Wake Up Sid was probably one of the most underrated movies of 2009. However, this rom-com came as a surprise package to many. The fresh new plot and characters made this flick a pleasure to watch.
Ayan Mukerji, the rookie director has handled the subject of a spoiled college brat quite intelligently in his debut film. Unlike Bollywood movie protagonists, Sid is a real life character. He is a spoiled Mumbaikar, unaware of his responsibilities, and even fails in his college finals. The story revolves round how he met a Bengali girl Aisha, who is markedly different from him, and how she changes Sid’s attitude towards life. And yes, eventually they do fall in love and you will love the way the two unite.
It’s a "Ranvir all the way" movie really, and Ranvir Kapoor does enthrall his audience. His fans have a new reason to cheer now after this movie. Ranvir as the protagonist Sid delves into the skin of the character and makes his celluloid avatar remarkably reliable.
Konkona Sen Sharma pulls up another brilliant performance as Aisha. Her silent stares, her dialog delivery, her cheerful presence on the screen is bound to impress all. Konkona plays the girl of today, big dreams in her eyes, struggling alone to make a mark in Mumbai, the city of dreams.
Anupam Kher and Supriya Pathak provide a powerful support cast as Sid’s parents. Kashmira Shah was a real surprise. Not just the oomph factor, she has displayed proper sensitivity to her character. Rahul Khanna though, fails to impress. The group of actors playing Sid’s friends, specially the girl who’s closest to him, are also noteworthy.
Music deserves a special mention. Nice, lilting melodies complement the visuals. Listen to the peppy title track Wake Up Sid and of course, Iktara. Iktara is one of the most soulful numbers in recent times. The art direction of the office of the magazine where Konkona and Ranvir works, Mumbai Mantra, is quite a wow. You will love to work in such a office.
All in all, Wake Up Sid, is a very well made movie. It’s also a wake up call and an eye opener to the youngsters of today. This movie will make them understand why one should not neglect their families, and forget their responsibilities. Gen X is not really a fizzy drink gulping, cool dude generation. It has got talent, and is cerebral and intelligent. We just need to channelise our talent and energies in the right direction.
Watch this movie definitely! It’s a food for your thoughts!