Selfiee

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*Selfiee* (2023), directed by Raj Mehta, is a quirky take on the relationship between celebrities and their fans, exploring what happens when the pedestal a superstar is placed upon crumbles. The film, a remake of the Malayalam hit *Driving Licence* (2019), starring Prithviraj Sukumaran and Suraj Venjaramoodu, delves into the complex dynamics between a beloved actor and his devoted fan, turning the concept of idol worship into a darkly comedic and emotional journey.

The plot revolves around superstar Vijay Kumar (Akshay Kumar), who arrives in Bhopal for a film shoot but faces an unexpected hurdle: he needs a valid driving license to proceed with the shoot's climax. However, he's lost his license, and the new one hasn't arrived. A local politician arranges for the license with the help of Om Prakash Aggarwal (Emraan Hashmi), a fan and a sub-inspector at the RTO. What begins as a simple bureaucratic task soon spirals out of control when Vijay mistakenly accuses Om Prakash of tipping off the press, leading to public humiliation. In retaliation, Om Prakash takes matters into his own hands, publicly accusing Vijay of misusing his power and launching a personal vendetta. This clash between the superfan and the superstar forms the heart of the story.

Director Raj Mehta’s approach is grounded and realistic, providing a glimpse into the life of a superstar surrounded by his entourage, struggling to manage both his personal and professional life under the public eye. The film shows the vulnerability of Vijay Kumar, who is constantly in the spotlight, unable to escape the pressures of his stardom. The comedy is often slapstick, especially through the character of Abhimanyu Singh, who plays a failed actor now reduced to doing TV commercials and harboring resentment towards Vijay.

Akshay Kumar shines in his portrayal of a superstar who, despite his fame and wealth, finds himself at the mercy of a "lowly" policeman who becomes his worst adversary. Kumar delivers a meta-performance, playing a sanitised version of himself, showcasing vulnerability while maintaining his larger-than-life persona. Emraan Hashmi gives a sincere performance as Om Prakash, the heartbroken superfan, channeling his frustration and yearning for revenge with intensity. The film’s standout moments come from the confrontation scenes between the two, which serve as the emotional core of the film.

While the supporting cast adds value, especially Diana Penty as Vijay’s concerned wife and Nushrratt Bharuccha as Om Prakash's nagging wife, their roles feel underdeveloped. The film also benefits from the comedic antics of Abhimanyu Singh, who adds a lighthearted touch as the envious rival to Vijay.

*Selfiee* is a film about egos, celebrity culture, and the harsh realities behind the glossy exterior. It uses humor and satire to explore the delicate balance between admiration and resentment, showcasing how fans' perceptions of their idols can shift when the illusion is shattered.

Watch *Selfiee* for the engaging performances of Akshay Kumar and Emraan Hashmi, the witty commentary on celebrity culture, and the hilarious moments that arise from the clash of egos. It's a film that takes a light-hearted approach to serious themes and is a fun watch for fans of both stars.