In an era of entrepreneurial dreams, this film explores the world of unconventional business ideas and the pursuit of success in a quirky yet relatable manner. Made in China, released in 2019, is a comedy-drama starring Rajkummar Rao, Mouni Roy, Boman Irani, and Gajraj Rao. Set against the backdrop of modern-day India and parts of China, the film follows a Gujarati businessman’s journey to success. Directed by Mikhil Musale, it offers a light-hearted yet insightful take on the struggles of small-town entrepreneurs and the lengths they go to achieve their goals. The movie blends comedy with a critique of societal norms, making it an engaging watch in the realm of comedy-drama.
At the heart of the film is Raghu Mehta (played by Rajkummar), a failed entrepreneur who is desperate for his next big break. After a series of failed business ventures, he travels to China, where he stumbles upon an unusual yet potentially profitable product—an aphrodisiac soup. Believing this could be his ticket to success, Raghu partners with Dr. Vardhi (Boman), a well-known sexologist, to market the product in India. What follows is a journey filled with humorous escapades, moral dilemmas, and a reflection on India’s taboos around sexual wellness. The story is about more than just business; it’s about Raghu’s growth as a person, his relationship with his wife (Mouni), and his fight to prove himself to his family and society.
One of the film’s strongest aspects is its performances, especially by Rajkummar, who effortlessly slips into the role of Raghu. His portrayal of a hapless, hopeful entrepreneur is both endearing and realistic. Rajkummar excels in bringing out the nuances of a man who is frustrated by his failures but refuses to give up. His chemistry with Boman, who plays the eccentric Dr. Vardhi, is one of the film’s highlights. Boman brings his usual charm and wit to the role, adding a layer of humor and wisdom to the narrative. Mouni, as Raghu’s supportive yet concerned wife, does well in her limited role, though her character could have been explored more deeply. Gajraj Rao’s appearance adds an extra dose of humor, with his impeccable comic timing enhancing the lighter moments.
The direction by Mikhil is commendable, as he strikes a balance between comedy and commentary on social issues. The film tackles the subject of sexual wellness, a topic often brushed under the rug in Indian society, with humor and sensitivity. Mikhil avoids turning it into a preachy affair, instead using humor to gently address the taboo. The pacing of the film is relatively smooth, though there are a few moments where the narrative feels slightly stretched. However, the light-hearted tone ensures that the film never becomes too serious or heavy. The screenplay, written by Niren Bhatt, complements Mikhil’s direction, weaving humor into everyday situations and giving the characters moments to shine.
Visually, the film is vibrant, particularly in its portrayal of Raghu’s journey from Ahmedabad to China. The cinematography by Anuj Rakesh Dhawan captures the bustling streets of both cities, providing a colorful and energetic backdrop for the story. The use of vibrant colors, especially in the Chinese market scenes, adds a visual liveliness that contrasts well with the more grounded setting of Raghu’s life in India. The cinematography is effective in highlighting the contrast between Raghu’s small-town roots and the more globalized world he ventures into. The framing of scenes, especially during Raghu’s more introspective moments, adds depth to his character’s personal journey.
The film’s music, composed by Sachin-Jigar, is upbeat and catchy, with tracks that match the film’s overall tone. Songs like “Sanedo” stand out, adding to the Gujarati flavor of the film while also resonating with a wider audience. The background score enhances the comedic and emotional beats of the film, complementing the narrative without overwhelming it. The use of music is particularly effective in scenes that transition between humor and heart, underscoring the film’s dual nature as both a comedy and a drama.
Another notable aspect is the film’s commentary on entrepreneurship in India. Raghu’s struggles reflect the challenges faced by many small-town businessmen, who are often overlooked or mocked for their unconventional ideas. The film presents a relatable portrayal of the entrepreneurial spirit, showing how success often comes from the most unexpected places. Raghu’s determination and willingness to take risks, even in the face of failure, is an inspiring aspect of the story. It also touches on the idea of how traditional business models are being challenged by new, sometimes unconventional ventures in today’s rapidly changing market.
One area where the film could have delved deeper is in its exploration of Raghu’s relationships, particularly with his wife and family. While the film does touch upon Raghu’s personal growth and his need for validation, these themes are not explored as fully as they could have been. Mouni’s character, for instance, is supportive but lacks depth, and her relationship with Raghu feels underdeveloped. A stronger focus on these relationships could have added more emotional weight to the film, making Raghu’s journey feel more well-rounded.
Overall, this movie is an enjoyable blend of humor, social commentary, and entrepreneurial spirit. Rajkummar’s performance, supported by Boman’s charismatic turn as Dr. Vardhi, elevates the film, making it an entertaining watch. The direction is sharp, the music is lively, and the cinematography brings energy to the narrative. While the film could have explored some themes in more depth, its light-hearted approach to sensitive topics makes it accessible and fun for a wide audience. If you’re looking for a movie that offers laughs, heart, and a glimpse into the world of unlikely business ventures, this one is worth a watch.
