User reviews

If you ask me to define this movie in one word, I have mentioned it in the title above. This movie is one of those rare and brave attempts that try to explain the social situation rising above melodramas and unnecessary actions. The pure innocence of the story makes you feel it thanks to the brilliant acts by the Superstar Irrfan Khan, Award winning actor Deepak Dobriyal, and the very cool Amrita Singh. We have seen Saba Qamar in Pakistani dramas and we know what an amazing actress she is. She keeps the magic going here too. Hats off to Saket Chaudhary for weaving this movie beautifully.

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.

Hindi Medium is an enjoyable and realistic tale which lands a tight slap on the face of a society which considers English as a parameter for judging people, where people are not taken seriously if they don't speak English well and they are made to feel inferior. The dialogues are hilarious and keep you entertained throughout. The plot gets a bit predictable towards the end and the film glorifies government schools, which are looked down upon in our society. A little preachy and over-dramatic towards the end, Hindi Medium strongly drives its point home.

My Rating : 3.5/5

one of the best Indian movies with good storyline up,best characters,based on reality of education system in India .Film has many realistic situation and the cast portrayed those situation really well.Overall Amazing movie.Must watch.Everybody should watch this movie and actors should learn acting from Irfan .You are the best Irfan.Nobody can beat you

After hearing a lot positive from the friends, I went to watch this movie in cinemas.

This is really a very nice movie. It's great to see Irfan's comedy. His acting is truly superb and the script is good. The message shown is also clear. It's the movie worth watching.

we really needed this movie... thank you so much Irrfan sir for taking this project... love u a lot....... u r hope of Bollywood, u have done excellent job. really really really liked your work. go for this movie, you will never regret. every type of audience can relate to this topic, whether he/she belongs to high class, middle class or lower class. a big fan of yours..

What's GOOD- After a long time here comes a family film which will appeal to everyone.Director Saket Chaudhary's vision of showing a Hypocrite society does work .The story deals with how parents struggle to get their child in a English Medium School.India is suffering from a disease called 'ENGLISH'. It is more of a status symbol than a language.We live in a society where u will be mocked if you are not good in English.The message here is conveyed in a humorous way. The first half simply concentrates on humour.But the last 45 minutes of the movie is on a serious note & to be honest those 45 minutes are the best in a 2hr 30 minutes long film. Of the cast-IRRFAN & SABA QAMAR are brilliant.They are almost perfect as parents who want to send their daughter in a English Medium school. The Best thing in 'Hindi Medium' is the performance of DEEPAK DOBRIYAL. He is PERFECT.I cant even imagine anyone in that role.As a generous poor man, this performance of him was the best supporting performance of 2017. Rest of the cast in supporting role performed ably. The screenplay is very good & the direction by Saket Chaudhary is good.This attempt of Saket is better than his earlier work 'Shaadi ke side effects'.

What's Bad-Some scenes involving humour or emotions don't work .But the overall impact of film is very good. Overall-I think every Indian will relate with this film. I m going with 7/10 with one extra star for DEEPAK DOBRIYAL's performance which makes it 8/10.Its a SATISFYING & ENTERTAINING watch.

A brilliantly written story that everyone understands but no one realises. Shown in a perfect way that throws a correct impact. Decent acting by all the actors especially Deepak Dobriyal whose entry elevates the whole film.

Storyline Rating: 4

Acting Rating: 3 Deepak Dobriyal: 4 Irrfan Khan: 3 Saba Qamar: 3 Amrita Singh: 3

Direction Rating: 3

Music Rating: 2

Cinematography: 3

Editing: 3

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.

Many movies are released every year but only some are so good with a social message that leaves you thinking about our society and their tradition. Hindi Medium is among those movies that reflects the real face of society and their thinking. Importance of education and what parents do to get that status and fame among their friends. Irfan khan never fails to amaze you with his dialogue delivery power. While on the other Saba Qamar has really done a good job better than most of actresses we have seen in past. And the last person that cannot be forgotten is Deepak Dobriyal who has also done a great job as usual. A movie that will make you laugh on one hand while it has that emotional touch with that message that everyone of us needs to hear and understand it because education is for everyone.

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+.

Hindi medium is about a businessman and his wife who want their daughter to get admission in the best school of the city. Both of them think that if their daughter goes to a normal government school like they did when they were kids, she will not receive the proper education and most importantly, won't be able to match up with the 'English speaking' children of her age.So they decided that they will do anything to make sure she gets admission in one of the best schools of Delhi. The movie captures the journey of two parents as they move from a high-class society to give their child exposure to a small 1- room apartment in a disease prone area to register for admission as a child of a poor family. It may be too late for the reality to descend on them that these actions of theirs are affecting a lot of other people too.

The movie explores the desperation of parents as they go to great lengths to give the best education to their children. Also, it tells us how big institutions can tweak the admission process. In the end, it leaves you with many questions. Is it really worth it? Making your child study in a school where she may never be able to fit? Should English be the only thing distinguishing between who gets admission and who doesn't?

Even after focusing this heavy subject, the movie is light. The facts are presented with jokes to make it watchable and even entertaining for the audience. Sometimes, it feels like the film is missing point and extending some not-so-important sequences. This slowed the pace for a while but it picked it up again in the end.

