हम दोनों

Late filmmaker Shafi Inamdar's 'Hum Dono' is a typical Bollywood masala fare, with nothing new to offer. It tells the story of two step-brothers, who have a hilarious rapport, embark on a journey and finally realize their love for each other. It's not a bad film nor, is it a good film. But surely, a fairly entertaining one-time watch.

If there something that works big time in 'Hum Dono', it's undoubtedly Nana Patekar. The Legendary Actor is fantastic throughout, in fact, here's the main reason why this film doesn't fall on it's face. He's amongst the Finest Actors of Indian Cinema! There is even Rishi Kapoor, who delivers a good performance. But he's pitted against Patekar in most of his scenes. Pooja Bhatt looked gorgeous then, and her performance is decent enough.

On the whole, this one's an okay fare at best. But if you wanna check it then, Watch it for Nana Patekar's Fantastic Performance.

Talk about a hodgepodge of a story and to make it worse a miscast of epic proportions. You have Nana Patekar playing the son, who is 5 years older than the father Alok Nath, and he looks it. Rumor has it that Raaj kumar 69 years old at that time was considered to play Nana Patekar role. Hilarious !! Next there is a visibly aging and overweight Rishi Kapoor courting Pooja Bhatt in her 20s which doesn't sit well with the viewer. The chemistry between Rishi Kapoor and Nana Patekar is jarring at best. This movie was made after 1992 Angaar and some of its influence, including the background music is visible. Comedy is forced, songs forgettable, dialogues are pedestrian at best. In short there is nothing, except serious boredom that will keep you watching this movie.

Rishi Kapoor delivers one of his most grounded and heartfelt performances as the suave, initially self-centered younger brother who learns the true meaning of love, sacrifice, and family. Opposite him, Nana Patekar as a Hardcore businessman is simply phenomenal in a deeply nuanced portrayal that he manages to blend arrogance, intensity, and pathos in a way only he can. Their chemistry is genuine and moving.

Director Shafi Inamdar, more known for his acting, surprises and impresses behind the camera. His storytelling is empathetic, balanced, and at times poetic. The pacing allows for emotional beats to settle, and the direction gives both actors ample space to shine. The movie knows when to be dramatic, when to pull at your heartstrings, and when to just let the characters breathe.

Yes, some critics have dismissed the film or nitpicked aspects that require a "suspension of disbelief." But that's exactly the point-cinema, especially Bollywood, has always asked us to suspend disbelief and experience stories through emotion, not logic. If you're looking for realism alone, you're missing the magic. This is a film that asks you to feel, not fact-check.

The music, the emotional depth, the brotherhood, and the central message of empathy and redemption make Hum Dono a must-watch. Don't let the unfair negative reviews cloud your judgment. Watch it with an open heart and you'll likely walk away moved and inspired.

Verdict: 4.5/5 - A forgotten gem that deserves rediscovery.