The Lunchbox

wogma rating: Add to 'must watch' list (?)

quick review:

Back to the good ol' questions, we are - What is love? What is companionship? What is attraction?

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Director: Ritesh Batra
Running time: 110 minutes
More Movie Info

The Lunchbox - Preview

Nothing takes my breath away (in films, more than elsewhere) like simplicity. And this simple thing is such a rarity in Hindi films these days. Just watching the trailer of The Lunchbox felt like an enriching, refreshing experience.

I do realise, there are still things that could go wrong, like the story could fall flat. There's a very high chance of the narrative getting repetitive. And that's where the cast gets to take over, right? While we are accustomed to nothing but the best from Irrfan Khan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Nimrat Kaur too looks like she has a performance worth looking forward to. Her voiceover communicates more than many lead actresses faces can.

That makes another first for me - being okay with a voiceover. So, all this anticipation just means that I am really looking forward to being floored

- meeta, a part of the audience

After a certain stage in a relationship, most likely, there is comfort or stagnancy. In either case, you need an extra spark, something to look forward to. The apprehension; the spring in the step; the glint in the eye that a new relationship brings - that's what The Lunchbox is about. And more.

Like any other relationship, Ila-Fernandes relationship is as much about the two individuals as it is about the relationship itself. Sure, the chemistry builds up beautifully, without one setting an eye on the other. But, their personal insecurities, frustrations is what makes The Lunchbox stand apart from most other films.

Moreover, the whole package is breathtakingly simple. The one-line plot, the characters, the ambiance, the situations, the humor would make even the most city-bred in the audience believe that a middle-class world like this exists, as much as it ever did, even today.

The one-liner "what if" - what if the well-known lunchbox system went wrong one day and put two lonely souls in touch with each other? How fascinating an idea! Of the thousands of possibilities, the one writer/director Ritesh Batra picks is as charmingly old-school as it gets.

The characters he picks to put together are mere faces in the crowd of 20 million. Ordinary, uninteresting - most likely, you and me. The side characters, including the neighbor oldie (Bharti Achrekar) you don't see, are given quirks that are thoroughly enjoyable, even if not real.

You don't root for any of the characters, you just play along and are willing to go wherever the story takes you. There is no arc. There is no significant peak in the story. The simple progress of conversations between Ila and Fernandez is enough to keep you going. Each one is special; just like each conversation of a budding relationship is dear.

Yet, none of it, not a thing would've been acceptable if it weren't for Irrfan Khan and Nimrat Kaur. Let alone the slightest show of spark or disappointment in their eyes, the variation in the tone for their voice-overs is enough to inspire awe. Nawazuddin Siddiqui is a charmer as always.

The most obvious character in the film is one I am biased towards - Mumbai. Any film that reminds me of the sights, the smells, the energy of that city has won me over in the first scene. In complete contrast to this buzzing city is, ever so slow-paced, The Lunchbox. A beautiful contrast which could get to you if you are waiting for something to happen.

So, depending on your make and what you seek in your films, the climax can be exhilarating or underwhelming. I was bang in between, even though I cannot see a more fitting end to the film. That's what will make or break the film for you.

- meeta, a part of the audience

35 reviewers(?) - 33 yays 1 so-so 1 nays

Warning: clicking on "full review" will take you to an external website that could contain spoilers.

Thumbs up, by Anna MM Vetticad, annavetticadgoes2themovies : ...The Lunchbox is seemingly simple yet as complex as all human beings are. It’s sad yet throws up humour when you are least expecting it. It’s not larger than life, it’s just as large as life always is. This film is truly sensational... full review

Thumbs up, by Bobby Singh, Bobby Talks Cinema.com : ...a must watch movie for sure for its fabulous performances and for that one strong voice full of positivity from the above, which has no visible face like the Supreme Power.... full review

Thumbs up, by Katherine Matthews, Bolly Spice : ...Writer-director Ritesh Batra’s first feature film is delicately and meticulously crafted, its characters deftly etched.... full review

Thumbs up, by Taran Adarsh, Bollywood Hungama : ...On the whole, THE LUNCHBOX is a standout film, a sumptuous treat that's sure to be relished by connoisseurs of cinema.... full review

Thumbs up, by Namrata Thakker , Bollywood Life : ...If you are looking to watch a masala entertainer then The Lunchbox won’t appeal to you. But if meaningful cinema is your craving then this is one film you wouldn’t want to miss... full review

Thumbs up, by Mayank Shekhar , Daily Bhaskar : ...debutant writer-director Ritesh Batra remarkably scripts a story of loneliness that affects the best of us living in the world’s most crowded cities.... full review

