Gully Boy Movie Review: A Musical Revolution With Some Hard Hitting Realities Of Life And Some Intense Performances!

Gully Boy Movie Review: A Musical Revolution With Some Hard Hitting Realities Of Life And Some Intense Performances!
Starring : Ranveer Singh, Alia Bhatt
Directed By: Zoya Akhtar
5/5 Stars
In a scene from this film, Murad (Ranveer Singh) tries to explain his father Aftab (Vijay Raaz) that his music, his rap, his singing and his words are his identity, he blurts out 'Mera Aukat Hain' furthur stating that how even after his death, people will remember his music which has rose him from nothingness and there is another instance when a character MC Sher (Siddhant Chaturvedi) says, 'Agar duniya main sab comfortable hota toh rap kaun karta? This Zoya Akhtar directorial then sets the tone of the prevailing rap culture in the underground slum vicinity and sets the tone of the film. Akhtar has chronicled the tale of Murad, a slum dwelling boy who is an aspiring rapper and strives to accomplish his dreams shackling all the chains of adversities in his life. The story of his journey from being an underdog to becoming a successful rapper named Gully Boy is invigorating and inspiring. The story is so compelling that even the people who do not resonate with the ideation of the rap culture will find this one exhilarating.  

The story unfolds in the cloistered chawls of Dharavi where Murad has his eyes for big hopes and aspirations. He pens down his emotions getting inspired by his daily tribulations and otherwise spends time romancing his childhood sweetheart Safeena (Alia Bhatt). Things change overnight for him as he meets his guiding anchor, a talented and famed rapper MC Sher. Together the two pursue their passion for rap and some meaningful music. At the end of the day, Murad is seen battling all the odds and hindrances in his life to come closer to his dreams. Much of the obstruction on his path is caused by his conservative father Aftab. With some portions being predictable at parts, the plus point of the film is the execution and the honest interplay between the characters. This inspiring journey of Murad has some remarkable moments which are truly unmissable. The hard hitting dialogues by Vijay Maurya add to the deepness of the plotline. But its the intricate story and screenplay by Akhtar and Reema Kagti add realism to the storyline.

But it is Ranveer Singh who steals the show in this one. It seems he breathe life into this character. Every emotion screams loud and clear in his character. In his words from the film, his performance was 'bohot hi hard'. It will be safe to say this is one of his best performances. Alia Bhatt has essayed her role with utmost perfection. Her fiery act drew whistles and worthy applause. The chemistry between Ranveer and Alia is passionate, innocent but intense at the same time. Newbie Siddhant Chaturvedi is a visual delight to watch. He delivers a truly effortless act. Other actors like Vijay Raaz, Vijay Verma and Kalki Koechlin add justice to their character.  

The music is the main highlight inevitably. The film is loosely based on rappers Divine and Naezy who have given some brilliant contribution to the soundtrack of the story. The music is truly raw, fiery and hard hitting. The soul stirring Doori to the compelling Azaadi and finally to the revolutionary Apna Time Aayega and Mere Gully Mein, every song has its own profound impact. There are some pure whistle moments at the rap battles in the film. Yes, we can declare it an official masterpiece by Zoya Akhtar. Isse zyaada Hard Aur Kuch Bhi Nahi Hain!