Irfan Khan brought his best to the character of a Chandni Chowk Saree salesman who is a concerned father and a loving devoted husband who will do anything for best education of his child, or, as his wife always warns him, keep their child away from drugs as she grows old. Saba Qamar did a fine job but still has a long way to go. The duo posed as a nice on screen couple. Deepak Dobriyal, who portrayed a helping natured hard working factory worker, was fantastic as always. He sure has gathered many accolades for his recent ventures and this film will also add some more. Director Saket Chaudhary, known for directing "Pyaar ke side effect", did okay. Music was one plus point, with some gracefully placed new songs accompanied by remixes of some well-known songs.

In summary, I would say the movie is definitely worth a watch. So, what it is not a great one, but it sure will give you a lot to think about. In that process, you may talk about it a lot and will also suggest it to others, as I am doing now.

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."

AT LAST! A rare, truly emotive gem which shines a light on the social conditions many in India face each day. It takes heavy subjects but approaches them light heartedly at times (plenty of running jokes) and brilliantly, which allows you to understand the important messages clearly. The story is beautifully told from different aspects whilst seamlessly dealing with the heavy themes. Each character has great chemistry and I was fully engaged throughout. I laughed, swore, got angry, emotional, worried and those are just the reactions I remember. We need more films like this which tell a real, relatable story. Such a shame it has taken so long for India to realise how important these stories are, let's have more!

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

A charming and enjoyable film, indeed. The film, a comedy about a couple who will go to any extent to have their daughter enrolled in the best English school in Delhi, starts with no direction and takes far too long to pick up. However, when it does, it is surprising in how traditional it is in terms of its abundant emotional quotient. From then on, it often resorts to sentimentality, but its heart is in the right place. The second half takes an interesting twist where the couple adopt a poor lifestyle in order to qualify for registration from the back door. This part of the film really strains credulity, but interestingly enough, it is the beginning of the best and most engaging part in the film.

The film is a nice commentary on the education system in India, on social classes, on poverty. The most striking quote from the film is said by Deepak Dobriyal: "Living in poverty is an art", namely, it needs to be experienced over the course of generations to be understood and dealt with. This, of course, sounds quite harrowing, but the poor neighbourhood is very well portrayed. Actually, the general feel is so humorous and light that many pitfalls can be forgiven. Towards the end, it grows even more sentimental and the final sequences, particularly the main lead's speech at the end of the show, are done in true Hindi film style of yore - very stagy and a little manipulative.

Hindi Medium works, it's fun and often quite touching. Even if some parts do not ring true, everything is within the film's wholesome context, and above all, it caters to certain sensibilities which foreigners wouldn't grasp. What really elevates it to another level is doubtlessly Irrfan Khan, whose effortless charisma is the film's trump card. He is a real man and a star, and he is funny and convincing in his renowned minimalism. Saba Qamar is wonderful and grows on you throughout the story. Amrita Singh is excellent; her part is more of a caricature, but she can do hardly wrong. It is obviously Deepak Dobriyal who delivers the film's most moving performance. A charming film with a nice morale it is.

A plot which unpacks the deeper problems of primary school admissions in India, Hindi Medium starring Irrfan Khan and Sabah, makes a parody of the socioeconomic class divide in the country and drives a simple Marxist point across: that regardless of what background a child comes from, he is equally capable of excelling in school as is a rich man's child.

It also probes at the non-transparency in the admissions process of elite schools in Delhi, especially when it comes to complying with the 25% mandatory reservations for the poor as per the Right to Education (RTE) Act. Particularly insidious is the increasing capitalization of education, which goes on to further the divide between the quality of education provided in public vs private schools. And as with any business, comes consultants, thus the movie brings out the ridiculous nature of training that both parents and kids have to undergo in order to secure a primary education today.

The end may be a bit Bollywood, but it certainly drives home an attempt to create an equity between public and private schooling. This movie takes the industry's game up by a notch, as it is very rare in Bollywood these days, to see a humorous satirical movie made to address an important issue. Lastly, a stellar performance by Irrfan Khan :)

I just cry after long time.its such a wonderful movie will never made again.irfan Khan deserve a award for best actor .

A very rare excellent movie in nowadays Bollywood... Loved it... Irfan and Saba were exceedingly good.... The director did raise his voice in a perfect way... I think every parents should watch the movie... Its a must watch film.... I can assure you that you will definitely gonna like this for sure...

The film tackles the subject of ludicrous education industry of India and the class division. With wonderful performances from Irrfan Khan, Saba Qamar and Deepak Dobriyal, the film entertains with the focus on how and what Indians regard as classy. But the film never reaches its full potential, it touches a lot of areas but doesn't expand on it. There are a lot of problems in both government and private schools other than just the admission parts which are not focused but out of ignorance(?) glorified.

The movie was good but not as good as I expected. The story is basically work done by certain parents in getting admission for their daughter in one of the top school in Delhi. These parents really want their daughter in one of the top schools, for which they are ready to go to any lengths. All that they do are shown the movie.

One of the things that they do is move to poor neighborhood. There they find out a poor family who help them out. It showed how great are the heart of poor people. It reminded me of a poor family that helped me and my family, get through the storm when we stayed at Kasara in Maharashtra, just highlighting how big they are when it comes to being human.

The only drawback movie has is it does not seem that realistic that the parents would go to such length. To add further, I am still confused why Irrfans family was asked for extra fees before admission and not the poor man's family who helped him. If you get that please let me know.