It’s not every day you see a comedy of errors unfold with a heartwarming twist, but this film delivers just that. Motichor Chaknachor, directed by Debamitra Biswal, stars Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Athiya Shetty in a romantic comedy set in a small town in India. The story revolves around arranged marriages, societal expectations, and the quirks of middle-class life. The film belongs to the light-hearted comedy genre, but its setting and portrayal of typical Indian families add layers of realism.
At the heart of the story is Pushpinder, played by Nawazuddin, a 36-year-old man desperate to get married. He is willing to settle for any bride who comes his way, and his desperation is what drives the plot forward. Enter Anita (Athiya), a young woman with dreams of settling abroad who is willing to marry anyone with the promise of a foreign life. What ensues is a mix of misunderstandings, comedic situations, and emotional moments that explore love, marriage, and human flaws.
One of the strongest aspects of the film is the performances. Nawazuddin delivers a nuanced portrayal of Pushpinder, capturing the frustration, vulnerability, and occasional charm of a man stuck in life’s complexities. His comic timing is sharp, and his ability to express subtle emotions elevates the character beyond mere stereotypes. Athiya, though more restrained, does well in her role as the ambitious Anita. Their on-screen chemistry isn’t the usual romantic kind but is filled with awkwardness, making it more relatable.
Direction by Debamitra Biswal is another commendable feature. The film balances humor and emotion without losing its grounded nature. The cinematography complements the small-town vibe, with visuals that capture the essence of Indian neighborhoods, crowded streets, and modest homes. There’s nothing overly grand, but that simplicity works well with the theme of the movie. The editing is crisp enough to keep the pace, although some scenes feel stretched for comedic effect.
The music, composed by Bharat-Hitarth, blends well with the narrative. It’s not memorable in the sense of hit tracks, but it does its job of enhancing the film’s moments. The background score, too, fits the mood, whether it’s a light-hearted situation or an emotionally charged scene. Costume design deserves a special mention here for staying true to the characters’ socioeconomic backgrounds, further rooting the film in realism.
While the movie hits most of its notes right, there are areas where it could have been sharper. The writing, though funny in parts, sometimes relies on clichés and predictable tropes. Some jokes land perfectly, but others feel forced or overdone. The supporting cast, while entertaining, also falls into the trap of being caricatures rather than fully fleshed-out characters.
Overall, Motichor Chaknachor is a charming, albeit flawed, comedy that’s driven by strong performances and relatable themes. Nawazuddin’s portrayal of a man stuck between societal pressure and personal dreams makes this film worth watching. If you’re in the mood for a light-hearted family entertainer with some emotional depth, this one might just be what you need. It may not be groundbreaking, but it does its job well enough to entertain.
