Love 86

Love 86 is a scintillating 1986 Hindi-language romantic drama movie directed by Esmayeel Shroff. The film presents an ensemble cast comprising of Tanuja Samarth, Rohan Kapoor, Neelam Kothari, and many more talents. With elements of love, emotion, adventure, and comedy, the film was a treat for the family audience and even now, it holds a soft spot in the heart of vintage Bollywood film lovers.

The central theme of Love 86 revolves around young romance and the surprising turns it can take, often blending humor with the bitter-sweet realities of life. The movie follows four leading characters in their youthful journey of love and friendship, including intense family dramas, scheming villains and the inherent comedy that ensues when rebellious young hearts meet traditional social structures.

In this love-laced tale, Rohan Kapoor and Neelam Kothari impress with their youthful energy and striking chemistry. Rohan Kapoor played a rich young man named Vijay, who has just returned from America. His role embodied a charismatic and charming young man, living life at its fullest and falling into the throes of young love. Neelam Kothari played a lively, bubbly, yet sensitive girl named Laxmi who is a middle-class girl. The love story blossoms as they cross paths and attempt to overcome the difference in their lifestyles, with resulting comedic and emotional moments.

Tanuja Samarth brilliantly enacted the role of a stern, conservative, yet ultimately loving and caring aunt of Vijay. Her role is crucial in defining the film's storyline and producing a lot of the drama and tension. Her conflict with her young, love-struck nephew entertains the audience immensely, creating instances we can all associate with, replete with familial expectations, dreams, aspirations, and the longing for freedom.

The movie also beautifully captures the realities of the era. The social scenario, lifestyle, clothing trends, and cultural framework of the mid-80s are portrayed in an authentic manner, making it a nostalgic watch for those who lived through those times. Apart from being a love story, it is also a foray into the societal norms prevalent in that epoch.

The movie comes alive with the memorable music by Laxmikant-Pyarelal duo, with vivid soundtracks reflecting the emotional journey of the characters. Songs are sprinkled throughout the film, heightening emotions, making hearts flutter and break, adding another layer to this rich comedy-drama. It is these songs that stay with you long after the film has ended.

Besides romance and comedy, the film also engages audiences with its thrilling element of adventure, largely coming from the machinations of the villains played by Asrani and Shafi Inamdar. This criminal duo adds an element of suspense and excitement, with their nefarious plots serving as a backdrop for the swirling romances.

The supporting cast, including Satish Shah, Raza Murad, and Govinda in a special appearance, also brings depth to the narrative, each adding their unique touch to the storyline. The characters are brilliantly etched and well-connected, contributing to the storyline in a manner that enhances the film’s narrative.

Overall, Love 86 is a film that, while centred on a romantic storyline, also incorporates other genres and elements to create a cinematic experience that remains enjoyable, engaging, and above all, memorable. It's a reflection of life’s highs and lows, the love that lifts us, the relationships that support us and the circumstances that mould us. For those who love Indian cinema, especially Hindi films from the 80s, and are fond of slice-of-life stories with a dash of humour, Love 86 is a film to be cherished.