Once Again

Once Again is a beautifully crafted Indian romantic movie directed by Kanwal Sethi and produced by Crawling Angel Films, Neufilm, and ZDF/ARTE. Released in 2018, this movie is the epitome of an underrated gem with its powerful storytelling and compelling performances. It serves to push the envelope of traditional Indian cinema by delving deep into the modern relationship dynamics and life's second chances.

Set in the mesmerizing locales of Mumbai, Once Again is a bittersweet tale that narrates the story of two lonely hearts finding solace in each other, battling with societal expectations and their own inhibitions. Loves transcends age, and the movie beautifully portrays the romance that blossoms between two individuals in their middle ages against the pulsating rhythms of a bustling city.

Shefali Shah, who plays the character of Tara, is an older widow who runs a small restaurant taking care of her family. She’s been providing meals to a well known film star Amar who is played by the accomplished actor Neeraj Kabi. They haven’t met in person but their lives cross paths and they share a bond because Amar has been savouring Tara’s food for many years. This story takes a turn when Tara writes a note in the lunch box she delivers to Amar, marking the beginning of their interaction. The mundane daily life, the struggles they face, and the shared loneliness, all become an undercurrent to their growing relationship that goes beyond the societal norms.

One of the aspects of Once Again that is particularly distinctive is its talent at portraying the internal struggles of Tara and Amar. As the narrative unfolds, a love story begins to blossom, a love that requires a considerable amount of bravery from both parties involved. Their attraction raises the veil from their mundane lives and challenges their own beliefs and societal stereotypes about middle-aged love and companionship. The story explores this prevalent theme in a manner that captures the essence of real human emotion and the need for companionship.

The performances of Shefali Shah and Neeraj Kabi are a major highlight of the movie. Shah gives a heartfelt performance that captures Tara's longing for companionship and love. Kabi, on the other hand, exhibits an excellent portrayal of a film star who is stuck in the mirage of glitz and glamour but seeks a real-life connection. The chemistry between the two is authentic and adds much depth to their characters.

Adding to the movie's authenticity and allure are the wonderful city landscapes of Mumbai. The city’s sights and sounds almost play a supporting character, embodying life's contrasts - a bustling city filled with lonely individuals. The film's aesthetic treatment captures both the traditional and modern aspects of the city, paralleled by the narrative of the actors’ lives.

The movie not only centres around love but is an intricate exploration of art, relating to Amar’s acting career, showing a divide between art and real life. Tara, a fan of Amar's movies, discovers the man behind the silver screen and finds him a stark contrast from the characters he plays on the screen. It showcases how art can sometimes create an illusion about individuals, blurring the lines between reality and performance.

The direction by Kanwal Sethi is commendable for its maturity and realism. Sethi has crafted the film with impeccable subtlety that makes the movie an immersive experience, slowly drawing the audience into the characters' world. The tender musical score complements the narrative without overwhelming it, providing a very lifelike representation of the unwritten story that unfolds between Tara and Amar.

Finally, Once Again delivers a profound message about finding love and companionship later in life. It allows the audience to reflect on their own beliefs about love and ageism. It's about taking chances, breaking free from societal norms, and embracing a second opportunity at happiness. It quietly yet powerfully asserts that love and companionship are not bound by age and it is never too late to find that someone special.

In conclusion, Once Again is a moving and poetic film that leaves a lasting impression on the viewer. It combines excellent performances, exceptional cinematography, and an engaging plot to portray a tale of love and longing that is both touching and introspective. It is a truly valuable contribution to Indian Cinema.