The unpredictable nature of film outcomes remains a topic of discussion within the industry, as even critically acclaimed movies can falter over time. A case in point is Rockstar (2011), a film that marked a pivotal moment in Ranbir Kapoor’s career, achieving both box office success and critical recognition. However, its director, Imtiaz Ali, recently expressed mixed feelings about the film during a conversation at the 15th Indian Film Festival of Melbourne.
In a candid discussion with film critic Rajeev Masand, Ali reflected on his recent experience watching Rockstar during its re-release. “I saw Rockstar twice in the theatres recently. And kept thinking, ‘What the hell is this film?! Where is the screenplay?!’” he stated, criticising the film’s structure and execution. Ali remarked that the narrative felt disjointed, with music overshadowing the storyline. “It just feels like some visual strung to a narrative of music,” he added, pointing out that each song seemed chaotic and poorly integrated.
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Despite his criticisms, Ali acknowledged the essential role of Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman in shaping the film’s soundscape. He noted, “He brings about a perspective or a dimension which did not exist in my mind before.” Ali emphasised that Rahman’s music often inspired him to make changes in the film’s narrative to enhance its emotional depth. He described the composer’s creative process as transformative, stating, “If I take this (what Rahman made), I’ll have to make certain changes and certain soundscapes will come into the film.”
While Ali recognized that the film’s core story—following a young man’s quest for heartbreak to achieve fame—had merit, he felt that the music ultimately sustained the film’s appeal. He highlighted memorable moments, such as the build-up to the song “Nadaan Parinde,” which resonated strongly with audiences.
Rockstar, which also stars Nargis Fakhri, Aditi Rao Hydari, Kumud Mishra, and Piyush Mishra, marked the first collaboration between Ali and Rahman, a partnership that has since produced three more films: Highway (2014), Tamasha (2015), and the upcoming Amar Singh Chamkila (2024).
As Ali continues to navigate his cinematic journey, his reflections on Rockstar serve as a reminder of the complexities of filmmaking and the evolving nature of artistic expression.