May. 14, 2021|India|95 Min.|Not Rated
Genre: Bollywood;Comedy;Drama;Romance
Description: “RK/RKAY” is a unique 2021 Indian film that blends comedy and fantasy. Directed by and starring Rajat Kapoor, the movie tells the story of RK, a filmmaker past his prime, and Mahboob, a character who escapes from the film RK is creating. The narrative explores their interactions as they attempt to learn from each other, though the execution often falls into sentimentality and confusion.
The film portrays the struggles of a filmmaker navigating the harsh realities of the industry. RK faces pressure from a producer (played by Manu Rishi Chadha) to make his project commercially viable, while his characters, including a high-handed heroine (Mallika Sherawat) and a smirking crew, seem to defy their predetermined roles. Kapoor’s portrayal of RK is largely autobiographical, reflecting the challenges of maintaining creative integrity in a demanding industry.
Unlike other films about filmmaking, such as Zoya Akhtar’s “Luck by Chance,” “RK/RKAY” leans more into satire and self-reflection. It questions the boundaries between fiction and reality, as the characters within RK’s film begin to see themselves as real individuals. This meta-narrative adds an intriguing layer to the story, though it sometimes feels self-indulgent.
The movie doesn’t aim to deliver a profound message or a clear takeaway. Instead, it focuses on the inner turmoil and existential crisis of a director forced to compromise his vision. The supporting cast, including Kubbra Sait, Ranvir Shorey, and Mallika Sherawat, delivers strong performances, making this self-reflective dramedy an engaging watch. Despite its flaws, “RK/RKAY” offers a candid look at the struggles of an artist in an industry that often prioritizes commerce over creativity.
Cast director: Rajat Kapoor
Cast actor: Rajat Kapoor, Mallika Sherawat, Ranvir Shorey, Chandrachoor Rai, Kubbra Sait, Manu Rishi Chadha, Charles Aphrem, Grace Girdhar, Ismail Khan, Sanam Kumar
Original name: RK/RKAY