Dear Zindagi | Film Review
Jo dil se lage…Usey keh do Hi, Hi, Hi
Jo dil na lage….Usey keh do bye, bye, bye
Gauri Shinde’s second directorial film Dear Zindagi opens up as the diary of a young girl (nope, not quoting the book here) and her journey. It begins with Kaira’s (Alia Bhatt) dreams, ambitions and ends up by putting her broken past together. Although the story here revolves around Kaira’s life and her chronicles, but Dr. Jehangir Khan (Shah Rukh Khan) aka Jug becomes a critical part of the story telling process.
Kaira is a cinematographer, who dreams of filming a feature film. Unfortunately, this golden opportunity arrives at her doorstep, along with a heartbreak. One on hand, she is chasing her dreams, while on the other, she suffers a heartbreak. As a result, the girl is unable to cope with all the trauma and loses her sleep. She seeks help from Dr. Jehangir Khan, a psychiatrist with a completely different take on mental health. Kaira finds a confidante in Jug and opens up about her broken past as well as the anxieties in her life. The film also has other characters that may not contribute to the story, but had their share of roles in the film. But, Dear Zindagi is predominantly Kaira’s story.
The first half of the film manages to entertain the audience with Alia’s natural act as Kaira. A few other characters too perform well. However, the film has a slow pace and a few moments here, there tend to lead towards boredom. Moments before the interval, Shah Rukh’s entry as Jug creates some serious curiosity and you look forward to watching the story move forward. As the second half kicks off, we see how Jug imparts gyaan and helps Kaira find herself back. He inspires her to look at life through a different perspective. Shah Rukh’s character uses some absorbing metaphors in the film to convey these points, which we thought was quite interesting. However, after a point, his character takes a turn to being just a philosophical guru.
The screenplay of the film is scattered and we don’t know if it was done deliberately in order to symbolise Kaira’s own scattered emotions and life. Amit Trivedi has done a good job with the music, and even after the film, the song ‘Love you Zindagi’ stays with you. Film maker Gauri Shinde had really raised the bar with English Vinglish and our expectations were high. However, it seems like while focusing on the characters and making them the highlight of this film, the story got lost in the process. For us, the only thing which kept the film going was Alia and SRK’s fabulous performance. The young actress has once again proved that she is indeed one of the finest female actors of her generation.
Verdict: Good performances overshadow the flaws in this one. Give it a watch for Alia and SRK!
What are your thoughts on Dear Zindagi? Leave a comment below or join the conversation on Twitter
The Body Shop Tea Tree Range - Review
For someone with acne / blemish prone, the popular Tea Tree Oil by The Body Shop has been a must have. It's been a part of my skincare regimen since the longest time, and I have been mighty impressed with it's result so far. Recently, the brand launched some new products under this highly popular range. We were introduced to some of them and post a month long trial, the verdict is out! Have they managed to impress us again? Read on to find out.
What? - The Body Shop Tea Tree range
Products reviewed: The Body Shop 3-in-1 Wash.Scrub.Mask
The Body Shop Anti-Imperfection Daily Solution
Price: Rs 1295 and Rs 1595 respectively
Quantity: 125ml and 50 ml respectively
Skin Type: All (specifically blemish prone / oily skin)
Product: The Body Shop 3-in-1 Wash.Scrub.Mask
What does the product promise? - A 3-in-1 product which can be used as a wash, a scrub or a mask to combat blemishes and excess oil. When used as a wash, the foaming clay removes impurities and excess oil. As a scrub, the exfoliants unclog pores, smooth skin’s surface and reduce the appearance of blackheads. When applied as a mask, the drying clay reduces blackheads and shine, deeply cleanses, mattifies and tightens pores.
How to use? - As a face wash: Wet face and apply a small amount on your face, massaging the product in circular motions until the mud foams. Rinse off. Can be used daily.
As a scrub: Massage gently onto damp skin in circular motions (with special focus on the T-zone). Add more water until the mud foams, then rinse off. Can be used 2-3 times per week.
