The Lunchbox

The Lunchbox is a heartwarming romance movie set in Mumbai, India. It tells the story of a young woman named Ila (Nimrat Kaur) who prepares a lunchbox every day for her neglectful husband, hoping to rekindle their relationship. The movie highlights the renowned dabbawalas, a group of men who deliver lunchboxes from the homes of wives to their husbands' offices.

One day, through a rare delivery error, the lunchbox ends up in the hands of an old widower, Saajan Fernandez (Irrfan Khan). Saajan is a solitary and bitter man, who has been working in the same job as an accountant for over 35 years. He's recently been told that he's being forced to retire, and has a bleak view of his future. However, the lunch Ila prepares touches him deeply, and he writes a note back to her, starting a correspondence between the two.

With each lunchbox delivery, Saajan and Ila start sharing more of their personal lives through notes. They share stories about their families, their past, their hopes, and their dreams. As they continue to write, they become closer and more intimate despite never having met before. Their correspondence becomes the highlight of their day, and the movie follows their story as they continue to connect through their daily lunches.

As their relationship grows deeper, Ila begins to realize that her husband is not the man she thought he was. The movie dives into themes of loneliness, love, and grief through the perspectives of its main characters, showing the Indian way of life and its societal norms. The Lunchbox also shines a light on the cultural diversity of Mumbai and the distinct neighborhoods of the city.

Another standout aspect of the movie is the performance of Nawazuddin Siddiqui, a rising star in Indian cinema. He plays an enthusiastic young man who is eager to take Saajan's place when he retires. Nawazuddin injects much-needed humor and liveliness into the story, providing a welcome contrast to Saajan's and Ila's somber tones. His character is also an excellent representation of the aspirational youth in the city of Mumbai.

The Lunchbox is a movie that underlines the beauty of human connection amidst Mumbai's hectic and fast-paced life. It represents a melting pot of emotions that exists within different generations and cultures of India. As the story unfolds, viewers will undoubtedly be touched by the genuine performances of the actors, the nostalgia of Mumbai, and the city's dabbawalas. The movie is a lovely reminder of the power of simple human affection and how little gestures can have a significant impact on one's life.

Overall, The Lunchbox is a well-crafted movie that deserves to be watched by all. It's a film that beautifully captures the essence of Mumbai while telling a heartwarming love story that resonates with the audience. The Lunchbox is a rare gem in Indian cinema and shows how communication, even through something as simple as a lunchbox can build a life-long bond that can be cherished forever.