‘Udta Teer’ Movie Review: Ayushmann Khurrana, Sara Ali Khan, Mukul Dev, Rahul Bose Shine in Unique Spy Comedy

It takes a genuinely funny script to elicit honest, laugh-out-loud moments without leaning on double-meaning dialogues or cheap innuendo. Udta Teer, releasing in theatres on October 23, 2026, marking the feature directorial debut of screenwriter Akash Kaushik and starring Ayushmann Khurrana and Sara Ali Khan in the lead, manages to do just that for a large portion of its runtime. Touted as a "reverse Dhurandhar", in a reference to Ranveer Singh and Aditya Dhar's blockbuster espionage film, Udta Teer follows Bilal/Vikrant (Ayushmann Khurrana), a Pakistani spy planted inside India's counter-terrorism unit. A sudden accident wipes out his memory, leading him to inadvertently switch sides and start dismantling Pakistan's terror network from within. ‘Script Is the Real Star of ‘Udta Teer’, Not the Actor’: Ayushmann Khurrana on Choosing His Films.

What Works in 'Udta Teer' - Razor-Sharp First Half

Akash Kaushik steps into the director's chair with surprising confidence. The first half is exceptionally tight, brimming with witty one-liners, clever situational comedy, and cheeky political satire. Instead of heavy-handed, chest-thumping jingoism, the film opts for smart self-awareness. It's being called the opposite of Dhurandhar for a reason.

'Udta Teer' Trailer - Watch Video:

Performances in 'Udta Teer'

Ayushmann Khurrana is pitch-perfect Bilal/Vikrant, the confused Pakistan spy in India who has lost his memory. The actor balances his character's disoriented state with deadpan humour. Sara Ali Khan shines as Bilal's wife Yamini, although she could have had a more well-rounded character. A comedy is only as strong as the company its lead actor keeps, and Udta Teer benefits from a veteran supporting cast that anchors the plot.

The film is ably supported by a talented ensemble cast, including the late Mukul Dev as Pakistani terrorist Azhar Maqsood, who is the best of the lot and delivers a memorable, effortless performance. His presence elevates the film to another level. He will surely be remembered as a great actor, more so after his last film i.e. Udta Teer.

Veteran Bollywood villain Gulshan Grover shines in the spy comedy as the Pakistan Army chief General Mir, who bows down to the Chinese President. Rahul Bose and Brijendra Kala round out the bureaucratic and military chaos with their quirky roles. Ram Kapoor contributes to the film's situational comedy. Sandeep Anand as Bilal's cook and Suhail Nayyar as Bilal's best friend, as well as veteran actor Raghubir Yadav play their parts well.

'Udta Teer' Music

The music of Udta Teer, composed by the duo Sachin-Jigar with lyrics by Amitabh Bhattacharya, has songs that are apt for the film, but nothing remarkable. There are songs like "Udta Teer" Title Track (sung by Raghav Chaitanya and Simran Choudhary) – a celebratory blend of EDM and Punjabi folk influences; "Choozay" (sung by Jigar Saraiya and Emiway Bantai) – a high-tempo track that kicks off the album's energetic mood; "Chann" (sung by Arijit Singh) – an emotional, melodic track, contrasting the film's frantic comedy with soulful texture; "Bhootni Ka" (sung by Kaka, Twinkle Aggarwal, and Amitabh Bhattacharya) – a song with heavy beats and quirky lyrics; and "Jai Hind" (sung by Siddharth Mahadevan and Shivam Mahadevan) – a patriotic song with a rock flavour. ‘Udta Teer’ First Song ‘Bhootni Ka’: Ayushmann Khurrana Brings the Chaos in Sachin-Jigar’s Lively Track.

Listen - 'Udta Teer' Jukebox

Where It Slips: Serious Second Half

Naturally, a phenomenal first half creates towering expectations. Unfortunately, the second half loses momentum as the plot pivots toward a more serious tone to wrap up its narrative loose ends. The relentless comic energy dips, and forced placement of romantic-patriotic songs slows down the pacing.

Verdict of 'Udta Teer'

While Udta Teer loses some of its initial fizz toward the end, it remains an entertaining, clever comedy that leaves you wishing for a franchise. The film's narrative knows precisely where to poke fun and, more importantly, when to pull back. Produced by Sikhya Entertainment and Dharma Productions, Udta Teer respects the audience's intelligence, delivering a breezy ride that makes you hope Bollywood filmmakers lean into sharp writing more often.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 23, 2026 02:32 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).