As a mask: Apply thin layer to dry face, avoiding the eye area. Leave on for 5-10 minutes. Then add water until the mud foams, and rinse off. Can be used 1-2 times per week.
Packaging: The product comes in a sturdy plastic tube, which is dark green (matching the tea tree range). The tube comes with a flip top, which helps dispense the product easily. Easy to carry, does not spill and is also travel friendly. Plus, for a 3-in-1 product like this, the flip top also helps maintain hygiene.
Texture: Creamy and slightly grainy. The texture of this 3-in-1 product is slightly creamier than most scrubs available in the market. When used as a mask, it spreads very well (you can use a face mask brush for best results). As a face wash, it lathers up and cleanses your face gently, while as a scrub, the product does a great job of exfoliation. The exfoliants are not very harsh and this product has a nice, subtle tea tree fragrance.
Product: The Body Shop Anti-Imperfection Daily Solution
What does the product promise? - A lightweight, pre-serum concentrate that combats blemishes and improves the overall condition of skin.After 4 weeks, skin looks and feels purified, clearer, smoother and healthier. It also helps reduce redness and imperfections.
How to use? - Gentle enough to use daily as part of your morning routine. After cleansing, toning and preparing skin with an essence lotion, apply all over the face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Follow with an eye cream and moisturiser. For oily skin, can be used in place of the 'serum' stage of a skincare regimen.
Packaging: The product comes in a glass bottle, like most other popular serums and facial oils by The Body Shop. Keeping up with the colour theme of this range, the serum is housed in a dark green glass bottle, and comes with a dropper, which is a plus. Droppers are easy to use and helps dispense just the right amount of product.
Texture: The solution is transparent and extremely light. If not for the strong tea tree fragrance, you could almost pass it off as a drop of water, except that the product is not that runny. It's a light weight serum that absorbs quickly. The texture is almost similar to another popular product from this range, namely the Tea Tree Oil.
Overall Experience: I've been using the Tea Tree Oil and the Tea Tree Night Lotion since quite sometime. So, when the brand re-launched a few products with new packaging, along with new products in this range, we were more than happy to test it. So, I added the Anti-Imperfection Daily Solution and the 3-in-1 Wash.Scrub.Mask to my daily regimen. While the serum was used as part of my morning routine (followed by the everyday moisturiser that I use), the face wash was paired with the night lotion and tea tree oil that I already have, as part of the night routine. Since I don't use a scrub, I tested the 3-in-1 product as a mask once a week. Now, a lot of people often confuse acne with blemishes. There are not the same. Firstly, acne is characterised by a host of different issues, which includes pimples, blackheads and white heads. Whereas a blemish is the condition where your skin is de-colorised or darkened. But yes, acne and blemishes are connected by the fact that blemishes are commonly occur on acne prone skin, and is mostly the result of a post-pimple damage. Most products in this range focus on blemishes and overtime, do a fine job of clearing your skin off those pesky marks.
The 3-in-1 product keeps your skin feeling squeaky clean and fresh. As a mask, it does help you get rid of blackheads quite effectively. Personally, i've always been a fan of the Tea Tree Oil, which works wonders a targeted care treatment product and is a must have for anyone with acne. As for the serum, it leaves your skin feeling mattified, fresh and healthy, though it is absolutely important to follow up with a hydrating moisturiser. The serum does a good job of leaving your skin feeling clear and healthy over time (give it at least a month to show some results). Though I must add, the real test of this range, especially for those with dry skin (like me) shall begin now, as winters approach. However, the range pretty much lives up to all the expectations and does a good job (along with supporting the cause of sustainable growth of the Kenyan Organic Oil). Especially the 3-in-1 wash.scrub.mask, which is a travel must have for us now.
