Luv Ranjan has built a name with romantic comedies such as Pyaar Ka Punchnama and Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety, which explore the funny and complicated side of modern relationships. Pehla Pyaar Doosri Baar follows a familiar path but shifts the focus to school reunions, old crushes and the possibility of finding love again. Directed by debutant Anuj Saini, the film introduces six new faces in a youthful romantic comedy with a few unexpected turns.
Story: Old crushes and second chances
The film begins with three close friends stuck in their everyday office routines. Looking for some excitement, they decide to attend a school reunion. The gathering brings back old memories and forgotten attractions, leading them to reconnect with their former crushes. What begins as a simple attempt to revisit the past soon turns into a series of romantic pursuits, awkward meetings and complicated relationships.
Some situations feel difficult to believe, and the story occasionally asks viewers to overlook convenient developments. However, once the film finds its rhythm, watching the three friends deal with the consequences of chasing their past offers some entertainment. By the interval, their romantic pursuits have begun to take shape, with the narrative seemingly determined to find a match for everyone. The humour, however, is more restrained than expected from a film associated with Luv Ranjan’s style of relationship comedy.
Performances and music
The second half focuses more on romance, with all three couples facing their own misunderstandings and complications. The twists keep the story moving, although not every development feels natural. The film eventually brings the relationships towards a resolution, giving each couple a chance to complete its journey.
Sparsh Walia, Alisha Chopra, Sakshi Vaidya, Kunal Vaid, Sargun Kaur Luthra and Tushar Chhibber make up the young cast. Their performances are reasonably convincing, and they fit the film’s lighthearted mood. However, the writing does not give any one performer enough opportunity to stand out.
The music adds to the film’s nostalgic appeal. Purane Din is the standout track, bringing back memories of school life, old friendships and forgotten crushes. Its emotional tone suits the reunion setting particularly well.
Final verdict
Pehla Pyaar Doosri Baar offers a familiar story of first love and second chances with a few unpredictable turns. Limited humour and convenient storytelling prevent it from reaching its full potential, but the nostalgia may appeal to younger viewers and anyone who has wondered about an old school crush. It is a reasonably engaging romantic entertainer, though not a particularly memorable one.
Movie: Pehla Pyaar Doosri Baar
Directed by: Anuj Saini
Featuring: Sparsh Walia, Alisha Chopra, Kunal Vaid, Sakshi Vaidya, Tushar Chhibber, Sargun Kaur Luthra
Theatrical Release Date: 23 October 2026
Run Time: 2hrs 22mins
