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Rediff.com  » Movies » Review: Zindagi Na Milegi... music is delightful

Review: Zindagi Na Milegi... music is delightful

By Sukanya Verma
June 10, 2011 12:35 IST
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A still from Zindagi Na Milegi DobaraSukanya Verma says Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara's music is spirited enough to make a connect. Post YOUR reviews here!

It's a self-explanatory title.

Most of us are so preoccupied with realising dreams, we forget to recognise the essence of life or enjoy/appreciate the marvels around us. And that's why it's imperative to take a break because to travel is to discover, transform and grow.

Except Zoya Akhtar's latest feature, following her impressive debut -- Luck By Chance, isn't a gyaan-heavy expedition in introspection but a prettily packaged road trip offering Spain's magnificent beauty and Bollywood's glamorous picks on a platter.

While the ravishing promos of this Hrithik Roshan-Katrina Kaif-Farhan Akhtar-Abhay Deol-Kalki Koechlin starrer bear a visible resemblance to the Dil Chahta Hai school of hip, the soundtrack, even if not the same degree of delightful, is spirited enough to make a connect.

Considering Spain plays a key role in defining Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara's (ZNMD) disposition, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy and Javed Akhtar channelise their compatibility and the country's mellifluous resources to generate a playlist of quixotic sounds and elegant euphoria.

The vivacious duo of Suraj Jagan and Joi Barua kick off the proceedings with Dil dhadakne do, a dazzling ode to carefree that underlines the script's philosophy of 'live it up.' JA's idealistic musings come into play, 'Hey, hey chalo na, gaye naye geetKhel aisa kyun na koi khelein, jismein sabhi ki ho jeet,' aptly conveying the metamorphosis of its protagonists from pragmatic to impulsive. 

Up next, a delectably groovy Vishal Dadlani slips into the spirit of the wild Spanish festival, La Tomatina in the techno poundings of Ik junoon (Paint it red). Underplaying the electronica, S-E-L brews a sublime rhythm and minimalist ambience to work up a state of ecstasy that is plainly put, irresistible. Even in its remixed avatar by DJ Shiva, Ik junoon makes an undeniably
sleek impression.

S-E-L dabbles with bossa nova to construct a sense of awe-struck sentimentality and happy realisations in Khaabon ke parindey. What makes this curious interpretation credible is Alyssa Mendonsa's ethereal rendition, backed by Mohit Chauhan's steadfast composure.

Senorita treads on cultural stereotypes with its flamenco-inspired beats, ethnic elements and lyricism represented by Maria Del Mar Fernandes yet keeps it interesting by adding its own twist to the take. S-E-L ropes in the film's leading men to wield the microphone to highlight the extempore mood of this clearly touristy scenario. Of the three, Hrithik and Farhan have already demonstrated their proficiency at carrying a tune in Kites and Rock On. With Senorita, Abhay proves he isn't half bad as well.  DJ Shiva pitches in a racy edition of the same to get footloose folk on the floor.

Breaking the buoyant momentum, a somber Shankar Mahadevan steps in to communicate a contemplative state of mind whilst brooding over the universal inevitability of enlightenment and awakening for the mellow and melancholic, Der lagi lekin.

A distinctively 1980s pop vibe resonates in Sooraj ki baton mein through the booming vocals of The Cerejos -- Dominique and Clinton and Loy. This instantly peppy and cheerful track is in perfect sync with the lively theme of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara.

Farhan, described as a 'closet poet' in the official synopsis, justifies his character with a recital of some imaginative verse, Toh zinda ho tum, set against the dramatic play of cello. It's a decent effort but his oral skills and enunciation are no match to his father, also the brain behind those absorbing lines.

At a time when ostentatious is passed off as grand, it's refreshing to come across Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara's unaffected and chilled-out collection of melodies. Hopefully the Zoya factor will sustain and ensure this is more than just another biggie-on-the-block.

Rediff Rating:

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Sukanya Verma in Mumbai