Thumbs up, by Khalid Mohamed, Deccan Chronicle : ...Bottomline: Bon appetit! Miss this sumptuous movie, at your own peril.... full review

Thumbs up, by Rony D'Costa, Desi Martini : ...The Lunchbox is a wonderful film with splendid performances by Irrfan Khan, Nimrat Kaur and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. This movie is definitely worth devouring for breakfast, lunch and dinner... full review

Thumbs up, by Harshada Rege , DNA : ...But ensure that you eat well before you head for the movie, or else be prepared to deal with the hunger pangs everytime Irrfan opens The Lunchbox.... full review

Thumbs up, by Deepa Deosthalee, Film Impressions : ...As Sheikh rightly observes, "Sir, aapke dabbe mein se kamaal ki khushboo aati hai.... full review

Thumbs up, by Rahul Gangwani, Filmfare : ...To sum it up, The Lunchbox is one of the best films to come out from Hindi film industry. It takes us a notch higher. Do yourself a favour and watch this film. And you are warned… you will be hungry for good food and love after the end credits roll.... full review

Thumbs up, by Mihir Fadnavis, FirstPost : ...here are plenty of moments to treasure in The Lunchbox, and they’re all small and delicately crafted. Read more at: http://www.firstpost.com/bollywood/the-lunchbox-review-its-the-most-optimistic-film-of-the-year-1121989.html?utm_source=ref_article... full review

Thumbs up, by FPJ Bureau, Free Press Journal : ...This is feel-good cinema, infinitely touching and enchanting in its spiel and in my opinion is India’s best bet for the foreign film category at the Oscars besides ‘Ship of Theseus’. This is never-to-be-missed cinema!... full review

Thumbs up, by Swayamsrestha Kar , fullhyd.com : ...the movie is so sparse and yet so spectacular. Sod it, we did it anyways.... full review

Thumbs up, by Rajeev Masand, IBN Live : ...Treat yourself to 'The Lunchbox' - it'll leave you with a craving to seek your own little happiness Read more at: http://ibnlive.in.com/news/the-lunchbox-review-itll-leave-you-with-a-craving-to-seek-your-own-little-happiness/423546-47-84.html?utm_source=ref_article... full review

Thumbs up, by Rohit Khilnani, india today : ...The Lunch Box is served at a cinema near you and if you love good movies and stories...go taste this one, you will walk out with a smile.... full review

Thumbs up, by Shubhra Gupta, indian express : ...It's hard to take your eyes off Irrfan when he is in full flow, but Nawazuddin demands attention in his own right... full review

Thumbs up, Indicine : ...Ritesh Batra’s splendid screenplay and direction Acting performances by Irrfan, Nawazuddin and Nimrat... full review

Thumbs up, by Mohar Basu, koimoi : ...The film is an utter culinary and cinematic delight ladled up with the right amounts of love and warmth.... full review

Thumbs up, by Sanjukta Sharma, Live Mint : ...While being an immensely enjoyable and competent film, the universality of The Lunchbox tends to exclude its setting’s all-important provinciality. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Shubha Shetty-Saha, MiD DAY : ...The film has a fuzzy, heart-melting feeling to give you through the two-odd hour duration. The famous spirit of Mumbai couldn't have been captured better than this. Don't miss it... full review

Thumbs up, by Jaidev Hemmady, Movie Talkies : ...Simple, sweet and yet with a tinge of sadness, The Lunchbox is worth savouring. - See more at: http://www.movietalkies.com/movies/reviews/21089/the-lunchbox#sthash.bBEutFV0.dpuf... full review

Thumbs up, by Divya Solgama, MoviezADDA : ...Dum? Well for all those who love meaningful, feel good, artistic, realistic, performance based type of films this movie is a must watch for all of you... full review

Thumbs up, by Karan Anshuman, Mumbai Mirror : ... One of the best films to come out of India in a long time, director Ritesh Batra answers the question in his little masterpiece, The Lunchbox. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Saibal Chatterjee, NDTV : ...Nimrat Kaur is clearly a bundle of natural talent that Hindi cinema will do well do draw upon whenever a role demands more than just eye-candy appeaL... full review

Thumbs up, by Mansha Rastogi, Now Running.com : ...The Lunchbox is a rare gem wrapped carefully in a mundane tiffin-box. Ever thought the simplest of things in life could be so charming and endearing? ... full review

Thumbs up, by Stutee Ghosh , Planet Bollywood : ... Irrfan and Nawazuddin smiled down at us we knew our messiahs were at our rescue and they don’t disappoint us.... full review

Thumbs up, by Raja Sen, Rediff : ...Batra, who has also written The Lunchbox, has allowed his smashing actors tremendous room to improvise, all the while himself sketching in nuanced details about the city, its food-ferriers, and the many disparities Mumbai is crammed with.... full review

