“Love, Sitara,” directed by Vandana Kataria and starring Sobhita Dhulipala, embarks on a dramatic exploration of relationships, societal expectations, and the emotional turmoil accompanying pre-wedding jitters. The film commences with an allusion to one of literature’s most iconic works, Anna Karenina, by Leo Tolstoy: “All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.” This line sets a reflective tone as Kataria’s film navigates the complexities of family dynamics and personal integrity, though its literary ambitions don’t entirely match Tolstoy’s profound narrative.
The film opens with Sitara (played by Sobhita Dhulipala), or Tara, an accomplished interior designer, confronting an unplanned pregnancy. She decides to withhold this news from her boyfriend, Arjun (Rajeev Siddhartha), a promising chef recently offered a coveted position in Singapore. Her quick proposal turns into a family affair as both their families converge at her grandmother’s residence in Kerala, setting the stage for a tapestry of personal revelations and deceptions under the guise of traditional pre-wedding ceremonies. The filmi, muhurat-sealed engagement promises light-hearted moments akin to “2 States” fame.
The story’s comedic overtones quickly give way to a more serious examination of the characters’ internal conflicts. Tara’s unexpected shift towards accepting marriage raises eyebrows, especially because she had once spurned Arjun’s proposal years prior. Her friends, and by extension the audience, delve into understanding the layers of her decision, prompting reflections on honesty and self-realization. Abbas and Hussain Dalal’s dialogue reinforces this with numerous memorable phrases, such as “Happiness lies in honesty” or “Dysfunction means they are making an effort,” though these declarations sometimes verge on the formulaic.
Kataria’s direction and Sonia Bahl’s screenplay bring forth a noteworthy ensemble, particularly Sonali Kulkarni and veteran theatre actor B. Jayashree. Kulkarni plays a decisive role in shaping the narrative with her layered performance, while Jayashree as Tara’s quirky grandmother adds an endearing touch to the otherwise tension-laden plot. However, despite the intended depth, “Love, Sitara” does not quite reach the psychological intricacy of Kataria’s previous film, “Noblemen,” which tackled bullying and toxic masculinity.
The narrative oscillates seamlessly between English and Hindi, with dashes of Malayalam that authentically anchor it in the culturally rich Kerala setting.
. Yet, the dialogue occasionally feels manufactured, reminiscent more of TV serial clichés than organic conversation. Characters at times seem to dish out perfectly-timed responses, compelling though they may be, at the expense of realism. There’s a tendency towards melodrama, exemplified by a climactic argument under a thunderous sky—a visual and emotional cannonade that feels a touch excessive.
In stark contrast, the penultimate confrontation between Tara and Arjun stands out for its grounded, raw authenticity. Their exchange here showcases the palpable tension and shared history of a couple weathering years of ups and downs. If not for the echoes of Dhulipala’s other role as Tara Khanna from the Prime Video series “Made in Heaven,” one might appreciate her nuanced performance even more.
Adding to the array of memorable characters is Arjun’s father, played by Ikhlaque Khan, who performs admirably as a retired army man with a relentless focus on duty. He brings a layer of generational conflict and traditional values into the mix, enriching the narrative further. Another character that shines is Tara’s best friend Anjali (Tamara D’Souza), an award-winning photojournalist. Anjali’s character not only offers a commentary on the power dynamics within human rights issues but also provides levity and genuine friendship—a testament to the strong female bonds in the plot.
The film’s setting in Kerala, with its lush landscapes and distinct cultural backdrop, could have been better leveraged. While it serves as a picturesque locale for the family’s gathering, its potential remains underutilized, leaving some characters flirting with caricature, such as the talkative housemaid marred by an alcoholic spouse storyline.
Ultimately, “Love, Sitara” weaves an engaging if imperfect tapestry of human relationships, societal pressure, and personal growth. It strikes a balance many will find thought-provoking if occasionally over-scripted. This exploration of love, honesty, and the pursuit of happiness is currently available for streaming on ZEE5, providing a reflective look into the emotional landscapes we navigate before the altar.
Published – September 27, 2024, 12:32 pm IST
Indian cinema / Hindi cinema / Reviews
