Aachar & Co

This has a fairytale-like quality to it, be it in the storytelling style or the frames. Sindhu Sreenivasa Murthy, whom I recall seeing in 2020's French Biriyani, showcases her love for everything retro and takes us back to '60s & '70s Bangalore, when it carried the vibe of an aesthetically pleasing hill station, while also being a bustling city. It talks of an era where interpersonal relationships (and togetherness), especially between siblings and family members, held utmost importance. The visuals have an inherently vintage beauty to them, and this is majorly the case in interior shots where you get to feast your eyes on intricate household items, decor, and delicious-looking food.

From a plot perspective, Aachar & Co takes us through the journey of ten siblings and their process of dealing with life as part of an orthodox household in Bangalore. I'm guessing the greatest challenge would've been to find real locations to depict the city in those times. The art department has (mostly) done a fine job, and only in very few shots did I feel a momentary jump to the modern day. Casting less-known faces in primary roles also helps establish a faster connection with their characters. In many ways, the writing celebrates the resilience of its women characters, trying to break gender stereotypes, and it is evident in the way Suma gradually (and organically) evolves into the film's protagonist.

Music is also a key ingredient here. Right from the altered version of Suprabhatam in the very beginning, the music underlines both the funny and the emotional scenes. The "Pickle Song" inventively uses kitchen utensils to create a truly unique sound. Some narrative choices did baffle me a little, like the elder brother's absence, especially in the second half, and the film chooses to go for a supremely optimistic finale where all is well. But I fully felt the warmth of being in the Aachar household and would've loved to be a silent member who gets to feast on all the snacks from that locked shelf. I'm really excited to see what Sindhu Srinivasa Murthy does next!

Defying societal conventions, the shift from patriarchy to matriarchy unfolds gradually over the years. The film is a masterpiece, with its impeccable direction, screenplay, and dialogue leaving a lasting impression. It effortlessly blends realism, humor, and poignant moments, making it a must-watch for everyone, including Kannada-speaking audiences. Notably, it guarantees both entertainment and a powerful social message, and you won't even notice that it features debut actors. This is a movie you cannot afford to miss. The direction is exceptional, the performances are top-notch, and the humor is on point. The film's portrayal of 1900s Bangalore is simply enchanting, making it a perfect choice for a weekend drama outing.

Awesome story and beautiful Retro setup. From first minute to the last each scene is beautifully made. From a single man earner to all the ladies of the house contributing to the family. One of the best movies I have seen this year.

Would surely recommend all of you to watch it with your family. Each actor has given their best, the household names Suma Umma Jaggu - uff Yum Maaa Do concentrate on the lyrics of each of the songs ha ha too good. Billi jhuralla (White cockroach). Next I am going to check out each of the makers names especially director lyrics writer. Best output from each of them.

Highly recommended and proud of Kannada Cinema.

First off need to give credit where its due, thanks to non other than our one and only Power star Puneeth Rajkumar for PRK Productions. His vision for contributing to such movies and openness to welcome new age Directors and actors is matched by no one. Almost everyone else wants it to be big and noisy but he choose to throw weight to such movies where the characters come to light with stories and ability to showcase true talent of what acting is all about. Thank you Sir, even though you are gone you surely are living among us with producing such movies. We need movies like these which compliments originality and authenticity. Director has really ticked all the right boxes by ensuring to keep characters simple and elegant and let the story talk.

Kudos to everyone associated with this movie,

One of the best movies seen in recent times, almost everyone has acted exceptionally. Sindhu has amazing talent and is someone to watch out for in Kannada Industry.

I was able to relate to quite a few things from my childhood as well. Very simplistic depiction of old Bangalore lifestyle and the narrative is gripping throughout the movie. I would have loved it if we had seen a little more of Suma character transition at the end.

My only regret was not able to watch in theater when it was released. I would support these amazing movies anyday over the mass masala movies.

Watch with your family, especially someone who can relate to the old lifestyle.