Pros: Great packaging (3-in1 product)
Subtle fragrance
Lives up to most promises
Leaves your skin feeling fresh and healthy
Well priced
Not tested on animals
Supports a good cause
Cons: Glass bottle (serum) is not travel friendly
Verdict: If you have blemish prone skin, then don't think twice. Add these products to your daily skin care routine and you are sure to see the difference! Definitely a thumbs up from us.
Have you tried any product from The Body Shop Tea Tree range? Leave your comment below or join the conversation on Twitter | Instagram | Snapchat | Facebook
Love,
The Dancebee
No relationship exists without love - Alia Bhatt | Exclusive Interview
It has been a great year for the effervescent Alia Bhatt. While her films went on to become successful, the actress earned much praise for her performances and the wonderful transformation - from the metropolitan free spirit Tia in Kapoor & Sons to the rustic girl with dreams in Udta Punjab. With two successful films behind her, the actress is now gearing up for her next release - the much anticipated Dear Zindagi, helmed by Gauri Shinde. We have seen her hop-skip-jump to attend one promotional event after another and single handedly managing most tasks, to spread the word about her film. In between one such hectic day, we managed to catch up with Alia at a suburban hotel, in a very candid mood. The actress walked in looking pretty as ever, with minimal accessories and make up. She was oozing confidence and perhaps telling the world – what you see is what you get. Excerpts from our candid tete-a-tete with the actress:
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| Image Credit: Verve Magazine |
Now that the film is 3 days away from release, how will you sum up your experience working in Dear Zindagi?
It was a very fresh and wonderful experience. Dear Zindagi is a unique film, as the idea and theme is very different from what we usually see nowadays. The entire experience is very dear to me.
Kaira – the character you are playing in Dear Zindagi, is also very different. Do you relate to her in your real life?
Well, Kaira is impulsive, while Alia is not. Having said that, I must admit that from all the characters I have played on screen till date, this was the closest character to my real life. Also, this film is meant for the youth in their twenties. They will relate a lot to it. Ditto their parents.
This is also your first film with Shahrukh Khan. What has been your biggest takeaway from this particular experience?
He has been in the industry for 25 years. But still, he is so humble. What I like most about him is the fact that he will go out of the way to make you comfortable. It's a rare thing for a superstar like him. And also he doesn't carry the burden of his stardom on the sets or even otherwise. He treats everyone equally. While shooting, we would talk about anything and everything. He would always make sure that we are comfortable. One common thing between me and him would be our thinking patterns. They match very well.
He has been in the industry for 25 years. But still, he is so humble. What I like most about him is the fact that he will go out of the way to make you comfortable. It's a rare thing for a superstar like him. And also he doesn't carry the burden of his stardom on the sets or even otherwise. He treats everyone equally. While shooting, we would talk about anything and everything. He would always make sure that we are comfortable. One common thing between me and him would be our thinking patterns. They match very well.
Can you tell us about your first meeting with him?
He always says that he never avoids my dad's phone calls. I remember my father’s friends wanted to meet him, so we all went to his house. I must have been around 11 years old. I was spellbound while looking at him, and my dad still has that picture of me with him. And when I started shooting for Dear Zindagi, dad actually sent me that picture.
Shah Rukh is known as the King of Romance. But he has not played a romantic role opposite you in this one. Would you like to play such a role opposite him?
There was no scope for romance in this film. But, I also believe that no relationship exists without love. We don’t share a romantic relation with everyone, but still, there is love. Although, if given a chance, I would want to be cast opposite him, provided the story is appropriate. The story should make sense, with an older man and a younger girl. Because obviously, we can’t play people of the same age.
Your next release, Badrinath ki Dulhania, how is that shaping up?
It is a desi, heartland romance. It's like that flavour of desi ghee. I feel Varun (Dhawan) is doing great in the comedy space and is growing. We are proud of each other and the way we are growing are artists. Recently, we have completed a schedule in Singapore for the film. It was great fun.
Recently, your father commented that you are more talented than your sister Pooja Bhatt. What do you have to say?
