Having a good story and the knack to tell one are two things. It’s a double delight when a film delivers on both. It isn’t just a fresh idea and a compelling narrative that fuels Badhaai Ho. The modern-day rom com/family drama fires on all cylinders. Taut writing, crisp editing, superlative performances. And while it ticks all boxes, what rounds it out is its genuine, engaging charm, a scarce screen commodity in Hindi cinema.
The film stays true to and well justifies its genre. It doesn’t solely rely on barbed, punchy one-liners to bring in the humour. Writer Akshat Ghildial intelligently and subtly infuses humor into the narrative; director Amit Sharma effectively recognises and pulls it off while the characters comfortably lend themselves it. The beauty of the film lies in how it manages to keep the humour alive even in the most emotional moments.
Eventually it all comes together to make the film greater than the sum of its parts.
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The highlight for me is the relationship Neena Gupta (Priyamvada) and Gajraj Rao (Jeetender) share in the film. It’s a relief to note the director doesn’t use the ‘pregnancy’ as a mere device to propel the story. The couple shares a beautiful bond, tender and relatable. Credits are due to the writer and director for portraying it so sensitively and giving them their due screen time.
Ayushmann Khurana is breaking the stereotype of a Bollywood ‘hero’ one film at a time; he’s effortless as usual with his comedy. Dangal girl Sanya Malhotra appears as much at ease with herself. Brilliant acting aside, Neena Gupta lights up the screen with her sheer presence. What a delightful act. It’s heartening to see solid, meaningful roles, whatever little, written for female actors her age. Gajraj Rao aces with his expressions and comedic timings. But it’s veteran Surekha Sikri who, if only marginally, outshines all.
Musically, it’s one of the best albums of the year. Naine Na Jodee is beautifully rendered.
Badhaai Ho may have some cliches strewn about but the director uses them smartly to the advantage of the narrative.
Don’t miss it!
Rating: 4/5
One of those times when mainstream Bollywood gets it right!