Luck by Chance

The name "Luck by Chance" is a peculiar one, yet it fits perfectly. The title itself speaks to the arbitrary nature of life—whether you're fortunate to stumble upon something or whether success simply happens by chance, Think of it, “Luck by chance”, either or implies the same thing. It carries an air of randomness but also makes complete sense, much like life itself.

Zoya Akhtar, in her directorial debut, seemed to capture the essence of life around her. The characters in Luck by Chance could very well be based on people she encountered, or perhaps a mix of personalities she observed, all woven together to create something familiar yet fictional. It's not about working on a project because you're told to, but rather about projecting your thoughts, weaving a story, and letting it unfold on screen. In this way, the film itself mirrors the process of filmmaking—a story within a story, a narrative that folds into itself. It’s almost like Inception in its layering: filming a story about the process of filmmaking, with actors playing characters who are themselves going through the very act of creating a film.

I can’t help but think of Robert Downey Jr.'s line when he was cast as Dr. Doom: "Different mask, same task." It's a fitting metaphor for this film as well—same theme, different perspectives.

A key moment for me is when Zoya chose her brother, Farhan Akhtar, to play Vikram Singh, a struggling actor who stumbles upon a big break in the industry. Farhan embodies the role so well, it's almost as though he was born to play it, ironic is it not? He was born to play the role of a struggling actor, and yet born to one of the greatest writers the film industry has ever seen. His portrayal of Vikram, a character from Delhi trying to navigate the tough world of auditions and opportunities, feels incredibly real. Now, I’ve never personally experienced the grind of chasing auditions or been close to someone who has, but Luck by Chance brings that world to life in a way that feels authentic.

The film is teeming with cameos, and if there’s one thing it gets absolutely right, it's its portrayal of the Indian film industry. These cameos aren't just throwaway appearances; they serve as little glimpses into the personalities of real stars, playing exaggerated versions of themselves. Mac Mohan, forever remembered for his famous "samba" line from Sholay, appears in a hilarious moment that feels like a nod to his iconic legacy. And then there’s Shah Rukh Khan, who makes an appearance in a scene that feels almost candid—like he’s not playing a role, but just being the man he is. He delivers one of the film’s most sincere pieces of advice about life in the industry, and it’s both humble and profound.

What stands out about Luck by Chance is its balance between lightness and depth. On the surface, it’s an upbeat, vibrant film, with plenty of humor and colorful moments. But there are subtle shades of grey underneath—like the opening scene, where Konkona’s character is subjected to the harsh realities of the casting couch. Or when Vikram, the protagonist, sabotages Rahul’s audition through underhanded tactics. The film doesn’t shy away from the uglier aspects of the industry, but it still keeps a lively, almost whimsical tone throughout.

Even when it addresses darker subjects, such as exploitation and the compromises actors make, the movie never becomes dull or depressing. Instead, it mixes these elements with humor, vibrant colors, and star-studded cameos. There's Hrithik Roshan’s energetic dance number, Juhi Chawla’s charm, and Rishi Kapoor's fantastic performance as a casting professional—a character who exudes warmth and menace in equal measure.

The film’s ending is deliberately open-ended, leaving you with the same uncertainty that comes with pursuing a dream in an industry like Bollywood. The story begins with Konkona’s character, Sona, dreaming of stardom. But where does that dream lead? The film doesn’t give us a concrete answer, because in the real world, these dreams are often left in limbo. It’s not about providing closure—it’s about highlighting the journey, the constant hope, and the struggles of those who chase an impossible dream.

At its core, Luck by Chance is a reflection of the entertainment industry itself: a world where everything is uncertain, where chance plays a huge role, and where talent and ambition often collide in unpredictable ways. It’s a film that captures the aspirations, the compromises, and the fleeting moments of fame that define the lives of those who live for the spotlight.