O’Romeo trailer OUT: Shahid Kapoor returns to his dark roots, warning love is a 'curse' in this soul-tearing noir masterpiece

Shahid Kapoor and Vishal Bhardwaj reunite for O’Romeo a gritty Mumbai noir. Starring Triptii Dimri, the dark tale of toxic obsession and revenge hits theatres on February 13, 2026.

Shahid Kapoor in a still from O'Romeo

The highly anticipated first trailer for O'Romeo is finally out. The film marks the much-awaited reunion of Shahid Kapoor and Vishal Bhardwaj. Released today, January 21, 2026, the three-minute and nine-second trailer suggests a return to the duo's signature style of dark, noir-influenced storytelling. The film, which is billed as a dark alternative to conventional Valentine's Day fare, is set to hit theatres on February 13, 2026, and is produced by Sajid Nadiadwala.

How does Shahid Kapoor reinvent Romeo in the film?

The trailer begins with a melancholy contemplation on love, which the protagonist describes as a "badddua" (curse) upon him. The trailer portrays Kapoor's Romeo as quite distant from the idealistic Shakespearean character. His early conversations paint a picture of his path as one of obsession with "Romeo" and a change from playboy. Concerns arise about Kapoor's potential to "sever the soul from the body" and his potential as a deadly force in the criminal underworld.

The female lead, played by Triptii Dimri, is entangled in Romeo's orbit while remaining defiant. He may desire her body, but he cannot possess her soul—at least not in this life—according to her character, who plays a crucial role in the trailer by asserting her autonomy. The chemistry between the protagonists seems to be based more on toxic obsession than on traditional romance.

ALSO READ: Can Shahid Kapoor bring fresh take on morally grey roles in O'Romeo? Actor says, ‘Internal complexity excites me’

Which actors round up the ensemble cast in O'Romeo?

Veteran actor Nana Patekar makes a substantial appearance in what seems like a mentoring or high-ranking position within the film's criminal structure. He warns that crossing a particular moral line gives birth to an inside "haiwan" (beast) for all time in his conversation, which serves as a thematic underpinning for the film. In a supporting role, the trailer also reveals Avinash Tiwary, adding to the ensemble that alludes to a complicated web of rivals.

The film takes place in what seems like a stylised portrayal of Mumbai's underworld, complete with aspects of power conflicts at the local level and contract killings (or "supari"). Writing in Bhardwaj's distinctive rhythmic and incisive manner, the dialogue incorporates local allusions like "jholi ka makan" (betel leaf shop) and "paan ki dukan" (betel leaf shop), establishing a specific cultural context for the high-stakes violence.

What's Vishal Bhardwaj's vision for O'Romeo?

O'Romeo strives to unite Bhardwaj's creative rigour with mass-market action and critical drama. Romeo, O Romeo which serves as both a tagline and a chant in the trailer, is anticipated to be a key musical element throughout the film.

The trailer ends with a bloody proclamation of revenge, as Kapoor's character swears to "tear out" any trace of his love in order to leave behind nothing but animosity. The change from love to "ranjish" (animosity) implies that the consequences of the main couple's relationship will be the main emphasis of the film's second half.

When is O'Romeo releasing?

O'Romeo is anticipated to be a strong contender at the box office when it releases on February 13, 2026. It will capitalise on Kapoor's popularity in action-drama films and the critical praise that Bhardwaj's films usually receive.

O'Romeo FAQs:

Q: When is the release date for Shahid Kapoor’s O'Romeo?

A: O'Romeo is scheduled to be released in theatres on February 13, 2026. The film is intentionally positioned as a "dark alternative" to traditional romantic cinema during the Valentine’s Day weekend.

Q: Is O'Romeo a sequel to Kaminey or Haider?

A: No, O'Romeo is a standalone feature. However, it marks the fourth collaboration between actor Shahid Kapoor and director Vishal Bhardwaj, following their critically acclaimed work on Kaminey (2009), Haider (2014), and Rangoon (2017).

Q: Who else is in the cast of O'Romeo?

A: O'Romeo features a high-profile ensemble cast including veteran actor Nana Patekar, Avinash Tiwary, and Vikrant Massey (in a special appearance). Other notable cast members include Tamannaah Bhatia and Disha Patani.

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