Review of Udaan

Udaan (2010)
9/10
A captivating and culturally symbolic coming-of-age film!
9 February 2011
Warning: Spoilers
After being expelled from boarding school for sneaking out to watch an x-rated movie, Rohan comes back home and sees his father after eight years and becomes overwhelmed by his new life. He is forced to deal with the fact that he has a half-brother, to suppress his artistic desires and dreams of being a writer, to work as an engineer at his dad's factory, and to live a regimented life at the order of his authoritative father. It is uplifting to see, though, how amidst such a dull and draining life, he is able to just barely keep his spirit alive, whether it be through writing poems by the river, chatting with his uncle, or telling stories to a sick, elderly man at the hospital. He also begins to sympathize for his half-brother, especially after seeing that their dad abuses him. This new relationship makes Rohan's life ever more complicated as running away would be the easy solution; now the future of a young child will be determined by Rohan's actions. Fantastic direction and great performances by the supporting cast, especially the little half-brother.

One of the final scenes where Rohan outruns his father is beautifully captured. This image leaves a long-lasting impression on the viewer, and in my opinion, this still image of Rohan sprinting is very symbolic of the new Indian culture. India's youth is forging ahead, making a name for itself, breaking the shackles of convention, and redefining the future. Many years from now, this striking image will be remembered as an iconic allegory of the youth of India's new attitude and determination to succeed and live life as they envision it.
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