Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara
Overview
Today marks the 10th anniversary of this comedy drama film. This movie takes us on a beautiful journey of self-discovery, friendship, love, life, adventure and family. Having watched this in theaters on its release as a college going student, I recall liking the film a lot. Back then it felt like a nice road trip film with some adventure and good comic relief. But when I viewed this film again a few days back, I realized that this movie is so much more than just a road trip or friendship. On my first viewing, I missed out on the little subtleties. Now after 10 years, having more experience of life, this movie had a very different impact; I understand the message of the film loud and clear which tells us – “Live life to the fullest because it happens only once”.
If you are an Indian you have probably watched this film. if not; do watch it. This is just not a film but an emotion and experience.
Synopsis
This is the story of three friends Kabir (Abhay Deol), Imran (Farhan Akhtar) and Arjun (Hritik Roshan) who head to Spain for Kabir’s Bachelor party. These childhood friends have a long-standing pact to visit a country and do adventure sports chosen by each one of them. They decide to go to Spain for 3 weeks.
As adults they have extremely contrasting personalities. Over the years they have lost touch and do not share the same bond as before. Arjun who lives in London now, is a workaholic and gives money more importance than relations, Imran is a goofy copywriter who works in advertisement and has secrets of his own, whereas Kabir is the anchor of the group who seems more grounded yet lost.
When they embark on this journey none of them have the slightest idea the impact it will have on their lives. They are all restless within but with every passing adventure they learn and discover something new and you see a character shift within. During the journey they meet certain people, who teach them valuable lessons of life be it their diving instructor Laila (Katrina Kaif) or the famous artist Salman Habib (Naseeruddin Shah). By the time the movie reaches its climax you see the trio have managed to somewhat overcome their fears and have this new found courage.
Takeaway
This is not just a film but an experience. This definitely has the nostalgia, it is beautiful, has heart touching poems throughout, which talks about life. Breath taking cinematography, soulful music with meaningful lyrics and most importantly top-notch performances by every cast member. This movie takes us on a beautiful journey of self-discovery, friendship, love, life, adventure and family.
Direction/Screenplay/Music/Cinematography/Cast
This is just the second film of Zoya Akhtar (Director) and frankly its flawless. She has also written the story and screenplay along with Reema Kagti. The duo has successfully managed to evoke the right emotions. Everyone involved in this film knew exactly what the scrip demanded. The dialogues are penned by Farhan Akhtar. He is so talented and good in every role he takes up. The performances by all are grounded and real, including the supporting cast Kalki Koechlin and Katrina Kaif. Every scene is this film is picture perfect. Carlos Catalan (Cinematographer) has successfully captured the beauty of Spain. Some of the best scenes are while they perform the adventure sports. The music is by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy along with the lyrics of Javed Akhtar sir which is the heart of the film. it is soulful and definitely one of their better works.
Disclaimer: The above review solely illustrates the views of the writer.