Pooja Bhatt is a great artist, and an amazing producer and director. I will never be able to do that.
Force 2 | Film Review
When John Abraham does action, he does it in style. And that's exactly what he offers in Force 2 - his much awaited sequel to one of 2011's successful films, Force. If the actor - producer says that he will promote good scripts that require never before seen action, he definitely means business. And fortunately for us, we get to see that and a lot more in Force 2.
Set in China, India and a large part of Budapest, Force 2 is an out and out action thriller. The film opens with brutal assassinations of multiple undercover agents, who have been associated with the Indian intelligence bureau - RAW, across Asia. One of these agents (Freddy Daruwala in a cameo), now dead, was closely associated with ACP Yashvardhan (John Abraham), an officer from Mumbai Police whose wife and friends were killed in the first film. During the chase (a well shot one at that) before his death, the agent leaves a hidden clue for Yashvardhan. While the nation's security is under threat, the Indian Intelligence Bureau asks their trusted european division officer - KK (Sonakshi Sinha), to join Yashvardhan and trace the links to these well planned attacks. One thing leads to another, and they discover the mastermind is none other than a mole named Shiv Sharma (Tahir Raj Bhasin) working for the Indian embassy in Budapest. What follows next is a thrilling chase, where both Yashvardhan and KK fight it out to nab the antagonist and meanwhile, ensure the safety of other RAW agents, who are alive.
If the trailer left you in awe, the film is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. So much, that even a short washroom break might result in missing out on some serious action. The film purely focuses on it's lead characters and the mission, maintaining a smooth flow of the story and excellent pace, without any hiccups. Amitabh Shukla and Mohana Krishna's editing is crisp, while the cinematography by Imre Juhasz (of Die Hard) and Mohana Krishna is perfect. Dialogues and the story penned by Jasneet Reen and Parvez Shaikh is good. But, the hero of this film from the technical department has go to be the action and background score. We love how the action in this film is a break away from the same old pow-wow that we get to see in almost every Bollywood film (not that we don't like it, but hey, we also love experiments). Force 2 has got some jaw dropping stunts, with Abraham lifting everything from cars to window grills, shattering glasses and breaking doors. The action sequences (by Franz Spilhaus of Commando fame) are slick, stylish and impactful, as we see the lead characters punch, knock and kick the hell outta those bad boys. A particular mention of the fabulous and refreshingly different climax action sequence. The film maker and action team have experimented with the visuals and shot everything like a first person shooter game, reminding us of Infinity Ward's Call of Duty. Amaal Malik's background score is top notch and matches the film's pace and requirements very well. Music of the film, with just two songs, is average.
John Abraham is undoubtedly the heart, soul and face of this film. As the intense and 'thoda satka hua' ACP Yashvardhan, he performs exceptionally well. With two action oriented films in the same year, Sonakshi Sinha is clearly turning out to be one of our favourite action heroes. As the tough RAW agent KK, Sonakshi delivers a fine performance. This girl has got some serious action moves, bruh! Tahir Raj Bhasin as the villainous yet vulnerable Shiv Sharma is spine chillingly good. Other cast members, including Adil Hussain, Narendra Jha among others, have also done a decent job. Also, we were happy to see Genelia D'souza Deshmukh's infectious smile back on the screen, even if it lasted two minutes. Filmmaker Abhinay Deo, who has earlier impressed us with Delhi Belly and the Indian version of television series - 24, does a fine job of bringing the best of action, thrills and entertainment together in this well crafted, gripping film.
Ismein action, drama, emotion aur entertainment hain. Go, watch it and join the chase!
Verdict: If you enjoy a well made action - drama, filled with thrills and some high octane action, we highly recommend this one for you.
