Roy

Roy is a captivating Indian romantic drama thriller film released in 2015, directed by debutant director Vikramjit Singh, and produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Divya Khosla Kumar, and Ajay Kapoor. The star-studded cast consists of Arjun Rampal, Jacqueline Fernandez and Ranbir Kapoor.

The narrative intertwines the lives of a successful film director, a dubious art thief, and a charming actress, deftly keeping your attention hooked from the beginning till the end. Arjun Rampal plays Kabir Grewal, a successful and sought-after film director known in the industry for his Casanova ways as much as for his series of hit films. Rampal’s characterization is incredibly fascinating. His portrayal of Kabir is multi-dimensional, complex and strength lies in its ability to convey myriad emotions without uttering a single word.

Amidst creating his new directorial venture, Kabir’s path crosses with the vibrant Ayesha Aamir, a London-based filmmaker played by Jacqueline Fernandez. Her character is very cheerful, independent, and carefree yet strong and decisive, and she surely does justice to it. It's lovely to watch her throughout the film. The chemistry between Ayesha and Kabir is palpable, providing the sprinkling of romance in the plot.

The pivotal character is the enigmatic Roy, played by Ranbir Kapoor. Roy is a mysterious art thief, showcasing Kapoor’s ability to make any character into an engaging experience. He is seen as shadowy, introspective, and unusually calm and composed for someone in his line of work. His intriguing persona is what carries the story forward. Kapoor brings sophistication to Roy, and his portrayal is a fitting testament to his versatility as an actor.

Then there is another Jacqueline Fernandez character, a glamorous actress named Tia. This double role by Fernandez introduces a distinct flavor to the plot, making the narrative even more interesting.

The beauty of this film is in the way these characters’ lives intertwine. It leaves you guessing what the connections could be, offering thrilling surprises at unexpected turns. The fascinating dynamics among the characters and their intricate relationships form the central theme of the movie. While romance serves as an undercurrent, the excitement derived from the film’s thriller aspect nudges you to the edge of your seat at times. The film also discusses the process of storytelling and gives an inside look into the workings of a filmmaker's mind.

In terms of technicality, Roy stands splendid in screenplay and direction. The impressive cinematography elegantly captures the gorgeous locales. The slow pace of the film rather effectively builds up the suspense and depth in the narrative instead of diluting it. Singh has gone for a non-linear narrative style with an artful and meticulous mixture of illusion and reality that keeps you intrigued and invested in the movie.

The music, composed by multiple music directors, including Meet Bros Anjjan, Amaal Mallik, and Ankit Tiwari, is soothing and goes well with the flow of the movie. Tracks like "Sooraj Dooba Hai," "Chittiyaan Kalaiyaan," and "Tu Hai Ki Nahi," perfectly capture the mood and emotion of the scenes they are part of, and are chartbuster hits, still remembered and hummed by the audience.

For those who appreciate nuanced performances and a story that unfolds slowly but fascinatingly, Roy is a must-watch. However, it might not cater to those who have an appetite for fast-paced action or comedy. It’s an intriguing film that draws you into the world of Kabir, Ayesha, Roy, and Tia, through its complex narrative and commendable performances.

To watch the unraveling of this multifaceted story filled with romance, drama, suspense, and an unexpected twist, Roy, delivers a lasting impression, making it a distinct piece in contemporary Indian cinema.