Cast: Ranveer Singh, Alia Bhatt, Dharmendra, Jaya Bachchan, Shabana Azmi
Genre: Drama
Director: Karan Johar
Rating: ★★★★☆
Review- That day I went for a movie and the guys sitting behind me were talking about something, but, I could hardly hear them. One of them ended the conversation saying, “Now he’s the only person who can unite the audience once again and let everyone know what Indian Cinema has got.” Watched Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani today and now i exactly know who they were talking about. The man behind blockbusters like DDLJ, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, My Name Is Khan, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Ae Dil Hai Mushkil and many more, Karan Johar has wielded the director’s baton after a hiatus and it is clear that the wait was worthwhile.
Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani presents a heart-warming tale that transcends generations, proving once again that love knows no bounds. “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani” delves into the life of Rocky Randhawa, a hardcore punjabi guy and the son of Tijori Randhawa, owner of a grand Ladoo Brand, ‘Dhanlaxmi’. The narrative unfolds as it showcases how Rocky and Rani (portrayed by Alia Bhatt) cross paths due to their grandparents. Uniquely, the heart of the plot lies in their endeavour to rekindle the love between their grandparents, whose romance was left incomplete decades earlier. The polar differences between the families of Rocky and Rani add an intriguing dynamic to the tale. The crux of the story, however, is how Rocky and Rani, despite their familial differences and the weight of past conflicts, manage to mend fences and usher harmony among their families. The film offers a delightful exploration of love, unity, and familial bonds, serving as a charming testament to the power of perseverance and the healing potential of love.
Performances- Rocky Randhawa, played by the spirited Ranveer Singh, surpasses expectations, acing comedy, romance, and drama with ease. His rapport with Alia Bhatt, who plays Rani, an intellectual Bengali journalist, is magnetic and their efforts to reunite their estranged grandparents weaves a beautifully intricate plot that’ll tug at your heartstrings. Dharmendra, making a spectacular on-screen appearance as Rocky’s grandfather, surprises us with his first on-screen kiss, while Jaya Bachchan, as Rocky’s grandmother, adds depth to the ensemble with her flawless performance. Shabana Azmi is a true gem.
Adding to the charm are surprise appearances from Varun Dhawan, Janvi Kapoor, and Sara Ali Khan in a special song sequence. The collaboration with Saregama, leading to the splendid use of 90’s songs, infuses a nostalgic charm, enhancing the overall cinematic experience.
In true Karan Johar fashion, the film’s music album is a soaring high point. Each song perfectly encapsulates the essence of the narrative, leaving one humming long after the film is over. The writing, too, is commendable, allowing for a well-balanced blend of humor, romance, and drama.
What Doesn’t works: The film does have its shortcomings. The pre-interval portion is intriguing, keeping the audience engaged, but the pace dips post-intermission. The three-hour runtime, due to this slower second half, feels a tad lengthy, slightly hampering the overall experience.
Last Words: Even today, i heard someone saying, “He Should Actually Direct Movies More Often” And Now, we all know who they were talking about.
This film, a perfect blend of drama, romance, and comedy, is the quintessential family entertainer. Packed with the irresistible allure of Indian ‘masala’ cinema, it guarantees a riveting experience for all ages. As the curtain falls, one cannot help but agree wholeheartedly with the sentiment echoed by many – Karan Johar should indeed grace the director’s chair more often. If you’re looking for a wholesome cinematic experience that tickles your funny bone, tugs at your heartstrings, and leaves you with a warm smile, then Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani is the film you should be queuing up for at the theaters.
RARKPK, ultimately, is a testament to the enduring legacy of Indian filmmakers and a reaffirmation of the magic that Karan Johar brings to the silver screen. This beautiful tapestry of love, family, and unity is bound to draw audiences to theaters, and rightly so.