5 reasons why ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani’ is a total package and its brilliant

If you, like me, too have doubts about Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, then you’re in for a pleasant surprise. I went to watch the film with extremely low expectations because I couldn’t quite resonate with trailer or the songs.

But RRKPK is a total package and its brilliant.

Set in Delhi, India, we’re introduced to the worlds of Rocky Randhawa (Ranveer Singh) and Rani Chatterjee (Alia Bhatt), both of whom are poles apart.

While Rocky is a loud, unpolished, and flamboyant Punjabi man, Rani is a sophisticated, ambitious Bengali woman. But these opposites attract in an unconventional way, which is a real treat (not revealed in the trailer – so no spoilers here).

Here are 5 reasons why the film has the potential to become a classic and why I thoroughly enjoyed it:

Please note: the following may include spoilers.

Karan Johar’s sensibilities

Johar is a filmmaker who isn’t afraid to take risks or make mistakes and is highly aware of evolving times. But he also loves and values his signature style of being extra, and RRKPK is no different. It’s a through-and-through “Dharma Production” from its actors, sets, drama, special appearances, and even low-cut Gucci shirts.

However, what sets it apart from any other mushy love story are the evolved themes it explores.

The storyteller understands the pulse of the audience and has masterfully woven some progressive, sensitive, and socially relevant themes in a superbly entertaining film.

What we witnessed in the trailer is truly just a glimpse of the grandeur that the film presents, which is worth the hype.

Music

The Johar-Pritam duo is known to make memorable music for the movies. But this time, after a very long time, they’ve (thankfully) gone beyond the tried-and-tested formula of remakes. The album is packed with only originals – all of which are quite hummable and sure to be hits at parties and weddings in days to come.

However, the true gems are the refreshing use of timeless retro tracks such as abhi na jao chhod kar, ke dil abhi bhara nahi picturised on icons like Dharmendra and Shabana Azmi. The nostalgia of good old Bollywood songs and sequences they are placed in will surely melt your heart.

Once again, Johar touches the pulse of his audience because pyaar puraane gaano pe hi hota hai (old songs have the power to make you fall in love).

Also, watch out for a whistle-worthy twist before Dhindhora Baje Re.

Sensitive subjects

In recent times, there has been a noticeable trend in films attempting to be “woke” by addressing critical social issues. While this movement is commendable, there is a risk of losing sight of the core subject or narrative in the process.

RRKPK builds a story touching upon multiple themes such as gender equality that goes both ways, body shaming, judgements, and patriarchy, but it manages to strike a balance without getting too preachy.

Both Rocky and Rani, and their respective families have moments of educating other characters as well as the audience on sensitive subjects. But good storytelling prevails that not only engages and enlightens but also entertains.

Watch out for Rocky’s emotional breakdown with Rani’s family on judgements and the heated argument between lead characters in the second half. It’s as real as it gets.

Balanced humor, drama and meta

Writers Ishita Moitra, Shashank Khaitan and Sumit Roy have developed an absolute cracker of a script. Every sequence and every character is crafted carefully with distinct features and dialogues that resonate as real conversations.

There are intended moments of cringe, drama, emotions, love and even empowerment that play out beautifully.

My favorite are the meta moments of Johar deliberately mocking himself and his previous films’ quirks.

I must say, the film has mass appeal and potential for being a classic with high repeat value, like the good old K3G, Kal Ho Naa Ho and the likes.

Cast

Bhatt as Rani is mesmerising. She exudes confidence and charisma essential to play such a character. Its heart-warming to see her journey from the naïve Ishq Waala Love transform to a more mature Phagun ke Mausam waala love.

Singh as Rocky is a show-stealer. He makes the over-the-top character with cringe jokes, broken English, and “cheap” taste in fashion lovable… and even acceptable. The actor has once again proved his versatility as a performer and fearlessness of pushing his own boundaries.

While he is the heart of the film, Bhatt is the soul, and the ensemble cast are its pillars.

RRKPK rests on the shoulders of its tremendously talented cast. From Anjali Anand, Aamir Bashir, Kshitee Jog to Tata Roy Chowdhury and Churni Ganguly, every actor is incredible in their parts lifting the story forward.

And legends like Jaya Bachchan, Shabana Azmi and Dharmendra are a site for sore eyes.

Popcorn Rating – [4/5]

Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani is an absolute entertainer. At no point does the film lose momentum while taking us through the whirlwind of emotions, conflicts, resolutions, and romance for the ages (really trying hard to avoid spoilers). Be ready to feel all the feels.

RRKPK is playing at cinemas worldwide on 28 July 2023.