Few Bollywood movies embrace chaos and humor quite like this one, a film that revels in the world of family drama, mistaken identities, and laugh-out-loud moments. Ready is a 2011 comedy directed by Anees Bazmee, starring Salman Khan and Asin in lead roles. Set primarily in Bangkok, with portions in India, the film belongs to the romantic comedy genre, peppered with action and family drama. The plot is simple yet loaded with absurd scenarios, as it centers around the idea of love and family feuds, blending the two into an entertaining, albeit predictable, formula.
The story revolves around Prem (Salman), a carefree and mischievous bachelor living with his extended family. Prem’s family is on the lookout for a suitable bride for him, but things take a turn when Sanjana (Asin), an orphan who is on the run from her conniving uncles, enters his life. Pretending to be someone else, she tricks Prem’s family into believing that she is the perfect match for him. As the story progresses, Prem uncovers Sanjana’s secret and devises a plan to unite her with her estranged family while also outwitting her scheming uncles. The narrative is packed with comic misunderstandings, family loyalty, and a light-hearted romance that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
One of the most striking aspects of the film is Salman’s performance. As Prem, Salman is in his element—effortlessly charming, cheeky, and playful. His screen presence carries the film, and his signature style of humor, combined with action, keeps the energy high throughout. Whether it’s in the humorous banter with his family or in the over-the-top action sequences, Salman’s charisma is the driving force behind the film’s appeal. Asin, playing Sanjana, is convincing in her role but is largely overshadowed by Salman’s larger-than-life persona. She holds her own in the romantic scenes, and the chemistry between the two is palpable, but her character’s depth is limited, serving more as a plot device than a fully fleshed-out protagonist.
Anees Bazmee’s direction is firmly rooted in commercial cinema, and he knows his audience well. The film is packed with broad humor, slapstick comedy, and family-friendly jokes, which cater to a wide demographic. The direction keeps the pacing tight, ensuring there is never a dull moment, though it sometimes leans too heavily on recycled tropes and formulaic storytelling. Bazmee’s knack for orchestrating ensemble scenes is evident, particularly in the chaotic family interactions that are the heart of the movie. The editing by Ritesh Soni is crisp, which is crucial in maintaining the film’s rapid-fire comedic rhythm. However, the overall predictability of the story detracts from its long-term impact, as the film doesn’t take many risks with its narrative structure.
Visually, the cinematography by Sunil Patel stands out in capturing the vibrant settings of Bangkok and India, adding a glossy layer to the film’s overall look. The rich colors and bright lighting complement the film’s cheerful tone, and the camera work is smooth during the action sequences, giving the stunts a larger-than-life appeal. One of the highlights is the use of picturesque locations, particularly during the song sequences, which are shot with grandeur and designed to delight the audience. There are no special effects to speak of in the traditional sense, but the stylized action scenes, though exaggerated, are entertaining and blend well with the film’s light-hearted tone.
The music, composed by Pritam, is catchy and infectious, with songs like “Character Dheela” and “Dhinka Chika” becoming instant chartbusters. These tracks not only serve as crowd-pullers but also enhance the entertainment quotient of the film. The choreography is energetic, and Salman’s unique dance style adds to the fun of the musical numbers. While the songs do little to advance the plot, they fit seamlessly into the narrative, adding moments of levity and excitement. The background score by Sandeep Shirodkar also complements the fast-paced nature of the film, particularly during the comedic and action-packed sequences.
While Ready excels in providing comic relief and light-hearted entertainment, it does stumble when it comes to its themes and storytelling. The film doesn’t delve deep into the emotional or moral complexities of its characters. Instead, it relies heavily on surface-level comedy and a predictable plot that resolves itself in a typical Bollywood climax. The theme of family is central to the story, but it is treated more as a backdrop for comedic situations than a source of conflict or growth for the characters. The lack of real stakes means that the film, while enjoyable, doesn’t leave a lasting impression beyond its immediate entertainment value.
That said, Ready is a film that knows exactly what it wants to be—a mass entertainer designed to please the audience with humor, catchy songs, and larger-than-life action. It doesn’t aspire to break new ground in terms of narrative or character development, but it succeeds in delivering a fun, feel-good experience for fans of commercial Bollywood cinema. The film is tailored for Salman Khan’s fanbase, with plenty of moments designed to showcase his star power, whether through his humorous one-liners or his action-hero persona.
In conclusion, Ready is a light, enjoyable ride that doesn’t demand much from its viewers but offers plenty of laughs, catchy tunes, and over-the-top action. For those looking for a feel-good, no-nonsense entertainer, this film hits all the right notes. While it lacks depth in terms of storytelling and character development, its sheer entertainment value makes it worth a watch, especially if you’re a fan of Salman Khan’s signature style. Recommended for anyone in the mood for a fun, family-friendly Bollywood romp that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
