Sooraj Barjatya’s “Uunchai” takes viewers on an emotional journey that blends laughter and tears. The film explores the concerns of the elderly and emphasizes friendships based on care rather than self-interest (aajke Gen Z cannot relate). It highlights the importance of developing camaraderie between different age groups and within marital relationships, where one person cares for the other rather than relying on them.
The film’s messaging is wrapped in a storyline that strikes a balance between gripping and preachy. Barjatya avoids the pitfalls of melodrama, and makes for a fun watch. Bachchan’s portrayal of a flawed character named Amit Shrivastav, who confronts his real-life image of a relentless winner, adds an intriguing layer to the film. His friend Bhupen, played by Danny Denzongpa, aptly describes Amit as a “salesman of emotions,” which, as an actor, he really is. But he is Amitabh Bachchan yaar, he isn’t a salesman, he is an ENTREPRENEUR of emotions.
While the trailer may have hinted at an adventurous journey in the mountains to fulfill their friend’s last wish, the majority of the action takes place in the plains. NGL, that was a bummer. But understandable hai. The focus shifts towards metaphorical challenges akin to scaling Everest in life. However, it is Amit’s transformation in the final quarter, where he confronts his fears, that prevents the film from losing its impact.
Sooraj Barjatya sticks to his age old formula, and it works well
As a regular consumer of Sooraj Barjatya movies, I know that his USP is to create relatable moments that resonate with the middle-class audience. The same happens in this movie, which is a touch nostalgic. The screenplay features humorous situations, like the extra effort made to appease a annoyed wife, highlighting relatable experiences from a time before the advent of social media. Basically ek aisi duniya, jaha sab kuch achha ho.
The OG cast rewind the clock with their magical performances
Anupam Kher, known for his ability to portray older characters convincingly, delivers a compelling performance as the grumpy Om, who is attached to his past. Boman Irani effectively captures the essence of Javed, a businessman whose life is controlled by his wife Sabina (Neena Gupta), while Bachchan excels in freestyle comedy. Sarika shines as Mala, a character holding onto a painful past just like Om. Parineeti Chopra, despite a partially developed character, makes the most of her role as the guide with an attitude.
However, despite the film’s theme of embracing change, Sooraj Barjatya stuck to his three hour long runtime, which honestly, is a bit too long for this movie. The lack of exploration of Javed’s spiritual side throughout the journey also feels like a missed opportunity. Additionally, despite the inclusion of talented musicians Amit Trivedi and Irshad Kamil, the movie fails to have hummable songs, the only memorable one being ‘Keti Ko’.
Overall, “Uunchai” is an emotional roller-coaster that evokes laughter and tears. While it may have some narrative flaws, it successfully conveys its messages without succumbing to melodrama. With relatable moments and an ensemble cast that delivers strong performances, the film strikes a chord with the audience. ‘Old Is Gold’ they said, ‘Old Is Gold’ they proved.
