Salaam Venky is based on an inspiring true story and it revives the controversial debate around euthanasia. The tearjerker is backed by sincere and moving performances by Kajol and, Vishal Jethwa who is shaping up to be a promising actor indeed.
Read Full Salaam Venky Movie Review:
Rating: 3.5/5
Director: Revathi
Cast: Kajol, Vishal Jethwa, Aahana Kumra, Rajeev Khandelwal
Runtime: 2 hours 16 minutes
Storyline:
For the unversed, Salaam Venky is based on the true story of Kolavennu Venkatesh, a 25-year-old man who suffered from Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Vishal Jethwa plays the titular Venky aka Venkatesh. Despite being terminally ill with painful muscular degeneration, Venky leads a fulfilling life full of chess and ashram activities.
“Zindagi lambi nai, badi honi chaiye” – Venky spouts off his favourite filmi dialogue while revealing his last dying wish. He wants to be euthanized, however the reason behind it is far from depressing. Venky wishes to become useful in his death by donating his organs.
His grief-stricken Mom Sujata (Kajol), who has toiled away day and night in nursing him, is reluctant to fulfill Venky’s request for euthanasia. What follows is a deeply personal as well as an uphill legal battle for Venky’s last noble gesture.
What Do We Think:
Vishal Jethwa’s acting as the terminally ill Venky is very sincere but a tad bit extra melodramatic. Nevertheless, the young actor shows immense potential. Kajol as the grieving mother Sujata, who is fighting a legal battle for her son’s euthanasia, is restrained in comparison. The strong mother-son dynamic forms the heart of this touching film.
A high on emotion tearjerker, Salaam Venky feels slightly hollow in places. The legal courtroom drama makes for some interesting scenes and revives a controversial debate around euthanasia. The revelation of Aamir Khan’s character comes as a surprise indeed!
Hit Or Miss:
Worth watching once in the theatre to see the true story of Kolavennu Venkatesh come to life. Carry some tissues for the emotional rollercoaster ride!
