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I Want To Talk Review: Abhishek Bachchan Shines in a Thoughtful but Niche Drama

Name: I Want To Talk
Director: Shoojit Sircar
Cast: Abhishek Bachchan, Pearle Dey, Ahilya Bambroo, Jayant Kripalani, Kristin Goddard, Johny Lever
Writer: Ritesh Shah
Rating: ★★½ (2.5/5)

Plot

I Want To Talk follows Arjun (Abhishek Bachchan), a marketing genius and workaholic navigating life as a divorcee who shares custody of his daughter. Arjun’s world comes crashing down when he is diagnosed with cancer and given less than 100 days to live.

Refusing to surrender to fate, Arjun embarks on a journey of determination, self-discovery, and acceptance. The film portrays his struggles with mortality, his efforts to reconcile with his daughter, and his unyielding resolve to leave a meaningful impact despite the ticking clock.

What Works

The film’s introspective narrative resonates deeply with those who can empathize with its central themes of grief, resilience, and purpose. Arjun’s relentless optimism, even in the face of despair, is inspiring and subtly reminiscent of concepts like the “Reality Distortion Field” seen in visionaries like Steve Jobs.

Shoojit Sircar’s direction shines in its subtlety, allowing the audience to feel the weight of Arjun’s journey without resorting to melodrama. The film’s cinematography and editing, particularly the jump cuts and creative framing during emotional moments, are a treat for cinephiles.

The dialogues are understated yet philosophical, leaving a lasting impression. References to films like Piku and Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota are delightful Easter eggs for attentive viewers.

Fashion and Accessories in I Want To Talk

The fashion in I Want To Talk is understated, reflecting the realistic and grounded tone of the film. Abhishek Bachchan’s character, Arjun, dons smart-casual attire, including fitted blazers, neutral-toned shirts, and tailored trousers, symbolizing his professional persona.

The accessories, like minimalistic watches and classic glasses, subtly enhance his character’s personality. Pearle Dey’s and Ahilya Bambroo’s wardrobes feature elegant, everyday outfits, mirroring their roles as grounded and relatable characters. The overall fashion in the film is functional, clean, and reflective of urban lifestyles, aligning with the story’s contemporary setting.

What Doesn’t Work

The film’s pacing is slow and deliberate, which may alienate audiences accustomed to more dynamic storytelling. The emotional highs that typically drive such narratives are largely absent, making it difficult to fully invest in Arjun’s struggles.

The screenplay, while thoughtful, lacks moments of humor or heartwarming engagement, making it feel too dry for broader appeal. Additionally, the predominantly English dialogues might alienate viewers in tier 2 and tier 3 cities, limiting its reach.

Performances and Direction

Abhishek Bachchan delivers one of his career-best performances, embodying Arjun’s vulnerability, resilience, and transformation with remarkable authenticity. His dialect work and nuanced expressions add depth to the character, making him the heart of the film.

Ahilya Bambroo, Johny Lever, and Jayant Kripalani offer strong supporting performances, each leaving a mark in their limited screen time.

Shoojit Sircar’s direction is commendable, though his minimalist, introspective approach might have been better suited for an OTT platform. While the film has moments of brilliance, it lacks the mass appeal needed for a theatrical release.

Final Verdict

I Want To Talk is a thought-provoking film that appeals to a niche audience. While Abhishek Bachchan delivers an outstanding performance, the film’s slow pacing and lack of emotional depth may limit its impact. The story’s untapped potential leaves you wishing for a stronger emotional connection.

For those who appreciate introspective, minimalist cinema, I Want To Talk is worth a watch. However, it might struggle to resonate with broader audiences expecting a more engaging narrative.