The title of this movie itself seems strange given the context in which it sets up. Save for a line well towards the end of the movie there's little that explains the title. But then, Shoojit Sircar's October is not a movie that is easily explained. This isn't great storytelling, plot progression or phenomenal acting. And yet, it has its own bloom.
Those looking for a conventional love story of boy meets girl should simply stay away. October is unlike anything you would've seen before. Its a brave attempt at unconventional yet very real cinema that is unbecoming of Bollywood and deserves the kudos for that alone.
Slow and measured - there is nothing urgent about the storyline or plot progression with October. It takes a simple premise and then focuses the lens very strongly on the characters - their motivations, their innocence, their emotions - everything and the movie lets that do the talking rather than explaining everything. There are those who would find the movie painstakingly slow, but if they are willing to be patient, they get to see some very nuanced direction from Shoojit Sircar. Still, October isn't one to have universal appeal.
While the direction is nuanced and masterful, Varun Dhawan's performance only lifts the movie further. A character that is quite the opposite of what he has largely portrayed on the silver screen, October might be his best performance till date. Banita Sandhu, given her character's state has little resources to pull off her act, yet she does so convincingly. Gitanjali Rao is striking in her support role as the mother and her courage and strength shine through with her presence alone.
The conversations and dialogues feel real - the kind you would have heard or are likely to hear in these circumstances. None of it feels forced and there is little that is crammed in. In fact, less is more in October, with scenes of scant, if any, dialogue that let the silences do the talking.
If the movie's setting is unconventional, its climax is even more surprising. One that you might not agree with as it unfolds, but given a moment, you have to appreciate the courage of the director and where he is willing to take the story.
Its fair to say that October doesn't blossom in a predictable manner.Comparatively, Shoojit Sircar's earlier offerings (Vicky Donor and Piku) were a much easier watch. Like certain flowers that bloom only in a specific set of circumstances, not everyone would see October in all its glory. Those who do though, might well consider it a rare treat.
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