MELBOURNE, 31 December 2023: There are emotional memories which are embedded in us and remain with us for a lifetime. The present keeps moving despite the memories. But if one is likely to loose them and you know it, then a peep into the past can be a satisfying and fulfilling. ‘Three of Us’ is the tale of Sheleja (Shefali Shah), in a pre-dementia stage, lives in Mumbai with her husband Dipankar (Swanand Kirkire), decides to visit Vengurla in Konkan, where she spent some years in school.
The nostalgic trip revives her school-time memories, including her relationship with Pradeep Kamat (Jaideep Ahlawat), now a bank manager. This is in search of a slice of life left 28 years back. Pradeep is married with two kids and so is Sheleja with one. She is accompanied by her husband and Pradeep talks to his wife about Sheleja resurfacing. The chemistry of love triggered years back is no more clouded in memories. Past human bonding revives in a new social setting amid the beauty of small-town Konkan.
The movie is slow but moves step by step as Sheleja and Pradeep grapple with the unexpected dismantling of deep-rooted subconsciousness. The reactions of their spouses reflect a sense of accepting the reality. A visit to the school and the place where Sheleja learnt dance speaks for itself.
Jaideep Ahlawat once again proves his extraordinary acting strength. His short smiles and Shefali’s composed eye contacts stir the emotional reunion. Shefali, no doubt, is our finest actress. Director and Cinematographer Avinash Arun Dhaware (Pataal Lok, School of Lies) proves his abilities in plenty.
The calm ambience laced with Avinash Arun’s mesmerising cinematography and outstanding performances by the lead and other actors make the one hour 39 minutes movie a treat to watch. I am sure many memories of viewers will sprout. Yes, as humans we are all the same. This movie, a slice of life, proves it once more.
A big relief from the routine crores churning violent stuff around. Well done, ‘Three of Us’ team. You made my day on new year’s eve.
The movie is currently streaming on Netflix.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars.