Love,
The Dancebee
I don't think I can ever hurt anyone - John Abraham | Exclusive Interview
2016 has been a good year for John Abraham. The actor has had two releases - Dishoom and Rocky Handsome, with the former performing well at the box office and the latter earning him compliments for a fine performance. He is also busy collaborating with young minds on new projects, while as a producer, he is always on the look out for quality content. John is ready to end the year with a bang, (quite literally) as he has got Force 2 - sequel to 2011's successful action film, up for release. With a promising trailer, packed with high-octane action sequences, bike chases and jaw dropping stunts (some performed by stuntmen, who have worked on films like Mad Max and have flown in all the way from Hollywood), this much awaited espionage thriller is all set to hit the screens tomorrow. We caught up with John, who will be seen essaying the lead protagonist ACP Yashvardhan, in between various promotional activities to discuss his love for action films, causes close to his heart and more. Excerpts from our conversation:
What is it about Force 2, now a franchise, that appealed the most to you?
To answer your question, I feel Force 2 has tremendous potential to be one of Bollywood's biggest action franchise. The sequel is properly connected to the first film and when you watch the film, you will be able to connect the dots quite easily. Also, the plot of this film is relevant in today's times.
We noticed that you have performed some major action stunts in this film.
Also, got home with bruises and injuries (laughs). See, it's an out and out action film, and these stunts were a huge part of it. While shooting in Budapest, I did suffer a knee injury and was back to work the very next day, much against my doctor's wishes. Although, I did undergo a surgery while the film was being shot and was back on the sets after almost a fortnight.
You always confessed that you like being an action hero. What do you think of films made under this genre today and as a producer, how would you like to bring about changes?
Action films have always been close to my heart, and are a hit among masses. Keeping our audience in mind and how much they enjoy films that involve action, our films need to have a good mix of incredible action sequences and the perfect story. That way, the audience can enjoy wholesome entertainment. I personally believe that action sequences in our films can be believable for the audience, only if they are projected sensibly. As a producer, I am trying to achieve that in Force 2, by backing a good story with world class action.
As a producer, you are also focusing on regional cinema.
Yes. Our Marathi production venture shall hopefully kick off in the first quarter of 2017. It's an amazing script that we are working on. Honestly, I feel regional cinema is producing some incredible, quality films with great content. The Hindi film industry can definitely learn a lot from various regional film industries.
During our last interaction, Jacqueline said that you are tough on the outside, but a complete softie at heart. How true is that?
Very true. The general impression is that I am very tough. I tell people, I have never touched or hurt anybody in my life. Not even a fly. And no one has touched me. I don’t think I can ever hurt anyone. In case anyone comes up to hurt me, I’ll probably just buckle up, take a few shots and then ask, “Are you happy? Now, please carry on with your life.” But, that’s the way I am made. I have never purposely given a feeling of intimidation to anyone. People who know me will know that I am soft like candy floss. It’s easy to break John Abraham. Just break him (laughs).
You have supported several causes and campaigned for activities. What are the causes close to your heart, and is there any cause or issue that you think needs more focus and awareness?
Cruelty against animals is a big issue for me, and I have always stood up for it. I don’t understand how parents bring up a child, who goes on to throw stones on a living being, who cant even speak. But, outside of that, a core issue that I would like about are the number of elderly citizens who have been left alone to survive, by their own children. Today, we are losing the values that we had. My mom takes care of some elderly people. I have seen depressing stories of these individuals, and there is an experience that I would like to share here. This one boy in his late 20’s, left his father at the home for elderly and said, “Dad, stay here. I’ll be back tomorrow.” The boy never came back. He left for the U.S. In fact, when his father passed away, the boy didn’t even come back for the final rites. So, what I am trying to say is, individuals today are all consumed by themselves. It’s all about our career, success and earnings. It’s all about ‘ME’. So, a lot of people forget to take care of their parents. These are the people who brought you up, and you have to respect them. There will always be some special people entering your life, and there will be all sorts of pressure, but that is no excuse to disrespect your own parents.
You have also worked on a variety of CSR activities. Tell us a little bit about that.
