Is it possible to climb Mount Everest when you are in your 60s or 70s? That’s a question that the movie will leave you with, and yet you will walk out of the cinema hall feeling all the warmth.
Sooraj Barjatiya’s latest film Uunchai struck the right cord with its audience once again. The film establishes in the very beginning that the three friends Amit (Amitabh Bachchan), Javed (Boman Irani), and Om (Anupam Kher) are heading to trek the Himalayas to fulfill the last wish of their friend Bhupen (Danny Denzongpa).
Barjatya’s films are usually focused on nuclear families and the interdependence of each family member on the each other (Hum Saath Saath Hain being the perfect example) but somewhere, in Uunchai, that element is rather twisted.
In the film, the director has more focused on the friendship of the four men and how they are a family, away from the real one. While the film is more about the fighting spirit and camaraderie between the characters, it also a nuanced introspection on how they are distanced and misunderstood by their own respective families. On the other hand, it also portrays how some battles are best to be fought alone.
Uunchai Story
Based on the fictional work, the story revolves around four friends – Amit, Bhupen, Om, and Javed. After the death of Bhupen (Danny Denzongpa), Amit finds the ticket bookings for the trip to Mount Everest that the four had planned a day before Bhupen’s death. Amit then makes a point to trek to the base of Mount Everest to pay tribute to his late friend.
After much tricks and convincing, Bhupen and Om finally agree to trek at a senior age for their friend and hence, begin the training.
The film also features Neena Gupta, who plays the role of Boman Irani’s wife. Her character adds a flavour to the storyline. The other character worth-noting is of Sarika, who plays the role of Bhupen’s long-lost love.
When the day comes, the three friends along with Javed’s wife, take a happy-go-lucky road trip to Kanpur. Later, the three friends – Amit, Javed, and Om continue their journey to Mount Everest. As they go higher, the challenges become tougher. The film also has some surprise elements too.
The Performances
When it comes to performances, Amitabh Bachchan, as always, is a delight to watch on-screen. He once again proved that from going hilarious to all serious is just a cup of tea for him.
Anupam Kher is effortlessly charming, and Boman Irani adds a unique touch to the narrative. Neena Gupta and Sarika, who have mastered their craft, have done a brilliant job. On the other hand, Parineeti Chopra, who plays the role of a trekking captain, has justified her performance and made it meatier.
Danny Denzongpa, who essays the role of Bhupen, is a refreshing touch to the storyline. His disarming charm and effortless acting will definitely make you feel nostalgic. The whole camaraderie and bonding between Amitabh and Danny come as a pleasant surprise.
Direction
Director Sooraj Barjatya has come out of his shell when it comes to family drama movies. In Uunchai, he explores different dynamics of relationships – be it friends, or family.
The film is overall a heart-warming watch that will bring a smile to your face but will also leave you teary-eyed.
