Aiyyaa

Aiyyaa is one of the most distinctive movies to emerge from Bollywood in 2012, starring powerhouse Bollywood actress Rani Mukerji, Malayalam super star Prithviraj Sukumaran, and the comic genius Nirmiti Sawant. This charismatic ensemble casts an engaging spell on audiences with a blend of comedy, drama, romance, and a typical Bollywood song and dance extravaganza.

The remarkably creative and slightly eccentric film is directed by Sachin Kundalkar who imaginatively fuses a variety of themes into a delightful romantic comedy. Kundalkar’s previous work in Marathi cinema shows its colors in this movie, offering a multi-linguistic palette with a heavy dose of cultural undertones for a uniquely flavorful cinematic experience. Aiyyaa is not just a film; it could be described as a sensory exploration that implores audiences to relish every moment.

Rani Mukerji carries the movie with her infectious energy and nuanced performance. She plays Meenakshi Deshpande, a middle-class Marathi girl with a vivid imagination and a job in an art school where she works in the library. Meenakshi's family is quirky, bordering on ridiculous, with characters that cater to different comic tropes. Despite her often crazy surrounding, she dreams of a 'Knight in shining armor' who will carry her away from the madness. Mukerji’s performance, the strength of her character, and the way she makes even the quirkiest actions seem relatable make her the heart and soul of Aiyyaa.

Prithviraj Sukumaran, the South Indian mega-star in his Bollywood debut, plays Surya, a Tamil art student whom Meenakshi is smitten by. Sukumaran conveys Surya's strong, stoic, and mysterious persona convincingly, leaving audiences intrigued by his character throughout the movie. Sukuraman’s underplayed subtlety forms a fantastic parallel to Mukerji’s over-the-top character, functioning like two sides of a perfectly balanced coin.

Nirmiti Sawant, famous for her comedic timing in Marathi entertainment industry, delivers a brilliant performance as Maai, the house help. Her loud and over-the-top character adds to the delightful absurdity of Meenakshi's world, providing side-splitting humor in various situations of the film.

The story revolves around Meenakshi's search for her dream man, contending with a doting mother keen to get her married and a job that doesn't quite suit her daydreaming nature. Her life takes a turn when she meets Surya. She is drawn to him because of his mysterious aura and the intoxicating scent that he carries.

Aiyyaa is as much about its supporting cast and outrageous stories as it is about the smell – an element that Kundalkar cleverly weaves into the film's narrative. The importance of smells adds an interesting dimension to the storytelling, becoming a central motif in Meenakshi’s and Surya’s unlikely romance. It is this unusual technique that marks the film as distinctive among others in Bollywood's romance genre.

What sets the film apart is its magical and dreamy sequences that seamlessly merge fantasy and reality, often leaving the viewer bemused. Composer Amit Trivedi's energetic music is another highlight of the film, beautifully blending into the background to narrate the tale audibly. Coupled with stunning choreography and visually captivating cinematography, Aiyyaa is a flavorful sensory treat.

In summary, Aiyyaa is a bold and unique cinematic experience that isn't hesitant to explore new frontiers of storytelling. Brimming with flamboyant performances and a quirky sense of humor, the film is sustained through its thoughtful storytelling and a leading lady who is both goofy and graceful in her quest for love. The film's original approach to exploring the theme of romantic love through the sense of smell could be just what one needs for an enchanting rendezvous with Indian cinema.

Whether you're a hardcore Bollywood aficionado or someone curious about the melodrama, comedy, and romance of Indian cinema, Aiyyaa is a film that offers something for everyone, making it a must-watch movie of 2012.