Crew Review: 'Ishq Express' Derailed or on Track?

Bollywood's latest rom-com, 'Ishq Express,' starring the fresh pair of Rohan Kapoor and Ananya Sharma, hit theaters this week, March 26th, 2026. The film, directed by debutante director, Neha Verma, promises a light-hearted take on modern relationships. But does it deliver? Initial reactions are mixed, with some calling it a 'refreshing watch' while others find it 'predictable'.

The movie revolves around two strangers, Rohan (Kapoor), a struggling musician, and Ananya (Sharma), a free-spirited artist, who meet on a train journey from Mumbai to Goa. Their initial animosity slowly blossoms into love as they navigate through hilarious situations and unexpected detours. Veteran actors, Paresh Rawal and Supriya Pathak, add to the ensemble cast, playing quirky supporting roles.

Box Office Collection and Audience Buzz

Early box office numbers for 'Ishq Express' are decent but not spectacular. The film grossed ₹8 crore on its opening day and is expected to pick up steam over the weekend. Social media is abuzz with reactions. Many are praising Rohan Kapoor's charming screen presence and Ananya Sharma's effortless portrayal of a modern woman. However, some critics argue that the plot is formulaic and lacks originality. "It's a typical Bollywood rom-com, nothing we haven't seen before," wrote renowned film critic, Rajeev Masand, in his review for a leading daily.

Is the Music a Hit or Miss?

The music of 'Ishq Express,' composed by Pritam, is already climbing the charts. The upbeat tracks, 'Dil Dhadak Dhadak' and 'Goa Calling', have become instant favorites. "Pritam has once again delivered a chartbuster album," says music industry analyst, Taran Adarsh. However, some feel that the songs are a bit generic and lack the freshness of Pritam's earlier work. reportersays, the placement of the songs also feels forced at times, disrupting the flow of the narrative.

OTT Release Details and Where to Watch

For those who prefer to watch movies from the comfort of their homes, 'Ishq Express' is expected to have its OTT release on Amazon Prime Video approximately 6-8 weeks after its theatrical release. Keep an eye on News Reporter Live for confirmed dates. Meanwhile, if you're looking for a light-hearted entertainer this weekend, 'Ishq Express' might just be the ticket. However, don't expect a groundbreaking cinematic experience.

What's Next in Bollywood?

Looking ahead, Bollywood is gearing up for a series of big releases in the coming months. All eyes are on the action-packed 'Mission Mumbai,' starring Akshay Kumar, and the period drama, 'The Mughal Empress,' featuring Deepika Padukone. The industry is hoping for a strong year after a relatively slow start. Speaking to News Reporter Live, trade analyst Komal Nahta said, "The success of films like 'Mission Mumbai' and 'The Mughal Empress' is crucial for the industry's growth this year. We need more original and engaging content to attract audiences back to the theaters."