Rock On !

Rock music is construed as youth movement and Farhan Akthar in the film Rock On brilliantly casts ‘Magik’ making people from all generation to be absorbed in this movement.

Rock music did try to change society but often failed. Something similar happens in the first half of the movie where the band members passionately strive to popularize their music but falter. The film highlights the triumphs and tribulations of a rock band ‘Magik’ comprising of Aditya Shroff (Farhan) vocals, Lead Guitarist Joe Mascarenhas (Arjun Rampal), Key board – Rob Nancy (Luke Kenny) and Kedar Zhaveri alias ‘K.D’- Killer Drummer - (Purab Kohli). Their musical journey involves some compromises but eventually their dreams are fulfilled

Aditya’s wife Sakshi (Prachi Desai) and her friend Devika (Koel Puri) beautifully weave the narrative. Prachi seems to love the camera; her expressions brilliantly convey her loneliness and the marital enigma. Debbie (Sahana Goswami) as Joe’s wife is a revelation and presents a young fashion stylist, a fisherwoman, a hassled wife and mother of a 7 year old with amazing dexterity.

The screenplay and editing is exceptional. By moving between now and then, the director portrays the splitting and reunion of the band. The ‘Magik’ lies in Abhishek Kapoor’s story and his attention to detail when it comes to direction. Aditya’s spectacles and his behaviour with the security guard delicately create change. The usage of cobwebs hiding the blue and bright colours, the actors make up, their attire and their subdued mannerisms immaculately strengthens the plot.

Farhan, Caralisa Monteiro and Raman Mahadevan’s soulful rendition of Javed Akhtar’s lyrics accompanied with Shankar, Ehsaan, and Loy’s feet tapping music are elegantly supported by some intense performance. Cinematographer Jason West ensures the camera follows the band and stops when they stop, thereby giving you an experience of attending a live concert.

Farhan innocuously and with amazing ease leaps in his role, as a wannabe rock singer and successful investment banker. Arjun’s guitar, and his somber mood successfully presents a failed musician but more importantly bring out his acting skills. The camaraderie between Joe and his son Andrew is seen to be believed as it cleverly highlights Joe’s hesitation in coming to terms with his past.

Come to think of, there is always a carefree K.D. somewhere amongst our friends. Purab’s performance clinks like cymbals adding much required humour and mischief. His effervescence is infectious as he longingly hugs his friends and philanders around. Together with Rob, they painstakingly reunite the band. Luke Kenny as Rob rocks, first, by speaking in chaste Hindi and by playing a stifled soul working as assistant music composer.

A film that refreshes some memories, urging you to search for some Woodstock videos. Wish all bands would someday re-unite, till then let the music of Rock On allow you to hit the road full throttle. …