Double XL Review: Double XL in intention, falls Short in execution

Double XL is a story of two plus-size women chasing their dreams. Saira Khanna (Sonakshi Sinha) is a south Delhi elite whereas Rajshri Tripathy (Huma Qureshi) is from a middle-class family from Meerut. Saira wants to become a fashion designer and have her label whereas Rajshri wants to become a sports presenter. But everyone from their families and friends to potential employers, is more focused on their weight than their talent. These two girls’ paths cross in the restroom of a TV channel’s office right after facing a big rejection.

The makers try to keep the treatment zany and funny and don’t become preachy. However, the same treatment prevents them from delving deep into their two protagonists’ insecurities and emotional turmoil. The dialogue is fine for the most part, but the screenplay looks more staged than organic. I liked the music. Ki Jaana gives an upbeat start to the film and Taali Taali is groovy. Double XL was conceived and completed during the lockdown, and it reflects in the final output. The dubbing takes a major hit.

I was a big cricket fan while growing up. My love for the game was crushed when I met some of my cricketing heroes. Anyway. When it came to women, I wished that the girl I like had some interest in cricket. But there was no one like that back in the early 2000s. So, who did I look up to? Mandira Bedi when she used to host Extra Innings. The prime of her stints was the 2003 world cup which attracted popularity as well as criticism for her attire (and gender). Later on, Mayanti Langer aced the game of being a sports presenter.

Also read: Double XL director Satramm Ramani opens up about his filmmaking journey

In Double XL, Huma Qureshi’s Rajshri looks at a slim and fit Shibani Dandekar hosting a cricket show and feels a little insecure about her own image. Huma Qureshi is a standout performer. When I interviewed the film’s director Satramm Ramani, he told me that Huma likes to live the character. And it shows in her performance in Double XL.

On the other hand, Sonakshi Sinha struggles to remain consistent. The spunk of her Saira remains only in her clothes and hairstyle but doesn’t quite come out from her character. To give credit where it’s due, the costume design is good. Zaheer Iqbal as Zorawar Rahmani, a local line producer is one-dimensional but watchable. Mahat Raghavendra as the weed-smoking videographer gets some funny one-liners but doesn’t quite own his place in the film. But it was good to see Shubha Khote as Rajshri’s grandmother. The cameo by a long-haired Kapil Dev is fun. Jimmy Shergill also shows up in a cameo appearance.

Double XL is well-intended but falls short on execution. If you don’t expect too much from this flick you might enjoy it more than I did. The film releases in cinemas on November 4.