Rocket Singh ALL REVIEWS : Masand Pg.2 :) - Page 3

Hey saw d movie loved it
rk rocks
he was just brilliant his best performance
d remaining cast was good too
d story was very gripping
direction was good too
though d first half was a lil slow
overall awesome simple yet amazing
it's a thumbs up for dis one
and i would give it 4/5

The movie is about Harpreet Singh Bedi (Ranbir Kapoor), a below average student in school and college, who takes up marketing as his career. He joins a computer sales company, AYS, as a trainee. Under a corrupt senior, the job soon turns into one of his worst nightmares. Rocket Singh in short is Harpreet Singh Bedi's journey from a zero to a hero.

Rocket Singh Review

What works in Rocket Singh - Salesman of the year

• Shimit Amin, the director of Ab Tak Chappan and Chak De India, is in top form. The feel of the corporate world has been captured very realistically. The writing (Jaideep Sahni) is top notch too, with several scenes making great impact - the first job interview, conversations between Harpreet and his senior manager Nitin, the scene in the club where Harpreet is insulted by his boss, when his boss gets to know about his secret company, his confrontations and many more.
• The second half is better paced (compared to the first) and much more entertaining.
• Like Chak De, Rocket Singh too has some fantastically written characters. The one that stands out though, is Nitin's. We have no clue about the name of the actor, Yashraj hasn't revealed it just yet. Nitin as Ranbir's senior, is fantastic and easily the deserves the top acting honors.
• For probably the first time in his career, Ranbir Kapoor is not the pick of actors. While he does a good job as a Sardar, mingling with the others and completely looking the character, the others steal the scene.
• The romance too works largely due to Shazahn Padamsee's sweetness, charm and fantastic screen presence.
• Its nice to finally see a Sardar, who are usually seen as clowns, presented realistically.
• Background music by Salim - Suleiman was good.

Performances, in no particular order, since all were good!

• The guy who played the character of Nitin, is by far the best of the lot.
• Ranbir Kapoor - As usual natural, perfect for the character and proves yet again why he's considered, by many, as the next superstar.
• Shazahn Padamsee - Sweet, sexy and does very well in the acting department too.
• D Santosh - Was brilliant as Rajguru in the Legend of Bhagat Singh. In Rocket Singh, playing a sex-obsessed character, he does very well.
• Prem Chopra after a long long time is good as Harpreet's father.
• Suri as the owner of AYS, is good.
• Gauhar Khan is as good as the others.
• Mukesh Bhatt too was fantastic.

Coming to the negatives

• Rocket Singh is too long, exceeding 3 hours (including intermission)
• The pace isn't too great. The first half was slow and at times boring.
• Music is average.

Don't go in expecting a comedy, Rocket Singh is a realistic film that deals with serious issues. Perfect casting, fabulous performances, good direction and writing make Rocket Singh a good one-time watch.

All said and done though, without taking any credit away from Shimit Amin, Rajkumar Hirani was probably the best man to direct a film like Rocket Singh.

Rating: With a bit of patience, you should enjoy this.

http://www.indicine.com/movies/bollywood/rocket-singh-movie-review/

^^The first review that gives Shazahn any credit in tha acting department...the rest are mostly common points though...slow pace, good supporting cast, decent performance by Ranbir, good writing, etc...

