''No Sorries, Only Thank You''
Here’s a Rom-com of its own kind that neither banks on sexy bods or risqué humour. It doesn’t even have big stars or Grand sets (the current trend). It just has a bunch of hugely capable actors and Onir’s conviction that helps it sail through despite a few loose ends and a slow pace.
Sorry Bhai is not a very original story, but thanks to the way its twisted, modified and re-written to cater to the multiplex mindsets without losing its soul – it retains its unique charm throughout and remains the bittersweet comedy it is, without forcing us at any moment to dispose our disbeliefs. The humour that forms a major chunk of the film is very under-played and subtle. And that’s enacted in a very Boman Iraniesque style, as everyone around him seems to be 100% real when they bully someone or joke.
The Best part about the film is its diverse set of characters, all of whom are still at root very human and believable in nature, and that’s where Onir scores his actual brownie points. However, it still leaves some grudge as one feels the characters could have been more meatier. For example, the way the character played by Boman Irani was etched left a lot to be desired. He was mostly reduced to being a comic side-kick (except for the finale)
Also interesting is that this narrative has 5 characters in the Centre-stage, and it solely depends on their shoulders. The writers don’t feel the need to establish cartoonish caricatures or supporting characters, and fortunately so. The way all these people deal with each other, and then with themselves alone is a treat to watch.
However, the film moves with a snail’s pace in certain portions, and that does take away a tad bit of its charm. Also, the humour in some scenes strangely goes overboard when there are unintentionally comic dialogues in some serious moments. It leaves one bewildered.
Another awkwardness one may feel is about the script which seems as if was first written in English and later merely got translated to Hindi. This restrains the emotional strength of some scenes which could have more impactful otherwise, if the dialogues were in English rather than being deliberately Indianised to cater to small town audience who don’t really understand the language.
Never-the-less, Sharman Joshi steals the show with his nuanced performance and a proper understanding of his character. Chitrangada Singh has made a worthy comeback and delivers a natural performance, though she did go a bit too melodramatic in the way she approached emotional moments. But it seems as if Hazaaron Khwahishein Aisi released just yesterday. She looked absolutely smashing in her out-of-the-bed looks.
Boman Irani provides great comic relief through the entire film with his deadpan humour, and steals the climax. Shabana Azmi too is wonderful in her interpretation of a nagging, dominating yet caring mother. However, Sanjay Suri suffers because of a very little screen time despite a properly established character and fails to make an impact.
Final Verdict :-
For all those who like slice-of-life characters and humour with a li’l bit of bittersweet emotions, Sorry Bhai would most possibly be a sheer delight.
Ratings - ***1/2