It is a bit hard to not shrug off Rocket Singh-Salesman of the Year as a commercial popcorn flick with the Yashraj Films banner, similar on the lines of the disastrous, loud Dil Bole Hadippa. But where the difference lies between these two is the treatment. Director Shimit Amin makes sure it stays real, and that ‘s where the movie scores.
Harpreet Singh Bedi, (Ranbir Kapoor) who succeeded in barely passing his college fails miserably in the world of sales. The scheming, treacherous cut-throat attributes ‘required’ for the job, leaves him dumbfounded. His goodness and honesty is rewarded with insults and abuse by his superiors and co-workers. Fed up, he hitches upon his own rookie sales company incorporating others dissatisfied at his company. Promoting service over sales and advocating fair means at the sake of sacrificing profit, he soon builds a brand name.
It is a triumph of the underdog movie minus the frills. Shimit masters most at getting realism right. The depiction of cubicled office atmosphere with intense rivalry and politics spot on and the office party scene will leave you in splits. However, it is the hour after the interval which is undoubtedly the best.
One of the biggest reasons for the film’s success is its supporting cast. The motley of Hardeep ‘s friends and colleagues collectively are responsible for the success of Rocket Singh. There is the evil nasty director, porn- addict service man, ambitious receptionist and lovable peon- who all deserve kudos for their performances. Salim-Sulaiman’s music blends in beautifully in this song-free flick.
Ranbir Kapoor, like his illustrous genealogy has mastered looking astoundingly sincere in front of the camera. If Wake Up Sid was about him growing up, this movie took it to the next step. It would be safe to say he reinvented the Sikhs in Bollywood. Sardars usually are shown as loud, lovable and their buffoonery introduces the comic element in a film. Akshay Kumar as Happy in Singhh is King added style and now Hardeep adds the element of maturity. His character is so devoid of the usual histrionics we are used to, that at times we forget his religion only to be reminded by his bright turban. Shahzahn Padamsee is forgettable in her four-scene debut.
The film’s snappy pace is enjoyable however the last 30 minutes are a drag. Tighter editing was required.
To say with Rocket Singh, Amin gave us a landmark movie would take it too far- that credit goes to Chak De India. However with Rocket Singh, he proved he could create that magic again. The script belongs to a small-budget flick which have mushroomed in Bollywood since three years. Shimit blended it with A-list production value and star cast proving that intelligent commercial cinema is a reality.
Welcome to the new Bollywood.
