Binny And Family marks the debut of Anjali Dhawan and features a supporting cast of talented actors. However, the standout performance comes from Pankaj Kapur, who portrays Binny’s grandfather. Directed by Ssanjay Tripaathy, the film delves into the generational gap, particularly highlighting the communication challenges that often arise between different family members living under one roof. This theme resonates with many viewers, as it reflects relatable experiences from personal lives.
The narrative centers around Binny and her grandfather, with Binny living in London with her parents while her grandparents reside in a small town in Bihar. The annual visit from her grandparents reveals the conflicts arising from differing generational perspectives. During their month-long stay, Binny tries to bridge the gap between her contemporary lifestyle and her grandparents’ traditional values to avoid offending her grandfather and the rest of her family.
An incident involving Binny’s grandmother adds a twist to the already complicated dynamics between Binny and her grandfather, drawing in her parents and amplifying the tensions. The film’s denouement shows whether the family can reach a truce and amicably resolve the misunderstandings that unfold in the latter half. This exploration of family relationships is a compelling premise, yet the execution leaves much to be desired.
While the plot is not particularly original, the film does manage to engage the audience intermittently. However, it struggles to maintain consistent attention, partly due to its lengthy runtime of over 2 hours and 15 minutes. At this length, the story lacks the depth and substance necessary to sustain interest throughout, and the director’s execution falters in several areas. There are moments when the pacing feels sluggish, and certain scenes seem repetitive, leading to a sense of fatigue rather than engagement. The dialogue, too, often fails to impress, lacking the nuance and wit that could elevate the material.
Despite its shortcomings, Binny And Family is not entirely unwatchable. Pankaj Kapur’s performance is admirable, as he brings depth and warmth to his role. Anjali Dhawan gives her all in her debut role, striving to make her character relatable and authentic.
The supporting cast, though comprised of capable actors, is underutilized, with some characters not being well fleshed out. For instance, Binny’s friend comes across as particularly poorly written, lacking depth and engaging dialogue that could have made his character more memorable. This underdevelopment of supporting roles detracts from the overall richness of the story, leaving viewers wanting more substance from the characters who interact with Binny.
Overall, the film is watchable, especially for Pankaj Kapur fans or those seeking a family drama sprinkled with humor that addresses generational gaps and the need for open communication. However, it may not attract a wide audience, as it lacks remarkable elements that would make it essential viewing on the big screen. For those not particularly invested in the themes or the cast, it’s perfectly reasonable to wait for its release on streaming platforms, where it can be enjoyed at a more leisurely pace.
In conclusion, Binny And Family is a mediocre film that had the potential to be much better. We give Binny And Family a rating of 2.5 stars out of 5. The film’s attempt to address relevant social issues is commendable, but the wobbly script and indecisive direction undermine its effectiveness.
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