Hindi Medium

Every now and then the Hindi film industry comes out with a movie like this and you heave a sigh of relief that sensible movies are still being made. In other words, it is not just names that are being used to sell movies. Hindi Medium takes us through the troubles of a couple to get their child into the top 5 elementary schools of New Delhi. While some of the scenes and situations are over-the-top they are intentionally done that way so as to be satirical. However, they are all relatable since each one of us has went through these troubles ourselves or know someone who did. Irfan Khan and his dialogues are hilarious as always. The newcomer, Saba Qamar, also does a decent job. A highly recommended watch for everyone except fighting couples who are debating about which school to put their child in to.

There comes a movie once in a while which is not only thought- provoking but also sends out a great social message. "Hindi Medium" is definitely one of it.

"Hindi Medium" tells the story of a married couple who does every thing under the sun to get their daughter admitted to the most popular school of Delhi.

Saket Chaudhary, who gave us some memorable films like "Pyaar Ka Side Effects" and "Shaadi Ke Side Effects", goes one step further and create a satire on the education system which is very much prevalent in India. The film focuses on Indian parents' obsession who wants to send their kids to the high-profile schools despite exorbitant fees to learn English that will help them to be accepted in the society and land a job in MNC. A dialogue from Irrfan Khan "If French and German speaks incorrect English, it is still fine but when an Indian does not speak proper English, then that person holds no value in the society. The movie is a laugh-riot and few scenes will definitely bring down the house. The scene at the factory where Irrfan wants to go for a bio-break gets interrupted by his boss is hilarious. Another scene at the Government school where a son of a Tourist guide displays his skills by speaking English, German and even French languages proving that talent has no boundary. Hats off to Saket Chaudhary for bringing something new on the Indian silver screen.

The film does have it share of flaws as well. The second half becomes a little drag towards the end and climax becomes little melodramatic. Also, the editing should have been better trimming the film by another 10-12 mins. Art direction and Cinematography is simple which is the essence of story line with an average background score. The screenplay is good but loses somewhere later in the film. The film belongs to Irrfan Khan who carries it on his shoulder. The epitome of talent, Irrfan surprises you with subtle humor which will tickle your funny bone. Watch for him as he has tries to play "good" husband" with perfection. The character played by Saba Qamar will remind you of Sridevi from 1997's blockbuster "Judaai" who is lured by elite society of Delhi. Deepak Dobriyal is mindblowing. The actor just adds spark to the film every time he appears on-screen. Amrita Singh does about okay.

Overall, "Hindi Medium" is electrifying that boast of lot of humor and laugh to keep you entertained. Good 3/5

Director, Saket Chaudhary, has served its audience a vital dosage of 'current education system' garnished with humour. The concept is apt to the present day admissions scenario in India and the increasing concern of parents towards education of their ward. The first half of the movie is hilarious and at the same time a reality checks to the people who are a part of the high class show-off battle. Whereas the second half concentrate on the goodness of those who are poverty stricken. This over-stretched sub plot diverts the focus of its audience.

Strength: The concept of the film, which might be a guiding lamp to those who are getting lost in the senseless race of self-conceit based on their English speaking skills. Comic timing.

Weakness: The film goes overboard when the contrast between high class society and poor class is brought into the plot.

A movie made in India but every person around the world can relate himself/herself to the theme of this wonderful piece of work which is based on the fact that, we live in a world where your class/standard is determined by the language you speak (and not just language by the way) and this movie honestly portrays the challenges faced by those who are discarded from the main stream just on the basis of the language they speak. The best thing about this movie is that it perfectly delivers this important message without lacking anywhere in the entertainment front (filled with humor and brilliant acting). I am sure you will fall in love with this Raj & Mitthu (sorry "Honey") pair instantly. Irfan as the obedient and madly in love with his wife kind of husband and Saba Qamar as a demanding and dominating wife is such a fun to watch. This movie will revive your faith in Indian Cinema which has been damaged by many Indian Superstars who cash on their loyal fan followings for grand box office collection with nothing to offer in return (a descent and original piece of work is what we expect).

"Talent speaks the language of a genius, surprisingly it's not the languages we all speak."

Hindi Medium is an enjoyable and realistic tale which lands a tight slap on the face of a society which considers English as a parameter for judging people, where people are not taken seriously if they don't speak English well and they are made to feel inferior. The dialogues are hilarious and keep you entertained throughout. The plot gets a bit predictable towards the end and the film glorifies government schools, which are looked down upon in our society. A little preachy and over-dramatic towards the end, Hindi Medium strongly drives its point home.

My Rating : 3.5/5