Gauri Shinde is a nuanced story teller. She delved into language, empowerment and touched the surface of human relationships in English Vinglish. In Dear Zindagi, she dives in to more complex human behaviour, patterns and emotions.

Dear Zindagi is a film I have been waiting for Shah Rukh Khan to do. A simple film, which involves him being SRK a la Swades or Chak de. Mature, understanding, introspective and a subtle sense of humour.

The film starts with, ends with, belongs to and is completely Alia Bhatt. She has delivered such performances before, but for a young actor to hit the ball out of the park every time isn’t easy. She does it like a seasoned player.

Supported well by a host of actors who all enter, exit or endure Alia’s universe, the film is a refreshing tale on seeking advise or direction. Ali Zafar and Kunal Kapoor are memorable, while Ira Dubey and Yashaswini Dayama are adorable reality checks.

A small film with a big heart, it encourages us to talk and listen.

3/5