Anupama Chopra reviews The Mehta Boys, Boman Irani’s directorial debut, which explores the ever-fascinating yet fraught father-son relationship. Hindi cinema has long been drawn to this dynamic, from Mughal-e-Azam to Shakti to Animal. Irani and co-writer Alexander Dinelaris, known for Birdman, add their own twist—Shiv, played by Boman Irani, and Amay, played by Avinash Tiwary, are forced to spend 48 hours together, confronting old wounds and new realities.
The film finds its emotional anchor in Puja Sarup’s Anu, the sister caught between two stubborn men, each grappling with grief in his own way. A standout airport scene distills the film’s emotional core, with Irani skillfully orchestrating tension and tenderness. His performance, along with Avinash Tiwary’s controlled vulnerability, adds authenticity to their prickly bond.
However, the screenplay introduces unnecessary external obstacles—from a stolen bag to an accident—that detract from the more organic father-son conflict. Amay’s professional struggles, framed through a debate on modern versus traditional Indian architecture, feel underdeveloped. Yet, the film finds its strength in subtle details—the unspoken meanings in a photograph, a meticulously designed wardrobe, and the unrelenting search for a sense of home.
Despite its structural bumps, The Mehta Boys carries warmth, heart, and a performance-driven intimacy that makes it a poignant watch. Watch out for a delightful cameo by Zenobia Irani that brings a smile.
