A sequel to the much-loved Tere Bin Laden, 'Tere Bin Laden: Dead or Alive' is sadly an Uneven Sequel, that lacks the spirit & the humour of its prequel. Though fun in parts, the film never turns into a hilarious joyride. Sikander Kher, however, delivers one of the best performances of the year so far!
'Tere Bin Laden: Dead or Alive' Synopsis: A Bollywood director is hired by an American talent agent to make a film on Osama bin Laden. The plan to use an Osama doppelganger in order to prove his death boomerangs when a Taliban arms dealer hijacks their idea to prove he's alive.
'Tere Bin Laden: Dead or Alive' has a dull start, but things begin to move once Sikandar's character goes through a make-over & how his motives result into some rib-tickling moments with the character of Paddi (played by Pradhuman Singh). Sadly, the pace again drops pre-climax & even the end to this story seems hurried. My only question to the Writers is, why did you keep it down on the humour? Wasn't that the brand here?
The Screenplay has a few punches, but overall, they lack consistency. Abhishek Sharma is not in form this time. After The Shaukeens, this is another missed opportunity from the director. Cinematography is decent. Editing & Art Design are mention-worthy.
Performance-Wise: As mentioned before, its Sikandar all the way. He's simply superb in both the roles he depicts, one as the US Agent & the other as the loud Punjabi Film Producer. Its good to see the actor finally getting a role that exhibits his talent to the hilt. Manish Paul is over-the-top, while Pradhuman Singh is very cute as Paddi. Piyush Mishra is a riot in his part. Sugandha Garg is natural the core. Ali Zafar is effective in a cameo.
On the whole, besides some fine acting, 'Tere Bin Laden: Dead or Alive' scores lower on laughs.