The crowded, chaotic life of a big city is often full of untold stories, and Life in a Metro taps into this theme with a raw yet heartfelt portrayal of intertwined lives. Directed by Anurag Basu and starring an ensemble cast including Shilpa, Irrfan, Konkona, Shiney, and Kay Kay, this film takes us on a journey through modern-day Mumbai, blending romance, drama, and heartbreak. Set in the bustling, ever-changing metro landscape, the movie captures the pace and rhythm of urban life, making it a slice-of-life drama with an emotional core.
The film follows the personal stories of nine individuals grappling with love, relationships, betrayal, and redemption. Shilpa’s character, a housewife stuck in an unhappy marriage, finds herself attracted to Shiney’s character, a man who is equally disillusioned by his own life. Konkona plays a hopeful woman in her 30s, desperate for love but repeatedly let down, while Irrfan’s quirky charm adds humor and warmth to the film as her love interest. Kay Kay plays the corporate ladder-climber, who is at once ambitious and cold-hearted in his professional and personal relationships. The plot weaves these stories together in a way that highlights the contradictions of life in a metro—people are so close, yet so disconnected. Although the story doesn’t break any new ground, it brings out the complexity of urban relationships with a relatable, realistic touch, without feeling forced or melodramatic.
What stands out in the movie is the excellent ensemble cast. Irrfan’s portrayal of Monty is an absolute delight. His comic timing, coupled with his portrayal of an awkward, single man in search of love, brings lightness to the movie’s heavy themes. Konkona’s character, Shikha, is equally impressive. She balances vulnerability and strength with ease, making her journey toward self-realization compelling. Shilpa, playing a woman on the edge of emotional breakdown, delivers a restrained and impactful performance. The chemistry between all the characters is believable, especially in the moments of tension and heartbreak. Anurag’s direction shines here, as he allows each actor their moment without overshadowing the others.
The music by Pritam is another highlight of the movie. Songs like “In Dino” and “Alvida” are soulful, perfectly mirroring the emotions of the characters and adding depth to the film’s storytelling. The soundtrack, blended with the visuals, captures the essence of longing, love, and loss. An interesting feature is the rock band that appears in the background of many scenes, serving as a chorus that echoes the emotional undertones of the narrative. This unique addition brings an artistic layer to the film, differentiating it from conventional Bollywood musicals.
The cinematography by Bobby Singh deserves mention for effectively capturing the fast-paced, often overwhelming atmosphere of Mumbai. The city itself becomes a character in the movie, with its crowded streets, high-rise buildings, and constant sense of movement. The film’s editing is tight, ensuring that the multiple storylines flow together smoothly, without confusion. Each frame is carefully constructed to highlight the emotions of the moment, whether it’s the claustrophobia of a metro ride or the isolation felt in a crowded city. However, some transitions between the stories could have been smoother, as at times the shift feels abrupt.
The movie’s overall theme revolves around the idea that while we may live in close quarters in urban environments, we often lead isolated emotional lives. This sense of isolation is expertly portrayed through the screenplay and performances. The film doesn’t shy away from showing the darker sides of relationships—affairs, heartbreak, and loneliness—but it balances these with moments of humor and hope, ensuring that the tone remains optimistic despite the complexity of the issues it explores.
If there’s one critique, it’s that some of the stories feel underdeveloped. For example, Kay Kay’s character could have been explored in more depth. His motivations and emotional conflicts are clear but lack the same nuance as some of the other characters. Similarly, Shiney’s storyline, while poignant, feels rushed toward the end. These moments of underdevelopment leave a few gaps in the emotional impact of the film. Nonetheless, the stories that are more fleshed out make up for these shortcomings, ensuring that the overall narrative doesn’t falter.
In conclusion, Life in a Metro is a well-crafted film that uses its ensemble cast to create an emotionally engaging experience. It’s a movie that speaks to the struggles of urban life—balancing ambition, love, and loneliness in a way that feels real and relatable. The performances, especially by Irrfan, Konkona, and Shilpa, stand out as the film’s strongest assets, supported by Pritam’s evocative music. While some storylines could have been more developed, the film’s heart remains intact, making it a recommended watch for anyone who enjoys character-driven dramas. For those who appreciate a mix of romance, humor, and urban melancholy, this film hits all the right notes.
