Renee Sen, the daughter of actress Sushmita Sen, displays maturity in her acting debut.
Suttabaazi review: Short film about dysfunctional family has subtle message
Cinestaan Rating
Release Date: 10 Jan 2021
Keyur Seta | Mumbai, 11 Jan 2021 15:04 IST
For those not in the know, Suttabaazi is a phrase used in some parts of India to describe the act of smoking a cigarette. Smoking is an important part of Kabeer Khurana’s short film but it doesn’t promote the activity, which is used as a common thread in a modern dysfunctional family.
The story takes place during the COVID-19 lockdown in Mumbai when venturing outside wasn’t the norm. Hence, Diya (Renee Sen), an Instagram influencer, is busy uploading content much to the chagrin of her mother (Komal Chhabria) and father (Rahul Vohra). The mother is not happy with her husband either since he has been working from home.
Suttabaazi paints a believable picture of an upper-middle-class family. Although there is a lot of conflict, things don't go over the top. It is purely through conversations that the film underlines the main issue of generation gap and life in the 21st century.
The twist in the latter half takes the film to a heart-warming conclusion in a subtle manner.
In her first film, Sen displays maturity, oozing confidence in every frame. Chhabria's character initially appears like a regular housewife but her character grows substantially. Vohra lends the film a touch of humour, ensuring that his character is unlike the typical irritating middle-aged father figure.
Suttabaazi is a contemporary film that emphasizes the need for a connection between youngsters and parents in trying times.
Suttabaazi is streaming on Disney+ Hotstar.