What Is the Story About?
The story of Rocket Boys deals with the journey of Dr Homi J Bhaba and Dr Vikram Sarabhai. The series’ basic plot is how these incredible minds came together, became friends, and helped the newly Independent India in its nuclear and space mission.
Performances?
Jim Sarabh and Ishwak Singh play the main lead roles of Dr Homi J Bhaba and Dr Vikram Sarabhai. It would be an understatement to say that they breathed life into their respective roles. Right from the first frame, we see only the characters and not the actors.
At times Jim Sarabh seems to be channelling Benedict Cumberbatch, but besides that, he is flawless. The classiness and confidence that he oozes through the part without going overboard or too dramatic is a treat to watch.
Ishwak Singh is consistent from the start and delivers the required with ease. He has more emotions to deal with than Jim Sarabh, and he does them all comfortably. The character does take a back seat during the later parts of the show, but there is always a lingering presence due to the actor’s portrayal.
Analysis
Abhay Pannu directs Rocket Boys, a biopic of Dr Homi J Bhabha and Dr Vikram Sarabhai. As the promotions say, it is an incredible journey; there is enough material – all one has to do is get it right and not spoil it. Abhay Pannu, luckily, gets it right.
The first thing that catches our minds instantly is the cinematography and writing. Within the first few minutes of the first episode, this is clear. Soon, a strong conflict is set between the two leading men, and we are hooked.
The narrative then takes us back in time to the beginning of the friendship of Dr Homi Bhaba and Dr Vikram Sarabhai. As we get to know more about them, the performances too add to the impact. By the end of the first episode, we are entirely immersed in the world of Rocket Boys.
From then onwards, the narrative never slips until the other aspects of the lives of the two individuals take centre stage. The romance and subsequent marriage of Dr Vikram Sarabai is that diversion. There is a drama that we have seen countless times before. It is here that we feel the impact of the slow pace.
On the other hand, Dr Homi Bhaba’s track grows from strength to strength. The political angle makes it more gripping and intriguing to watch. The problem here would be the individual’s political leanings, though, as one might feel Rocket Boys pushing one side too positively.
If one isn’t entirely distracted by the ‘politics’ on display in that sense that they fail to see the drama for what it is, Rocket Boys might lose some momentum (only )to them.
The final few episodes involving the nuclear reactor and its related sequences are gripping and thrillingly done. The other track involving Dr Vikram Sarabhai too gains momentum with the introduction of Dr APJ Abdum Kalam. The first few scenes involving him would surely have got a lot of cheers if it were a movie. They are superbly done. However, the story shifts to the duo besides those initial few moments.
The ending feels a bit rushed, especially related to the Americans involvement. The good thing is by then, we have reached the end of the series. The rushed narrative is a minor quibble.
Overall, Rocket Boys is a good watch for everyone who has no idea of these incredible people. If one goes past the politics, the series offers much more drama and engaging narrative. Whatever be the case, this weekend, Rocket Boys should be a top recommendation on your watch list.
Other Artists?
The casting of the entire series is good. All the key parts are essayed by proper actors who know what they are doing. Dibyendu Bhattacharya and Rajit Kapur easily stand out among the supporting cast. They are superb even though the latter at times look like mimicking Jawaharlal Nehru.
Regina Cassandra and Jim Sarbh play the substantial female leads in the series. Both carry an extreme classy vibe and add to the overall elegance. Saba Azad playing Abdul Kalam is fine. The rest of the actors do their parts well, even if they aren’t the central characters like that of CV Raman.
Music and Other Departments?
Technically the series is a superior effort. The music by Achint Takkar is nice. The background score neatly adds to the mood and feel. The cinematography by Harshvir Oberai is excellent. The rich heritage sites and looks have been captured wonderfully. The editing by Maahir Zaveri could have been shaper, though. The writing, especially involving drama, is superb. There is a lot of scientific chatter, but it doesn’t overpower the narrative.
Highlights?
Main Leads
Setting And Background
Direction
Writing
Drawbacks?
Some Predictable Drama
Politics (Only For Few)
Did I Enjoy It?
Yes
Will You Recommend It?
Yes
Rocket Boys Web Series Review by Binged Bureau
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