Why The Lunchbox Deserves the Hype
Recently, I watched a beautiful film called The Lunchbox. I had been hearing about this film for the last 6-7 years, but I didn't watch it. A few days ago, however, I saw many Instagram reels featuring clips and edited videos of it. Yesterday, I finally watched the movie, and I really loved it.
What I Loved About This Film
I especially loved the realistic touch of the film. It beautifully showcased the Mumbai dabbawalas, the neighbors, and the female lead, Ila. It shows a wife dealing with her daughter's everyday tasks, managing the kitchen, and preparing food for her husband and family daily. She also deals with her parents' problems, especially her father who is suffering from cancer. She cares for them and asks her husband for some money to help out, just like in a normal Indian middle-class family. The husband's portrayal is a bit different though — the film suggests he is having an extramarital affair, based on the wife's assumptions. Usually, male earners just have to deal with work pressure and household financial issues like expenses, school fees, and more.
Mr. Fernandes — The Other Side of the Story
On the other hand, Mr. Fernandes, the other male lead, has a unique story — his wife passed away years ago. At the office, Mr. Fernandes is presented as an older gentleman, and many colleagues have random misconceptions about him. Mr. Fernandes has announced his early retirement, so his replacement, Mr. Shaikh (portrayed by Nawazuddin Siddiqui), arrives. Initially, Mr. Fernandes doesn't entertain Mr. Shaikh, but later their bond improves a lot, resembling a traditional male friendship.
The Misplaced Lunchbox — Where the Magic Begins
Ila sends a lunchbox (khaana ka dibba) to her husband every day through the local Mumbai dabbawalas. But there is an interesting catch — the lunchbox is misplaced and reaches Mr. Fernandes instead. Then, a very beautiful conversation through letters starts. Ila discusses her family problems, and Mr. