Cast: Jackie Shroff, Neena Gupta, Rakhi Sawant, Abhishek Chauhan, Monika Pawar, Garima Agarwal
Director: Vijay Maurya
Ratings: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review: Mast Me Rehne Ka, directed by Vijay Maurya, draws parallels to Ritesh Batra’s Our Souls At Night, exploring the profound themes of grief and loneliness. Despite modest production values, the film compensates with its poignant portrayal of two individuals, played by the impeccable Jackie Shroff and Neena Gupta, navigating life’s challenges.
Shroff’s character, Kamath, reflects on 12 years of solitude after losing his wife, finding solace in self-reflection. Gupta’s Mrs. Handa, dealing with social struggles and familial distance, adds depth to the narrative. Their chance encounter in the park initiates a heartwarming connection, and the film beautifully captures their evolving companionship.
The chemistry between Shroff and Gupta is commendable, bringing to life the characters’ emotional highs and lows. The director skillfully portrays their moments of joy and sorrow, creating a genuine sense of camaraderie. The use of humor and shared bottles of booze adds a delightful touch to their interactions, making it truly ‘mast’ for the characters and the audience alike.
However, Maurya introduces a subplot involving a thief and a streetwalker’s romance, which feels disconnected and fails to enhance the main narrative. This choice, though attempting contrast, seems out of place and disrupts the overall flow of the film.
Performances:
Jackie Shroff and Neena Gupta, seasoned actors of the industry, deliver commendable performances. Shroff, once known for his style and swagger, gracefully embraces his aging character, fitting seamlessly into roles that challenge his craft. Gupta, while occasionally overplaying her feisty avatar, adds depth to the narrative. Rakhi Sawant’s refreshing presence stands out, owning the scenes with her entertaining flair. The ensemble cast contributes to the film’s vibrancy, portraying the eccentric and entertaining characters that populate the city.
Direction:
Vijay Maurya’s direction navigates the complex landscape of Mumbai with finesse. The film captures the dichotomy of the city of dreams and the city that never sleeps, emphasizing the constant pursuit of a fulfilling life. The background music, occasionally echoing the film’s title, reinforces the theme of living life to the fullest. Maurya skillfully intertwines the narratives of the aging characters, creating a tapestry that reflects the chaos and claustrophobia inherent in Mumbai. While the film may not be groundbreaking, Maurya succeeds in delivering moments that resonate with the audience.
Despite a somewhat tame climax, Mast Me Rehne Ka succeeds in captivating audiences with its heartfelt exploration of mature love. Maurya’s direction, combined with stellar performances, elevates the film beyond its production limitations, leaving viewers with a touching portrayal of human connection in the later stages of life.
-by Jeet Pasad