Review of Udaan (2010) by Sandeep N — 11 May 2011

UDAAN is a hard-hitting coming of age drama. It's about a young man trying to find his place in the world and follow his dreams. His father sees his future differently and they both clash over their different point of views but the film is also about abuse either physical or emotional. The father shares an abusive relationship with his sons. The family structure in this film is broken creating a very emotional backdrop alongside the teenage angst being presented because the reason for the angst is not just laziness or misdirection on part of the our main character, Rohan but also because he is experiencing pain and emotional turmoil. At some point I felt for the father..he seemed to love his sons but did not know how to deal with the difficulties that come with parenting but I also did not feel sorry for him or anything. He was very abusive to his sons and there was no excuse for it. The film works because it doesn't get bogged down by Bollywood conventions. Nothing is over done and there's no appeasing to a commercial audience. It's slow moving, the dialogue is realistic and most of the film is subtle in what its trying to say. I also liked that the lead role is actually played by a young man rather than recent films that deal with similar subjects (Wake Up Sid, 3 Idiots) where the lead roles are played by much older actors. It gives the film a more authentic feel. The ending is also unconventional*************MAYBE A SPOILER**************I was surprised by it but I'm glad it ended the way it did. It makes you think about whether Rohan made the right decision or not and directly challenges traditional Indian thinking that says we should support our parents no matter what. Overall, one of the best Bollywood films in recent years.

4 out of 5 stars.