Anupama Chopra reviews Loveyapa, Advait Chandan’s Hindi adaptation of Pradeep Ranganathan’s 2022 Tamil blockbuster Love Today. Starring Junaid Khan and Khushi Kapoor, the film follows a young couple who exchange phones for 24 hours, only to uncover secrets that shake the foundation of their relationship. While the premise remains as engaging as the original, Loveyapa closely follows Love Today without adding much originality. Chandan replicates the storytelling techniques—split screens, pop-up texts, and fourth-wall breaks—bringing back the fun but also retaining the flaws of the original.
The film raises important questions about trust, privacy, and how social media shapes modern relationships. Gaurav and Bani, initially smug about their bond, quickly realize they aren’t as transparent as they believed. Bani’s secret chats with ex-boyfriends and Gaurav’s deceptive interactions—including using Tinder and pretending to be a filmmaker to solicit photos—create a mix of humor and discomfort. Chopra notes that while the film plays these moments for laughs, the casual normalization of certain behaviors feels unsettling.
Despite its contemporary themes, Loveyapa often feels trapped in old-fashioned notions of romance. Moments of conservatism—like a chaste kiss where Bani covers her lips—feel at odds with the film’s premise, evoking a DDLJ-era moral compass. The supporting cast, particularly Kiku Sharda and Ayesha Raza, bring depth and humor, but Junaid Khan and Khushi Kapoor struggle to carry the film with the same ease as Pradeep Ranganathan and Ivana in the original. Their performances feel too polished and rehearsed, missing the natural charm that made Love Today work.
While the film retains some of its original energy and features a lively soundtrack, Loveyapa ultimately feels stretched and superficial. Stronger writing could have added the depth needed to make its commentary on relationships more impactful. As it stands, the film entertains but doesn’t quite leave a lasting impression.
