Ideal salesmanship says that living is selling in every aspect of life and to be rational in thoughts, YRF pitches this uncultivated concept with satirical flair in their next popcorn flick, ROCKET SINGH – SALESMAN OF THE YEAR. In these gloomy phases of recession and layoffs, writer Jaideep Sahni along with sporty director Shimit Amin (CHAK DE INDIA) makes it clear that this one will pulverize enthusiasm and innovation in modern creative filmmaking and audience's perception.
To the viewer's surprise, this time Ranbir Kapoor turns cherubic 'Turbanator' in his attire of Sikh salesman (Harpreet 'Rocket' Singh) with politesse that delves into modern-day office culture. Thematically speaking, music has to be in-the-groove with the mindset of the story/narration, with little room and space for mushy melodies and disco bangs, and so it comes in baggage of original soundtracks. Salim-Sulaiman, the regular and 'consistent with chartbusters' YRF composers set the breezy pace for this realistically crispy saga. It's concise (3 original soundtracks), snazzy and trendy but suffers from ultra-low promotion, with its audio hitting the stands less than a week before its big screen release. Does the music of this fun-filled flick make you empty your pockets at audio stands? Let's check this out…!
Salim-Suleiman start with funky rhythmic prelude (similar to 'Dance pe Chance' (RAB NE BANA DI JODI) to this hilariously realistic overview of an ambitious salesman in the trendy-paced 'Pocket Mein Rocket'. Benny Dayal talks in humor 'n' varying tones about the changing phases in the volatile sales business with Jaideep Sahni's comical punches coming in satirical moves. Sahni's narrative and cheeky wordings are the biggest spotlight ('Ho mehengi hai kalyug main dal pyaare, EMI se hai bura haal pyaare…) that carries flight from middle-class miseries to the enthusiastic maneuvers of a lively salesperson, engrossed in competitive marketing world. It's a tough task to perform as it is subjectively narrative rather than poetic to present and still lauds up as a decent effort in showcasing the spirits and theme of this dream-on-the-run flick. This overtly hyped track is high on stylized VFX effects with peppy vibrant shades of lead character (Ranbir Kapoor). There is sufficient pep-fizz in this sprightly number to create buzz for the flick and it will surely be bliss for the flick's promising opening.
Harpreet is forced to sign on a document, which waives off his right as an owner. But, this is not a win for his boss as he soon realizes that none of Rocket Sales' clients are now willing to do business with AYS even though both the companies have merged. And therein lies the business fundas of Rocket Sales Corp.
Shimit takes a neutral view of the business field and lays bare the employee-boss relationship as well as the 'percentage party' where the customer is the scapegoat. In the final analysis, as Harpreet tells his boss, it is not about driving your employees nuts to achieve sales target but by understanding them.
Shazahn Padamsee who makes her debut has the talent to come through. However, she has to work hard on her dialogue delivery and body language. Ditto Gauahar Khan who too makes her debut. Prem Chopra as Ranbir's grandfather finally gets a role of substance, suited to his age and he does a wonderful job. A complete shift from the crass acts he has been made to do of late. The Sales Manager shines through, as well as the guy who assembles computers. Both characters are cleverly crafted.
Dunno if ticket sales for this film will rocket, but I strongly recommend ROCKET SINGH
Rating – 3/5
