Director: Karan Johar
Cast: Ranveer Singh, Alia Bhatt, Dharmendra, Jaya Bachchan, Shabana Azmi, Tota Roy Chowdhury, Churni Ganguly, Aamir Bashir, Kshitee Jog
In Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, Karan Johar weaves a tapestry of love, culture clash, and family dynamics against a vibrant backdrop. Ranveer Singh as Rocky, a boisterous Punjabi, and Alia Bhatt as Rani, an intellectual Bengali news anchor, bring alive the charm and complexity of opposites attract.
The narrative unfolds with Rocky’s mission to trigger his amnesiac grandfather’s memories, leading him to Rani's family. The story gracefully navigates through the flamboyant romance between Rocky and Rani, painting a picture of love, laughter, and poignant moments. Set against the lush and glamorous canvas that is a hallmark of a Karan Johar film, the movie subtly addresses societal issues like patriarchy, gender bias, and the cancel culture, adding depth to the narrative without overshadowing the humor and glamour.
The film's musicality stands out, with a medley of Bollywood classics seamlessly woven into the old-world rendezvous and the contemporary romance of Rocky and Rani. The inclusion of self-references from Johar’s iconic films adds a delightful layer for fans.
Ranveer Singh is a perfect fit for the loud but lovable Rocky, delivering the funniest one-liners with ease. Alia Bhatt shines as the fiery and self-assured Rani, though a more nuanced Bengali accent could have added authenticity. Jaya Bachchan's portrayal of the dominating matriarch is a standout, showcasing her versatility. Shabana Azmi and Dharmendra contribute memorable performances, while Aamir Bashir impresses as Rocky’s complex father.
Pritam’s music, with tracks like "What Jhumka?" and "Tum Kya Mile," is striking and beautifully shot. Manush Nandan's cinematography adds visual glamour to every scene, complemented by Ishita Moitra's quick-witted and rib-tickling dialogues.
While the plot is not groundbreaking, the film excels in providing entertainment, laughs, and heartfelt moments. The slow start picks up momentum in the second half, and despite a predictable climax, the film concludes with a subtle nod to changing societal norms.
Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani is a shiny, well-packaged love story, brimming with flashy characters and wrapped in the warmth of family bonds. At its core, it's a celebration of love, laughter, and, most importantly, loving your family.