Love stories are often told in the backdrop of grand settings, but when you throw in a clash of cultures, a deep dive into family values, and a good dose of Bollywood melodrama, you get something like this film. Starring Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt, the film is set in modern-day India, spanning both the urban vibrancy of Delhi and the more traditional roots of Kolkata. It’s a romantic drama with a comedic edge, adding flair to the typical Bollywood love story formula.
The plot centers around Rocky, a flamboyant and fun-loving Delhi boy, and Rani, an intellectual and strong-willed Bengali girl. Their worlds couldn’t be more different, but love finds a way to bring them together. As their relationship deepens, the real challenge comes not from each other but from their vastly different families, who clash over ideologies, cultural habits, and their respective traditions. Without revealing too much, the film’s narrative builds around the couple navigating their romance through this minefield of familial expectations, leading to a heartwarming yet dramatic climax.
One of the standout aspects of the film is the acting, particularly the electric chemistry between Ranveer and Alia. Ranveer’s portrayal of Rocky is charmingly over-the-top, bringing high energy and comic relief to the film’s more dramatic moments. He manages to add layers to a character that could have easily been a stereotype of a brash Delhi boy. Alia, on the other hand, balances Rocky’s exuberance with her poised, grounded, and intellectual portrayal of Rani. She brings depth and emotion to the role, making her character’s decisions and dilemmas relatable. Supporting roles by industry veterans like Jaya Bachchan and Dharmendra also add gravitas to the film, making the family dynamics more engaging and emotionally charged.
The direction, handled by Karan Johar, is classic Bollywood at its finest, with lavish sets, beautiful costumes, and dramatic camera work. Johar has a knack for blending grandeur with intimacy, and this film is no different. He captures the emotional beats of the story while also ensuring the audience is entertained with colorful visuals and cultural nuances. The opulence of the sets, particularly the vibrant contrast between the Delhi and Kolkata settings, is worth noting. It reflects the cultural differences between the two families and is done with typical Bollywood extravagance. Costume design, especially for Alia’s character, strikes a balance between traditional elegance and modern style, further underscoring the film’s theme of balancing tradition with personal choice.
The music in this film adds to its emotional weight, with songs that range from upbeat dance numbers to soulful ballads. The soundtrack is quintessential Bollywood, with its catchy tunes and beautifully choreographed dance sequences. The background score helps accentuate the high points of the narrative, enhancing the emotional resonance of key moments. The cinematography, especially in the family settings and the large musical sequences, captures the vibrancy and drama of Indian culture, making it a visual treat.
Themes of family, tradition, and love are explored thoughtfully, though the film treads on familiar territory. There’s a sense of déjà vu in how the cultural conflicts are portrayed, but the freshness comes from how these issues are handled with humor and heart. The emotional arc of the characters feels genuine, and despite the melodramatic tendencies, the film doesn’t lose its heart in the spectacle.
In conclusion, this film is a typical Karan Johar creation—lavish, emotional, and entertaining. The chemistry between the lead actors, the grandeur of the sets, and the fun musical numbers make it a delight to watch. Though the story isn’t revolutionary, its execution keeps you invested in the characters’ journey. If you’re a fan of Bollywood and enjoy films that mix romance, family drama, and comedy, this is definitely one to add to your watchlist.