Considering all the above points, does ROCKET SINGH dazzle? Does it impress? Or does it disappoint? Read on to know more. Harpreet Singh Bedi (Ranbir Kapoor), a young Sikh, has just graduated, and his grades are nothing to brag about. But it doesn't stop him from launching himself into joining the ambitious, optimistic, burgeoning urban Indian workforce armed with a belief in himself and the great urban Indian career dream. He enthusiastically takes up a job of a salesman, one of the few career options for those unable to make it to a business or engineering school. But soon, his traditional value system inherited from his grandfather who raised him begins clashing with the aggressive ways of the 'professionals' he aspired to join all his life. The script and screenplay are usually considered king in Bollywood most of the time. And where the trailers click big-time, the movie always does well only with a good script, no matter what. For Hollywood freaks, it might be a different scenario, where the viewers are in for the special effects (a la the recent Transformers – Revenge of the Fallen and 2012), but in Bollywood, it is the way the story is told that attracts (or detracts, for that matter) the viewer. Coming back to the topic in question, ROCKET SINGH has a rock-solid script that doesn't waver into dumb, enticing-looking subplots that usually spoil the show and the redundant romantic angle that gets slightly irritating for a film that has a genre that should basically not include romance – if not handled well, that is. But it seems the writer-director combo of Jaideep Sahni and Shimit Amin respectively were quite clear on what they wanted to present to the audience, and they were clear on how they wanted to present it as well – the latter of which is something a lot of writers and directors fail to achieve. Which is why they adopted the "Chak De India" promotion strategy i.e. almost-no-promotion strategy, to increase the curiosity level. And while the music of ROCKET SINGH didn't have much time to impact the listeners to get curious- it being released only one week before the movie release, that again reminds us of the music of Chak De Indiawhich was also low key before the movie release. As for the characters of ROCKET SINGH, they have been well-etched and each of the main characters of the movie revolve upon the plot very closely. Even the romance angle of Shazahn Padamse has an important thing to do for some part – romance is only a fleeting subplot that doesn't hold a lot of importance (except for you have a huge grin when you see them together). It is Ranbir Kapoor's character sketch, though, that completely awes you – subtle, understated and relatable. His character of a Sikh Sardar based in Mumbai totally blows you off your rocker – the nuances and habits that the character has doesn't go over-the-top at all. No excessive Punjabi (the subtle half-Gurmukhi, half-Hindi based Punjabi is left to Prem Chopra), no excessive Bhangra dance and nothing larger-than-life at all. In fact, just like his previous Wake Up Sid, you can relate yourself to him and his character, so much so that you literally feel for his character. I'm not really aware of the world of salesmen, but I do know enough to understand the jargon and the atmosphere (sales targets to be achieved, enticing promotions, et al). So I can safely say that Jaideep has actually written a well researched story and script, which doesn't falter at the main atmosphere's technicalities. Speaking about technicalities, let's move on with the technical aspects of the movie, which are at best, too raw and basic for a film from the banner of the illustrious Yash Raj Films. Yet they work for those exact reasons because this film isn't shot in exotic locations places, hasn't covered the glitziest locales, doesn't have picture-perfect cinematography, doesn't have fast cars, hot babes, fast editing, eclectic motion graphics et al. In fact, the title sequence at the start of the movie is so simple you wonder if this really is a Yash Raj film! But then again for a film brimming with reality, why bother to make the technicalities dramatic? So although it may look ordinary, the movie really is technically perfect and impactful. Sound-wise, the duo of Salim Merchant and Sulaiman Merchant has given both the music and the background score of the movie, and they have done pretty decently, considering the situation of the film. The song "Gadbadi Hadbadi" might not work as a standalone audible track, but surely sets the screen on fire (and no, it's not a lip-synced track either!) with the situation that it completely gels with. And whilst "Pocket Mein Rocket" was sorely missing as part of the end credits, one doesn't mind. It is "Pankhon Ko" that impacts the viewer. While the song has been used twice in the movie, it doesn't bother the viewer, because the situations are perfect for it! And the sensitivity that the scenes exude with the song playing (one at the title credits, which sets base for the movie), especially in the penultimate moments, will have you feeling half-happy, and half-sad. Telling you more will yet again divulge too much of the story so you will have to go and see it for yourself. I cannot continue with the performances before talking about Ranbir Kapoor, who keeps improving in each movie, and how! Just like Saawariya and Bachna Ae Haseeno had him acting his most amazing first lead acts ever, Wake Up Sid gave him worldwide recognition for playing a slacker before his Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani that gave him the status of a superstar! So what is ROCKET SINGH for him you ask? It is a stepping stone for him to elevate his status even further. He totally slips into the title character of Harpreet Singh Bedi with utmost ease – in fact, he lives the character. Shazahn Padamsee actually impresses with her short but sweet role. She is a natural, and has the potential to make it big, THOUGH it would be her decision to choose her own path in the future. Others in the cast have done amazingly well too. Mukesh Bhatt (not the producer) has done amazingly well as the peon, Chotelal "Cup-Plate" Mishra. Gauhar Khan as the receptionist is efficient and plays her role to the hilt. The bold and brash attitude in the role she plays comes alive with her performance. D. Santosh as the po*n-hogging computer genius is amazingly hilarious and has played his part really well. Naveen Kaushik, who plays Nitin, is realistically efficient. Any weaknesses you ask? Well predictability never goes out of fashion in Bollywood, does it? But although the situations are predictable in this movie, the point is, such situations keep repeating themselves in real life and that's why we can predict them on-screen. Consequently for ROCKET SINGH, predictability doesn't hamper the motive and the execution of the film overall – it only makes the movie increase its 'raw' quotient, thus increasing the charm. So while some people might accusingly point fingers at the slow pace in the first half of the film and it's sheer predictability in some situations, this movie is all about life, so predictability cannot be ignored!