Thumbs up, by SUDHISH KAMATH, The Hindu : ...The Lunchbox is heartwarming, introspective, romantic, bittersweet and feel good, all at once... full review

Thumbs up, by Srijana Mitra Das, Times of India : ...You may not like this movie if you don't like softly spiced whimsical tales - or food. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Rummana Ahmed, yahoo! India : ...Ritesh Batra’s film is a winner all the way, an exceptional love story,... full review

Thumbs up, by Resham Sengar, Zee News : ...Clearly, ‘The Lunchbox’ is a wholesome affair – one that shows how it feels when mundane seems magic and attempts to explore the concept of age bar in love... full review

Thumbs up, by Resham Sengar, Zee News : ...Clearly, ‘The Lunchbox’ is a wholesome affair – one that shows how it feels when mundane seems magic and attempts to explore the concept of age bar in love.... full review

So-So, by Namrata Joshi, Outlook India : ...As the film says, sometimes the wrong train can take you to the right destination. Will the wrongly delivered letter eventually take Ila and Saajan to Bhutan, literally and metaphorically? And together at that? Watch and find out... full review

Thumbs down, by Martin D'Souza, Glamsham.com : ...Watching Irrfan and Nawazuddin in the same frame is a treat. As the new recruit who is to take on Sajjan's job in the Claims Department, Nawazuddin is annoying to the point of being likeable. Nimrat is just perfect for this role and she dishes out every scene with brilliance rarely seen in someone so new. She is like this last 'dash' of sugar you add in a dish to give it that extra punch! ... full review

102 tweeters(?) - 98 yays 1 so-so 3 nays

YuvaRevolution: Review Time : "THE LUNCHBOX" Movie Club Rating : ★★★★ Two of my favourite actors and currently one of the... https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=616676661716075&l=2d41d16849

yadav_nivedita: Nivedita Yadav rated The Lunchbox #SahiHaiBay on @Flickbay: http://www.flickbay.com/movies/The-Lunchbox/1631

WorldwideBO: If U Love Classic Movies???? Dont Miss '' The LunchBox '' All critics Ratings are 5/5 or 4/5 #Mayur

vishyblues: If movies are made to thrill, entertain, laugh. 'Lunch Box' is made to last. my review 4.5/5 http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/hindi/review/17864.html

vishukumar2011: The Lunch box will be a strong nominee for Oscar.

VinayNBathija: I can watch the #LunchBox over and over and over and over again :D

Vijaynarain: Despite three tremendous actors and a great first half, the Lunch Box tapers out into a pseudo intellectual trying too hart to be cool movie

vidyaranji: Agreee"@DrMing918: So, must watch movie for the week is The Lunchbox! Comes highly recommended."

vaibhav_itsme: "Lunch Box" was gud...ending was left to us

v_anandm: So The Lunchbox...poignant, effortless acting and enough boxes for us to open and look into.

unopenedbottle: and this weekend, go watch The Lunchbox

TheSaintKopite: The Lunchbox - Simple yet brilliant. Don't miss it.

thatmumbaichick: Last few week had terrible Bollywood relieses. The Lunch Box is such a refereshing wave. We need to support the right kinda cinema.

swanandkirkire: The Lunch Box for @nimratkaur13 Nawazuddin Siddiqui the @irfankhan Director & lovely Writing.he Lunch Box For an awesome appetite Burp !!

Superneha83: "The Lunchbox" was really good. Entertaining and beautifully captured. #bollywood

sunnydubey606: If u love story's in movies...den u must watch the lunchbox movie.....its realllly awesome.....great work by nawazuddin n irfan khan.....

sukh__D: Lunch box movies ever good . Nimrit kaur yu rocks

SRKswarrior1: Lunch Box /m\ Irfan Khan phir le jayega saare awards

snape_lunch_box: Just had my mind blown. Wow. That was amazing. #dance @kateweare

shrutiroa: Oh! By the way, I saw Lunch Box today...and I came out feeling fully satisfied (see what I did there?)

shriramiyer0614: "The Lunchbox" offers food for the soul...Go watch it for IRRFAN KHAN...:)

shivom_oza: I thought Dhobi Ghat was a more moving film than The Lunchbox. Not that the latter was not good! :)

sharathnmurthy: On a rating of 5, The Lunch box gets 4 and Phata poster... gets the other 1... sigh! #ShootAtSight http://twitter.com/sharathnmurthy/status/381012995129614336/photo/1

Shantanukatkar: 'The Lunchbox' is a kind of a movie that touches right to the heart. My Favorite Love story of the Year.

