Published in: Bollywood Film Reviews

Bollywood Film Review “Ki & Ka”

Author OneFilmFan

Published on: April 3, 2016

WATCH THE TRAILER HERE

First, the Recap:

As we can all attest to over time, the debate about the roles of men and women in society rages on, with the flow of it ever changing as the world itself transforms around us. So, what if in a country, a culture, where it has been rigidly set that the men are to work hard, provide for the family, and protect their women, that entire notion gets turned on its head? Meet Kia (Kareena Kapoor), one very independent woman who not only has confidence in who she is as such, but also has the rising business prowess and position to back it up. Then, she randomly meets Kabir (Arjun Kapoor), a highly sensitive momma’s boy, while on a plane home, and the two soon begin to chat.

Initially turned off by what he seems to deem an elitist attitude in Kia, while she is taken aback by Kabir’s rather unmanly approach to life goals, which turn out not to include his wealthy father’s money or company, but instead expresses his goal to be a stay at home guy. Still not quite “getting” each other, it is only a matter of time before the opposites attract, get married, and, along with his new mother-in-law (Swaroop Sampat) in tow, establish a home together, with him as the “housewife” and her as the earner. But as time goes by, the weight of their chosen situation begins to take its toll, as his position begins to attract the attention of a world not used to the man being this way.

Soon, it becomes apparent that in order for the entire relationship to truly work in their favor, a new understanding, appreciation, acceptance, and defense of this gender role-reversal arrangement must be reached, hung onto, and have its foundation on the one element transcending both sexes–love.

Next, my Mind:

This reviewer will most certainly admit, without hesitation, being relatively unfamiliar with the cultural norms of India. But, it honestly doesn’t take an expert in it to know that writer/director R. Balki’s film is tackling a scenario that would most likely cause waves in real life as it did for the fictional characters here. Trading the normal “macho man” for a more thoughtful, compassionate, and feeling guy while likewise swapping out the more “soft” girl for a driven, highly successful, and self-supporting woman, it makes for an interesting viewpoint of relationships and the roles they entail in the context of a modern, constantly shifting home and business life.

In an acting tale of dual Kapoors, the two leads absolutely excel and have what looks like a pure, natural chemistry on screen.  Kareena launches herself full force into playing Kia as the enterprising, determined, and energetic woman whose focus on success could actually be her potential downfall. Still managing to find a sassy sexiness to exude as well, she is the perfect, playful foil for Arjun’s level-headed, quiet, and soft-hearted Kabir, who still shows that not only is he capable of creating and running a household just fine, but will stand strong for his fair lady if push comes to shove. Watching to two go through the times, good and bad, is very well enacted.

With the traditional inclusion of great music and dance numbers, plus supporting turns for Sampat and the Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan (in a hilarious cameo sequence as himself), “Ki & Ka” provides another great combination of humor, romance, drama, and human connection in tandem with the ever present realization that no matter what the situation may be or challenges that may come, you can always come home to those you love.

As always, this is all for your consideration and comment.  Until next time, thank you for reading!