Shoojit Sircar’s I Want to Talk offers a refreshing exploration of mortality and human connection, with Abhishek Bachchan delivering one of his finest performances. The film tells the poignant story of Arjun Sen, a marketing professional diagnosed with terminal cancer, who has just a few months left to live. Faced with this harsh reality, Arjun embarks on a journey of reconnection with his daughter, Reya, while navigating the emotional challenges of his final days.
While the film’s premise may invite comparisons to Hollywood’s The Whale (2022), I Want to Talk differentiates itself by drawing from real-life inspiration. It portrays Arjun’s emotional turmoil as he confronts his mortality with sensitivity, allowing viewers to connect deeply with his journey.
His relationship with his daughter becomes central to the narrative, with a simple yet profound wish from Reya—to dance at her wedding with him—offering a glimmer of hope in his darkest moments.
Shoojit Sircar’s storytelling unfolds slowly, balancing Arjun’s emotional journey with witty moments. Sircar calls Bachchan’s role possibly his best.
The second half of the film sees a shift towards a more optimistic tone, largely due to Johnny Lever’s comedic presence and the evolving dynamic between Arjun and his doctor, Jayanta Deb. The film does suffer from occasional pacing issues, but its heartfelt conclusion makes up for any slow moments.
I Want to Talk is a reflective journey about embracing life fully, with Bachchan’s physical transformation adding emotional authenticity to his performance.
With its compelling story and powerful performances, I Want to Talk resonates with audiences, delivering both laughter and tears in equal measure.
