October Review: Varun and Banita win hearts in this film crafted with love!

Cast: Varun Dhawan, Banita Sandhu, Gitanjali, and others.

Rating: 3.5/5

In life, many come across some relationships which cannot have a name. There is a special bond, connection or call it chemistry, which only the people in it understand. There is a deep sense of care, love and an influx of emotions which is not bound to a word or a definition. Exploring such a bond, is October, written by Juhi Chaturvedi and directed by Shoojit Sircar.

Dan (Varun Dhawan) is a hotel management student, understudy as a trainee at one of the top hotel chains in the country. He is accompanied by Shiuli (Banita Sandhu) and others. One unfortunate evening, an incident changes Shiuli’s life, which affects Dan. His unspoken relationship with her leads to a shift in his life, where he decides to be with Shiuli through her tough time. The journey of Dan’s commitment to this bond makes October.

Seldom are films made in Bollywood, so deep, that kindle some hearts, taking one on a nostalgic ride. With October, Shoojit Sircar and Juhi Chaturvedi say a lot, without actually saying much. 

Silence and mere actions convey a lot in the film, be it through Dan’s reaction, curiosity and eagerness to help or be around her or Shiuli's communication and expression through eyes. Right from the first few minutes, the film engages with the audience. At moments, it is as though you are watching the moments are seamlessly happening with/around you in reality.

The strength of the film is in the thought and the simplistic writing. The lead characters are sketched extremely well, especially Dan, a young boy who only believes in doing his best, although clumsy but with complete honesty. His straight-forward, no arrogance attitude with sheer innocence wins your heart instantly. Shiuli’s character is challenging. Mostly resting between the sheets, she talks and emotes only with her eyes. The chemistry between the duo, in scenes, where they express their care, gratitude, and emotions for each other, is beautiful. Writer Juhi Chaturvedi has penned the film skillfully and deserves an appreciation for the same. Further, Shoojit Sircar, with his attentive and experienced direction adds a lot to the film.

The film does not have songs throughout, but Shantanu Moitra’s soothing score adds a lot to the film.

Actors Varun, Banita and Gitanjali deliver their best. Varun Dhawan as Dan presents one of the best performances of his career, shattering his six-pack chocolate boy image, once again after Badlapur. Banita Sandhu on the other hand, makes a mark in her debut film, with this challenging role.

For once, one might think that ‘October’ might not be for an Indian audience. Some might find it slow, and some might not enjoy the subject. However, it is for the audience with taste, who want to take a break from the typical Bollywood ‘masala’ films.

To sum it up, October is crafted with love. The characters and the story are sketched with thought and care. Not everything can be expressed about the film, for this special love story with unconditional love needs to be enjoyed and experienced, at least once! Worth it!

(PS: Have patience, and pay attention. This is not a no-brainer)