Film Review: The Mehta Boys
I was in the mood for a lighthearted comedy, and since the OTT platform labeled The Mehta Boys as one, I hit play. But as it turns out, this was not a comedy at all! Instead, the film dives deep into the complex and often unspoken dynamics of a father-child relationship.
At its core, The Mehta Boys highlights a universal truth—daughters tend to be more emotionally attuned, compassionate, and responsible when it comes to family matters, while sons, despite being raised in the same environment, often struggle with communication and emotional expression. The film subtly underscores how women act as the glue that holds families together, making their role indispensable in nurturing relationships.
One of the most touching aspects of the movie is how it portrays the father’s dependence on his late wife. After her passing, he finds himself lost, his grief subtly woven into his everyday life. Meanwhile, his daughter, a strong and confident woman, steps in with the decision to take him abroad so he doesn’t have to live alone in the house that once belonged to both him and his wife. Her gesture is a testament to the deep, selfless love daughters often have for their fathers.
The son, on the other hand, is riddled with self-doubt and blames his lack of confidence on his father. Yet, as circumstances force the two to spend time together, the father gently helps his son gain some self-assurance. This newfound confidence eventually reflects in his professional life as he finally speaks up for himself in front of his bosses.
Now, while the film does a great job of exploring emotional bonds, I do have a bone to pick with one creative choice—the son’s architectural designs for reviving Indian heritage. His concept relied heavily on jharokas (traditional palace-style windows), seemingly forgetting that modern cities are nothing but concrete jungles. Unlike ancient times, we no longer have the open spaces required for natural air circulation and drainage systems like those of the Harappan civilization! A more practical, contemporary take on heritage revival would have been far more convincing.
That being said, The Mehta Boys is a heartfelt watch, bringing out the beauty and fragility of familial bonds. It reminds us how, despite misunderstandings and emotional gaps, love finds its way—especially when women take charge. Just don’t expect to laugh much, despite what the genre label might tell you!
Verdict: A moving drama about family, loss, and emotional growth—misleadingly tagged as a comedy!
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