Hindi Medium

A movie made in India but every person around the world can relate himself/herself to the theme of this wonderful piece of work which is based on the fact that, we live in a world where your class/standard is determined by the language you speak (and not just language by the way) and this movie honestly portrays the challenges faced by those who are discarded from the main stream just on the basis of the language they speak. The best thing about this movie is that it perfectly delivers this important message without lacking anywhere in the entertainment front (filled with humor and brilliant acting). I am sure you will fall in love with this Raj & Mitthu (sorry "Honey") pair instantly. Irfan as the obedient and madly in love with his wife kind of husband and Saba Qamar as a demanding and dominating wife is such a fun to watch. This movie will revive your faith in Indian Cinema which has been damaged by many Indian Superstars who cash on their loyal fan followings for grand box office collection with nothing to offer in return (a descent and original piece of work is what we expect).

"Talent speaks the language of a genius, surprisingly it's not the languages we all speak."

Every now and then the Hindi film industry comes out with a movie like this and you heave a sigh of relief that sensible movies are still being made. In other words, it is not just names that are being used to sell movies. Hindi Medium takes us through the troubles of a couple to get their child into the top 5 elementary schools of New Delhi. While some of the scenes and situations are over-the-top they are intentionally done that way so as to be satirical. However, they are all relatable since each one of us has went through these troubles ourselves or know someone who did. Irfan Khan and his dialogues are hilarious as always. The newcomer, Saba Qamar, also does a decent job. A highly recommended watch for everyone except fighting couples who are debating about which school to put their child in to.

There comes a movie once in a while which is not only thought- provoking but also sends out a great social message. "Hindi Medium" is definitely one of it.

"Hindi Medium" tells the story of a married couple who does every thing under the sun to get their daughter admitted to the most popular school of Delhi.

Saket Chaudhary, who gave us some memorable films like "Pyaar Ka Side Effects" and "Shaadi Ke Side Effects", goes one step further and create a satire on the education system which is very much prevalent in India. The film focuses on Indian parents' obsession who wants to send their kids to the high-profile schools despite exorbitant fees to learn English that will help them to be accepted in the society and land a job in MNC. A dialogue from Irrfan Khan "If French and German speaks incorrect English, it is still fine but when an Indian does not speak proper English, then that person holds no value in the society. The movie is a laugh-riot and few scenes will definitely bring down the house. The scene at the factory where Irrfan wants to go for a bio-break gets interrupted by his boss is hilarious. Another scene at the Government school where a son of a Tourist guide displays his skills by speaking English, German and even French languages proving that talent has no boundary. Hats off to Saket Chaudhary for bringing something new on the Indian silver screen.

The film does have it share of flaws as well. The second half becomes a little drag towards the end and climax becomes little melodramatic. Also, the editing should have been better trimming the film by another 10-12 mins. Art direction and Cinematography is simple which is the essence of story line with an average background score. The screenplay is good but loses somewhere later in the film. The film belongs to Irrfan Khan who carries it on his shoulder. The epitome of talent, Irrfan surprises you with subtle humor which will tickle your funny bone. Watch for him as he has tries to play "good" husband" with perfection. The character played by Saba Qamar will remind you of Sridevi from 1997's blockbuster "Judaai" who is lured by elite society of Delhi. Deepak Dobriyal is mindblowing. The actor just adds spark to the film every time he appears on-screen. Amrita Singh does about okay.

Overall, "Hindi Medium" is electrifying that boast of lot of humor and laugh to keep you entertained. Good 3/5

First Published On- https://myunwantedreviews.wordpress.com/2017/05/22/hindi-medium-a- subject-in-which-we-should-score-an-a/

My mother is a government school teacher. Once in a while, I drop her to her school. The other day I asked her, why do you think the number of kids going to government schools is constantly on a decline? Is the quality of education in government schools so bad? She said, it's not about dropping of education level, but about the parents' wish to send their kids to government schools, or any Hindi Medium school for that matter. They believe that government schools are not capable enough to prepare their kids for the real world.

Hindi Medium runs around same premises but it's not limited to that. It is a satire presented in most comic and simplest way possible. This is not just about a couple's struggle to get their child admitted to the school, but about the complete series of events, good or bad, they have to go through. Rampant corruption they have to face and voluntarily or involuntarily become a part of it.

This movie is about our obsession with the English language. Because talking in English in India does not just signifies the knowledge of a different language but, unfortunately, also a division of class from the mass. Hindi Medium is a social commentary on the elitist mentality of our society, where we evolved from the caste divide but get into the trap of class divide. A class where having money is not enough, where speaking Hindi is looked down upon, and where kitty parties are held on the basis of your kid's school.

The first half of the movie is kind of a situational comedy and considerably more interesting than the second one which feels like drowning in its own goodness. But it has the entry of immensely talented Deepak Dobriyal, who is sharing the screen with Irrfan after fourteen years since Maqbool. His portrayal of 'Shuddh Garib' Shyam is mind blowing. His effortless display of comedy, emotions, and pain in a shorter screen time makes him an excellent actor.

Irrfan Khan. Is there anything this man can't do? He is undoubtedly one of the most versatile actors present in Indian Cinema. His comic timing, dialogue delivery, screen presence, everything is a class apart. He puts his heart and soul into the character of Raj Batra, a responsible father, and a good husband.

Saba Qamar as Mita has done a really good job. Her portrayal of the character was very controlled. She has to look rich, feel rich, and act rich but at the same time doesn't have to look arrogant. She maintained an aura of a down to earth rich Vasant Vihar lady who is constantly trying to adjust in her new 'posh' locality.

There is one more acting credit which deserves to be given is of Tillotama Shome, who, by her brilliant acting make her powerful presence felt. She put life in a character which Indian audience generally fails to notice otherwise.

I would not say the movie has a brilliant screenplay but it definitely has some genuinely funny dialogues, which assure some hearty laughs in regular intervals. Even small characters have been given enough chance to make the audience laugh. Music composed by Sachin-Jigar is good, so is the background score by Amar Mohile. As for Saket Chaudhary, this one is his best movie after his previous two 'side effects' and is the one he will be remembered for in a long time.

So if not for direction, screenplay or music, this movie is a must watch for its superb performances by the lead as well as the supporting cast.

Hindi Medium is a garland woven with uneven beads but it looks and feels beautiful. It is an attempt, not so hard hitting though, but every bit worthy of praise for its genuine and simple nature. It is deserved to be watched by one and all.

At the end of it, the movie seems too good to be true, and a little too preachy at the end. But it talks about a subject in which we all need to score an A+.

Director, Saket Chaudhary, has served its audience a vital dosage of 'current education system' garnished with humour. The concept is apt to the present day admissions scenario in India and the increasing concern of parents towards education of their ward. The first half of the movie is hilarious and at the same time a reality checks to the people who are a part of the high class show-off battle. Whereas the second half concentrate on the goodness of those who are poverty stricken. This over-stretched sub plot diverts the focus of its audience.

Strength: The concept of the film, which might be a guiding lamp to those who are getting lost in the senseless race of self-conceit based on their English speaking skills. Comic timing.

Weakness: The film goes overboard when the contrast between high class society and poor class is brought into the plot.