October (2018 film)

October (2018 film poster)

October is a 2018 Indian Hindi-language film directed by Shoojit Sircar and written by Juhi Chaturvedi. Set in Delhi, the film is a poignant drama that unfolds the story of Dan (played by Varun Dhawan), a hotel management trainee, and his deep, unspoken affection for his colleague, Shiuli (played by Banita Sandhu), who falls into a coma after a tragic accident. The narrative explores themes of love, life, and the beauty of relationships that go beyond the conventional romantic norms.

Plot

The film opens with Dan, a somewhat carefree and rebellious hotel management trainee, who is more interested in pranks and shenanigans than his career. His life takes a dramatic turn when Shiuli, a fellow trainee and the object of his unacknowledged affection, accidentally falls from the terrace of a hotel during a New Year's Eve party and slips into a coma. The last thing Shiuli had asked before her accident was, "Where is Dan?" This question changes Dan's life, leading him to question the depth of his feelings for Shiuli.

As Shiuli battles for her life, Dan finds himself drawn to her bedside, becoming an integral part of her recovery process and forming a unique bond with her family. The film delicately captures the transformation of Dan from an immature, self-centered individual to a compassionate and empathetic human being, deeply invested in Shiuli's well-being. The narrative is a testament to the power of love and care, transcending the boundaries of traditional romantic relationships.

Cast

• Varun Dhawan as Dan
• Banita Sandhu as Shiuli
• Gitanjali Rao as Shiuli's mother
• Others in supporting roles

Production

Directed by Shoojit Sircar and penned by Juhi Chaturvedi, October marks a departure from the typical Bollywood formula. The film's storytelling is subtle, relying on the strength of its performances and the depth of its characters rather than on melodrama or musical numbers. The director's vision was to create a film that felt as real and touching as life itself, focusing on the nuances of human emotions and relationships.

Reception

Upon its release, October received critical acclaim for its direction, screenplay, and the performances of its lead actors, especially Varun Dhawan, who was praised for stepping out of his comfort zone and delivering a nuanced performance. Critics lauded the film for its unconventional narrative, its aesthetic cinematography, and its ability to evoke deep emotional responses from the audience. However, the film's slow pace and lack of traditional entertainment elements were cited by some viewers as drawbacks.

Legacy

October is considered a significant film in Indian cinema for its bold attempt to redefine the boundaries of love and relationships. It has been appreciated for its honest portrayal of the complexities of human emotions, making it a standout film in the careers of both Shoojit Sircar and Varun Dhawan. The film's success has contributed to a growing appreciation for cinema that challenges mainstream narratives and explores the depth of human connections.