Critic’s Rating: 3.5/5
Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, directed by Karan Johar, is a delightful family drama that brings together the flamboyant Punjabi boy Rocky, played by Ranveer Singh, and the intelligent Bengali television news anchor Rani, portrayed by Alia Bhatt. The film’s story revolves around their unique love story and the challenges they face due to their clashing cultures and personalities.
The movie opens with a grand dance number featuring Bollywood stars Varun Dhawan, Sara Ali Khan, Janhvi Kapoor, and Ananya Pandey alongside Ranveer Singh, setting the stage for what’s to come in this glamorous entertainer. While the film embraces all the typical tropes of a Karan Johar film, it goes beyond mere glamour and entertainment to convey a meaningful message.
Beneath the glitz and humor, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani subtly addresses deep-rooted societal issues such as patriarchy, gender bias, misogyny, body shaming, and cancel culture. Karan Johar skillfully weaves these themes into the narrative without overshadowing the film’s entertaining essence.
Image Credit – gqindia
Ranveer Singh shines in his role as the loud but loving Rocky, who comes to understand gender equality through his journey of self-discovery. His impressive character arc is delivered with finesse and accompanied by witty one-liners that he delivers effortlessly. Alia Bhatt impresses as the fiery and self-assured Rani, although some improvement in her Bengali accent would have added to her performance.
Jaya Bachchan’s portrayal of the dominating matriarch, Dhanlaxmi, is a treat to watch. Shabana Azmi, as Rani’s grandmother Jamini, delivers a stellar performance, flawlessly shifting between Bengali and Hindi accents. Dharmendra’s impactful role as Kanwal, Rocky’s amnesiac grandfather, adds depth to the storyline.
The film’s music, composed by Pritam, is a highlight, with catchy tracks like “What Jhumka?” and “Dhindhora Baja Re,” along with the romantic melody “Tum Kya Mile.” The songs are beautifully shot, and the surprise inclusion of the revamped “Dola Re Dola” is sure to win applause from the audience.
Visually, the movie is a spectacle, thanks to the skilled cinematography by Manush Nandan. Every scene is glamorous and shiny, but some might question the choice of wardrobe for a television news anchor like Rani.
While the film takes time to set up the story, the second half picks up the pace and keeps the audience engaged. The plot may not be overly complex or entirely original, and the climax is predictable, but the abundance of humor keeps the laughs coming.
At its core, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani is not just a love story; it is a heartwarming tale that reminds us of the importance of loving and accepting our families. Through its flashy and feisty characters, the film conveys a powerful message about embracing change and challenging traditional norms.
Conclusion
Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani is an entertaining package that delivers both glamor and substance. It stands out for its meaningful message and commendable performances by the cast, making it a must-watch for Bollywood enthusiasts and family drama lovers alike.
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