The Mehta Boys Movie Review: A Masterclass on Father-Son Dynamics Without Over-Emphasizing “Papa”
Rating: 4 Stars
Star Cast: Boman Irani, Avinash Tiwary, Shreya Chaudhry
Director: Boman Irani
Available On: Prime Video
Language: Hindi
Runtime: 1 hour 35 minutes
What’s Good: A raw portrayal of father-son relationships, layered with emotional depth. Boman Irani’s brilliant directorial debut.
What’s Bad: The pacing could be a little slow, requiring patience.
Loo Break: Not really needed—it’s only 1.5 hours long!
Watch or Not?: Absolutely! If you enjoy heartwarming family dramas, this is a must-watch.
The Mehta Boys: A Beautifully Told Father-Son Story
Father-son relationships are often complex, and The Mehta Boys captures this dynamic perfectly. Boman Irani, in his directorial debut, presents a story that is touching, relatable, and refreshingly devoid of unnecessary melodrama. The film explores the tension between Shiv Mehta (Boman Irani), a grieving father, and his underconfident son, Amay Mehta (Avinash Tiwary). As they navigate their way through life after the loss of the family matriarch, the film showcases the gradual breakdown of emotional barriers, ultimately fostering a bond they never had.
Script Analysis
The film doesn’t rely on over-the-top dramatization. Instead, it builds a narrative that feels honest and grounded. The initial tension between the two is subtle but clear. Amay, struggling in both his personal and professional life, faces the challenge of reconnecting with his father, who is equally burdened by grief and his stubborn nature. The dialogue feels real, and the story gradually unfolds as the two “boys” are forced to live together.
Star Performance
Boman Irani, as the elder Mehta, delivers a raw, unfiltered performance that showcases the complexities of aging and dealing with loss. His character is tough but has moments of tenderness, especially when he attempts to connect with his son. Avinash Tiwary as the son also shines, portraying a man who wants to speak but doesn’t know how. Together, their performances carry the film, making the father-son dynamic the emotional core of the story. Shreya Chaudhry and Puja Sarup, in supporting roles, add warmth and act as the bridge between these two stubborn “boys.”
Direction & Music
Boman Irani’s direction is a revelation. He doesn’t rush through the emotions but instead takes his time, allowing each scene to breathe. There are no exaggerated moments, and every interaction between the characters feels natural. While the film’s pacing may be slow for some, it’s deliberate, allowing the viewer to fully immerse in the emotional journey. The music is understated but complements the tone of the film, particularly during emotional beats.
The Last Word
The Mehta Boys is a heartfelt story of family, loss, and the quiet moments that bring us closer to our loved ones. It’s a masterclass in how to explore complex father-son dynamics without overplaying the sentimentality. If you’re looking for an emotional film that’s both subtle and impactful, this one should definitely be on your watchlist.
