Synopsis
Arjun Sen (Abhishek Bachchan), a sharp-tongued marketing executive, faces a life-altering health condition that threatens his career and ability to speak. Amid financial struggles and a broken marriage, his bond with his daughter Reya (Ahilya Bamroo) becomes his lifeline. Guided by resilience, hope, and the support of those around him, Arjun confronts his vulnerabilities in this poignant tale of survival and human connection.
Review of “I Want to Talk
Rating: 3.5/5
“I Want to Talk” tells the gripping story of Arjun Sen (Abhishek Bachchan), a sharp-tongued marketing executive whose life takes an unexpected turn due to a life-threatening health condition that jeopardizes not only his career but also his ability to speak. Shoojit Sircar, known for films like Piku and October, brings his signature nuanced storytelling to this human drama.
The film is a slow burn, reflecting the quiet, often unspoken, struggles of life. Arjun’s journey of survival is portrayed with a deliberate stillness, punctuated by moments of emotional release that feel both genuine and relatable. The focus is not just on the medical ordeal but also on the complex relationships in his life, particularly with his daughter Reya (Ahilya Bamroo). Their bond serves as the heart of the film, with Reya’s emotional struggles resonating with anyone who has experienced caregiving or grief.
What makes the film stand out is its restrained yet hopeful tone. It avoids melodrama, instead choosing to celebrate human resilience in a subdued, understated manner. Arjun’s courage is depicted through his quiet perseverance rather than overt heroics, making his story all the more compelling.
Abhishek Bachchan delivers a commendable performance, balancing Arjun’s wit and vulnerability. Ahilya Bamroo, in her debut role, shines as Reya, capturing the emotional turmoil of a young caregiver with authenticity. Kristin Goodard as the compassionate nurse Nancy and Jayant Kripalani as the lighthearted Dr. Deb provide touching and refreshing moments, while Johnny Lever’s cameo is a pleasant surprise.
Visually, the film’s simplicity mirrors its narrative, with Arjun and Reya’s lakeside moments offering a sense of solace amidst the turmoil. Sircar’s direction skillfully uses silence and pauses to create an immersive experience, though the slow pacing and understated dialogues might test the patience of some viewers.
While “I Want to Talk” may not be a traditional crowd-pleaser or an emotional rollercoaster, it’s a poignant reminder of the strength within us. It’s a tale of survival, love, and the human capacity to endure, told with quiet optimism and grace.
Strengths:
- Subtle, impactful storytelling
- Strong performances by Abhishek Bachchan and Ahilya Bamroo
- Authentic portrayal of caregiving and resilience
Weaknesses:
- Slow pacing may not appeal to all
- Some dialogues and screenplay elements lack depth
Direction: 3.5/5
Dialogues: 3.0/5
Screenplay: 3.0/5
Visual Appeal: 3.0/5