Shalz75: A wow movie!!! http://shalzmojo.wordpress.com/2013/09/21/delicious-lunch-box/?fb_source=pubv1

Self_Hyped: Okay where ever you are, go watch The Lunchbox. It's just.... amazing. COMPLETELY BLOWN OFF!

sandeshgoa: 'Lunch Box' is mind boggling. No nonsense. Varied facets of human relations shown with such fineness. Nothing out of box, 'real box' cinema!

sandeep_modi: Saw the #lunchbox,a little gem about love. But the real chemistry is betwn @irrfan_k n nawaz! Brilliant! My Best actors in india currently..

ritutomar: Seriously...100 Claps and 1000 Whistles for THE LUNCHBOX.....Fab Movie...Irfan best actor in our country..Suitable Candidate for Even Oscars

ritika108: watched the lunchbox..wht a amazing movie after such a long time@ritesh batra hats off!!

RishabhSomani: The lunchbox has released for those who have epitite for good movies!!

rikantpitti: The Lunchbox - an offbeat film displaying a lighter & softer romance that can truly touch the core of your heart

rich_eyy: The Lunchbox - a must watch! Wow what performances and characterizations! #sokedinemotions #irrfankhan you amaze me each time #Bollywood

ReemaBolke: The Lunch box beautiful movie but an inappropriate end

rajeevsubzero: lunch box..अवेसोमे मूवी।

r_yermal: The lunchbox. Watch it.

PxDx: Watched Tonight - The Lunch Box.. Classic Movie, meant for classy Film lovers.

PindropViolnce: Watched The Lunchbox. Such an amazing movie. Movies like these,you just don't want them to end.Irrfan,Nawazuddin,Nimrat, Take a bow !

PhejiPhalghunan: Irrfan Khan's Lunch Box is like a scrumptious meal doled out with dollops of love. Nimrat Kaur and Nawazzudin lends excellent support.

pavitra_D: The Lunchbox...simple story told so beautifully by ritesh batra.leaves you aching for the charecters & their struggles.

paramparatweets: The #Lunchbox for goodness. The perfect recipe of rich healthy cinema.

paragchhapekar: Lunch box is also a must watch film what a cinema . Irfaan bhai,nawab and imrat are powerful actors https://www.facebook.com/parag.chhapekar/posts/10151663736441239

pallavisukumar: Lunch box is a great film. What a debut.

Nitinsathyaa: Wowww. . Wholesome appreciation for lunch box!!!! Irfan the man.....

nirmit_247: Lunch box. .a different n great execution.

neetsethia: The lunchbox : a common man fairy tale. ... A masterpiece...

nasibaba: The Lunchbox - good food, but without any dessert...

nabeel_sultan: The lunchbox! Sounds interesting...and tasty :P @karanjohar

mystellin: Uff... so cute @nimratkaur13 n @irrfan_k ... lovin every second of the lunchbox

mukulrana: Go watch The Lunchbox ASAP!

mufeedsays: The Lunchbox - a brilliant insight into the life of the middle class in Bombay...a true masterpiece

MrMakharia: The #Lunchbox. Simple,yet poignant and powerful. Makes you feel lost and happy at the same time. Brilliant acting @irrfan_k. Big fan.

mgopi96: Very rarely does a film transcend national and international boundaries ! The Lunchbox it is ! Go watch it

MananSehgal: Lunch Box, as expected, is a beautifully made subtle movie. A perfect combination of good writing and devout performances.

mallikajamy: The Lunchbox is a must watch movie...loved it <3

lovely56761436: The lunch box.. Must be delicious...!!!!!

LFC_Pranav: Some good movies this weekend: The Lunchbox (5/5!!!), Fruitvale Station (3.5/5) and Rush (3.5/5)

lazygarfield: Liked THE LUNCHBOX quite a bit. Slice-of-life stories are rarely this perceptive, heartwarming or, well, lifelike.

krnsir60: The lunchbox movie is totally surprising Gives u unique flavour of emotions n bittersweet feelings. Total reality in small DABBA

krishnashakthi: The Lunchbox is a beautiful film..a wonderful love story..loved it!!

kaul_vivek: The Lunchbox is an absolutely delightful film. Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Irrfan Khan in the same frame are fantastic.....

Juuism: Do watch The Lunchbox, brilliant movie!!

joney9: How a "Lunch Box" plays a role of a cupid..Nice movie..worth watch.!

jagrajbal: Nimrat kaur such a great personality lunch box is great movie

iLostMyHandle: Saw The Lunchbox ..loved it and now after two hours i realised that the lovers never came face to face in the movie..scratching my head now!

iamnitinrana: Lunch box review... What a film.... its awesome , its blossom , its very very very very real , and too... https://www.facebook.com/shikaritheheartrobber/posts/10200145548316282

iamjignesh7: Phata Poster Nikla Hero & The Lunch Box Both Are Awesome Movie Must Watch.

