Vijay 69 Review : Anupam Kher & Chunky Pandey Shine!

Netflix’s Vijay 69 Movie Review: Not just Anupam Kher, Chunky Panday too has smashed it with his comeback

Language: Hindi
Director: Akshay Roy
Cast: Anupam Kher, Chunky Pandey, Mihir Ahuja

Rating: ★★★★☆

Netflix’s Vijay 69 is a refreshing and heartwarming slice-of-life sports drama that revolves around the life of a 69-year-old man who refuses to accept the confines of age and expectations. Directed by Akshay Roy, the film is an exploration of self-discovery, defying ageism, and pursuing one’s dreams even in the later years of life. The movie skillfully blends quirky humor with emotional depth, leaving the audience both amused and moved.

Storyline

The movie opens on a rather unconventional note — Vijay’s (Anupam Kher) funeral is being celebrated in a church. It’s not a gloomy affair, though, but a lively celebration of his life. His long-time friend, played by Chunky Pandey, narrates the eulogy, listing out the things Vijay was good at. However, this list is far from impressive. He had been a decent swimmer in his younger days and had won a bronze medal at the national level. But what follows is the story of how Vijay’s potential was left unfulfilled after he chose to abandon competitive swimming in his youth. Instead, he became a coach at a local club to support his family after his wife’s cancer diagnosis.

Fast-forward to his retirement years, and Vijay is stuck in a rut — living a quiet, uneventful life, and grappling with the meaning of existence. However, this routine is shattered when he makes an unexpected decision to participate in the World Masters Swimming Championship, an international competition for swimmers aged 60 and above. This decision becomes the catalyst for his journey of rediscovery.

The plot is set against a backdrop of Vijay’s interactions with his daughter, played by Mihir Ahuja, and his longtime friend, who is now struggling with his own issues. The movie delves into Vijay’s relationship with his family and how his pursuit of his lost dream of swimming brings him closer to his daughter.

Performances

Anupam Kher in the titular role of Vijay is exceptional. He brings a refreshing energy to the character, portraying Vijay’s frustration, vulnerability, and determination with subtlety. Kher’s performance is rich with emotional depth, showcasing his versatility as an actor. From his initial reluctance to start training again to the eventual transformation into a man who believes in second chances, Kher carries the film on his capable shoulders.

Chunky Pandey, who has been away from the limelight for a while, makes an impressive comeback with his role as Vijay’s friend. His character adds a great deal of charm to the movie. While his role is less emotionally intense than Kher’s, he brings the right amount of humor and lightheartedness to the table. His chemistry with Kher works well, and their camaraderie feels genuine.

Mihir Ahuja as Vijay’s daughter also gives a solid performance. She plays the supportive yet concerned daughter who is initially skeptical about her father’s decision to return to competitive swimming but slowly begins to understand the importance of this journey for him.

Direction and Cinematography

Akshay Roy’s direction is one of the highlights of the film. He presents a quirky yet relatable story that will resonate with people of all ages. The pacing of the film is excellent, with the perfect balance between light-hearted moments and emotional depth. Roy masterfully brings out the humor and absurdity of the situation without undercutting the emotional core of the story.

The film’s cinematography is simple yet effective. The visuals capture the simplicity and beauty of everyday life, from the vibrant shots of the swimming pool to the quieter, more intimate moments between characters. The movie does not rely on flashy visuals but instead focuses on the grounded storytelling, making it an engaging experience.

Themes and Impact

At its core, Vijay 69 is about age, dreams, and self-empowerment. It challenges the conventional narrative that once you retire or reach a certain age, your life is over, or your dreams are no longer valid. It sends a strong message that it is never too late to chase after your goals, no matter how old you are. The film touches on the importance of taking ownership of one’s life and taking risks, no matter the obstacles.

The character of Vijay represents a lot of people — those who feel like they have missed their chance, who are bogged down by responsibilities, or who have grown disillusioned with life. Through Vijay’s journey, we are reminded of the importance of holding onto our passions and never giving up on them, no matter the stage of life we’re in.

Another key theme is the role of family and friends in one’s life. Vijay’s relationship with his daughter and his friend is a testament to the support system that helps individuals rediscover themselves. The film explores how understanding and encouragement from loved ones can be the nudge someone needs to follow their dreams.

Final Thoughts

Vijay 69 is an inspiring and heartwarming film that is both fun and emotional. Anupam Kher’s powerhouse performance, combined with Chunky Pandey’s delightful return to the screen, makes this an unforgettable film. It’s a celebration of life, proving that it’s never too late to pursue your passions. The film strikes the right balance between comedy and drama, making it a must-watch for anyone who has ever felt like time is running out.

For those seeking a feel-good, motivational movie, Vijay 69 offers just the right dose of inspiration wrapped in quirky humor and endearing performances.

Verdict: A must-watch for fans of uplifting stories and those who believe in second chances!