What the Fish

What the Fish is a 2013 Indian comedy-drama, directed by Gurmmeet Singh and starring acclaimed actors such as Dimple Kapadia, Manu Rishi Chadha, and Naresh Gosain. The film takes the audience on an unusual, humor-laden rollercoaster exploring human nature and unpredictability through a unique premise revolving around an ornamental fish and a potted plant. The movie is a testament to the multifarious approach adopted by modern Indian cinema, breezing effortlessly between emotions, lighthearted moments, and life's reflections.

The film's story revolves around the protagonist, Sudha Mishra, an irritable divorcee portrayed masterfully by Dimple Kapadia. Her character is of an overtly meticulous and eccentric nature, particular about her home's order, and the care of her beloved ornamental fish, Mishti, and money plant. Her idiosyncratic nature layers the movie's plot with much humor and surprises, making her character the anchor around which the narrative unfolds.

The plot kickstarts when an eager Sudha plans a trip for two months, leaving her house under the care of her niece's fiancé, Sumit, played by Sumit Suri. She entrusts him with the responsibility of her house, the fish, and the money plant and instructs him about their care in detail. But as fate would have it, Sumit has to leave town, which sets off a chain of delegated house-sitting. Here begins a rollercoaster of people coming to live in the house and leaving their unique lifestyle marks behind.

Manu Rishi Chadha and Naresh Gosain lend their acting prowess to the characters who become part of Sudha's house in her absence. Their brilliant performances, paired with an ensemble of versatile actors, add layers of intrigue, hilarity, and charm to the film.

The narrative of the movie is filled with diverse and vibrant characters, all converging in this one house left under the care of several people. Each occupier who replaces the previous one switches up the household's rules and dynamics, resulting in chaotic and often hilarious situations. Yet, amidst all the chaos and humor, there's an undercurrent of each character interacting in their unique ways with the two constant inhabitants of the house- Mishti, the ornamental fish, and the money plant.

The film also beautifully captures the essence of Delhi, its culture, and its people. The use of local dialect, the bustling streets, and quintessential elements like food make for an engaging sensory experience for the viewer. The engaging screenplay and crisp dialogues further fuel the plot, keeping audiences on their toes.

The eclectic soundtrack of the film, composed by Amartya Rahut and Dhruv Dhalla, is another highlight. The music complements the film's pace and tone, adding another dimension to the audience's viewing experience.

What the Fish presents a juxtaposition of comedy, drama, and the exploration of human behavior. It orchestrates elements of uncertainty, surprise, and humor to deliver an entertaining narrative. The sheer brilliance of the actors, combined with Gurmmeet Singh's seamless storytelling, enlivens this comic caper, making it a memorable experience for film enthusiasts.

Dimple Kapadia's compelling performance breathes life into an otherwise ordinary character, making it enchantingly humorous and endearing. The rest of the cast also don their respective roles with conviction, adding depth to the narrative.

In conclusion, What the Fish is more than just a comedy film. It delves into the dynamics of cohabitation, exploration of people outside their comfort zones, and the uncertainty life throws our way. Every change in care-giving hands further highlights and juxtaposes the diversity of human behavioral patterns. The narrative is made dynamic and multitextured through these contrasts and comparisons, making the movie an entertaining ride.

With its quirks, crazy twists, and standout performances, What the Fish offers a fresh take on comedy and drama within the Indian Cinema. It's a movie filled with fun, frolic, and oodles of laughter, interspersed with moments of reflection and insights into the chaos of life that makes it worth a watch.