Times have changed and so has our films. Ideas that were considered taboo are now translated onto celluloid and that too in the so-called commercial setup and by reputed film banners. Shuddh Desi Romance is undoubtedly one such film that in a way challenges the sacred and age-old institution of marriage. But it’s all treated very well and very convincingly and despite the loose ends, Shuddh Desi Romance is a fairly entertaining ride!
The story of the movie: Raghu (Sushant Singh Rajput) is based in Jaipur who is primarily a tourist guide. But he also doubles up as a ‘paid baraati’ for Goyal (Rishi Kapoor) as and when required. He comes across two wonderful ladies at different points in his life – Gayatri (Parineeti Chopra) and Tara (Vaani Kapoor). How the commitment-phobic Raghu falls in love with Gayatri and Vaani and its repercussions forms the crux of the film.
Some films give out almost the entire plot in the promos. In that context, kudos to the makers of Shuddh Desi Romance! The songs and promos gave an idea about the film but not its story line. Hence, one has no idea how the film will commence and what will happen next, though in the second half, one might predict what’s going to follow. The setting and characters are very real and impressive. The film begins on a great note and the first conflict in the tale is very well executed. Meanwhile, both the romantic tracks have its moments, though Raghu-Gayatri track wins hands down! It’s just terrific! The best part of the film is undoubtedly the entire sequence before the intermission…it’s one of the most rocking intermission points ever! Things unfortunately fall a bit in the second half.
The pre-climax is slightly weak as for few minutes, one wonders where exactly the film is heading. But very soon, the film gets back on track and when one assumes the film is over, one is in for a surprise as there’s more to the film. Again, the film falters at this point but the final sequence once again lifts the movie to an extent.
Sushant Singh Rajput comfortably plays the ‘hero’ of the film and delivers a terrific performance. His cute mannerisms, disheveled hairstyle and overall attitude will be loved (notice how he says ‘sorry bhai’ to the bus conductor). The actor is immensely fortunate to be doing some great roles with established directors and banners and that too so early in his career. And the actor is going great guns for sure. Parineeti Chopra as expected is immensely sweet and adorable, even when she smokes! It was a challenging actor and she essayed it with elan and ease. At this rate, Parineeti soon will be an actor to be reckoned with! Vaani Kapoor makes a very confident debut and successfully keeps her character very real. Watch out for her killer smile! Rishi Kapoor is the surprise package of the film! He’s in many ways the fourth important character of the film and thoroughly entertains with his act. Rajesh Sharma is okay in the small role. Tarun Vyas (Gupta), Tripti Sharma (rogue bride), Imtiaz Ahmed (electrician-boyfriend) and others play their part well.
Sachin-Jigar delivers one of the most beautiful music albums of the year! The four songs are very well woven in the narrative. Each of these tracks – Chanchal Mann Ati Random, Tere Mere Beech Mein, Gulabi and title track – are beautifully shot and make for a superb watch. The instrumentals of the album too make it to the film and are praiseworthy as well. Manu Anand’s cinematography is breathtaking. The locales of Jaipur are seamlessly integrated into the narrative. Jaideep Sahni’s story is thoroughly impressive. Same goes for dialogues. In fact, the film would have fallen flat in the climax if the characters were made to speak some cheesy and unconvincing dialogues. Screenplay is impressive but loses steam to an extent in the finale and so does Maneesh Sharma’s direction. One wishes the entire idea of ‘live in vs marriage’ was put forward in a better way because at some junctures, one feels that the characters’ fear for marriage didn’t seem convincing. Thankfully, the film overall makes a great impact.
Some of the best scenes of the film:
Raghu and Gayatri in the bus.
Raghu runs away.
Raghu drops Gayatri to her house.
Raghu-Gayatri inquire about each other.
All songs of the film.
Conflict between Raghu and Gayatri.
The intermission point (hilarious!).
Raghu almost gets beaten up at the marriage.
Raghu-Tara’s first kiss.
The final scene.
On the whole, Shuddh Desi Romance is a feel-good entertainer. The characters and setting are very real and film attempts to take a bold stand against several of our deep-rooted beliefs and customs. Thankfully, it’s all done in an entertaining and convincing manner. And that’s also why one won’t mind or squirm when the characters kiss, make love, live-in, smoke and a lot more!
The second half is unfortunately weak but yet, this is a must watch! Go for it!
My rating- * * * ½