises.