Currently watching: Once Upon Two Times (2023)
Ahaan, a classically trained singer struggling with his career and emotions while simultaneously coping with the onset of a quarter life crisis takes an unexpected 'leap of faith' and proposes marriage to his college sweetheart Ruhi. However, the steady-going millennial couple soon discover that Ahaan's dad Kaushik and Ruhi's mum Purnima were also college sweethearts once upon a time! The usually level-headed duo are now trapped in a wreckage of their own parents' bubbling insecurities, as well as possibly a mid life crisis that remains suppressed, and must act quickly in order to settle the awkwardness during an impromptu family trip to Nainital- a quest that will leave them both questioning their own spontaneity and compatibility as a couple.
'Once Upon Two Times' is proof that keeping it simple or non complicated in terms of storytelling is key, especially when the topic at hands sounds rather complicated. Decently paced, the movie maneuvers themes such as generational gap by drawing comparisons between the traditional and contemporary style of parenting while also touching upon the inherent fear that a child might unintentionally inherit certain immature traits or vices from their dysfunctional parents/in-laws. The unique staging and set design particularly lend to an immersive experience and quite literally sets the scene for the flashbacks to Purnima and Kaushik's ultimately doomed college romance. It is further driven by some emotionally enriching conversations and the visual storytelling makes a comeback yet again in a final act that leaves one with a heartwarming, overall satisfied smile.
The performances are still rough around the edges and better direction would have probably brought the best out of the cast. While the fresh-faced lead pair of Kashish Khan (Ruhi) and Anud Singh Dhaka (Ahaan) deliver sincere performances with a chemistry that feels naturally sweet, the scenes of their intense climactic arguments suffers due to occasionally hammy dialogue delivery. Sanjay Suri (best known as 'Nikhil' from the critically acclaimed 'My Brother Nikhil') returns in top form in front of the camera with a nuanced performance as the immature, imperfect single dad Kaushik who must learn to loosen up and 'show his cards' to ensure a happier future for both himself and his son, while Mrinal Kulkarni (who unlocked a major childhood memory as she also played THE 'Son Pari' in the fantasy children's show by the same name) lends ample support to her co-stars as Ruhi's equally 'maturity-challenged mum. The standout, however, is the late Nitesh Pandey who plays Ruhi's understanding, comical and carefree dad to a tee, acting as a comic relief and a soothing father figure to Ruhi, as well as husband goals to Purnima! (Sorry, Kaushik). The soundtrack pulls the movie together, along with humour that engages the audience without taking too much away from its thought-provoking moments, even when things reach awkward tipping points during this family outing. Lastly the scenic locales and incorporation of local culture are nothing short of perfect in promoting Nainital as a folksy holiday hotspot.
Signing off, if you're the target audience for offbeat and slightly cliched but wholesome and compelling family dramas such as 'Gulmohar' (2023), then add 'Once Upon Two Times' to your watchlist too.
*Viewing options: Zee5