Overall, ROCKET SINGH is a very well written, well-scripted and well-executed movie, the strength of which lies in its extreme understatement, simplicity and subtle attitude; coupled with that addictive charm that was also present in Chak De India. This one has already proved it's worth by being part of the Dubai International Film Festival – now whether it gets to prove itself at the box-office will be seen in the days to come. So empty the rockets (money) in your pocket and go watch it right now!

http://www.planetbollywood.com/displayReview.php?id=f121109042103

ocket Singh is a simple story of you and I. There is a Rocket Singh inside each of us- whether its our first day in a new work environment, our first client meeting, our first time meeting our boss, our first office party or the first time we make a naive innocent mistake.

The potential and capability inside each of us is sometimes wrongfully judged by an innocent mistake, results of an examination or even a minor failure. But despite all these incidents, the fact remains that much of the time, WE are the roadblock on our own path to success.

This realization dawns on Harpreet Singh Bedi and it is on the most poignant turning points of the film.

5 Reasons YOU need to Pocket this Rocket!

1. The script. Jaideep Sahni is an utter genius. It's absolutely novel, brilliant and perfect. Even if you aren't at the age where its time to step into the "real" world from college, you will be able to relate to the timidness of HP of a new job and the way he is overly eager to follow his bosses.

2. The song Pankhon Ko Listen to it

3. Ranbir Kapoor. He is just perfection! His acting, emotions, dialogue delivery and body language is pure effortless. After the first few scenes, you forget that this the next scion of the Kapoor clan and wonder what how Mr Singh will manage now.

4. D Santosh as Giri, the computer geek/techie. He is so brills!! His dialogues are so witty and delivered with such conviction that his performance was absolutely flawless. (Mukesh Bhatt as Chotelal Mishra and Gauhar Khan as Koena also deserve special mention as they round our the delightful cast of the film!)

5. Naveen Kaushik as Nitin Rathore, HP's immediate boss and Manish Choudhary as the company's smirky and cocky boss are SO amazing! They take the film to the next level and are SUCH a delight to watch and laugh with.

5 mirchies out of 5 mirchies

Credit: TheMidayMasala.com

Rocket Singh Salesman Of The Year
U/A; Drama
Directed by: Shimit Amin
Cast: Ranbir Kapoor, Gauhar Khan, Shazahn Padamsee and Prem Chopra
***

What it's about: Sometimes, simplicity is everything. Forget the flamboyance, the grandeur and the melodrama.

What strikes you most about Rocket Singh Salesman Of The Year is director Shimit Amin's ability in telling a tale that connects with you purely because of its sincerity.

The film starts with average middle-class student, Harpreet Singh Bedi (Ranbir) passing out from college. He decides to work as a salesman as he doesn't have the means to study further and isn't qualified for any other job. He lands his first job soon enough at AYS (At Your Service), a company that sells computers.



Like most young people who graduate from college, he has high ideals and big dreams but they crash and burn when he realises that it is a cut-throat and aggressive world where values have little or no place.

But unlike most people who learn the tricks of the trade and jump on the bandwagon, he sticks to what he believes in and makes it big on his own terms. He finds himself four like-minded 'partners' and starts his own company Rocket Sales.

Things go wrong for him. But everything is right with the film. And for once, it is not a movie where you have to leave your brains behind. Take them with you. Because Rocket Singh touches the right chords.

What's Hot: Shimit Amin who made Ab Tak Chappan and Chak De! India comes up with a film that's totally different from his previous two offerings full marks to him for originality.

And bonus points to the director and lead actor Ranbir Kapoor for making a film that is as brave as it is path-breaking. How many films can you recall that have had a salesman as the 'hero'? Harpreet is not larger-than-life. He is real. He is someone who you may know or someone you may have been at some point in your life.

If one has to find a Hollywood equivalent, it would be Jerry Maguire, even though that was a fantasy in part.

But Rocket Singh is real. It doesn't try to be funny or romantic or even dramatic. It is a well-told story that doesn't compromise at all. There are no peppy songs in foreign locations, no item numbers and no sexy leading lady to add shallow glamour.

