All India Rank

"All India Rank" takes us on a nostalgic journey back to the late 1990s, capturing the essence of that era with precision. The film delicately explores the life of 17-year-old Vivek, whose journey to a prep school for the cutthroat IIT entrance exam is both heartwarming and humorous. Varun Grover's storytelling shines as he beautifully balances the pressures of academia with the emotional turmoil of adolescence. The film's relatable characters and witty dialogues make it a delightful slice-of-life dramedy that resonates with anyone who has undergone the rigors of competitive exams. Grover's direction and the authentic period details add an extra layer of charm to this coming-of-age tale. "All India Rank" not only captures the essence of the era but also delivers a poignant message about the pursuit of dreams and the value of relationships.

All India Rank by Varun sir, is indeed a beautiful movie which talks about the struggles of preparing for the toughest competition in the world. Sattva sharma did a beautiful job in portraying the apt emotions on the screen and I feel, this story cannot be said better than this. It was a short and crisp movie and as you crave for every good thing to last longer, you will crave for a bit more story from this movie but the writer and director was very sure of what they wanted to show.

The song lyrics are amazing, and will stay in your heart for a while.

The end itself will make you different things and emotions within you and that is the beauty of art, the way you perceive it.

Please do go to see this movie, it is made with so much of love and thoughtfulness and it will stay, even when it ends.

You have always been one of my favorite writers, Varun sir and now, maybe favorite director too. Must watch, recommended.

"Transported to the late 1990s, 'All India Rank' unfolds the saga of Vivek, a 17-year-old hailing from a serene village. Thrust into a prep school for the cutthroat IIT entrance examination, often equated to India's MIT, the film intricately explores Vivek's heartfelt struggle with academics, life's intricacies, and family dynamics. It encapsulates the essence of a young dreamer maneuvering through the hurdles of a new world, where ambitious minds unite to brace for the impending exam.

As a college guy watching this film, it struck a chord, echoing the harsh realities of the Indian education system and the weight of parental expectations. 'All India Rank' mirrors the society I'm navigating-a poignant depiction of the challenges faced by young minds in their relentless pursuit of success."

If Kota factory represented what the middle class kids go through in Kota , All India Rank was supposed to show a similar side for a lower middle class kid. But what unfolded was a very boring tale of a kid and his friends / family. The family angle was good because the actors were good. Friends didn't leave much of a mark.

The only bright spot in the whole movie is Sheeba Chaddha who lighted up the screen . The rest of the movie was super dull.

Varun Grover is a good poet as well as his stand ups are worth a watch.. but it's not necessary everyone can be good at everything.

In my view , skip this movie and watch Kota Factory!

Varun Grover's directorial venture, 'All India Rank,' stands as a refreshing departure from the conventional narratives surrounding the pursuit of academic success, as depicted in TVF's 'Kota Factory.' While both explore the pressures of competitive examinations, 'All India Rank' takes a distinct approach by shifting the camera's focus beyond the aspirant, delving into the intricate dynamics of familial relationships.

Unlike the idealized portrayal of the IIT dream often depicted in mainstream media, Grover's film humanizes it by presenting an IITian as a flawed individual, devoid of the typical hero-villain binary. Each character in 'All India Rank' is imbued with depth, their arcs unfolding organically without the need for contrived comparisons.

Grover's maturity as a storyteller is evident in his measured approach, eschewing flashy gimmicks in favor of a composed and calculated narrative. The film neither glorifies nor vilifies the IIT dream, striking a delicate balance that resonates with the middle-class insecurities harbored by many aspirants.

One of the film's strengths lies in its ability to captivate without overwhelming the audience. Instead of bombarding viewers with triumphant narratives, 'All India Rank' gently embraces the vulnerabilities and disappointments inherent in the pursuit of success.

In contrast to its counterparts, such as '12th Fail,' Grover's film refrains from fetishizing the IIT dream, opting for a more nuanced and sensible portrayal. This approach, coupled with the film's warmth and depth, elevates it beyond a mere exploration of academic ambition.

For those seeking a cinematic experience that transcends the clichés of the genre, 'All India Rank' offers a compelling narrative that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you're familiar with similar subject matter or not, a trip to the theater to witness Grover's directorial debut is well worth the investment.