HarshalBhandare: The lunchbox : movie worth to watch for n no of times.. Screenplay, camera-work & acting of irrfan khan, siddique & namrita speechless..

gulrayz: What a delightful movie. This. The Lunch Box running house full at Inox, Nariman Point. Audiences are loving it and HOW. A Must Watch!!

gond90: Wana watch a gud movie this weekend ...go for # the Lunch Box

glennforever: Let's applaud a good Bollywood film that isn't ripped off from anywhere. The #LUNCHBOX

gaurangmotta: The lunchbox - a beautiful love story highlighting the truths of the life we live !! Alone & empty at times, searching for peace & happiness

FauziaFauzqkhan: Delicious anticipation for Lunch Box!

dosti_etc: Love can happen twice, sometimes thrice, sometimes even more times... The Lunch Box... Must Watch Movie...

doc_sk: 'The Lunchbox' - delicious, soul-satisfying cinema with incredible portraits by irrfan ,nimratkaur . Fall in love.

dizzihead: #Lunch #Box #Mustwatch #movie #bollywood http://instagram.com/p/efak89M_PF/

dixitanizer7: Lunch box - Restored my faith in bollywood..

direstraits_: The Lunchbox was excellent. Loved it. Nimrat Kaur is enchanting as Ila. Go watch!

dinesh3333: Lunch box is a nice watch!!!

digibberish: Lunch box. Subtle. Beautiful. Irfan. Thanks @irrfan_k

dhairya2184: The #lunchbox - like a well cooked meal, you need to savor each and every frame. Irrfan khan is phenomenally outstanding.

Dev_Sayss: I really lived in The Lunch box movie ..Heart warming and @irrfan_k "great job take a bow" A must Watch

CineMagik: Still can't get The Lunchbox out of my head. Love happened when Saajan wrote to Ila <3

Bondbo007: The Lunchbox may be and must be making its way to the Oscars :))

BeingBhargv: #the lunchbox @karanjohar tifin me se jese chithi niklti h waise aaj hindi movie industry ke tifin me ek best movie nikli.....

Bawli_Booch: An astonishing accomplishment. Brilliant. Must watch. The Lunchbox Four and half on Five

AvyayaMedicon: Lunch box. Delicious.

ashu391: Lunch Box.. delicious one... a touching movie though.. :)

ashk418: Lunch box best served movie ....no loud Punjabi music no gloss...sweet subtle real life....served by 3 amazing actors..

aniketmukherjee: Lunch box.... what a film.

aniketdatt: the magnificence of the lunchbox.

Andeehyderabadi: Iss Lunch Box se dil khush ho gaya

am_hassi: The Lunch Box is one of best movies in all CINEMA not only in BW @irrfan_k sir u r a School of Acting..!! Much Natural..Heart warming a MUST

AkashdeepSaxena: The Lunchbox is Indian cinema at its best! Just over 100 minutes long, it doesn't take you even 5 to delve... https://www.facebook.com/akashdeep.saxena/posts/10153307748390164

AdityaShukla38: Superb movie and awesome performance by Irrfan khan in Lunch box...talent is what Irrfan Khan is..

Abhitkhurana: "The Lunchbox".. I would call it as an art movie which has some splendid chemistry topped up with some mind... https://www.facebook.com/abhit.khurana/posts/10153263287030497

abhigyanbalyan1: Guys dont miss lunch box awesome movie luv u @karanjohar nd @irfankhan

4JIT: Just watched The Lunchbox. Beautiful movie. Must watch for all movie buffs.

abhikprasad: So who else was a bit underwhelmed by the #lunchbox ? Wondering how else it could have ended better. Great effort nonetheless .

deo26: Lunch Box . Avoid this glorified by critics bore movie . http://www.thesocietyasiseeit.blogspot.in

ayush_pandey3: The lunch box was ended so abruptly..... Disappointed.... #THELUNCHBOX

abhishekkkapoor: Just finished #Lunch Box..not et al a #kjo #utv movie..not recmnded for weekend nights..ok for sunday noon on DD..made for #critic & #oscar.

10 readers - 8 yays 2 so-so 0 nays

Not Interested in Watching, by Fan : Fasting would be better than eating this stale meal

Yay! Thumbs Up, by Abhay Patil

Yay! Thumbs Up, by Anup : Watch it for its simplicity and its close to heart theme

Yay! Thumbs Up, by guddu : Lunchbox

Yay! Thumbs Up, by Nishant Wadhwa : The one not to be missed even if not on big screen.

