I enjoyed Helicopter Eela but too much of a good thing..too much acting, too much drama, too bright, too happy.. Just too much! One expects more from Pradeep Sarkar, a little subtlety, a little less wound up energy perhaps.

Drama All The Way

Like the title suggests, a helicoptering parent. Not at all uncommon in India, whether single parent or otherwise, one child or more. Everyday situations, clichés and parent /child dialogues are scripted very well. Riddhi Sen as the tolerant teen deserves a standing ovation while Kajol needs to tone down as her energy seems direction less. The sub plot of why she is a single parent is too weak and leaves you questioning Tota Roy Chowdhury’s intent. The forward thinking Daadi’s support is amazing and acting impressive!

Tolerant Son  Guides Mom

The son teaching the mother to follow her dreams is extremely touching. Neha Dhupia as the over the top dramatics teacher sits well as do the multiple celebrities playing themselves. Flash back to a younger Kajol by 20 years is amazing. Fitter & trimmer than ever before Kajol is a delight, kudos to the stylist. The happy go lucky aspiring musician turning into this hovering dumb mom obsessed with dabbas is too much to digest though.

The college students in class & canteen are too filmy but well rounded with a fair peak into their personal lives. Shown as well balanced young adults who value parental support. The smothering mother story is forgotten for the chase your dream angle leaving the Indian parent right where they began, hovering over the child’s life!

Written By: Shyamala Nawab