Cocktail (2012 film)

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Cocktail is a 2012 Indian Hindi‑language romantic comedy directed by Homi Adajania, written by Imtiaz Ali, and produced by Saif Ali Khan and Dinesh Vijan under Illuminati Films and Maddock Films with Eros International. It stars Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone and Diana Penty (in her acting debut). The music is by Pritam, with contributions from Yo Yo Honey Singh and the duo Salim–Sulaiman. The film released on 13 July 2012, runs 144 minutes, and had a budget of ₹35 crore. It grossed about ₹126 crore worldwide.

Plot
Meera, a shy Indian woman living in London, discovers that her husband Kunal married her for money. After a breakup, she befriends Veronica, a carefree, wealthy party girl, who introduces her to Gautam Kapoor, a charming but reckless flirt. Gautam begins a no-strings-attached relationship with Veronica while also growing closer to Meera. To please his mother, Gautam pretends he’s in a relationship with Meera, but complicating feelings lead to love for all three. Veronica, though in love with Gautam, helps him realize he loves Meera. After a series of twists, Meera and Gautam confess their love; Veronica, realizing they belong together, helps them reunite. In the end, Gautam and Meera get engaged, Veronica remains their friend, and the three share a strong bond.

Reception and music
Cocktail received mixed to positive reviews, with praise for the direction, visuals, humor, and the performances of Padukone and Penty, though some critics felt parts of the film were uneven. It earned four Filmfare nominations, including Best Actress (Padukone) and Best Female Debut (Penty). The soundtrack, especially songs like Tumhi Ho Bandhu, Daaru Desi and Second-Hand Jawaani, was well received. The background score is by Salim–Sulaiman.

Production and sequel
Filming took place mainly in London and Cape Town, beginning in May 2011. Padukone performed a Punjabi party song in London, and Penty made her Bollywood debut with Cocktail. The trailer released in May 2012 and generated strong online interest. A spiritual sequel, Cocktail 2, was announced with Homi Adajania returning to direct, featuring Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna.