[1]MUMBAI: Some people are blessed with the talent of narrating a story on celluloid with incredible beauty. And Shoojit Sircar’s ‘Piku’ starring Amitabh Bachchan , Deepika Padukone and Irrfan Khan is one such masterpiece, which will certainly not fail in striking an emotional chord with the viewers.
After ‘Vicky Donor’, Shoojit has come back to the family fold with a story that beautifully meanders through the finer nuances of the relationship between an unusual father-daughter duo.
Bhaskor Banerjee (Amitabh Bachchan) is a Bengali, based in the Delhi’s Chittaranjan Park with his roots deeply soiled in his hometown – Kolkata. His bizarre passion and obsession for constipation drives his only daughter Piku (Deepika Padukone) crazy.
30-something Piku is sandwiched between her duty towards her father and herself. Her father’s constant interference in every little affair (even the ones related to domestic chores) leaves her completely exhausted.
She co-owns an organisation along with her business partner Syed (Jisshu Sengupta) but has little time to focus on her work because of her father’s “potty” related issue.
An adamant person that Bhaskor is, he gets his “independent” daughter to do things that he insists on. And thus a road trip to the city of joy begins from Delhi. Thanks to Rana Chaudhry (Irrfan), the owner of a travel agency, who is perhaps the only vehicle provider in town to withstand the tantrums posed by Bhaskor and his ‘grumpy’ daughter, who are indeed (unfortunately) his regular clients.
Rana, Piku, Bhaskor, Bhudan ( Bhaskor’s domestic help) and the potty seat chair ( loving tagged as Singhasan meaning throne by Rana) are on board the four-wheeler, which speeds through the highway connecting the capital and Kolkata.
As the tiresome road trip begins, Rana and Piku play hide-and-seek with their emotions for each other. It begins with “I can’t stand you” and eventually blooms into a relationship that needs no introduction.
With a legend like Amitabh Bachchan and a pro like Irrfan on board, you are bound to see some matchless performances on display. And joining the league of “method actors” is Deepika Padukone. The dimpled lady has indeed evolved as an actor and is certainly going to grow stronger with time. Veteran Raghubir Yadav (though has a very minute role) is fabulous. Senior actress Moushami Chatterjee, who plays Piku’s aunt is typically Bengali and adorable.
Shoojit Sircar’s love for his roots is evident from the way he lays emphasis on one’s roots. This sequence featuring an otherwise difficult Bhaskar substantiates the observation – once Bhaskar reaches Kolkata, he rediscovers the little joys of life. He pedals through the by-lanes of the city, enjoys the local savouries and does things that is least expected from a man of his temperament- live life to the fullest.
Rana and Piku’s subtle love story too has been beautifully and softly told.The cinematographer has brilliantly captured the essence that was required to lay justice to requirements of the story. The shot, especially the one that captures the indescribable beauty of the Hooghly river during sunset is worth a mention.
Dialogues are natural and hilarious. Music is soothing and pleasant.In totality, ‘Piku’ is a wonderful family film, which will certainly make you wear a broad smile.
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