Yay! Thumbs Up, by Raj : Media over-rated a good movie; surely not for Oscars!

Yay! Thumbs Up, by Samir

Yay! Thumbs Up, by Suman

Yay! Thumbs Up, by YouthTimes : ‘The Lunchbox’ is delicious and delightful!

So-So, by Anuj

So-So, by Rohit

This page has additional observations, other than the ones noted in the main review.

Parental Guidance:

  • Violence: None.
  • Language: Clean.
  • Nudity & Sexual content: None.
  • Concept: What if two people who don't know each other started exchanging letters?
  • General Look and Feel: Simple, charming, as earthy as a city like Mumbai can get.

Detailed Ratings (out of 5):

Direction:
Story:
Lead Actors:
Character Artists:
Dialogues:
Screenplay:

The Lunchbox - Cast, crew, links

Director:
Screenplay:
Costume Designer:
Running time:
110 minutes
Reviewer:
Language:
Country:

Comments (28)

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Anup

irfan and nawazudin,,,,together in a single film,,,,this is something i cant miss.......

Fan

The premise of the film is impossible in real life. Mumbai dabbawala's quality is regularly cited as being of 6 sigma. In that case, every day delivering a wrong dabba is a massive error rate, impossible to happen.

;-)

Please take my post in a lighter vein.

Anup

I had a litl difficulty in watching this one,,,,non of my frnd was agreed to go with me for this film,,,,atlast one of my frnd agreed,,,,rest of them are busy with PPNH....And that one frnd , after the movies ends says thanks to me to bring him to the theater to watch THE LUNCHBOX....
No doubt the theater was empty,,,not much of the persons are interested in this one,,,,but that thing doesnt bother me much,,,,i cant miss a movie in which irfan and sidique are together in it (although a movie with nana patekar and irfan khan would be a dream movie for me)....
Irfan ’s character was so cute,,,,doesnt speak much,,,,say just when needed,,,,in opposite sidique was irritating at the begining burt after some time u start to like him,,,,nimrat kaur is a find for bollywood,,,,she will definatly get more movies to do in bollywood,,,,she does the character of normal house wife so close to reality....
The cute humour is very good,,,,the song from the movie sajan was delite,,,,just some flat segments and the story of ila’s parents bother me a litl....But m satisfied....
This one could be a very good choich for india to send to oscars....

Lonely hapless man suddenly intrigued by a mis delivered lunch box. The quest to find this unknown person was an intresting premise . Love takes place unexpectedly and the film dwells it beautifuly. Characters are well written and performed with grace , the neighbour aunty whose identity is never reavled was d best . Overall the movie is good but lack of any dramatic confrontation and its over simplistic approach, fails to generate awe and remains being a simple romantic story.

Fan

Big Bollywood production houses are cashing into "intellectual" feeling by bank rolling such films and smartly doing the marketing to give the feeling to pseudo intellectuals that they are being served a lavish lunch. And pseudo intellectuals are lapping it up.

Has anyone seen the creativity of big Bollywood production houses, starts with plagiarising Hollywood films, and ends with that.

Same case for intellectual stuff. Rehash of hollywood's You Have Got Mail. But intellectuals would still lap it up as great alternate stuff.

Bollywood production houses have realised that rope in an Anurag (be it Basu or Kashyap) throw in a few names. Like Irrfan or Nawazuddin orShabana or Tabu - and ho presto a magic recipe of success for dumb intellectuals who would take it no questions asked.

Read guddu's realistic review above to realise what a low quality lunch has been dished out.

Food for thought for all intellectuals.

If you’re in the mood to witness genuinely moving cinema, you’re in for a treat. The delectable taste of this lunchbox remains in your mouth much after you’ve left the theatre. Go for it!

@fan
Just because its an epistolary film, it doesn't mean that it is a rehash of YGM... besides YGM itself was a rehash of Shop Around the Corner (1940)...

Besides, I don't think any serious cinephile would put Basu and Kashyap in the same level...

One doesn't have to rant for the sake of ranting...

@Anup Yeah, there are a few slack times but somehow I liked those too.

@Fan Well, they have tried to explain that bit. Also, like I said, like with all stories, this is a 'what if'.

Also, every movie is a rehash of some other movie. There is no end to that. Expecting every film to be absolutely unique in its plot is a little unfair. What I try to see is if the details of how they get the story across works for me.

