Aashiqui 2 (2013) Film Review

Rahul Jaykar, the ultimate star is India’s favourite singer. As the stadium chants his name, Rahul indulges in his alcohol. Rahul is at the point in his life where fame, money and talent are at stake. With millions of fans drooling for RJ, all he drools for is alcohol. Indeed, an addiction which Rahul struggles to let go of. After crashing into a dark gully somewhere, Rahul discovers new talent in a local beer bar. A beautiful voice and lovely face makes Rahul’s eyes glimmer. She goes by the name of Arohi. Arohi Keshav Shirke. Bumping into her a few times, their paths cross and Rahul finds his newfound focus. Rahul believes Arohi is the next star and the voice of India. He passionately supports her to become the nations idol and fulfils her dreams. Romance is developed between them, where their happiest moment only lasts for a short while. Rahul’s star quality begins to fade. And his addiction begins.

Mohit Suri brings us a classic tale of two lovers whom vividly teach us a moral or two. It’s to be said to never have an addiction, as they lead to bad consequences. And Aashiqui two proves that. The story drives forward with an innocent soul chasing her dream. How a famous celebrity helps a poor girl to climb the mountain and finally reach the top. The reverse phycology and structure of life and hope shown throughout the film is beautifully portrayed. The pacing is smooth complementing the romance. Nothing is far too pushed nor unnecessary.

The film surely gives us a romance. Rahul and Arohi’s love for each other is unconditional. Their true, warm connection is evident, where we feel lighter. The sweet and subtle moments between them prove their true love, where they become inseparable.

RJ played by Aditya Roy Kapoor definitely fulfils his versatile performance. The romance is pulled through his serious but inviting stance. His frustration and anger are brilliantly acted out, where the drama is unsealed. Rahul is never without alcohol and the scenes where he is, its clear he can’t take it. That’s what makes Aashiqui quite a simple film. Majority of people have addictions they are attached onto. But this time Rahul has a choice. A choice to either continue drinking or to follow his dreams. Throughout the film, we begin to question whether Rahul’s first love is Arohi or Alcohol. However, It is clear in Rahul’s that he truly believes in Arohi. He has his heart fixed on wanting to give her a chance. He knows she deserves this opportunity.

Likewise, Shraddha Kapoor flawlessly played the role of Arohi. Her sweet and tender smile, heart-touching voice and caring persona are highlights of her character. She has this real quality, where fame is clearly not her aim, where she truly enjoys singing for the better. Regardless of RJ’s bad habits and addiction she overlooks his ‘nasha’ and attempt to pick up his pieces. She never once looks back on him. Even though he is falling down, the very person to fulfil her dreams, Arohi holds his hand the whole way.

Aashiqui 2 captures a sweet tale of love, friendship, dreams and fate. Rahul and Arohi are made for each other, which is synced with the films successful soundtrack ‘Tum Hi Ho’ (You are the One) Their dreams are bound. Mohit Suri gives us drama combined with romance. Indeed there are times where the film had some stereotypical moments. But the core focus was conveyed. We are shown how simply if a person believes in you, that belief goes a long way. I guess Rahul understood that maybe his time to shine was far long gone. He had his moments of stardom and fame. But now it was Arohi’s time in the spotlight.

Fame is something quite simple and matter of fact. Rahul worked his way up, won so many awards and sang millions of hits. But one slight push knocked him down forever. Could love bring that back?

My Rating: 8/10

Written by: Meera Darji

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