A few years ago, I collaborated with a leading radio channel on a social activity, that helped change many lives. We wanted to do something for the people, who have faced problems that aren't discussed or talked about on a bigger scale. We started off by supporting acid attack victims. In fact, we reconstructed the face of a girl named Tarana. She underwent four surgeries for the same. Recently, she also got married. Fortis Hospitals supported us in this endeavour, and performed these surgeries free of cost. Another 8 girls were also taken care of. Later, we moved on to blood donation, women against abuse among other issues. It was an attempt to voice our opinion and stand against all the evils in our society, that prevail today. Currently, we are also planning something for the army jawans. Another issue that I have in mind is regularly faced by the citizens of North East. They often face racial discrimination and it’s sad to see Indians refer to their own brothers as Chinese.
So, what next after Force 2?
I haven't really signed a film, but I have read various script and there are several other activities, plans that are keeping me busy. Even as a producer, I've been hearing some great scripts and look forward to backing some good content.
Love,
The Dancebee
Lakmè 9 to 5 Weightless Matte Mousse Lip and Cheek Colour | Swatches and Review
Those of you who follow us on Snapchat and Instagram very well know that we were a part of the Lakmè 9 to 5 new product launch event last month. This particular collection by Lakmè has been quite popular, especially among women on the go (and hence the name '9 to 5' we guess). During the launch, we were introduced to the latest entrant to the wide collection named - 9 to 5 Weightless Matte Mousse Lip & Cheek Colour. As the name suggests, the product can used both as a matte lip colour as well as a cheek blush. Read on to know more about the product, along with swatches and our experience.
What? - Lakmè 9 to 5 Weightless Matte Mousse Lip & Cheek Colour
Shades: 10 Price: Rs 575
What it claims? - The Lakmé 9 to 5 Weightless Matte Mousse Lip and Cheek colour is the brand's first ever lip and cheek product in a light weight, liquid mousse texture, that comes in 10 intense and vibrant shades. With a powdery matte finish, this long staying lip and cheek colour will be the most suitable addition to your makeup bag and is just what you need to add that extra oomph.
Packaging: Lightweight, elegant and super travel friendly. The brush applicator is easy to use and the mousse texture ensures the product does melt. Full marks to Lakmè for this perfect packaging.
Texture: Very few products tend to get it right when it comes to a matte lip colour. Fortunately, the texture of this matte mousse lip and cheek colour is rich, powdery and very smooth. It glides on very well and is super pigmented. It has a satin - rich feel and does not dry out your lips. I can vouch for the latter as I have super dry lips.
Experience: To begin with, this product got us excited at the launch event itself. 10 wearable, gorgeous shades (there is something for both Fall and Summer), in a texture that is extremely smooth and easy to apply. While swatching the testers, we already had a list of favourites and later, got some of them for a trial (and to create this look, of course). As we mentioned earlier, the 9 to 5 range is perfect for the working woman, who is always on the go and does not have enough time for touch ups in between meetings. Needless to say, with it's rich texture and lasting power, the Lakmè 9 to 5 Weightless Matte Mousse Lip and Cheek colour is sure to become your new favourite go-to product. We noticed how even 4-5 hours post application, the product did not fade, leave any dry patch or flakes. We tried on the shade Crimson Silk, which stayed on for a good 6 hours (as a lipstick) and almost 8 hours (as a cheek color). This shade is perfect for Fall, and can be worn with almost everything. Another favourite has got to be Fuschia Suede and Blush Velvet. You must head to a Lakmè store, swatch these and perhaps, buy them too. These perfect to carry, flawless matte lip and cheek colours are worth every penny. Plus, it's affordable and makes for a great 'two products in one' deal. Win-win!!
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| Lakmè 9 to 5 Weightless Matte Mousse Lip and Cheek Colour |
Pros:
Great texture
Affordable
Travel friendly packaging
Dual purpose product
Good variety of shades
Cons:
None so far
Verdict: Highly recommended! This one's got everything going for it.
