In a celebration of cinematic nostalgia and storytelling prowess, the renowned director duo of Raj Nidimoru and Krishna D.K., collectively known as Raj & DK, are set to release their latest venture: “Citadel: Honey Bunny.” Marking the 30th year since the infamous opening scene of “Pulp Fiction,” where Tim Roth shared a tender moment with Amanda Plummer, this new Indian spy series finds its footing in the cine-obsessed 1990s. While Roth and Plummer’s characters famously held up diners, the protagonists of “Citadel: Honey Bunny” don a different mantle. They are secret agents enmeshed in undertakings that stretch beyond petty crime to safeguard ubiquitous peace.
Fronting this visionary series are Bollywood stalwarts Varun Dhawan and Samantha Ruth Prabhu. The narrative threads itself as an innovative spin-off—and a prequel—of the American action-espionage series “Citadel,” brought to life by the creative masterminds Joe and Anthony Russo. This international franchise has inspired adaptations across India, Italy, and Mexico, with “Citadel: Honey Bunny” carrying the distinct cultural essence of its Indian roots.
Nevertheless, the themes and tones within “Honey Bunny” wear the unmistakable hallmark of Raj & DK’s authorship, filled with intrigue and audacity reminiscent of pulp fiction. Varun Dhawan plays Bunny, a Bollywood stuntman, who recruits Honey, portrayed by Samantha, an aspiring actress, into the machinations of a spy operation. However, lives twist and turn as Bunny and Honey’s estranged lives collide, enmeshed in the mission of protecting their young daughter, Nadia. Interestingly, this character matures to be played by Priyanka Chopra Jonas, linking the Indian series to its transnational sibling.
As the team divulged to The Hindu, preserving the intrinsic Indianness within “Citadel: Honey Bunny” was at the heart of their creative process. Varun Dhawan immerses himself in the cinematic journey, donning classic 90s attire crafted by Ameira Punvani, including leather jackets and high-waisted denims.
. His appearance on screen, complete with a mullet hairstyle, is a deliberate nod to popular movie icons like Mel Gibson of “Lethal Weapon” fame and Bollywood’s Sanjay Dutt.
Reflecting on her experience, Samantha Ruth Prabhu fondly recalled some early roles and candidly admitted to playfulness and experimentation in her portrayal. The series enabled her to traverse a kaleidoscope of emotions—from sadness to anger—fleshing out Honey as more than just an aspirant embroiled in espionage; an ambitious offering during the action-laden sequences that dominate the storyline.
Innovatively shot and markedly authentic, Raj Nidimoru revealed the unique latitude afforded by the Russo brothers in crafting this poignant Indian adaptation. Unlike the regimented script-following often associated with American productions, “Citadel: Honey Bunny” flourishes with creative freedom, essential for bringing to life its singular Indian aesthetic and less technical, more visceral narrative.
In embodying his role, Varun Dhawan explores profound storytelling, meticulously pacing scenes to allow audiences to feel his character’s emotions fully. A particular emotional exchange with Samantha’s Honey about the enigmatic spymaster Baba, played by Kay Kay Menon, stands out for its extended, immersive take—underscoring Raj & DK’s focus on dialogue-rich performances.
One of Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s most formidable endeavors in the series was a meticulously choreographed car chase scene, embodying the tenacity and coordination that “Citadel: Honey Bunny” demands. From countless takes to the choreographed precision required, the sequence underscored the series’ penchant for dynamic, gripping action set pieces.
The aspirations of Raj & DK with this series stretch beyond entertaining audiences in India; it’s about weaving narratives deeply rooted in Indian culture and showcasing them on the global stage. Reflecting this ambition, Samantha cited “Shogun’s” cultural fidelity, underscoring the importance of authenticity in creating a worldwide appeal.
Raj Nidimoru envisions greater recognition for Indian content, asserting that many Indian productions have shown extraordinary promise but lack the marketing thrust necessary for global acclaim. With “Citadel: Honey Bunny,” the expectation is to break boundaries and assert itself within the pantheon of international entertainment, fortified by its distinctive Indian flair. As the series poised to launch, expectations soar for a production that promises not just action and drama, but also a nostalgic dive into the beloved cinematic essence of the nineties.
