Honestly, when its trailer was launched and everyone was going ‘Old Bolly is backkkk’, I was having second thoughts about the movie. Idk I didn’t find the chemistry right, and then humour kinda felt forced. But I have to say, Rocky Aur Rani land better than your expectations, and make for a fun one time watch. Brace yourself for some classic Bollywood drama with a generous sprinkle of glitz and glam. You know what they say – old-school family drama with a 2023 twist! Just remember to keep expectations in check, and you won’t be disappointed!
Plot
One on hand, there’s Rocky Randhawa (Ranveer Singh) – the quintessential Punjabi lad, full of ‘dole sholey’ swagger and a dozen SUVs. And on the other, there’s Rani Chatterji (Alia Bhatt) – a ‘mishti’ Bengali girl, all sophisticated and a passionate journalist. Sparks fly when these opposites attract, but cue the inevitable family drama – oh, the horror (K3G flashbacks much?). The challenge is- Rocky and Rani need to live with each other’s in-laws for 3 months each. If it’s a success, shaadi mubaarak. If not, well… you know. Will love conquer all, or will cultural stereotypes get in the way of their happily ever after? Buckle up, Bollywood buffs; we’re in for one wild KJo driven ride!
Performances
Ranveer Singh as Rocky brings his trademark energy, and man, does he nail it! You’ve seen him play this role in his sleep, but hey, he’s still got that endearing charm (but yeah, it’s getting repetitive now). Alia Bhatt, the absolute queen of Bollywood sparkles (literally!) as Rani, but her dialogues are wayyy too shallow. First Brahmastra, now this, yaar please koi ye fix karooo. Also, I know it is a Karan Johar trademark movie, but don’t expect the usual jumping-your-bones chemistry – the movie is more about sappy romance than steamy passion. The rest of the cast shines too, but doesn’t really have a lot to do, and that’s disappointing. Jaya Bachchan‘s unforgiving frown and Dharmendra‘s zoned-out quirks – it’s all fun and games, but they deserved better writing ngl.
Direction and Writing
You know when it is the OG Karan Johar on the director’s seat, everything’s gonna be on steroids! He takes us on a wild ride through his signature family drama territory, and boy, does he go all out! This movie has more melodrama than a whole season of saas-bahu soaps — and we’re living for it! But things start going downhill when Karan tries to pack 438294 social messages into this glossy package. Let’s just say subtlety isn’t his strong suit. If his way of expressing love is off the charts, so is his way of being preachy. While the social commentary is completely on the right track, it becomes too preachy at times, leaving you overwhelmed. But hey, we get it – who needs subtlety when you can have grand sets, flashy dances, and melodious old bangers in the background? Kuch paane ke liye, kuch khona padta hai afterall 😉
Screenplay and Cinematography
Now, this is where the problem escalates. The screenplay struggles to find the right balance between drama and social messaging. The inclusion of some progressive themes, such as sexual fluidity and feminism, is noteworthy, but they often come across as gimmicky and forced. But, it is the comedy that steals the show. There are some standout moments that make you go, “Whoa!” Ranveer and Tota Roy Choudhury whirling about on ‘Dola Re’ during Durga Puja – that’s a subversion we didn’t see coming! And how about Ranveer and Churni Ganguly shopping for lingerie? I don’t think I’ve laughed this much watching a Bolly movie recently. All in all, Karan tries his best to balance the quirky and preachy, but the latter overweighs the former, giving you a bittersweet taste.
All in all, “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani” is a rollercoaster ride that will leave you feeling a little dizzy – in a good way! It’s got all the elements of a classic Bollywood potboiler – drama, emotions, and yes, a hefty dose of cheese! Karan Johar tries to be politically correct, but let’s be real – it’s the good ol’ Bollywood formula we know and love, and we wouldn’t have it any other way! It may not be a masterpiece, but it’s a fun-filled joyride that leaves you entertained and slightly nostalgic for those old Hindi film songs. Happy 25 years Karan!