@guddu My guess is they didn't want to inspire awe. They intentionally kept it simple. Yes, it might seem flat because of that, but that is the risk they took which worked in this case, for some of us :D

@Jitaditya :)

Suman Chakraborty

Direction: 3.5
Story: 3
Lead Actors: 5
Character Artists: 3

Dialogues: 3.5
Screenplay: 2.5

Rohit

I am the kind who likes non-commercial cinema. This one, however, was very depressing.

WARNING: Don't watch it empty stomach. Don't watch it alone. Don't watch if you are in a bad mood.

Samir

Meetu, I agree with everything in your review except the overall grading where I feel you have been unfair to this little gem of a film. Should have been 'watch it already'! But, I suppose,that's your prerogative.
'Dumb Intellectual' that I am, it's been ages since I enjoyed a more fulfilling cinematic experience.

Anuj

This "fan" guy is the complete opposite of the hypocritical critics like Fadnavis and Raja Sen who cannot have enough of fanboying their Hollywood masters and criticizing any commercial Indian venture just for the heck of it! The only thing common between "fan" and Fadnavis (& co) is that they're all Hollywood slaveboys,without realizing the fact that 90% of American films too are "inspired" from cinema around the world.

P.S. : I'd rather be a "dumb intellect" then an cinematic illiterate,ignorant idiot!

Nishant Wadhwa

Had gone to see this today. Paid the full weekend price for this and I am not disappointed. Its a simple two line story but definitely worth a watch.

@suman :)

@Rohit It is kinda sorta sad, isn't it?

@Samir and @Anuj I don't understand this whole intellectual non-intellectual business, especially in movie watching. Either you like a film or you don't. You might like it because it is intelligent or not. But how does that make the viewer intelligent or not?

@Nishant Great!

Raj

Everywhere the movie is lauded, and Meetu gives good review but under-rates. Meetu is wrong again, I think! I see the movie. Its good - but Meetu's rating is perfect.

It looks to me - that those people who have loved this movie are without true LOVE or without good CINEMA, and when they see something little good - they jump on it with all praise! Added to that the Dharma (Karan Johar) and Anurag Kashyap, UTV - and many others' media contacts have given an over-rating to a good movie.

Well done Meetu, at least I agree with you! Otherwise you might always think, Raj's comments means always finding some fault in my review. NO. You are SPOT ON!

Anuj

@Meetu : I think your statement should be directed towards self proclaimed cinematic geniuses like Mihir Fadnavis and Raja Sen. I completely agree with your statement but once glance at their reviews and you'd know their pseudo intellectuality and hypocrisy! Here is a sample,judge it for yourself

http://www.firstpost.com/bollywood/movie-review-bhaag-milkha-bhaag-feels-like-an-exaggerated-yarn-949415.html

@Raj Well, you win some, you lose some :P

@Anuj Hmmm...I don't know. I take it as that's what "he" thinks. Nothing more, nothing less.

Anuj

@Meetu : Here are a few excerpts from his "Madras Cafe" review. Read them and judge for yourself!

1.99.99% of the thrillers, especially the ‘political’ or ‘military’ ones made in India are either tacky, or jarringly commercialized or just plain turds. Madras Café is not a heap of horseshit like Tango Charlie. This is a genuinely slick, decently put together thriller, almost as good as the first half of D Day.

2.While it’s not a bad film, it isn’t an Oscar winner. It stumbles a lot of times as the narrative swings from taut to gripping to cringe inducing. It’s as if Shoojit vacillated between sticking to a non-commercialized gritty thriller and giving in to Bollywoodization to cater to the "mainstream dodos".

Anuj

Now if that's not biased and judgemental to the extent of arrogance,then i dunno what is!

Fan

Perfect slap from FFI to the makers of lunchbox for their arrogant behaviour and insulting disgusting personal attacks. Here's the text of the letter that FFI wrote to those overrated producers. Totally agree with FFI, this is not a selection for best marketed film, it is a selection for best film. Read the full text:

