Film: The Mehta Boys
Director: Boman Irani
Writers: Boman Irani and Alexander Dinelaris
Cast: Avinash Tiwary, Boman Irani, Shreya Chaudhry
Runtime: 1 hour 56 minutes
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
The Mehta Boys is a heartfelt exploration of a father-son relationship fraught with love, ego, and generational differences. Boman Irani, in his directorial debut, plays a rigid father trying to navigate life alongside his ambitious son, portrayed by Avinash Tiwary. A missed flight sets the stage for a journey that changes their dynamic, leading to understanding and reconciliation.
What Works
Boman Irani’s directorial vision is commendable, capturing poignant emotional moments. The terrace dinner scene and rooftop view from their broken home are visual highlights. Irani delivers a relatable portrayal of a middle-class father set in his traditional ways. Avinash Tiwary shines with his emotionally charged performance and his understanding of scenarios.
What Doesn’t Work
The pacing may feel slow at times, and the film’s premise might remind viewers of Piku due to its portrayal of an initially irritable father figure. As it starts, you might feel an irritating father and daughter changed by father and son.
Technical Analysis
The cinematography beautifully captures intimate moments between the characters. Some scenes of the film are just brilliant and amazingly showcased, especially the scene where the two are on the terrace having their candlelight dinner or when they see the roof view from their broken home. The background score complements the narrative, heightening the emotional depth of the story.
Star Performances
Boman Irani impresses not only as a director but also as a compelling actor, delivering a relatable portrayal of a middle-class father with charming quirks, such as pronouncing computer as cumpoter. His character’s rigidity and emotional journey are authentically portrayed, making him a figure many can connect with.
Avinash Tiwary takes centre stage with an emotionally resonant performance, effortlessly capturing the essence of a young man grappling with his identity and his father’s expectations. His moments of intense expression remind viewers of his powerful portrayal in Qias. He commands the narrative and keeps the audience engaged throughout.
Shreya Chaudhry and Puja Sarup provide notable support, adding depth to the story with their balanced and heartfelt performances.
Conclusion
The Mehta Boys successfully delve into the complexities of father-son relationships, highlighting themes of acceptance and love. It’s an endearing watch, made memorable by strong performances and heartfelt storytelling. Overall, the film is good to watch over the weekend with your family members.