Movie
Review
Aaron George
ECE-A
23ECB0F06
Overview
"3 Idiots" is a Bollywood film that revolves around the lives of Farhan,
Raju, and Rancho, three friends navigating India's cutthroat engineering
education system. Farhan and Raju are average students burdened by
parental expectations, while Rancho is a free-spirited genius who
prioritizes understanding over blinding mugging up everything. Trapped
under the iron fist of the cruel dean, Virus, their days are filled with soul-
crushing exams and the constant pressure to succeed. Through hilarious
adventures and heartwarming moments, the film examines the education
system's emphasis on grades and academic achievements. The story
unfolds through flashbacks as Farhan and Raju search for their long-lost
friend Rancho. As the story unfolds, it tackles real issues like student
mental health and the importance of following your dreams, even if they
don't fit the mold. It's a story with a healthy dose of humor, social
commentary, and a message about following your dreams and finding joy
in learning.
Character Analysis:
1. Ranchoddas “Rancho” Chandchad a.k.a Phunsuk Wangdu
Rancho is an unconventional genius. The puzzling protagonist of the movie embodies intellectual
curiosity and believes in the pursuit of knowledge for its own sake. He challenges the established
educational system, advocating for a system that fosters genuine understanding over rote
learning. Rancho's infectious enthusiasm and unwavering pursuit of his passions inspire his
friends, Farhan and Raju, to re-evaluate their academic trajectories. He pushes them to break
free from societal pressures and embrace their true callings, leaving a lasting impact on their
lives and perspectives.
2. Farhan Qureshi
Farhan's passion lies in wildlife photography, a stark contrast to the expectations of becoming an
engineer. Farhan is the epitome of the internal conflict of pursuing one's passion versus fulfilling
familial expectations. His passion for photography is overshadowed by his parent’s aspirations
for him to become an engineer, representing the clash between personal dreams and societal
norms. Farhan's journey is marked by self-doubt and the struggle to assert his identity amid
external pressures. His decision to confront his parents and pursue his true passion signifies a
pivotal moment of empowerment and self-discovery. Through Farhan's story, the narrative delves
into themes of individuality, courage, and pursuing one's dreams against all odds.
3. Raju Rastogi
Raju's character reflects the immense pressure and financial strain many students face. His
relentless pursuit of a lucrative job to reduce his family's financial burdens showcases the
prevalent pressures faced by individuals from modest backgrounds. The pivotal moment where
Raju attempts to end his life reflects the extreme emotional toll of these pressures, highlighting
the detrimental effects of societal expectations on mental well-being. However, this harrowing
experience catalyzes Raju's personal growth and transformation. It leads him to prioritize his
happiness and well-being, ultimately realizing that success encompasses more than just financial
achievements.
4. Dr. Viru Sahastrabuddhe a.k.a “Virus”
Dr. Viru expresses the rigid and authoritarian mindset prevalent in many educational institutions.
His disciplinary approach is characterized by strict rules, fear-based tactics, and a lack of
empathy for students' struggles. Virus's constant emphasis on academic excellence at any cost
reflects a narrow perspective that prioritizes results over holistic learning. His antagonistic role
serves as a stark contrast to Rancho’s pursuit of creativity and unconventional thinking. Through
Virus's character, the film critiques the suffocative nature of traditional education systems and
advocates for a more inclusive approach to learning.
5. Chatur Ramalingam “Silencer”
Chatur exemplifies the "topper" mentality, obsessed with grades and social validation. He
prioritizes outperforming others through any means necessary, mirroring the cutthroat
competition some students experience in engineering colleges. Chatur's blind pursuit of academic
success at the expense of integrity and authenticity highlights the pitfalls of a solely results-
oriented mindset. His character serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of
prioritizing personal gain over ethical conduct in academic and professional pursuits. Through
Chatur, the film emphasizes the importance of values, ethics, and genuine learning experiences in
shaping one's journey toward success.
6. Pia Sahastrabuddhe
Pia Sahastrabuddhe brings a refreshing perspective to the narrative, representing the spirit of
curiosity, independence, and progressive thinking. Her character is defined by intelligence,
empathy, and a genuine passion for learning. Pia's journey in the film reflects the importance of
individuality and critical thinking in navigating challenges and pursuing personal growth. Unlike
some of her peers, she values knowledge for its own sake rather than merely chasing academic
accolades. Pia's presence serves as a reminder of the diversity of motivations and aspirations
among students, highlighting the richness of educational experiences beyond traditional
measures of success. Through Pia, the film encourages viewers to embrace curiosity, empathy,
and intellectual curiosity as essential components of a fulfilling educational journey.
WRITERS’ POV:
-Who was my favorite character and why?
My favorite character is Farhan Qureshi because he represents the struggles many
students face in choosing between their passion and their family's expectations. He embodies the
dilemma of following one's dreams versus fulfilling societal norms. Farhan's journey of self-
discovery and courage to pursue his passion despite obstacles is relatable and inspiring. His
character development throughout the movie resonated with me, showing that it's never too late
to chase your dreams. Overall, Farhan's sincerity and determination make him a standout
character in the story.
-Did the characters feel real to you?
Yes, the characters felt genuine and relatable to me. Their struggles, emotions, and
dilemmas seemed authentic and mirrored real-life experiences. I could empathize with their
journey and connect with the challenges they faced, making them feel like real people rather than
just fictional characters. The way they interacted and evolved throughout the story added depth
and realism to their personalities, making the movie more engaging and impactful. Overall, the
characters' authenticity contributed significantly to my enjoyment and connection with the film.
-What was your favorite part of the movie?
My favorite part of the movie was when the three friends embarked on a hilarious and
heartwarming journey to find their lost friend. The camaraderie between them, filled with
laughter and tears, resonated deeply with me. Another memorable moment was when they
challenged the conventional norms of education and pursued their passion against all odds. These
instances not only entertained me but also inspired me to value friendship, pursue dreams
relentlessly, and embrace life's uncertainties with courage. Overall, these moments made the
movie an unforgettable experience for me.
-Did the movie make you laugh or cry? If so, which parts?
Yes, the movie made me both laugh and cry at different moments. I laughed heartily
during the hilarious scenes where the characters, especially Chatur, got into comical situations.
Their antics and witty dialogues brought a lot of humor to the story. On the other hand, I was
deeply moved during the emotional moments, such as when the friends faced challenges or
expressed their heartfelt emotions. These scenes resonated with me because they portrayed the
ups and downs of life in a relatable and touching way, evoking genuine emotions.
-Would you recommend this movie to anyone? If so,
whom?
Yes, I would highly recommend this movie to anyone looking for an entertaining and
thought-provoking film. It's suitable for people of all ages, especially those who enjoy a mix of
comedy, drama, and meaningful storytelling. I would particularly recommend it to college
students and young adults because the movie tackles important themes like pursuing one's
passion, challenging societal norms, and the value of true friendship. The characters are
relatable, and their journey throughout the film offers valuable life lessons. Additionally, the
humor in the movie appeals to a wide audience, making it an enjoyable watch for families and
friends. Overall, "3 Idiots" is a must-watch for its engaging plot, memorable characters, and
inspiring messages
