Plot
The central conceit of the Vijay Krishna Acharya–written and–directed story is that Billu learns about his religion (by birth) through a suspicious letter, which his family dismisses as a practical joke. Billu, however, immediately acknowledges it as being true.
The antagonists convert the plot into a soap opera by manipulating photos and videos to make Billu popular online and requesting a DNA test to establish his paternity.
Review
The film attempts to promote religious harmony, but it does so without conviction or justification. It’s wise that director Vijay Krishna Acharya went with a light tone to make his point. The movie begins as a sincere comedy before becoming more serious later on.
Vicky Kaushal puts out a real effort and performs admirably in the parts in which he is unsure of who he is, but this is not one of his best efforts. His character would have benefited from having more tones. Despite having little screen time, Manushi Chhillar does not come across as a street-smart girl from a tiny town.
Kumud Mishra portrays a severe yet loving father with conviction and a commanding screen presence. Though he truly wants to hug Billu, he performs brilliantly in the scene where he blesses him before departing for his yatra. The father-son dynamic is effectively shown throughout the entire film. Balakram Tripathi, who plays Billu’s uncle, is expertly supported by Manoj Pahwa.
The film makes an overt attempt to compare the two cultures, but it only superficially accomplishes this. By the end, it becomes a predictable fare with frequently repeated monologues on humanity and unity as a result of the weak tale development and tracks. The film does a good job of capturing the spirit of a community with a long history. Sahibaa is a good song in Pritam’s soundtrack.
There isn’t a strong enough plot or narrative in the family drama to keep you interested. While Billu’s antics with his buddies are slightly amusing in the first half of the novel, the narrative loses its impact as it goes on. The movie’s premise is well-intentioned, but the impact of what it was trying to accomplish does not come across on screen. Although The Great Indian Family has a sincere message, its execution is lacking.
Ratings: 2.5/5
Despite the seriousness of its subject matter, the movie struggles to deliver powerful language. Vicky’s monologue is well done, but it could have been more powerful if it had used more forceful, resonant language that the audience would have connected with. The movie has a 2.5 out of 5 star rating.
