O Romeo Review: Shahid’ Best Yet, Triptii Shines

New Delhi, February 13, 2026: The curtains have finally gone up on one of the most anticipated cinematic collaborations of 2026. O Romeo, the gritty gangster-romance directed by the legendary Vishal Bhardwaj, hit theaters today, February 13, just in time for the Valentine’s Day weekend. The early reviews are in, and they suggest that the Shahid Kapoor-Bhardwaj duo has struck gold for the fourth time.

Following their previous collaborations on Kaminey, Haider, and Rangoon, the stakes were sky-high. According to the first wave of reactions from industry insiders and early screenings, the film doesn’t just meet expectations—it shatters them.

Shahid Kapoor: A Masterclass in Intensity

The buzz surrounding Shahid Kapoor’s performance is electric. Critics and early viewers are calling his portrayal of Haseen Ustara his “best yet,” even drawing comparisons to his career-defining work in Kabir Singh and Haider.

Kapoor reportedly brings a terrifying yet vulnerable edge to the character, a hitman caught in the crosshairs of the Mumbai underworld. His transition into the skin of a ruthless gangster who is slowly unraveled by love has been described as “flawless” and “ferocious.”

Triptii Dimri: The Soul of the Film

Triptii Dimri, who has been on a meteoric rise, is receiving high praise for her role as Afsha (also referred to as Sapna Didi in some contexts). Reviewers have highlighted her unique ability to balance “ferocity and innocence,” making her character the emotional anchor of this dark, violent world. Her chemistry with Shahid is being hailed as the film’s “electric pulse,” providing a soft contrast to the grim reality of the plot.

A Stellar Supporting Ensemble

While the leads are the main attraction, O Romeo boasts a powerhouse supporting cast that adds layers to the narrative:

• Nana Patekar: Delivers a chilling performance as a veteran underworld figure, bringing his signature gravitas to the screen.
• Avinash Tiwary: Plays a ruthless antagonist, earning praise for his menacing screen presence.
• Vikrant Massey & Tamannaah Bhatia: In a heartwarming industry gesture, both actors reportedly worked on the film for free as a tribute to Bhardwaj’s filmmaking. Despite their brief appearances, their roles are said to be pivotal to the film’s major plot twists.

Direction and Craft: The Bhardwaj Touch

Vishal Bhardwaj’s signature style—blending poetic dialogue with raw, visceral violence—is on full display. Based on portions of Hussain Zaidi’s Mafia Queens of Mumbai, the film is a visual and auditory treat.

• The Music: Composed by Bhardwaj himself with lyrics by Gulzar, the soundtrack (featuring tracks like “Hum To Tere Hi Liye The”) is already being called a haunting accompaniment to the story.
• The Tone: Rated ‘A’ for its graphic violence and dark themes, the film is a 178-minute journey into the heart of obsession and power.

The Verdict

While a few critics have noted the film’s slow-paced screenplay and dark atmosphere as a potential hurdle for casual viewers, the general consensus points toward a “Baap level” cinematic experience.

For fans of gritty crime dramas and intense romance, O Romeo appears to be a must-watch. It’s a film that proves when Shahid Kapoor and Vishal Bhardwaj reunite, they don’t just make a movie; they create a storm at the box office.