Starring: Sobhita Dhulipala, Rajeev Siddhartha, Sonali Kulkarni, B. Jayashree, Virginia Rodrigues, Sanjay Bhutiani
Director: Vandana Kataria
Produced by Ronnie Screwvala for RSVP Movies, Kataria’s directorial venture ‘Love, Sitara’ is about entangled complexities of modern relationships, dysfunctional families and navigating the hard truths of life.
When an unexpected pregnancy surprises a successful interior designer, Sitara (Dhulipala), she decides to propose to her long-time partner, Arjun (Siddhartha), and embrace this new phase in her life. The hope of a simple wedding away from the spotlight and hustle of the city draws Sitara back to her grandmother’s village home where family and friends of the couple gather for the pre-wedding preparations. Her plans of a simple, straightforward affair, however, are soon thrown out of the window as things begin to take a turn.
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The film, which is now streaming on ZEE5 Global, starts off slow, with the story taking its time setting up the background and introducing the characters. But once past its slightly drawn-out introduction, the film makes an engaging and emotional drama which brings out a myriad of complex emotions, broken relationships and hard realities.
As hidden truths from Sitara’s family’s past begin to emerge around them, both Sitara and Arjun must navigate the growing tension in their own relationship as they prepare for their wedding.
Although the storytelling can feel heavy at times, the film’s exploration of the deceptive nature of seemingly happy and content relationships and people is quite engaging.
‘Love, Sitara’ hopes to be a film about self-discovery and self-forgiveness although it doesn’t spend nearly as much time on the aftermath of the climax as it does on the actual drama. Having said that, the film has its moments and the cast is very well chosen for the characters they portray.
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Dhulipala shines as Sitara and shares a very believable and beautiful chemistry with her co-star Siddhartha. Kulkarni’s portrayal of the favourite aunt who is still trying to find love is as nuanced as expected from a seasoned actress like herself. Bhutani and Rodrigues essay the role of parents very well. Other supporting characters in the story also have their own arcs, which is refreshing to see.
Overall, the film is a good watch which ends on a positive and emotional note.