Is 'Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan' the Perfect Monsoon Love Story?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Heartwarming romance that appeals to diverse audiences.
- Strong performances by lead actors Vikrant Massey and Shanaya Kapoor.
- Timeless storytelling infused with contemporary elements.
- Beautiful music enhancing the emotional experience.
- Stunning visuals that complement the narrative.
Mumbai, July 11 (NationPress) Stars: (4 stars), Director: Santosh Singh Cast: Vikrant Massey, Shanaya Kapoor and Zain Khan Durrani. Presented by: Mini Films & Zee Studios Producers: Mansi Bagla, Varun Bagla, and Open Window Films
Zee Studios & Mini Films 'Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan' offers a refreshing take for romance aficionados, reviving the gentle allure of classic Bollywood love stories while infusing a relatable contemporary flair. The film distinguishes itself through its straightforward, heartfelt narrative, providing a welcome escape from the action-packed thrillers that have recently dominated the cinematic landscape.
Drawing inspiration from Ruskin Bond’s 'The Eyes Have It', the narrative follows debutante Shanaya Kapoor in the role of Saba, who boards a train blindfolded for her theatrical preparations, only to realize she has been abandoned by her manager. During her voyage to Mussoorie, she encounters Jahaan, portrayed by Vikrant Massey, who unexpectedly becomes her confidant. As they traverse various travel hurdles, their connection gradually blossoms into love—innocent yet mature, dreamlike yet authentic.
What truly elevates this film is the compelling chemistry between Vikrant and Shanaya, resulting in a natural on-screen partnership. Vikrant Massey confidently ventures into romantic territory after impactful performances in 12th Fail and Sector 36, showcasing a softer, chocolate-boy persona that audiences will surely relish. Shanaya Kapoor’s debut is both strong and composed; she delivers her lines effortlessly and embodies Saba’s vulnerability with sincerity, making her presence felt without the typical debutant nerves.
The writing by Mansi Bagla is elegantly simple and resonates across generations, subtly delving into modern dating phenomena like ghosting while firmly anchoring the narrative in timeless romance. Vishal Mishra’s music serves as the film’s emotional core, marking his inaugural project as the sole composer. Songs like Nazara and Alvida seamlessly integrate into the storyline, enriching its emotional resonance and providing audiences with melodies to cherish long after leaving the theater.
Visually, the film is captivating with its lavish production design and tranquil international settings, adding an immersive allure to this heartfelt love story. Producers Mansi and Varun Bagla ensure that each frame exemplifies cinematic excellence, while Santosh Singh’s direction captures both the grandeur and tranquility of love.
Verdict: 'Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan' is a poignant, uplifting romantic drama that artfully merges music, love, and realism. It’s a film for everyone—the youth navigating contemporary relationships and the older audience cherishing classic romance. This monsoon, allow this film to be your warm embrace of comfort and inspiration.