Remo D’Souza’s Be Happy is a dance-drama that tugs at the heartstrings but occasionally stumbles under the weight of melodrama. Set in the scenic hills of Ooty, the film revolves around Dhara (Inayat Verma), a spirited young girl who dreams of becoming a dancer, and her reserved, overprotective father Shiv Rastogi (Abhishek Bachchan).
A Story of Dreams and Conflicts
Dhara, wise beyond her years, has a contagious enthusiasm for life and dance, often entertaining her grandfather (Nassar) with her performances. She idolizes her dance teacher, Maggi (Nora Fatehi), and aspires to compete in India’s Superstar Dancer. However, her father Shiv, still mourning the loss of his wife, discourages her from chasing such an uncertain future. The film follows their emotional journey as Dhara breaks through Shiv’s stern exterior and challenges him to reconsider his beliefs.
Performances: The Strength of the Film
- Inayat Verma is a standout, portraying Dhara with an infectious energy that elevates every scene she’s in.
- Abhishek Bachchan convincingly plays a grief-stricken yet loving father, capturing the complexities of a man torn between his daughter’s dreams and his protective instincts.
- Nora Fatehi, despite her strong dance skills, struggles with her dialogue delivery, making her character feel somewhat mechanical.
A Melodramatic Yet Feel-Good Narrative
While the film starts off exploring father-daughter dynamics with humor and warmth, it shifts focus to the dance competition, sidelining deeper emotional conflicts. At times, Dhara’s wisdom feels exaggerated—like when she installs dating apps on her father’s phone, asking him to find her a “Mommy 2.0.”
As expected from Remo D’Souza, dance takes center stage, with energetic performances and a celebratory Ganesha number providing the film’s emotional highs. However, the predictable storytelling and over-the-top melodrama may leave viewers wanting more substance.
Final Verdict
Be Happy is a heartwarming but formulaic dance drama, powered by Inayat Verma and Abhishek Bachchan’s chemistry. While it lacks emotional depth in some places, it remains a feel-good watch for dance lovers and family audiences.
⭐ Rating: 3/5
