Intense stylised action is the highlight of the show

Story: In the Indian spin-off of the Russo Brothers’ Citadel, a stuntman and a struggling actress are entangled in a high-stakes web of espionage and betrayal. They reunite after eight years to safeguard their daughter from the consequences of their dangerous past.

Review: In the prequel to Richard Madden and Priyanka Chopra Jonas-starrer Citadel (2023), and its 2024 Italian spin-off, Citadel: Diana, two spies find their personal and professional lives go awry after a critical mission nosedives. When stuntman Rahi, aka Bunny (Varun Dhawan), recruits his friend and a struggling actress, Honey (Samantha), to extract a high-tech gadget and stop a dangerous project, protocols are broken, loyalties questioned, and the botched mission sets the stage for action and intrigue.

The series traces the formative years of the mysterious syndicate trying to bring the elite spy agency, Citadel, down, while depicting the origins of Nadia (Kashvi Majmundar), played by Priyanka Chopra Jonas in the original series. Directors and co-writers Raj & DK whip up an espionage thriller with slick fight choreography that will draw the viewer in. The action sequences make the narrative move at a brisk pace, but without these, the storytelling often loses its spark. The predictable plot points fall short of being compelling enough to keep you coming back for more, though some moments and twists will take you by surprise — Honey’s interaction with her ailing father or a mole’s identity being outed.

The show’s production design is commendable, effectively transporting viewers to the 90s and early 2000s. The action sequences are exciting and impactful, despite being devoid of modern gadgets and high-tech vehicles.

The concept of a civilian being thrust into the spy world offers significant potential for character development. However, Honey’s transformation from a struggling actress to a hardened spy feels somewhat underdeveloped as it focuses only on her training. Her moral compass sets her apart from other morally ambiguous spies, giving her the most interesting character arc.

Varun Dhawan shines as the fiercely loyal and misguided Bunny. The duo pulls off slick stunts with elan and do well as fellow spies, despite their chemistry as a couple leaving much to be desired. Kay Kay Menon as a manipulative spy is outstanding. Child actor Kashvi Majmundar, who plays the young Nadia, is impressive as the brave, fearless, and sharp girl, laying the foundation for Priyanka’s main lead in the franchise.

Citadel: Honey Bunny boasts impressive action sequences and a talented cast, but falls short in certain areas, including the plotline and pacing. It’s not the most binge-worthy series in this genre you will find out there, but for action lovers, there’s ample to keep you engaged.