Ranbir comes up with yet another effective performance. He grasps the character well and portrays all his struggles, doubts and fears effortlessly.

All his partners do a fantastic job and help make it the film it is. The encounters between Harpreet and his work friends, his boss and even his aging father are warm and tender. Gauhar Khan is surprisingly good.

The story and dialogues by Jaideep Sahni deserve special mention. Simple and meaningful, the film comes with a purpose and even though it may not be commercially appealing (neither were Yuva and Swades), you have to admire Yash Raj Films for attempting a subject like this.

What's Not: The director sets the pace from the word go, so you know this one isn't going to be a roller-coaster of surprises.

But there are portions that test your patience. You wish the director had not resorted to the predictable scenes of Harpreet practising in front of the mirror. The change of heart of HP's boss Puri is also unconvincing. Newcomer Shazahn disappoints she doesn't have much to do anyway.

What to do: It may not be your kind of film, but you should watch this one. Simply because our cynical world needs more Harpreet Singhs. It is a film about hope. And about a better world with honest people

http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2009/dec/121209-Rocket-Singh-Salesman-Of-The-Year-Movie-Review.htm

If it had lived up to its golden first five minutes, 'Rocket Singh' would have been the movie of the decade. But the film is lighthearted and enjoyable, with just enough undercurrents of human frailty to keep the story interesting. The film glides through its well-structured script, letting the audience coast along with it and allowing the performers to create the magic. And the best thing about 'Rocket Singh' is that its the first Yash Raj film that respects its own characters wholeheartedly, without a wink.

Rocket Singh's tone is perfectly pitched, its dialogue is absolutely right and is delivered with performances that will remain in your hearts and minds for a very long time. And it's not just the character of Rocket (Harpreet) Singh, but also the supporting cast and characters who bring this story to life. Take for example the character Puri, who plays Harpreet's boss, is astonishingly, lovably villainous. Or for that matter the Hyderabadi Santosh, the perpetually befuddled po*n-addict computer assembler. Or the sales shark Nitin, with his venomous demeanor, razor sharp brain and hilarious sideburns. Or Chhotelal Misra, the frustrated peon, or the striving receptionist Koena. Heck, even Harpreet's office mates in their bit roles make a big impression. The casting was just impeccable. Shazahn Padamsee was the one weak link of the film, a better actress would have been a jackpot, but that's just moaning. You can find things to complain about what it is. But nothing really compares to what it is.

Ranbir Kapoor's charming turn in 'Rocket Singh' is the greatest of his short career. Expect a Force 10 gale of a performance from Ranbir, charismatic, spirited, exasperated and restrained all at once if you can imagine that. His devotion to the character is itself extraordinary - there are genuine glints in his eyes. No doubt about it, he is the most talented lead actor of this generation.

Director Amin has managed an impressive achievement that qualifies as a great Bollywood film. He knows a thing or two about pacing, and it's relentless here. Even in its near 3-hour runtime, there is not a scene that bores or seems unnecessary. Miraculously, Amin does away with songs, and with the sleight of hand handles the love angle with refreshing nonchalance. The final confrontation scene between Harpreet and his boss is itself worth the price of admission. Screenwriter Jaideep Sahni deftly explores (mostly the humorous side of) sticky subjects like office politics, bribery, corruption, work ethics, non-exploitative profits, but never stoops to shoving stereotypes in your face. The dialogue is crisp, and each scene is terse, which makes you beg for more.

All in all, this is an absolute gem of a movie and the perfect antidote to all the trashy big budget vehicles that keep releasing. 'Rocket Singh' is a delectable film indeed, I implore you to watch it.

Saw it y'day....I love Jaideep Sahni as a writer...he comes up with such real characters and real situations...Thanks Shimit for bringing to life teh real world of sales and sales people...some of the lines can be best appreciated by people who have actually lived in the world...targets, commissions, waiting outside client offices, raincoats on scooters, noodles at the roadside dhaba, "managing " the peons and secretaries...the cubicle near the loo, the "cup plate"office boy, the office party where u top ur drinks from the office coolers.... lovely!!!!

Shahid Azam reviews Rocket Singh – Salesman of the Year.

saw it a very good film . well made and sensible but sadly it's very slow family audiences won't like it but definitely another feather in ranbir's cap i would say watch it it's good
3.5/5 from me