The Signature

A senior citizen couple ( Anupam Kher and Neena Kulkarni) are on their way to a European holiday when the wife faints at the airport and the doctors at a hospital diagnose it as brain hemorrhage. So starts the travails of Anupam who is a middle class person and just doesn't have the funds required for the costly treatment at the hospital. He manages to scrape enough by borrowing from relatives and friends. He also sells off his home but still falls short of funds. His wife is on ventilator but he is reluctant to sign the "Do not resuscitate" form.

Director Gajendra Vitthal Ahire presents an emotionally charged narrative with a superlative performance from Anupam Kher who is likely to pick up a few awards. His acting at places where he launches into a monologue reminds one of the much appreciated " Saransh" . Many viewers specially those from middle class will identify and resonate with the problems faced by him. They may also identify with scenes at the hospital Cafeteria where a cup of tea provides succour from the miseries. There are references to crowd funding attempts to help him out financially but it doesn't work. In supporting performances we have Mahima Choudhry as an ex colleague ( a cancer survivor), Annu Kapoor as a helpful friend and Ranvir Shorey as desperate father. There are intermittent scenes of a morose, sad Anupam in dilapidated building. Some kind of symbolism there ?

From the trailer to the poster, this movie screams tragedy, and you need to be in the right mindset to venture into watching it.

The story follows a middle-class man who goes to great lengths to save his wife, who is on life support in the hospital. His relentless struggle to gather money from all possible sources to pay for the hospital bills forms the crux of the story.

This narrative reflects the real-life experiences of millions of people across the nation, allowing it to instantly connect with the audience. It serves as a mirror to society. However, despite the emotionally charged plot and struggles, the film becomes overdone in places, diminishing its impact. The screenplay falters because the emotions are not well-paced; when the same intensity persists from the first frame to the last, viewers may feel emotionally drained rather than devastated. To evoke genuine emotion, a film must pace itself, as constant sadness can wear out the audience.

Anupam Kher delivers a performance of a lifetime, once again proving that he is a top-notch, versatile actor who can seamlessly portray any character. Ranvir Shorey, in just a few scenes, manages to make his presence felt, adding strength to the film. Annu Kapoor, in a smaller role, provides strong support. Mahima Chaudhry shines in her cameo, and it was a delight to see her on screen after a long time. She definitely deserves more roles.

The background music enhances the film's mood, and the poetry used hits deep. Director Gajendra Ahire skillfully uses silence and calmness to communicate deeper nuances, which works in the film's favor.

Be sure to have a box of tissues handy, given the emotional weight of the subject matter. While it may not be a 10/10 film, it tackles a topic that will resonate with viewers. For its performances, subject matter, and sincerity, it certainly deserves your time.

#pranureviews #TheSignature #TheSignatureReview

Now streaming on ZEE5.

Anwar Says: Signing the DNR( Do not Resuscitate) for the spouse on death bed is not only rattling but tough as well. But National Award Winning director Gajendra Ahire's Hindi debut is definitely not at par with the debut film of Anupam Kher Saraansh of the same genre.

The pace of the movie is too slow. The emotional outbreaks and fragility of old age fights with love and belongings of companion and quest for money travel from property selling, begging from daughter, crowd funding and pre-payment of life insurance policy. In between the tortures of Corporate Hospitals and their doctors are also told. Ranveer Shourey cameo as a sufferer was quite disturbing. Found Mahima Chaudhary in Hindi cinema after a long time and she is good in her role. Anu Kapur is as usual brilliant.

Anupam Kher is visible in almost every frame but except at 2-3 places, is hardly able to put his impeccable impact. Watch only if you are Mr. Kher's fan.

#ZEE5 #anwarsays #brainhaemorrhage #CorporateHospital #oldage #MoneyCrisis #AnupamKher #anukapoor.

Mr. Anupam Kher's performance is undoubtedly the pillar of this heartwarming film. His nuanced portrayal of a father grappling with life's challenges is inspiring.

However, the film would not be complete without the roles of Mahima Chaudhry and Ranvir Shorey. Their characters, though supporting, add depth and complexity to the narrative.

Mahima Chaudhry's character, with her unwavering love and support, provides a much-needed counterbalance to the protagonist's struggles. Her performance is filled with warmth and sincerity.

Together, the performances of these three actors create a combination of emotions that resonate deeply with the audience. The film's exploration of family dynamics, love, and resilience is both heartwarming and uplifting. It is a must-watch for anyone seeking a truly wholesome and satisfying cinematic experience.

This movie shows so deep meaning of life when one becomes old. It shows why insurance and money is required at the end of age/life. This movie hitting on heart straight and giving every heartache one can has.. A must watch. Life is all about living and caring about your parents and children. But in the end - the matters most is money you have in your account. That is the only reason remains why one asks you in life and takes care of you. You dont have money, insurance.or property - no one gonna ask you for. Never give your property to anyone until you die. That matters alot in life. Ranveer Shorey's small role is full of life.