When you blend a road trip with humor and heartache, you get a journey that’s as much about self-discovery as it is about miles traveled. Starring Irrfan Khan, Dulquer Salmaan, and Mithila Palkar, this story takes place in the beautiful and varied landscapes of South India and offers a fresh perspective on dealing with life’s curveballs. Set in the present day, the film is a light-hearted drama with a deep undercurrent of emotional exploration, as three unlikely companions find themselves in a humorous yet moving journey with life, death, and relationships at its core.
The story kicks off when Avinash (played by Dulquer), a reserved and dissatisfied young man working a job he dislikes, receives the devastating news of his father’s death in a road accident. Due to a mix-up in transporting the body, Avinash receives the wrong casket, which leads him on a road trip across southern India with his quirky friend Shaukat (played by Irrfan) and the spirited Tanya (played by Mithila), who joins them later. Their journey soon turns into a string of unexpected events, life revelations, and humorous encounters, bringing the three characters face-to-face with their own pasts and present realities.
One of the film’s standout elements is undoubtedly the acting, with Irrfan effortlessly bringing his character Shaukat to life. Known for his magnetic screen presence, he adds humor and heart to the story with his unique, unapologetic style. Shaukat’s perspective on life is both refreshing and hilariously straightforward, and Irrfan captures this with impeccable timing and wit. Every line, every expression, and even his body language contribute to a character who is equal parts humorous and endearing. Dulquer, in his Bollywood debut, brings a subtle charm to Avinash’s character. His expressions—often silent and reflective—highlight Avinash’s inner struggle between his sense of duty and his repressed dreams. Mithila adds youthful energy to the trio, and her character, Tanya, serves as a contrasting viewpoint on life’s challenges. Together, the three create a dynamic that feels genuine and unforced, adding depth to the simple storyline.
Director Akarsh Khurana skillfully captures the essence of a road trip movie while weaving in moments of contemplation and growth. His direction balances the humor and melancholy beautifully, ensuring that neither overpowers the other. Khurana paces the film leisurely, allowing characters’ stories to unfold naturally as they travel from one scenic backdrop to another. This approach serves the film well, emphasizing the journey over the destination. Each stop they make along the way feels meaningful, as the characters confront their own personal dilemmas. The choice to keep the storyline lighthearted, yet profound, highlights the universality of life’s small but significant realizations. Khurana’s direction transforms what could have been a simple comedy into a poignant exploration of loss, friendship, and second chances.
The music and background score by Prateek Kuhad and Anurag Saikia serve as perfect companions to the film’s narrative. Each track is infused with a gentle, soulful vibe that complements the story’s reflective tone without overwhelming the narrative. Songs like “Chota Sa Fasana” and “Heartquake” have a breezy yet introspective feel, adding emotional resonance to the journey. Kuhad’s folk-pop sound blends seamlessly with the story’s tone, making the music feel like an extension of the film’s essence. The score is subtle, used sparingly to emphasize key moments, and it never distracts from the dialogue-heavy scenes. Instead, it underscores the characters’ emotions and journey, resonating with the highs and lows of their road trip.
Cinematographer Avinash Arun, known for his work in films like Masaan, captures the scenic beauty of South India with an eye for authenticity and detail. The visuals enhance the film’s mood, capturing both the breathtaking landscapes and the more mundane aspects of travel. Arun’s work brings a quiet beauty to the story, with each frame capturing the characters’ evolving states of mind. The contrast between the vast open roads and the tight spaces inside the van reflects the internal journeys of the protagonists. The scenery shifts seamlessly from the lush greenery of Kerala to the bustling streets of Bangalore, providing a visual narrative that complements the emotional undercurrents of the story. The cinematography not only elevates the film’s aesthetic appeal but also allows viewers to feel like they are along for the ride, experiencing each location and moment with the characters.
The film’s editing by Ajay Sharma is another understated but essential element, as it maintains a steady rhythm that allows the characters’ stories to develop without unnecessary distraction. Sharma’s editing creates a smooth flow, seamlessly transitioning from humor to drama, from one location to the next. This approach works especially well in a film that relies on character development rather than high-stakes action. The editing allows the film to linger on the characters’ introspective moments, giving audiences a chance to understand and connect with their journeys. By not rushing through scenes and allowing each moment to breathe, the editing reinforces the film’s focus on life’s simple, meaningful experiences.
Themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the nuances of family relationships are subtly woven into the story, making it resonate with a wide audience. The film doesn’t shy away from addressing the complexities of family bonds and unresolved issues, yet it does so in a way that feels natural, not forced. The journey itself is a metaphor for coming to terms with one’s past and moving forward. Each character’s backstory reveals a different kind of struggle—Avinash’s strained relationship with his father, Shaukat’s hidden grief, and Tanya’s bold independence—all of which unfold as they navigate their way through various situations. The way these themes are handled is delicate and avoids unnecessary melodrama, allowing the film’s humor and warmth to shine through.
Overall, this film offers a refreshing take on a road trip genre, bringing humor, heart, and introspection together in a way that feels genuine and relatable. It’s a film that’s as much about the journey as it is about the characters, and the lighthearted treatment of serious themes adds to its appeal. Irrfan’s performance alone is worth watching, but the film as a whole delivers a memorable experience. It may not offer high-stakes drama, but its simplicity and sincerity make it a standout. For those who enjoy character-driven stories and the exploration of life’s small moments, this film is a must-watch. It’s the kind of movie that leaves you with a sense of nostalgia for life’s fleeting, serendipitous moments. If you’re looking for a film that’s funny, heartfelt, and filled with beautiful scenery, this is the one to catch.
