MapsOfIndia/MyIndia Rating: 3/5 ⭐⭐⭐
Directed by Vikas Bahl and produced by Bahl, Ekta Kapoor, and Shobha Kapoor, Goodbye, released on October 7, stars Amitabh Bachchan (Harish Bhalla), Pavail Gulati (Karan), Rashmika Mandanna (Tara), Shivin Narang (Mudassar), Neena Gupta (Gayatri Bhalla), Sahil Mehta (Angad), Abhishekh (Nakul), Ashish Vidyarthi (PP Singh), Sudhakar Reddy Yakkanti has worked on its cinematography.
Plot
Set in Chandigarh, Bhalla’s children, Tara, Nakul, and Angad, work outside the city. Tara gets a call from her mother while at a Bangalore party which she misses, and lives with her partner Mudassar. US-based technocrat Karan takes a flight home when he learns about her mother’s demise, like Angad, an adopted son, whereas Nakul remains unreachable throughout. At the funeral time, Tara reaches first among the children.
The ladies in the neighbourhood make a whats app group called “Chandigarh-Bubblies” in remembrance of their friend Gayatri. PP Singh, who calls himself a “family-friend”, advises Harish on traditional practices and customs to be implemented, which Harish is unaware of. When all children reach except Nakul, they are engaged either with their partner or office work, which Harish sees as disrespectful to the things happening during that period. Harish remains lonely and feels isolated with no children of his own but only a dog.
Tara challenges her brother Karan on why she can’t perform last rites instead of male members or a son in the scene. Karan’s American wife, Daisy (Elli AvrRam), tries to settle with Indian practices and adapts to that situation. Tara’s relationship with her father, Harish, is seen at odds. Eventually, both get on good terms through a photo album of Harish and Gayatri from the 70s. Tara differentiates science and faith in front of Sunil Grover, who plays Panditji. The scene has family members performing rituals for the ‘moksha’ of Gayatri. Nakul reaches home on Harish’s birthday, realising the news that other members have been grieving. Other characters are Gayatri’s sister and ailing father, who later gets fine.
Analysis
The cinematography in the movie after intermission gets wishy-washy when there is a focus on Harish in Haridwar. The one-liners and dialogues remain suitable, two of which are “Argument Ki Mastery” and “Hum sab Ek din right turn lenge. Dikhenge nahi, chalte jarur hai” from Harish.
The sound put in it is incredible during those scenes. HAPPY song is poorly placed, while Jaikal Mahakal stuns the viewers. Considering Tara’s statement, she too could have performed rites instead of standing as she wanted it so badly with her love for Gayatri.
Verdict
It’s certainly an appreciation for Bahl for his idea on children performing rituals and their thoughts in these times, making them realise to spend time with family members and care for each other. However, the Haridwar journey shown in it could have been short, providing more time for Nakul’s character.
Amitabh Bachchan delivers exceptional performances, including Pavail, who matches his acting skills in each scene, giving no point of dissatisfaction and remaining powerful in his character. Rashmika Mandanna makes her debut in the Hindi film industry with Goodbye with no bad performance, while Neena is a delight to watch with super work.
