03 January,2015 05:30 AM IST | | Shakti Shetty
Isn’t it sad that there barely are Hindi films that cater exclusively to kids? So much so it wouldn’t be an overstatement if we say that Bollywood generally makes films for adults while expecting kids to watch it too.
Take It Easy
U; Drama
Dir: Sunil Prem Vyas
Cast: Prasad Reddy, Yash Ghanekar, Vikram Gokhale, Anang Desai
Isn't it sad that there barely are Hindi films that cater exclusively to kids? So much so it wouldn't be an overstatement if we say that Bollywood generally makes films for adults while expecting kids to watch it too. (Let's not even get into the debate about how consistent the censor board is regarding film certification nowadays.) Regardless, every once in a while, a movie walks along and it tries to be different by being simple and direct. Its lack of ambition might work against it but it gives its everything into sticking with the set path. Fortunately, we are talking about a children's film here. Furthermore, Take It Easy makes an impressive attempt in this regard and in doing so, delivers a strong message as well. However, it lacks finesse and doesn't focus on cutting down its drag factor. It could have been a lower budgeted version of Taare Zameen Par (2007) but it doesn't aim that high.
The film could have been a lower budgeted version of Taare Zameen Par (2007) but it doesn't aim that high
Pitting two school boys against each other, the overall premise is initially athletic. As the story progresses, their academics also comes into picture. And that's also when the film begins to gather momentum. With some predictable clichés in place, parents are rubbing off their ambitions on their wards. What's interesting though is their inability to learn their lesson until the very climax - something that might sound foolish although it adds a veneer of truth to the storyline - that compensates for first half's sloppiness. Also, the second half is far better as it arrests your attention with all the dramatic twists in the tale.
Many a time, the problem with such heavy-on-message films is they get carried away by their own preaching. This film cautiously goes slow, emphasising on actions more than words. After all, the idea is to let the grownups understand a bit about the burden kids carry nowadays. The repetitive shots of the two protagonists breaking down under pressure compels you to take notice. The very first shot of the film is misleading though - a cheerful young boy is shown mixing grass with basketball.
On the big screen, both Yash Ghanekar as well as Prasad Reddy put in a fine performance as rivals-turned-BFFs. Their more seasoned colleagues are remarkable but still, the story revolves around the two. They are the undisputed stars.
Last year hardly witnessed a memorable children's film. With this venture, one can now expect many more from 2015.
