Complexities of love and friendship in Cocktail, writes Shanku Sharma

//Shanku Sharma//

Cocktail (2012) is one of my favourite films. Directed by Homi Adajania and written by Imtiaz Ali and Sajid Ali, Cocktail stars Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone and Diana Penty in lead roles. The film revolves around the lives of three friends – Gautam, Veronica, and Meera – whose dynamics change when they find themselves entangled in a complicated love triangle. Set in London, the film also stars Randeep Hooda and veteran actors Dimple Kapadia and Boman Irani. I loved the film’s direction, homour, cinematography, soundtrack, costumes and of course the performances of the cast. Cocktail is all about love, friendship, romance and emotions.

The film’s narrative primarily explores themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery. Gautam, played by Saif Ali Khan, is a flirtatious and carefree womanizer, while Veronica, played by Deepika Padukone, is a vivacious and independent woman. Meera, portrayed by Diana Penty, is an introverted and traditional girl who moves to London and becomes friends with Gautam and Veronica.

The dynamic between the three characters undergoes a significant shift when Gautam falls in love with Meera, leading to jealousy and heartbreak for Veronica. The film delves into the complexities of relationships and the consequences of choices made out of love and friendship. Meera decides to leave Gautam for Veronica’s (and her friendship) sake but Gautam does not let her to do so. However, Meera leaves Gautam and asks him to take good care of Veronica (a heartbroken also meets with a near fatal car accident). Though Gautam begins taking care of Veronica, Veronia realises that he is truly in love with Meera.

One of the notable aspects of Cocktail is its portrayal of modern relationships and the blurred lines between friendship and romantic love. The characters navigate through their feelings and desires, ultimately realising the importance of honesty and communication in sustaining meaningful relationships. It is indeed difficult for both friendship and love to stay together. When love enters, a rift gets created in the friendship among Gautam, Meera and Veronica. Even Kunal Ahuja (Meera’s husband) realises his folly of leaving a dutiful and faithful wife like Meera. Though he tries to make a comeback in her life, Meera and her love for Gautam stop him further. A remorseful Kunal decides not to persuade Meera further. A happy-go-lucky Veronica tells Gautam in the beginning that there is nothing serious between them (Gautam and Veronica). However, things take a painful turn for Veronica when both Gautam and Meera fall in love with each other. Veronica tries hard to become ‘desi’ like Meera (in order to become Gautam and his mother’s choice).

Overall, Cocktail offers a refreshing take on contemporary relationships, blending elements of romance, comedy, and drama to create an engaging cinematic experience. It resonated with audiences for its relatable characters, memorable performances, and exploration of love in all its complexities. The film’s soundtrack, composed by Pritam, received widespread acclaim for its catchy tunes and melodious tracks, enhancing the emotional depth of the narrative.