With a refreshing and breezy charm, this coming-of-age film stars Ranbir Kapoor and Konkona Sen Sharma in a story that captures the tumultuous journey from carefree youth to self-aware adulthood. Set in the fast-paced yet intimate city of Mumbai, this drama-comedy follows Sid Mehra, a directionless young man whose life shifts when he meets Aisha, an ambitious newcomer in the city. The film brings out the essence of modern, urban Indian youth while touching on themes of self-discovery, independence, and growing up, all set against the backdrop of vibrant Mumbai.
The story centers around Sid, a spoiled and carefree college student who is content in the comforts of his parents’ wealth and spends his days partying, hanging out with friends, and lazing around. When he fails his final exams, his life takes an unexpected turn, and he ends up walking out on his family. As fate would have it, he crosses paths with Aisha, a mature and independent woman who has just moved to Mumbai to pursue her dreams of becoming a writer. Sid and Aisha’s friendship becomes the turning point in Sid’s life, as he begins to see life beyond his limited world. Through small, life-altering experiences, he starts understanding responsibility and the value of hard work. The journey he undertakes is both heartfelt and relatable, showcasing the ups and downs of self-discovery without giving in to melodrama.
One of the strongest elements of the film is the acting, with Ranbir delivering an impressive performance as Sid. He brings an endearing, boyish charm to the character while gradually revealing Sid’s deeper emotions and vulnerabilities as he realizes his own shortcomings. His transformation feels organic, reflecting the rawness of self-reflection, and he manages to make Sid both frustratingly immature and deeply lovable. Konkona’s portrayal of Aisha is equally commendable, with her nuanced performance adding a sense of grounding to the film. Aisha is intelligent, practical, and compassionate, and Konkona brings an effortless depth to her role, making Aisha a compelling counterpart to Sid’s carefree nature. Their chemistry on screen is subtle yet engaging, as their differences push them to grow in unexpected ways without falling into predictable romantic tropes.
Direction by Ayan Mukerji is spot-on, with a sensitive and refreshing take on the coming-of-age genre. For a debut director, Mukerji shows a mature understanding of storytelling and character dynamics, keeping the focus firmly on Sid’s journey without overdramatizing it. He gives space for small moments to breathe, allowing viewers to connect emotionally with Sid’s gradual shift in perspective. The choice of setting in Mumbai adds layers to the film, with Mukerji highlighting both the city’s charm and its chaotic nature. Through scenes of bustling streets, rainy days, and scenic marine views, the direction brings out the city as a silent character that shapes Sid’s experiences. Mukerji’s light touch is evident in the way he handles Sid and Aisha’s friendship, keeping it realistic and refreshing rather than succumbing to cliched romance.
The cinematography by Anil Mehta is another asset, visually capturing Mumbai in a way that feels authentic and personal. Mehta’s work is sensitive to the film’s mood, using warm and vibrant tones that bring out the joy and vibrancy of youth while capturing Sid’s journey with both color and light. There are some especially beautiful scenes shot at the beach and around Marine Drive that give the film a poetic quality, reflecting Sid’s inner conflicts and growth. The camera work is subtle yet impactful, capturing the city’s raw beauty while highlighting the comfort of familiar spaces like Aisha’s modest yet cozy apartment. This visual storytelling supports the narrative without being too flashy, allowing the characters to remain at the heart of the story.
Music plays a vital role in setting the tone of the film, with Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy’s soundtrack perfectly matching the energy and mood of each scene. Tracks like “Iktaara” stand out, capturing Sid’s moments of self-reflection and emotional depth with soulful lyrics and melodies. The background score, soft and understated, adds to the flow without overpowering the scenes. Songs are woven naturally into the film’s fabric, enhancing the emotional resonance of key moments, whether it’s Sid’s playful, carefree days or his more reflective, lonely nights. The music mirrors Sid’s journey, going from light-hearted and whimsical to more contemplative, effectively adding layers to his transformation.
The film’s production design and costume choices further enhance its appeal, with Sid’s wardrobe reflecting his laid-back, privileged lifestyle and Aisha’s simple, practical clothing representing her grounded nature. The interiors of Aisha’s apartment, with its modest and artistic setup, contrast sharply with Sid’s luxurious home, visually highlighting the differences in their personalities and backgrounds. The attention to detail in the settings is commendable, from the messy clutter of Sid’s bedroom to the cozy corners of Aisha’s living space, creating an authentic environment that feels lived-in and real.
While the movie succeeds in many areas, it does stumble slightly with pacing in the middle, where some scenes could have been trimmed to maintain momentum. A few subplots, such as Sid’s interactions with his friends, feel underdeveloped and could have added more depth to his transformation. Yet, the film manages to keep viewers engaged with its relatable story and characters, balancing light-hearted moments with the heavier themes of responsibility and maturity. Mukerji’s direction brings out the charm of the everyday struggles of youth, where sometimes, even the simplest moments of realization can lead to significant change.
Overall, this film is a well-crafted exploration of self-growth and friendship, blending humor with heartfelt moments to create a memorable coming-of-age story. Ranbir’s and Konkona’s performances anchor the film with authenticity, and Mukerji’s direction captures the essence of Mumbai and the beauty of personal transformation. It’s recommended for those who appreciate character-driven stories and films that capture the bittersweet journey from youth to adulthood. This movie is a breath of fresh air in Bollywood’s coming-of-age genre, offering a slice-of-life portrayal that resonates with audiences of all ages.
