The emergence of the OTT industry has undoubtedly been the most beneficial development for Indian cinema in recent times. Without this platform, a film like "Operation Romeo" would unlikely have received approval. At first glance, the plot appears straightforward—a protagonist seeking revenge for an injustice. However, it skillfully evolves into a profound exploration of toxic masculinity and the significance of a woman's self-worth. Let's delve into the movie's synopsis to gain a deeper understanding of the intricacies it portrays.

Do Adi and Neha Manage to Evade the Police?

The story of "Operation Romeo" commences with Aditya wishing Neha a happy birthday and making plans for a date. Neha hails from a conservative family and is cautious about concealing details about her college life from her parents, a situation familiar to many Asian women. On their date, Adi displays possessive tendencies, reacting negatively when Neha jokingly mentions receiving flowers from a male classmate and aggressively confronting a guy who checks her out at a café. Adi even encourages some boys in his building to engage in a fight on his behalf. These instances portray Adi as a typical Indian man with rigid notions of masculinity and protection.

During their date, Adi asks Neha for a kiss, but their moment is interrupted by a man banging on their car door. He identifies himself as Mangesh Yadav, the sub-inspector, accusing them of public indecency. Neha, fearful of the repercussions at home, pleads with the police to let them go, but they refuse. After much pleading, Mangesh agrees to release them if they pay him a certain amount of money. Adi agrees and drives to an ATM. However, another problem arises as Adi becomes infatuated with Neha and makes inappropriate comments towards her. Adi tries to protect her, but his efforts are limited.

At the ATM, they discover it is out of service. Rushing back to the car, they continue the search for another ATM. However, Mangesh's unsettling gaze towards Neha creates a fearful atmosphere, hinting at the police taking advantage of their vulnerability. Adi momentarily agrees to surrender to the police, but Neha fears the consequences of her parents finding out. Eventually, they find an ATM, but Mangesh locks himself and Neha inside the car. Adi returns to find Neha in tears, indicating that Mangesh behaved inappropriately towards her.

Mangesh takes the money from Adi and allows them to leave. The relieved couple returns home, and Adi, curious about what transpired in the car, feels the need to know as a man. Neha responds by saying "man" with a questioning tone, possibly implying that Adi failed to protect her as a "woman" or highlighting the absurdity of the question, considering she was the victim. However, Adi interprets it as a challenge to his masculinity, struggling to come to terms with it, leading to the next phase of the film.

Does Adi Discover the Truth About Neha's Experience in "Operation Romeo"?

Haunted by the events of that night and feeling his masculinity questioned, Adi embarks on a path of revenge. He tracks down Mangesh and learns that he was never a police officer but an ambulance driver who exploited the situation. Adi discovers Mangesh's address and visits his house when he is absent. Chhaya, Mangesh's wife, and their daughter are at home. Adi pretends to be there for a discussion with Mangesh about a contract, and Chhaya allows him to wait inside. However, Adi intentionally makes Chhaya uncomfortable by drawing a picture of Mangesh as a dog, intruding in their kitchen without permission, and hiding her phone. Sensing something amiss, Chhaya asks him to leave, but Mangesh arrives just in time. Adi turns the tables on him, repeating some of the inappropriate remarks Mangesh made to Neha. Chhaya begins to suspect a history between the two men.

A scuffle ensues, resulting in Adi injuring Mangesh. When some of Mangesh's friends call out to him outside, Adi holds a broken shard of glass to his daughter's neck, indicating for Mangesh to remain silent. Unaware that Mangesh is home, his friends discuss his womanizing tendencies and how he took advantage of a couple recently. Chhaya overhears their conversation and confronts Mangesh. Left with no choice, he admits that when alone with Neha, he asked for a kiss, but she refused and slapped him when he persisted. These events mirror what occurred that night. With the truth finally revealed, Adi apologizes to Chhaya and warns Mangesh never to repeat such actions, emphasizing that there is someone out there more manly than him.

The following day, Adi meets Neha, who questions why he has been ignoring her calls. Adi discloses his actions to her, prompting Neha to inquire if it would have mattered if something actually happened to her that night. Adi falls silent for a moment before changing the subject and presenting her with a ring. As he prepares to put it on her finger, she responds by flipping him off. This gesture, symbolizing courage, shatters centuries of patriarchy. It instantly alters the perception of who the true hero is. It marks a beautiful ending to a well-written story.

Final Thoughts on "Operation Romeo"

"Operation Romeo" keeps viewers engaged throughout the film, never lacking in excitement. The audience shares the couple's terror when blackmailed by Mangesh and supports Adi during his quest for revenge, despite being frustrated by his display of toxic masculinity. The actors, especially Sharad Kelkar, Bhumika Chawla, and Siddhant Gupta, deliver outstanding performances. Siddhant Gupta, in particular, embodies Adi's character flawlessly, from the shy and romantic boy to the brooding avenger, and even during the creepy act in Mangesh's house. More roles should be offered to them.

The writing effectively captures the essence of the couple's awkward romance, their subsequent fear, and Adi's triggers that drive him to prove his manhood. The movie does not glorify his actions but presents them in their true light. It boldly defies such displays of toxic masculinity that arise from insecurity and outdated notions of gender roles. The execution exhibits subtle brilliance and touches our hearts. In conclusion, "Operation Romeo" is a delightful film, and we hope to see more of this type of content in the future. Additionally, Sharad Kelkar, Bhumika Chawla, and Siddhant Gupta deserve more recognition and opportunities. May both these wishes come true.

"Operation Romeo" is a 2022 Indian Drama Thriller film directed by Shashant Shah.