Rock On 2, starring Farhan Akhtar, which was released on Friday, November 11, has received mixed reviews from critics.
Directed by Shujaat Saudagar, Rock On 2 has been making huge buzz considering that it is the sequel to the 2008 release Indian rock music drama Rock On. Rock On was a youth-centric film and had beautifully delivered the passion for music and creating a band. The songs of the film became a huge sensation with the band, Magik, becoming an instant rage.
Although the music album of Rock On 2 has received a lukewarm response from music lovers, the story and the performance by the assembled cast doesn't fail to impress the viewers. The film makes the audience revisit the friendship of "Magik" band members.
While Farhan has delivered a brilliant performance, Shraddha, Purab Kohli and Arjun Rampal have also done justice to their roles.
We bring you some critics' verdict for the movie. See the comments below in the Rock On 2 review round-up:
Manjusha Radhakrishnan of Gulf News said: "The twists seem forced and the introduction of the two new bandmates seem unnecessary. As far as performances go, every one does their bit but they are let down by a confused storyline. Watch this only if you are a Rock On groupie, otherwise skip it."
Lokesh Dharmani of Masala.com said: "A movie that's about a rock band and has music as its theme doesn't promise a fabulous soundtrack. Some of the songs (The Wedding Song- You Know What I Mean) are forced into the narrative. Rock On 2 is a good attempt on following a band's story. We miss Luke's Rob but we do welcome the new band members who are effortlessly brought into the band."
Renuka Vyavahare of the Times of India said: "The script is a major downer. It is way too contrived, directionless and morose to hold your interest. With no strong conflict point to hold it all together, the story goes haywire. The narration tries too hard to manipulate your feelings and spoon-feed emotions by explaining the unsaid thoughts of the characters, depriving you the joy of discovering it for yourself. The music is shockingly weak. Barring the Usha Uthup track, it is not a patch on the former's iconic tracks."
Surabhi Redkar of Koimoi said: "The script of Rock On 2 fails miserably at establishing anything. In an attempt to show the lead characters matured, what we get to see is another level of immaturity. Saudagar basically fails to get any 'band movie' flavor to this one. Magik has no magic left and the pointless story moves at snail speed. Rock On 2's band Magik is completely tragic! If you were ever interested in forming a band, this one could kill your dreams!"
Stutee Ghosh of The Quint said: "Being a movie that revolves around music, the songs of the original really struck a cord with the audiences; the sequel fails to deliver. The trinity, Shankar Ehsan Loy's score is average at best. Despite Shraddha Kapoor giving one of her best performances and some heartwarming moments between the members of the original cast, it is strictly average."
Sukanya Verma of Rediff.com said: "I'd take that in my stride if the ensuing concert had the same electrifying effect as the first, if it could create even one stand out moment independent of nostalgia. Sadly, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy's soundtrack, Khasi touches notwithstanding, just doesn't pull."
Anna MM Vetticad of Firstpost said: "Rock On 2 is not insufferable, it is just hugely disappointing. They should have given it an alternative title: How To Fritter Away Goodwill For A Fondly Remembered Brand in 139 Minutes and Seven Seconds. Shankar Ehsaan Loy's compositions for Rock On were fantastic. Their work in Rock On 2 is a mixed bag in the nice-but-not-great mould. I refuse to blame them. The blame for this film's average-ness lies entirely at the doorstep of the writers."
Kamaal R Khan tweeted:
Watch my review of #RockOn2 if you want to know, why is it #ShockOn2! https://t.co/hWJtjZu10P via @youtube
— KRK (@kamaalrkhan) November 10, 2016