Look created using all Lakmè products:
Face: Lakmè CC Cream (Shade - Beige, used as a primer)
Lakmè Weightless Mousse Foundation
Lips: Lakmè Weightless Matte Mousse Lip & Colour - Crimson Silk
Eyes: Lakmè Absolute Gloss Artist Eye Liner
Lakmè Eyeconic Kajal (waterline)
Cheek: Lakmè Weightless Matte Mousse Lip & Colour - Crimson Silk
Outfit: Levi's
Location: JW Sahar, Mumbai
Photography: Ranveer Lovely Dua
Product & Swatch Images: Team Dancebee
MUA: Ree Shik
Love,
The Dancebee
Rock On 2 | Film Review
Music has the power to heal and unite the world, they say. It is this very power that brings members of the band Magik - Aditya Shroff (Farhan Akhtar), Joe (Arjun Rampal) and KD (Purab Kohli) together once again. Eight years after the success of their first film, the team is back in Rock On 2, albeit with a new captain of the ship and some additional characters.
The sequel to 2008’s highly acclaimed and award winning film, Rock On, doesn’t exactly take off from where the former ended. 5 years after Rob’s (Luke Kenny) death and the members of Magik moving on with their respective lives, not all is hunky dory with the band. While Adi takes off for Meghalaya and lives all alone, looking after the welfare of locals in some villages, Joe is now a successful club owner and judge on a singing reality show. Meanwhile, KD creates jingles and songs for various clients. Aditya’s wife, Sakshi (Prachi Desai) lives in Mumbai with their son, Rob, forever longing for her husband’s attention towards the family. Members of the band continue to be friends, trying to meet off and on. However, their past, a dark incident in particular, continues to haunt them. Especially Aditya, who suffers many a sleepless nights. One thing leads to another and Aditya is forced to leave Meghalaya due to a tragedy. Back home, the trio comes across two budding artists - Jiah Sharma (Shraddha Kapoor) and Uday (Shashank Arora), and their passion for music is rekindled. Despite coming from a family that has it’s roots in Indian classical music, with her father Pandit Vibhuti (Kumud Mishra) being a renowned music artist, Jiah has her own fears to conquer and a past, that has prevented the young artist from chasing her dreams. While the story progresses, the condition of locals in Meghalaya grows from bad to worse. Will they ever get any relief or help? Does Jiah successfully conquer her fears, or does Magik ever come together for good? You’ve got to experience this musical drama to find out the answers.
The story maybe a bit predictable and the screenplay maybe slightly flawed, but director Shujaat Saudagar’s Rock On 2 has it’s heart in the right place, with some impactful performances and other key highlights. Akhtar as Aditya is flawless, with the right emotions and nuances required for the role. Once again, he sings exceptionally well, especially Jaago, Manzar Naya and the dramatic climax medley, that kicks off with Woh Jahaan. Rampal is top notch as Joe, and delivers a fine performance once again. Purab is a natural and creates good impact with his portrayal of KD. Shraddha is decent and performs well as the vocalist. Surely, her hard work and training sessions have paid off. Arora performs very well as Uday, showcasing the struggles of a budding artist perfectly. Both Desai and Shahana Goswami reprise their respective roles from the first film and have done a good job. However, apart from the exceptional performances, it is the picturesque locales of North East India - mainly Shillong, Cherrapunji among others, that stand out as the hero of this film. A special mention here of Marc Koninckx’s excellent cinematography is a must. Akhtar as the dialogue writer has also done a fairly good job.
Being the soundtrack of a musical, we can safely say that the music of Rock On 2 (composed by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy) is decent. We like how they are intelligently used in the film’s narrative. While some are situational, others are very well used as flashbacks to connect the dots. Our favourite from the film has to be Manzar Naya and the finale medley. Farhan and Shraddha’s duet in the super energetic medley has got to be one of the highlights of this film.
