NETFLIX FILUM: Piku (2015)

RATING: 4.5/5 Burnt Rotis

Okay, so this film revolves a lot around Amitabh Bachan's digestive system, which is probably one of the most unappealing thing's I've heard, yet here I am, giving it 4.5/5 burnt rotis. This film exceeds the distaste I feel at thinking about Amitabh squatting over a toilet, grimacing at the last samosa he should have left on the plate. This aside, the film explores the relationship between an ageing father and his daughter as she navigates his health problems. 

The script is wonderful: showcasing the casual mannerisms and witticism when laughing with family. Each character has a unique voice and is masterfully played by the actors. Amitabh is absolutely wonderful as the out-spoken father, who struggles to let his daughter go and never stops talking about her independence. The duality of an ageing father.

Amitabh goes for a cycle, while everyone worries about where he is.

The beauty Deepika Padukone, plays his daughter, Piku, whose patience has run very thin. She's a loving daughter, a hard worker and a connoisseur at frowning. Her eye rolls are perfection.

Father and Daughter, alongside Irrfan Khan (always a delight), go on a road trip to Kolkata to sell some land and the conversations on the way are magical. There's a moment when Deepika finds a knife in the car and honestly, it's such a ridiculous yet serene moment in the film. A classic tantrum from the dad that causes everyone else to make changes for him, but also question why they were fighting in the first place.

The film makes me think of my parents so much and so dearly.

Piku has to check her dad's heart rate every few hours.

There's a lot of talk about happiness in servitude to your family, which we've all asked ourselves; would you put you parents in a home or take care of them? And if you take care of them, does that mean you're not living your fullest life? Is that a problem or just 'how your life was meant to be led'?

The way this film explores these concepts of happiness and family is beautiful. They do it with the small moments we have, that mean more than large statements. The smile after an in-joke during an argument is always remembered more dearly than the grand gestures of 'I love you'. 

After seeing the film, the first thing I did was text my mum and see if she's watched it. I recommended it for the 'poo jokes' and if anything, it's worth watching Amitabh actually act well.