The distance between two hearts — that’s the literal translation of Hrudyantar, which is helmed by fashion designer Vikram Phadnis. As the title suggests, the film is an emotional rollercoaster, starring Mukta Barve and Subodh Bhave in the lead roles. Hrudayantar revolves round the marital crisis of a couple, more than a decade into the marriage, with two lovely daughters. From the tiny squabbles, to the more serious and frequent differences with ‘this-doesn’t-make-me-cry-anymore’ attitude, the audience is drawn into their lives from the word go.
Expectedly, Mukta as Samaira Joshi and Subodh as Shekhar Joshi have done an amazing job as the estranged couple, and as parents. But we must also applaud the two girls who have portrayed the characters with ease.
Mukta plays the typical urban woman, managing work and being a doting mother to her daughters, while Subodh is more than convincing as the workaholic father, who barely has any time for his family, but breaks down uncontrollably at a weak moment that involves his daughter. A few scenes in the movie that subtly underline Subodh’s love for his family take the cake. A couple of brief narrations by Mukta, at intervals, through the movie were not so necessary; the film stands strong without them, thanks to the actors and direction.
The story may not be out of the world, but the way it has been brought to us is beautiful, with much credit to Vikram, who doesn’t look like a newcomer to direction. He successfully makes the audience cry at every intense scene in the movie, and laugh at the rare light moments too. Sonali Khare and Ameet Khedekar, as the couple’s friends, fit well too, and lend the movie a healthy balance from the otherwise high-on-emotions narration.
Dilshad VA’s cinematography is simple yet just enough for the story and the music by Praful Karlekar blends in with the tone and feel of the story. The songs that play in the background through the tragic times stay with you even after you leave the theatre.
One detail that deserves not just a mention, but also an applause, is the amazing costume designing for Mukta. No surprise there though, considering that Vikram cannot be ever defeated in this one space.
Hrithik Roshan, Maniesh Paul and choreographer Shiamak Davar have made guest appearances which merge well with the storyline. Hrudayantar, like its characters say, is a celebration of life over less important differences and hurdles.
Rating: 3/5