When you present a sequel to an extremely popular film, expectations are certainly high. However, comparing two films is nothing but an act of foolishness. Fortunately for us, this ‘encore’ managed to live up to some of our expectations quite well. The limitations were overshadowed by a fine package of incredible performances, good music, wonderful locations and decent work by the technical crew. Overall, Rock On 2 is relatable, real and very well presented.
Verdict: Add it to your must watch list this weekend and you won’t be disappointed. Magik is back in form with their passion for music, people! Go, show them some love.
Shraddha Kapoor - Rock On 2 Promotions | Style Files
After tasting box office success with Baaghi earlier this year, Shraddha Kapoor is back to win hearts. This time, she will be seen in the sequel to the 2008 musical drama - Rock On 2. What's interesting is that the actress has also sung all the songs filmed on her. While we are loving her look in the film, we like how Shraddha has kept her style game strong off screen too. Her stylist, Sanam Ratansi, has put together some great outfits for Shraddha, has she attends one promotional event after another. We take a look at some of the outfits sported by the actress.
Promotions in Shillong
Shraddha kickstarted Rock On 2 promotions in a dark olive green sequinned jumped by Sanchita and black skirt by Zara. Black Monique Hullier heels, minimal and a slightly messy, curled pony tail completed her look.
Trailer Launch Event
For the trailer launch, Shraddha went edgy with all black everything. Her stylist, Sanam, picked a black mesh dress by Cord, worn over a solid black bralet and short skirt, with a black belt and a pair of black ankle strapped heels by Jimmy Choo. Love the addition of Valliyan gold earrings to this look. Smokey eyes, nude lips and an up do completed her look.
Promotions in Bangalore
Shraddha looks chic in this green ruffled dress by Plakinger. We are in love with those black scarpins by Christian Louboutin. While the make up was simple, with nude lips and well defined eyes, and the perfect hun (half bun).
On the sets of a Comedy Show
For promotions on the sets of The Kapil Sharma Show, Shraddha was seen in a teal blue Lola by Suman B jumpsuit. This knot neck jumpsuit looked great on the actress, who once again kept it simple with light, minimal make up. Pale rosy pink lips, brows on fleek and a low ponytail; Shraddha was ready to 'rock' this look.
Aurangabad Concert
Shraddha's grunge game was on point at the Rock On 2 concert in Aurangabad. The actress transformed into a stunning rocker girl, as she sported a fringe hem top by Rohit Gandhi Rahul Khanna with black ripped jeans by Topshop and knee high boots by ZARA. Bold lips, dramatic lashes and soft tousled hair went well with the overall look.
Rock On 2 Interviews
For some interviews and other activities related to the event, Sanam picked a pair of mustard wide trousers by Poco & Jacky and an embellished camisole top by Encrusted. Shraddha ditched accessories for an elegant Michael Kors watch. Deep wine lips and a simple ponytail completed her look.
Music Channel Interviews
Shraddha kept it simple and stylish for another set of interviews. She was spotted wearing a red cold shoulder top and embroidered jeans by Marks & Spencer. A pair of white favourites by Zara, minimal make up and soft tousled hair rounded the look.
Promotions at Bigg Boss 10
The actress was all things hot and happening in a customised Ashish N Soni pant suit. Pink lips with minimal make up and soft curls gave us some serious boss girl vibes. You go, girl!
Hyderabad Press Conference
Shraddha looked super chic in a Topshop shirt, paired with a gorgeous brown leather-latte skirt by Madison, at a press con earlier this week. She chose a pair of brown lace up heels, with pale pink lips and a fresh, girl next door inspired up-do. We love!
Promotions in Delhi
For city promotions on Monday, Shraddha was seen looking adorable in a Shahid Mannan tuxedo inspired short dress, with metallic buttons and piping. Black ankle strap heels, red lips and a braided undercut hair style (rather a safer one) with rings by Misho Designs completed her look.
Well, that's how Shraddha went about town promoting her upcoming film.
Do you have a favourite look from the ones sported by her or have a thought about her outfit / make up? Leave your comment in the box below or join the conversation on Twitter.
