At a time when when cinema is packed with gangster glorifying or hero glorifying masala violence film, cinema desperately needs beautiful slice of life films like Sharmaji Namkeen. Such is the low level the audience have stooped that they are only preferring masala films in theaters (except TKF) so much so that makers of such small budget slice of life films fear to release their films in theater.
Sharmaji Namkeen is definitely not the best slice of life film I have seen but it still a nice sweet one. It talks about life after retirement and the subsequent relation of a retired father with his son.
The plot is simple and straightforward and has enough sweet moments to put a smile on you and your parents face. Ofc this is a must watch with your family. Especially your mom dad who have been witnessing the legend Chintu ji for years must get to see him one last time and believe me it will leave them tear eyed knowing they won't get to witness the legend any more.
This is totally Rishi Kapoor's film. With age, he just gets more sweeter . Whenever he's given a sweet character to play, he absolutely nails it. Paresh Rawal does a good job filling in his shoes but definitely misses the charm Rishi posseses . Juhi Chawla gets in a film after long time it's good to witness her.
What I also liked is Sharmaji's elder son's performance. His character is such, even in scenes of quarrel, he never gets overboard like you know we have seen Arjun Kapoor in 2 states slapping his dad and what not in many films, but in this, his anger is under control showing he still respects his father. Good thing!
Negatives- climax is a bit overdone imo.
Overall, you just can't miss this one. If you are looking for a slice of life film that puts a smile on your face with no complicated narrations and stuff, then Sharmaji Namkeen is your film to watch. Watch it with your family.
