Rocket Boys: A Thrilling Saga of Ambition, Conflict, and the Birth of Modern India
"Rocket Boys," SonyLIV’s latest compelling web series, is a masterclass in character-driven drama. It meticulously charts the intertwined journeys of Homi Bhabha, the visionary architect of India’s nuclear program, and Vikram Sarabhai, the pioneering force behind its space program. Written and directed by the talented debutant Abhay Pannu, "Rocket Boys" doesn’t shy away from delving into the complexities of these iconic figures, exploring both their triumphs and their flaws. It’s a captivating portrayal of their brilliance, their unwavering dedication, and the inherent struggles that accompany extraordinary ambition.
A Glimpse into the Minds of Geniuses
The series masterfully captures the internal struggles, aspirations, and challenges faced by Bhabha and Sarabhai. We witness their unwavering drive for scientific advancement, their tireless pursuit of groundbreaking discoveries, and the sacrifices they make in the name of progress. However, "Rocket Boys" also confronts the darker aspects of their personalities, challenging the notion of geniuses as benevolent figures.
"While the milder Sarabhai was more in touch with uplifting the lives of the unprivileged, it’s through the ferocious Bhabha that Rocket Boys touches upon that eternal debate about great minds. Geniuses and men of purpose — from Michael Jordan to, well, Bhabha — are selfish. They don’t think about what’s good for everyone, nor do they care about others’ ego, feelings, and mental state. Bhabha didn’t become the guy we know him by waiting around, he grabbed opportunities and pushed forward." This exploration of Bhabha’s single-mindedness highlights the inherent tension between ambition and personal sacrifice, showcasing the complexities of these extraordinary minds.
Privilege and Power: The Shadow of Inequality
"Rocket Boys" is equally astute in acknowledging the role of privilege in shaping the destinies of its protagonists. The series doesn’t shy away from examining how both Bhabha and Sarabhai benefitted from their privileged backgrounds, affording them opportunities that were denied to many others. This nuanced perspective challenges the idealized narratives often associated with national heroes, presenting a more grounded and realistic portrait of their journeys.
"The eight-episode SonyLIV series never shies away from dissecting that, though in other places, it does get carried away in projecting them as saviours in ways that feel too simple.""Rocket Boys" navigates this delicate balance, ensuring that the achievements of Bhabha and Sarabhai are not presented as solely their own, but rather as products of a complex interplay of privilege, talent, and circumstance.
A Journey Through a Transforming Nation
"Rocket Boys" transcends the biopic genre by seamlessly weaving together a compelling narrative of scientific progress and a nation in flux. Spanning across three pivotal decades — the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s — the series offers a panoramic view of pre- and post-independence India. It vividly captures the hopes, aspirations, and anxieties of a society grappling with its newfound freedom, and the challenges of building a modern nation.
"As a piece of longform entertainment, beyond giving us a window into the confluence of science and politics, Rocket Boys — set across three decades, the ‘40s, ‘50s, and ‘60s — delivers in sketching out the world of pre- and post-Independence India. It showcases the hopes, needs, aspirations, and demands of a brave new India." The series’ portrayal of this era is rich in detail, capturing the societal dynamics, political tensions, and evolving social landscape of a nation embarking on a journey of transformation.
A Compelling Exploration of Science and Politics
"Rocket Boys" masterfully intertwines the scientific ambitions of its protagonists with the political realities of their time. The series masterfully portrays the intricate relationship between science and politics, demonstrating how scientific pursuits are inextricably linked to broader social and political forces.
"And in other places, Rocket Boys also serves as a reminder of how science is so little about science at times. Bhabha might have been a great physicist, but he was first and foremost, a showman." This intricate dance between science and politics becomes a recurring theme throughout the series, highlighting the complexities of navigating the world of research and development within a newly independent nation.
"It’s generally accepted that Bhabha overpromised to India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru (Rajit Kapur, from The Making of the Mahatma). While some of Bhabha’s rivals were delivering results and being ignored, Bhabha wooed India’s political elite with his showmanship." The series unflinchingly tackles the compromises made by its protagonists, revealing how their pursuit of scientific advancement often required strategic navigation of various political agendas.
A Riveting Ensemble Cast
"Rocket Boys" features a stellar ensemble cast, bringing to life a vibrant spectrum of characters. Jim Sarbh delivers a captivating performance as Homi Bhabha, showcasing the character’s intellectual brilliance as well as his unwavering conviction. Ishwak Singh (known for his performance in "Paatal Lok") equally impresses as Vikram Sarabhai, portraying his idealism and his struggle to reconcile his beliefs with the demands of a rapidly changing nation.
A Visual Masterpiece
The series is a visual feast, boasting stunning cinematography and intricate production design. Harshvir Oberai’s exceptional cinematography captures the era’s aesthetics with breathtaking accuracy, transporting viewers back to the bustling cities and rural landscapes of post-independence India. Meghna Gandhi’s production design adds a layer of authenticity to the series, meticulously crafting sets and costumes that seamlessly blend period details with a modern visual sensibility.
A Triumph of Storytelling
"Rocket Boys" is a triumph of storytelling, seamlessly blending historical detail with compelling emotional narratives. It’s a captivating journey into the lives of two extraordinary individuals who shaped the scientific landscape of India, while also offering insightful commentary on the social and political forces that shaped their destinies.
"In these dark and depressing times where everything India once stood for is being razed to the ground, Rocket Boys is both necessary and a response to the country that we’ve become." In a time of increasing division and disillusionment, "Rocket Boys" stands as a powerful testament to the enduring power of ambition, determination, and the belief in a brighter future.