Gully Boy had been on the “can’t wait to watch it” list of the crowds since a while, thanks to its promising trailers. Unlike the majority of recent Bollywood films, this one has managed to live up to its expectations and is a film you definitely shouldn’t be missing out on this year!
Set in the slums of Dharavi, Gully Boy is a classic rags-to-riches tale of an aspiring rapper. Inspired by the lives of rappers Divine and Naezy, it shows us the story of Murad (Ranveer Singh), a twenty-something young guy living with his family which consists of his parents, his brother, his grand-mom and a step-mom. With all these complications at home, his only solace is his group of friends and Safeena (Alia Bhatt), his girlfriend.
One fine day, he discovers MC Sher (Siddhant Chaturvedi), a rapper who’s performing in his college and being a hip-hop and rap enthusiast, Murad is instantly fascinated by him. And from then on his journey of exploring his passion for rap begins. In a turn of events, he befriends MC Sher who becomes his best friend, mentor and guide in this journey.
Multiple storylines progress simultaneously in the movie, effortlessly jumping from one to another to eventually connecting in some way. The movie sheds light on a range of issues like poverty, domestic abuse, social classes, illegal businesses and more, managing to strike a chord with the audience. In spite of the duration being a little longer than most Bollywood movies, you’re sure to be hooked from start to end rooting for Murad with all your heart.
The friendships and bonds between characters are portrayed beautifully, especially the friendship shared by Murad and Sher. The actors have performed so well and the cinematography is equally good which helps the movie maintain a raw and authentic tone throughout. The soundtrack, too, is brilliant and is sure to give you new additions to your playlists (probably already has!).
All in all, this movie is not merely a movie, it’s a journey. One that warms your heart and brings tears to your eyes at some moments and makes you angry or gives you goose bumps at a few others only to leave you happy and proud at the end of it. Zoya Akhtar has definitely broken her stereotype of only presenting rich people problems in her film and she has managed to ace it. With the easy-flowing story and amazing performances paired with some of the greatest lyrics and music, the audience is sure to have no complaints about this one!
So if you haven’t already, I’d definitely urge you to watch Gully Boy, kyuki bantai log, Bollywood mein acche phillum ka time aa gaya hai!
