An elaborate family drama from Bollywood has been long coming. The premise of Zoya’s latest venture might seem like a mash-up of scenes from Dil Chahta Hai and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara as it explores a variety of relationships.
Plot: Industrialist Kamal Mehra (Anil) publically boasts a successful empire while having the perfect family life. In reality, Kamal’s business is failing, his wife Neelam (Shefali) is neglected by him and his relationship with his adult children Kabir (Ranveer) and Ayesha (Priyanka) is poor.
To maintain public credibility, Kamal and Neelam invite their friends on a 10-day Mediterranean cruise to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary.
These relationships have a stir-up on this cruise, with the fate of the Mehra’s crumbling empire resulting in a few surprises.
Verdict: It can best be described as a smart, character-driven experience. More importantly, the tone is beautifully balanced with lighter moments and dramatic sequences.
This is the ultimate modern Indian family movie which reinvents stereotypes instead of recycling ancient ideals. Perhaps it is here that the film divides its audience. The wealthy Indians are recognisable by class and status rather than traditions and principles. It is an uncompromisingly glossy and glamorous depiction of modern society and Zoya depicts this with finesse.
While the editing is in dire need of a trim, the writers try too hard to squeeze in an actual story for every couple. Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy’s tunes are not memorable, but their treatment is breath-taking, each given an eccentric personality of its own.
The peppy screenplay and direction might not win awards for originality, but it’s an admirable effort from a young female film-maker. It holds your attention for extracting the right amount of emotion from likeable characters playing out quirky and sentimental scenarios.
Each actor brings their best and the ensemble delivers handsome all around.
The standout performances come from Shefali, Ranveer and Priyanka.
Ranveer is the all-in-one entertainment package who never disappoints regardless of the amount of foolishness or sentimentality his character demands. Anil is charismatic with a towering presence that suits his lavish lifestyle. Farhan once again shines in a guest appearance.
Recommendation: Zoya returns to the classic style of cinema for a celebration of family, aimed at family audiences.
l Celebrity journalist and media personality, Varshan Sookhun, presents The Midday Spice on Lotus FM, 92.5 to 103.8 FM, Monday to Friday, 12pm to 3pm and Bollywood Billboard from 2pm to 5pm on Lotus FM on Saturdays.