Whenever I see an international film, either in a film festival or if someone recommends, I get mesmerized over the fact how such films are made and I always wished why cannot an Indian film match upto the standards in terms of exploring a given situation/relation. I was answered by many other Indian films, but majority of these Indian films were based on pre-Independence or on social issue or on some political figure. Whereas Udaan stands out solely on the topic which the movie explores i.e. Human relations.
To me, it came no surprise to know the film's official entry to prestigious international film festival because the film based on contemporary setup, real characters and exciting scenarios makes Udaan a film a must watch for all genuine film lovers. The film is based on a teenager's relation with his father, step brother and his aspiration which become the major conflicts. But the detailing of characters, scenes, the performances and the raw visual feel makes it a treat to watch the movie on a big screen.
The scenes are well written with supreme senstivity, providing a scope for thought process after the movie gets over. It also justifies the maturity level of the filmmaker Vikramaditya Motwane to create a father-son-step brother relationship with such sincerity. There are many scenes which one would take back, ponder and might relate with his/her relations. The visuals are nothing to excite about as the location chosen doesn't provide much scope to elevate the frame to a level where one would atleast think to appreciate the visual art. Having said that, handheld camera are used very effectively. The music by Amit trivedi is good and it never adds obstacle to the flow of the narrative, on the contrary it enhances the mood of the scene.
Actor Ronit Roy steals the entire show for me from this movie. He has given a performance of his lifetime. Debutant Rajat Barmecha also excels with his subtle expression, Ram kapoor comes with a decent act. The other supporting cast doesn't disappoint either. The second plus point of this film is the varied and unusual cast which adds more vigor and freshness to the plot as the cast is not yet typecasted to any other mould of film acting.
The drawbacks might be the length which again is debatable for some including me. As I didn't find the length was an issue, but some scenes were stretched above certain visual norms, but still the core feel was maintained throughout the narrative. The second negative would be the heaviness of the topic when it gets into the second half making the film a one time watch. But if you love films shown in international film festival, if you respect the depth of human relations and if you are looking for different Indian cinema then Udaan is for you as it worked for me. For others give it a try atleast, you won't be that disappointed.
Rating: 4/5
P.S. On a lighter footnote, after watching Udaan I am sure one will search another great movie 'KantiShah ke Angoor' :)
To me, it came no surprise to know the film's official entry to prestigious international film festival because the film based on contemporary setup, real characters and exciting scenarios makes Udaan a film a must watch for all genuine film lovers. The film is based on a teenager's relation with his father, step brother and his aspiration which become the major conflicts. But the detailing of characters, scenes, the performances and the raw visual feel makes it a treat to watch the movie on a big screen.
The scenes are well written with supreme senstivity, providing a scope for thought process after the movie gets over. It also justifies the maturity level of the filmmaker Vikramaditya Motwane to create a father-son-step brother relationship with such sincerity. There are many scenes which one would take back, ponder and might relate with his/her relations. The visuals are nothing to excite about as the location chosen doesn't provide much scope to elevate the frame to a level where one would atleast think to appreciate the visual art. Having said that, handheld camera are used very effectively. The music by Amit trivedi is good and it never adds obstacle to the flow of the narrative, on the contrary it enhances the mood of the scene.
Actor Ronit Roy steals the entire show for me from this movie. He has given a performance of his lifetime. Debutant Rajat Barmecha also excels with his subtle expression, Ram kapoor comes with a decent act. The other supporting cast doesn't disappoint either. The second plus point of this film is the varied and unusual cast which adds more vigor and freshness to the plot as the cast is not yet typecasted to any other mould of film acting.
The drawbacks might be the length which again is debatable for some including me. As I didn't find the length was an issue, but some scenes were stretched above certain visual norms, but still the core feel was maintained throughout the narrative. The second negative would be the heaviness of the topic when it gets into the second half making the film a one time watch. But if you love films shown in international film festival, if you respect the depth of human relations and if you are looking for different Indian cinema then Udaan is for you as it worked for me. For others give it a try atleast, you won't be that disappointed.
Rating: 4/5
P.S. On a lighter footnote, after watching Udaan I am sure one will search another great movie 'KantiShah ke Angoor' :)
