October

October is a 2018 Indian Hindi-language slice-of-life film that was directed by Shoojit Sircar and written by Juhi Chaturvedi. Embodying a gentle and lyrical tone, this critically acclaimed film features Varun Dhawan, Banita Sandhu, and Gitanjali Rao in lead roles.

October delves into a heartfelt narrative with the ebb and flow of life and love at its core. The film takes a unique and poetic approach to storytelling that sets it apart from typical Bollywood fare. The plot unfolds subtly, without traditional musical numbers or dramatic conflicts, offering audiences a thought-provoking viewing experience.

Varun Dhawan, known for his charismatic performances in Bollywood, is seen in a fresh and nuanced role. He skillfully portrays the character of Danish (Dan) Walia, a young hotel management trainee who has a quirky and carefree personality. However, Dhawan effortlessly shines as he depicts Dan’s emotional transformation over the course of the film.

Banita Sandhu makes her debut in the Hindi film industry with October. Despite her newcomer status, Sandhu impresses with her compelling portrayal of Shiuli, a trainee at the same hotel where Dan works. Very little is revealed about Sandhu’s character at the onset of the movie, creating suspense and further interest for viewers.

Veteran actor Gitanjali Rao also features prominently in the film as she puts forth a riveting performance as Shiuli’s mother. Rao, an esteemed theatre artiste, brings a sense of authenticity and depth to her complex role, that resonates deeply with audiences.

Set against the backdrop of New Delhi, the story of October reflects the beautiful paradoxes of life. It encompasses the hustle and bustle of city life, while also mystically echoing the tranquillity of nature with the symbolic presence of the Shiuli flower throughout the film. Sircar’s knack for intertwining the subtleties of human emotions with the natural world results in a visually captivating and poignant story.

The screenplay penned by Juhi Chaturvedi is another high point of the film. It beautifully captures the mundanity of everyday life, while subtly weaving in profound themes of love, loss, acceptance, and catharsis. Her ingenuity as a writer shines through in the way she skillfully translates these abstract themes into a grounded narrative.

Avik Mukhopadhyay, the cinematographer, enhances the film's beauty with his framing and choice of natural lighting. His distinct technique assists in adding another layer to the narrative, making the cinematography itself a story within the story.

Music directors Shantanu Moitra, Anupam Roy and Abhishek Arora create a hauntingly beautiful score that serves as the perfect sonic backdrop for the film. They amplify the film's raw emotions and beautifully complement the minimalistic approach taken by the director.

Despite its seemingly simple plot, October leaves a lasting impression on its viewers. This can be largely attributed to Sircar’s masterful direction. He refrains from resorting to melodrama and consciously retains the film's serene, melancholic, and introspective tone. The director's restrained approach allows the performances of the actors and the storyline itself to resonate with the audience on a truly emotional level.

The film pushes the boundaries of mainstream Hindi cinema by steering clear of commercial clichés and focusing on nuanced storytelling and character development. It prompts audiences to question what love truly means and inspires introspection about life’s many complexities. The slow pace of the film, reflecting the nature of life itself, may feel disconcerting for some viewers. However, for those seeking an offbeat and artistic cinematic experience, October is an immersive journey worth embarking upon.

To summarise, October provides a refreshing take on love and life, told through the lens of complex characters and underpinned by a subtle melancholy. With its thought-provoking themes, standout performances and beautiful aesthetics, it is definitely a watch that prompts one to appreciate the fleeting but significant moments that make up our lives. Invoking both love and loss, the film masterfully encapsulates the essence of life’s cyclical nature.