Highway… an Imtiaz Ali journey…

When I went to watch Highway last night, I was carrying with myself some mixed reviews and expectations.

While some had found the film slow; a friend watched it twice, having not known post the first viewing as to whether he liked the film or not. Then there were those who wrote the film off while some who found faults in it.

The visuals in the films’ trailer and its music had made me look forward to the journey that “Highway” seemed to promise. The film seemed to have a kind of vibe that made me want to surrender to it rather than simply sit back and watch. Having not been too happy with Imtiaz Ali’s last two outings, I was worried I may be disappointed.

Well…

Having experienced the film now, I am glad, relieved and ecstatic to proclaim that I wasn’t!!

I loved the film…. every bit of it!

The characters, the narrative, the music, the performances, the pace, the entertainment, the conclusion… I loved it all. Imtiaz Ali….. you rocked it dude!

Alia Bhatt was phenomenal. For a girl that young to possess such poise and range in her performance is commendable to say the least.

Nothing that happens in the film is out of place. Every action has a justification that is planted subtly yet emphatically! It is this very manner of storytelling that made me love the film so much. It showcases the brave and sincere nature of the director in telling this poignant story.

If “Don’t say what you can show”, is an idiom all filmmakers are aware of, then in Highway, it is actually adhered to. Some of the most critical expressions in the film have no words or background score. It is the actions that do the talking.

However, by no way does that mean the film is some “art” house dark cinema! Sensible does not have to be boring. Highway is adequately entertaining with its quirky characters and well-timed banter. The situations by themselves provide the amusement to be entertained.

However, don’t go in if you are expecting some high octane thrills and spoon-feeding… one is so used to.

Go instead, if you are aware and enjoy the solitude one feels when one cruises on a long unending stretch of the- Highway.

For travelling with Veera and Bhaati, you shall not only get to know two very real people and see some gorgeous places but you may also value the freedom you have or even better… go out get one you rightfully deserve.

Either ways, take this “Highway”…it shall be a drive worth experiencing.