Gully Boy

This film sort of felt like a cross between '8 Mile' and 'A Star is Born', but set in India. It's a slightly odd comparison but those two films have to come to mind while watching it. Intercutting rap battles into this tale of rags to riches is actually a concept that worked much more than I would have thought. What I think also helped is the addition of a fiery romance, a cultural family dispute and a terrific ensemble cast. There's a fair amount of humour too, which provides well timed relief to some of the emotional drama. Overall, Gully boy seamlessly blends romance, drama and comedy situations and a well-meaning message that rings true in today's society.

Was happy to see a new style (rapper-based) movie being produced by Bollywood. I am not a fan of such music, but can always appreciate a movie. And, honestly, that was the good part of the movie. Then there are side stories which were more like the 60's style and dragged the movie down - making it boring at times. Alia and Siddhant were the best. Ranveer decent. The finale was a bit let down. Just too much of celebration which didn't emotionally connect with me. I was happy that it was finally over. Compare this movie to Dangal, Secret Superstar, Chak De India, etc. and you will see that it lacks life.

Gully Boy is an extraordinary film about a young Muslim student from the slums of Mumbai, who is a fan of hip-hop music and who keeps secret his dreams to make it big in the rap music scene. It is the kind of film that hooks you right from the first moments and just keeps growing on you as it goes on. The story, the setting, the cinematography, the music, the characters, and the narrative all contribute to the film's unusual feel in equal parts. The Dharavi slums of Mumbai where the film is set are shot beautifully - the congested streets, overcrowded with a diverse population of individuals, much to the point where poverty, and often sad pictures thereof, is presented as almost culturally exotic. It's amazing though that specifically these disheartening, seemingly impossible areas bring forth heartening messages of hope and opportunity where neither dire straits nor harsh realities can take them away.

The film's narrative style is fantastic - it IS music. Its youthful, modern feel is there all through and, even those not particularly fond of rap music, are very likely to enjoy the rhythm and the many songs which decorate the proceedings in ways one could not imagine. The lyrics of the songs, as well as the rap sequences as performed by the characters of the film, turn out to be symbolic and poetic and very true of the challenging conditions of the speakers in question. The cinematography is stupendous, the lighting and diverse shots make it quite a visual treat in many ways and, as mentioned above, even despite the setting of not the prettiest locales. Apart from Ranveer Singh as Murad, the film's leading actor who's an aspiring singer, and Safeena, his charming and headstrong girlfriend, every character is given a story, which is part of the entire picture of a society often immersed in its primitive ways, like, for one, his bigamous father or her conservative parents.

And the acting, as part of this entire picture, is spot on. Every member of the cast is natural to the hilt. Singh obviously leads the cast with an excellent performance. His portrayal of his character's reserved nature, insecurity, and then his inner self-belief in his ability to make it, is fantastic. In a smaller part, Alia Bhatt is wonderful as the free-spirited Sakeena, and she almost steals the thunder as she is highly relatable, convincing and above all enjoyable in how ambitious, determined and madly in love she is. Without taking anything away from the two leads, the supporting cast is full of stupendous character actors, led by a brilliant Amruta Subhash in a heartbreaking portrayal of Murad's mother. Vijay Raaz, as her abusive and adulterous husband, is superb, and so is Vijay Varma, as the troublemaker Moeen. Siddhant Chaturvedi is a nice find as he fits the role and does exceedingly although he does look over-confident at points, and Kalki is given a thankless role though she's good.

Gully Boy is a rare combination of top-notch acting, story, music, and soul. It works as both a musical, a sports film of sorts, and a human drama. In the end, it's just very inspiring. For director Zoya Akhtar, this is clearly the best film of her career, as no film of hers, even the most celebrated and acclaimed (and some, overrated), reached the merit and beauty of this one. This film has clearly a lot invested into, and not just money but hard work in studying and preparing, because it takes us into the world as those who too often are deemed transparent, and it makes them matter. Many years ago, a movement of Indian films known as parallel cinema was producing films which often sought to give voice to the voiceless, namely people from the slums. It's nice seeing that their stories have crossed the boundaries of what was called "offbeat cinema" and is now given importance by mainstream filmmakers. That mass audiences find their stories valuable is not surprising, but Indian cinema is maturing, and it's great.

Zoya Akhtar and her talented team have crafted a cinematic masterpiece in "Gully Boy," a movie that deserves to be savored at least once. The film soars to new heights, with its captivating storyline enhanced by brilliant additions that truly impress.

The raps injected an entertaining rhythm throughout the movie, but what truly sets this film apart is its masterful filmmaking and character arcs. Each character, with their distinct styles and slangs, boasts perfectly written dialogues that leave a lasting impact.

The awe-inspiring character arc of Murad, portrayed impeccably by Ranveer Singh, is a sight to behold. The transformation from his lowest lows to triumphant highs is nothing short of extraordinary, delivered with exceptional skill. Likewise, Alia Bhatt as Safeena remains deeply in character, despite a few hiccups towards the end. It might just be Ranveer Singh's best performance since "Padmaavat." Vijay Varma's portrayal of Moeen shines brilliantly, propelling him to well-deserved fame. Even with limited screen time, he delivers a complete and captivating performance. Salman's portrayal also hits the mark with its impactful intensity.

Vijay Raaz's character is always a treat to watch, and in "Gully Boy," he continues to shine, proving to be one of Indian cinema's finest discoveries. Zoya Akhtar's affinity for him and another exceptional actor, Kalki Koechlin (aka Sky), is evident as both actors were cast perfectly and delivered captivating performances.

But it is Siddhant Chaturvedi, aka MC Sher, who truly steals the show. Emerging seemingly out of nowhere, he graces the screen with an extraordinary charm and delivers a brilliant performance that leaves an indelible impression.

Though the plot may be deemed average, it serves as the canvas for these wonderfully designed characters to shine. The writer's classic approach impresses, especially with the return of the bodyguard, who once mistreated Murad, now transformed into a pivotal character.

However, a bittersweet note arises from Safeena's brother having a role in the movie, while the protagonist's brother is left underdeveloped. An artistic choice, yet one that some may find difficult to digest.

In conclusion, "Gully Boy" is a cinematic gem, enriched by its powerful character arcs and standout performances. It is a film that strikes a chord with its audience and deserves recognition as one of the finest artistic works in Indian cinema.

NO ITS NOT COPIED FROM 8 MILE. Did you guys watch 8 mile and Gully Boy both?if you do think they are the same, then you need learn how to watch movies before you compare them. You also need to understand what a movie genre means. May be search in google to get better understanding.

you all are saying 8 mile and Gully Boy are the same based on just few things as both movies are about rappers and their struggles. its like calling all the love stories are same because there is a boy and a girl in the movie.

From the above rating you can see I liked Gully Boy, music and performances are very good. rapping looks natural. Alia Bhatt is a fire cracker in the movie. I just wish there is lot more to the story. its a worth a watch. Please dont listen to anyone who says its copied from 8 mile, watch both movies to decide for yourself.