Wake up calls come in various forms; when morning calls or alternatively, when life calls. The morning ones are ones we dread on a mundane level but when life comes a knocking, that is when you really have no choice but to seriously wake up cause there ain’t no snooze button when it comes to life. And Ayan Mukherji knows just that. The debutante director’s first movie depicts the lazy life of one such Sid played by the Ranbir Kapoor. Produced by Dharma Productions, Karan Johar and Ayan Mukherji promise that WUS is a film about “coming of age.” Supported by Konkona Sen Sharma and Anupam Kher, the promos to the film vowed fun reminders of college days and a unique light-hearted story which of course, entertained. Cousin to Kajol and Rani Mukherjee, Ayan convinced me in more than one way to check out Wake Up Sid!. Did he manage to make a fan outta me? You’re about to find out.
The film opens to an ultra spoilt, bratty amateur photographer Siddharth Mehra (Ranbir Kapoor) who lacks ambition, goals and direction in life. As college comes to an end, Sid has yet to decide a future career but is more than happy to swipe his credit card around Mumbai. At a college farewell party, Sid bumps into Aisha Bannerjee (Konkona Sen Sharma) who has arrived in the city to become a writer. Their friendship blossoms as Sid helps Aisha find accommodation and learn her way around the city. In the meantime, Sid strikes a deal with his father (Anupam Kher): 30 days in the office and a Porsche in return. Needless to say, Sid fails to make it through one week and furthermore finds out he has failed yet again in college. After a big confrontation with his parents, Sid walks out of his luxurious life into Aisha’s simple abode only to realize the real world is not all roses and rainbows. Sid eventually grows into a man who finds his calling, his place in the world, responsibilities and even love.
The storyline is simply superb and as a storyteller Ayan Mukherji scores and how. Not only are the main characters well etched out, but even the relationships between each of them are individually penned perfectly. Cinematography the film is a delight to watch; audiences are treated to college life, beautiful sights of Mumbai and the growth of Sid from boy to man. The scenes between Ranbir and Konkona are shot perfectly. Their co-habitating “friendship” is an interesting angle and in a way rather refreshing. There is no hanky-panky nonsense and in fact the love they finally realize they have for one another, is worked up in hints as the film progresses. Young, refreshing and incredibly light, on some level every member of the audience will be able to relate to the film.
Watch out for the scenes between Sid and his mother; they’re incredibly shot as it changes from one of repulse to respect. Additionally check out Sid and his relationship with the city which he naturally loves and captures in his camera.
If we had to nit-pick and find flaws in the script, then the films starts on a vivacious note in the first half, as we learn and become a part of Sid’s escapades. However, it takes a dip in the screenplay and pace towards the second half.
No one else could have played Sid except Ranbir Kapoor. The actor is a natural in WUS and has earned himself a nominee in the Best Actor category. There is no point throughout the film where as a watcher you would believe anyone else could enact the role of Sid; natural and flawless, Ranbir Kapoor has proved that he can take any role and make it his own. Konkona is as usual, perfect as the mature yet slightly childish Aisha. Not only does she look refreshing but plays Aisha with great nuance and style. The supporting cast, who play Sid’s buddies, do a fine job – I was convinced! Anupam Kher is fantastic and ultra believable as is Supriya Pathak who plays Sid’s English-learning mom so well, you wish you could hug her.
Musically, WUS is on top. It definitely didn’t need any lip-syncing numbers; with the kind of film it is, the music works best in the background. In fact it leaves a better impression.
Wake Up Sid! is a fun youthful ride which needs to be experienced by everyone. Whether you’re awake or not, own a child streak or see some of Sid in yourself, your brother, your boyfriend or even if you’re reminded of your own college days – watch for a fun time. As for me, Ayan has officially found himself a fan… one of many of course, we’re sure of that.
