Shuttlecock Boys

After the film got over I walked into a bookstore and saw a book titled Jugaad on the no 1 nonfiction book list. A lot of self made entrepreneurs w... read more

After the film got over I walked into a bookstore and saw a book titled Jugaad on the no 1 nonfiction book list. A lot of self made entrepreneurs will find the mention of this word in their struggle to make it big. Jugaad could also be the middle name of Independent cinema.

Shuttlecock boys directed by Hemant Gaba is another example of a filmmakers jugaad to make and get his film released. Its about 4 boys (Aakar Kaushik, Manish Nawani, Alok Kumar & Vijay Prateek) from Delhi stuck in their life/jobs desperately wanting to get out. Their only de stressing activity is playing badminton in the night. One of them gets a brainwave to start a catering company. What follows is a how to film for budding entrepreneurs.

The film is a pure slice of cinema and is filled with likeable characters & likeable actors which turns it into a likeable film. Even the conflicts come in as minor blips making it an almost smooth ride for the boys. People expecting major conflict and obstacles in a film like this might be disappointed. The director focuses more on the bonding of these boys and a more positive approach to their struggle.

People who got together with friends to do something on their own will identify with this film. Those who fell out or gave up will wish for a struggle like the movies where everything is a fairy tale that results in happy endings.

The actors at times come across amateurish and thats what is likeable about them. No one is trying to outdo each other or show off their acting abilities. The result is good camaraderie that makes it a light and breezy watch.

Honestly, in an overcrowded Friday like this Shuttlecock boys will get lost. But, even if you cant make it to the theatre do visit this feel good gem in the comforts of your home when it comes out on dvd/online.

Word of mouth Shuttlecock boys is the chota packet Rocket Singh of this year.

Rating *** (Above Average)

Ticket meter Worth 150 bucks

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In an industry pioneered by the Khans and the Kapoors, its very unlikely to see an honest, heartwarming film that can inspire and leave you with a ... read more

In an industry pioneered by the Khans and the Kapoors, its very unlikely to see an honest, heartwarming film that can inspire and leave you with a smile. Thanks to the era of rising indie filmmakers such as Q, Sudhish Kamath, Karan Gour and many more were presented with quality films sans superstars or legends that are capable of touching thousands of hearts, if and only if we support them. Add Hemant Gaba to that list and his debut picture Shuttlecock Boys, which not only succeeds in entertaining but presents a sincere message that you may want to embrace.

Shuttlecock Boys is a story of every household, so commonly known to us that it instantaneously connects with one and all. The film is about four friends Gaurav, Manav, Loveleen and Pankaj with a dream to achieve but barely any kind of support. Powered by hope they embark on a journey that will change the course of their lives forever.

The strength of this film lies in its unexaggerated presentation. Hemant as a filmmaker doesnt innovate but leaves his characters to do the magic with their performance. With a plot as simple as you couldve ever imagined, SB triumphs with honest storytelling. What I really like about this film is its ability to encompass and bring forth the mirror image of a life most of us are living. The life that we think we are happy with but deep down inside we hate it. This film awakens that part of your life whichs been in deep slumber all this time.

Hemant also successfully storms in to the aspirational life of Indian middle class, around which all his characters are sketched. Through the eyes of the four protagonists you see the world we all aspire to see. As a viewer you empathize with the characters and that works in the favor of the film as it keeps you hooked and cheering till the last minute. More importantly, I loved how Hemant used badminton as a backdrop to shape his story. Im positive when you watch the film youd love and appreciate his brilliance with respect to this.

If Hemant was the charioteer of this film then his characters were the chariot, and they make this ride a smooth experience with their performance. I dont know if these actors have any acting background but they fit the bill perfectly. They werent expected to be top class actors because their roles needed them to be just like the way most of us are in life. Another plus point of this film is its music which is exhilarating and adds spark to the film. Kudos to Avinash Baghel, his music elevates the undying attitude and spirit of the film. For most part, it keeps playing like an anthem in the background and breathes life in to the film.

Finally, it all boils down to one man Hemant Gaba for nurturing this dream of his in to an inspirational feature presentation. The film had its own weak moments but it doesnt matter when the overall output has been beyond satisfaction. In essence; Shuttlecock Boys is a film that keeps hope alive and sends you back home with glee on your face.

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