Dear Ritesh Batra, We have been hearing and reading about your various unsavoury comments either through the film industry grapevine or through your Twitter / Facebook posts about the selection of The Good Road for Oscar. As a citizen of democratic country, you have every right to express yourself but when a certain boundary is crossed time and again; one cannot take it lying down. The letter seeks clarification from the presenters of 'The Lunchbox' about their Oscar related comments. Film Federation of India takes great umbrage at the was you have gone about demeaning a film when an eminent jury has selected it as India's entry. You might not agree with the selection, that's your prerogative. But to continuously and recklessly make comments and innuendoes about it is really not done..... Are you (and your producers...presenter etc.) suggesting that you seriously believe that no one in India is capable of making a better film? (better film mind you, not a better marketed film) There is no criteria in the Academy rules that suggested that the jury should keep the marketing angle in mind while selecting, their mandate is selecting the best film which they have done according to their convictions and judgement. You and the team have been stating time and again in various interactions in the media that once (note not 'if' but once!) Lunchbox is selected from India, you have been assured by Sony Classics that it will have a spectacular run in the Oscar! You in fact have even termed this selection of The Lunchbox from India as a mere technicality! Excuse me !!!! What we are very interested in knowing is how are you making such claims? How can Sony Classics assure you of any such thing? Are you suggesting that the Oscar is rigged? We are taking this matter up separately with the Academy... we are lead to believe that you have a letter from Sony Classics which is the reason for your confidence... can you share it with us? We were maintaining a dignified silence till now amidst your constant ranting as we believed them to be the result of acute disappointment of a young boy with his debut film. Your presumptuous and dismissive comments without even seeing 'The Good Road' was highly objectionable but we let that pass. You will note that some member of the jury are icons in their own right with umpteen National Awards and some were felicitated to commemorate 100 years of Indian cinema. Yet you with just one film under your belt have openly scorned their choice and attribute it as 'lack of vision'!!! But what you have recently posted in you Facebook account about 'there being a corruption' in the process is a serious allegation. As you are aware, The Good Road is produced by NFDC, a Government of India undertaking! Are you then suggesting that the I & B Ministry ie The Government of India has made a successful attempt in bribing the jurors???... Very serious allegations indeed... we are taking up this matter with the I & B Ministry. Since you and some of your team members have expressed bafflement as to who the federation are, please allow me to explain. Film Federation of India is the apex film chamber of our country and we are celebrating our Diamond Jubilee this year. We have 42 film chamber from all over India as our constituents and are officially recognized by the I & B Ministry as the definitive film trade body. FFI is also internationally recognized and a member of FIAPF (Federation Internationale des Associations de Producteurs de Films), the regulatory body of all important film festivals of the world including Cannes. To conclude, we are expecting an unconditional apology from you all your derogatory remarks about the Federation and the Oscar jury. Supran Sen Secretary General Film Federation of India C.C. 1) M/s. UTV Software Communications Ltd. 1181/1182, Solitaire Corporate Park, Guru Hargovindji Marg, Chakala, Andheri (East), Mumbai - 400093 2) Dharma Productions Shop No. 29, Jains Arcade, 2nd Floor, 14th Road, Khar(West), Mumbai-400052. 3.) Mr. Anurag Kashyap M/S. Phantom Films

Yours is my favorite review of the film - I would have written it exactly this way. Thank god we had a full lunch before the 1 PM show! Wonderful movie with Mumbai as the principal character. The image that stayed with me is of a dabbawala on his bicycle with a load of tiffins on a busy Mumbai road braving Monsoon showers in full fury. Irrfan Khan defines underplay and Nawazuddin shows how he can be the character to the bone. Nimrat Kaur is vulnerability personified and Bharti Achrekar emoting just through her voice is the quintessential Mumbaikarin.

@Abhay Patil Thank you! :)

Anuj

After watching it i do agree its extremely over rated and nowhere near as good as being projected by the media!

Fan

Thanks Anuj for your honest opinion on lunchbox and daring to call out "Hey, the king is naked".

Several of my friends too saw it and had same surprised reaction as you, how could media hype up this lousy product? Apparently the film has no story whatsoever and is in a news channel type automatic rewind ad replay countless of times of same episode.

Big Bollywood money coupled with overhyped yet mediocre film units trying to cash in on gullible audiences. Only paradox is that such gullible audiences come from the upper social strata.

Looking at its business, it is even less than that of Besharam. The exhibitors made more money showing Besharam and probably even OUATIMD than thy made on this over marketed product.

@Fan really, now? We are comparing box-office collections of small-budget and high-budget films?

Fan

@Meetu: from an exhibitor's perspective the more tickets his single screen or multiplex generates the more she/he is happy. What's his incentive to show a film that few people in rich social circle whilst sipping on their expensive red wine say Hey I watched lunchbox, good stuff. The decision the exhibitor has to make is which film he should show to earn more living. Period.

Fan

Talking of Kashyaps and Lunchboxes generates too much emotional reaction. Let me make my point with a different analogy: smartphone.

Samsung and Apple smartphones are the most popular and most sought after. Even though technically and feature robustness wise a Nokia is several steps ahead of the Samsungs and Apples. But Nokia doesn't exist anymore, taken over by another firm as it was on the brink of commercial failure. Why and how could that happen despite a technically advanced product? Management gurus would give a reply.

Same analogy applies to lunchbox.

@Fan I am lost. Incidentally, I'm in the market to buy a not-too-fancy smart phone. And everyone who knows anything about phones tells me Nokia is no good. Don't get the analogy anyway.

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