New Delhi: “Is love something that can never be complete? If so, why do stories of love between Amitabh and Rekha, Dilip Kumar and Madhubala, Raj Kapoor and Nargis become legends? In the past, marriages used to have a happy ending in films, but in modern times, perhaps that’s not the case. What are the challenges in today’s marriages? Where does love diminish or end? Married couples today often look for love elsewhere. This film talks about the happiness after marriage and abides by the rules.
Story: Vidya Balan and Prateik Gandhi are husband and wife, having defied their families to marry for love. Many years have passed since their marriage, but now they no longer quarrel. You might say this is a good thing, but relationships thrive on arguments; this is what Vidya says in the film, and perhaps she is right, meaning their relationship is no longer alive. Both are engaged in extramarital affairs; Vidya is caught up in the love of a handsome photographer, Sendhil Ramamurthy, while Prateik loves a theater actress, Ileana D’Cruz. Ileana also becomes the mother of Prateik’s child. Both Vidya and Prateik want to tell each other that they want to end this marriage but cannot say it. In the meantime, there is a death in the family, and they have to attend a funeral. Will this funeral also mark the end of their relationship? Will they come back together? What will happen to their extramarital affairs? To know this, you will have to watch this film.
Film: There isn’t much hype around this film because there isn’t a big hero in it, but when Vidya is there, who needs a big hero? Nevertheless, this film is good. It shows the truth of relationships that you can relate to. There aren’t heavy dialogues in the film, but you connect with what is there. You feel like, “Yes, this happens to us too, this happens around us too.” The film beautifully portrays the dynamics of the husband-wife relationship. Perhaps, by watching this film, you can understand how a husband-wife relationship changes over the years, and if your marriage has also been for many years, you will be able to relate to it. This film also beautifully depicts the relationship between a father and daughter. In short, it’s a relatable film. It’s not the kind of film where the hero beats up twenty goons, but when the hero speaks, it touches your heart. Sendhil’s broken Hindi brings a smile to your face. Vidya’s demeanor is delightful. Prateik touches your heart.
Acting: Vidya Balan is the hero of the film. She portrays a wife, a daughter, and a lover, and she does justice to all three characters. Looking at Vidya, you feel that she’s an amazing actress. Every expression, every dialogue feels relatable. You connect with Vidya’s characters. Prateik Gandhi seems like if this guy can deliver such good acting in front of an established actress like Vidya, he will go far. Prateik has portrayed this character with perfection. Sendhil looks handsome, and you fall for his Hindi. He is an American actor, and he fits perfectly in the role of a foreign photographer. Ileana also looks good. If she were given more screen time, she would have performed even better.
Direction: This is Shirsha Guha Thakurta’s debut film. His direction is straightforward. He understands relationships well, and it reflects on screen. He has utilized an actress like Vidya properly. After watching this film, you expect more from him.
Overall, this is a good film, and married people can relate to it. Perhaps it may not appeal to the younger generation.”