Rating: 3.5/5
Vanvaas explores the emotional depths of parental abandonment, dementia, and unexpected friendships. The story revolves around Deepak Tyagi (Nana Patekar), a retired man grappling with the early stages of dementia. On his birthday, he is cruelly abandoned by his children in Varanasi, unraveling a poignant tale of familial bonds, regret, and rediscovery. His life takes a surprising turn when he befriends Veeru (Utkarsh Sharma), a small-time thief, setting off a chain of events that impacts not only their lives but those around them.
Plot Overview
Deepak Tyagi leads a quiet post-retirement life with his children and their families. However, his dementia and constant recollections of his late wife, Vimala (Khusboo), begin to irritate his sons. Under the guise of a birthday celebration, they leave him stranded in Varanasi.
Confused and lost, Deepak starts searching for his children, whom he mistakenly believes are missing. During this journey, he encounters Veeru, a petty thief, and an unlikely friendship blossoms between the two. This bond brings unexpected changes to their lives and unfolds a narrative filled with emotional revelations. Layer by layer, the story uncovers hidden truths, keeping the audience engaged till the end.
Performance & Review
Drawing inspiration from the Ramayana’s themes of exile and family, Vanvaas shines as a socially relevant film addressing the issue of elder neglect. Anil Sharma’s writing is thoughtful, touching on the struggles of aging parents and the responsibilities of their children.
Nana Patekar is the soul of the film, delivering a masterful performance that portrays Deepak’s vulnerability and resilience. His powerful dialogues, influenced by the ideologies of B.R. Ambedkar and Karl Marx, leave a lasting impression. Utkarsh Sharma as Veeru adds a layer of charm, while Rajpal Yadav delivers a memorable performance as Veeru’s companion, providing moments of levity amidst the emotional drama.
Kabir Lal’s cinematography beautifully captures the spiritual and chaotic essence of Varanasi, amplifying the film’s emotional impact. However, the narrative falters in explaining the motivations of Deepak’s sons, leaving a crucial emotional gap. Additionally, while the film tugs at the heartstrings, it doesn’t achieve the emotional intensity of classics like Baghban.
Final Verdict
Vanvaas is a heartfelt story of loss, redemption, and the bonds that transcend blood relations. Despite its minor flaws, it is anchored by Nana Patekar’s stellar performance and a compelling narrative that raises awareness about a significant social issue. For fans of emotional dramas and family-centric stories, Vanvaas is worth a watch—especially with your loved ones.
Rating: 3.5/5
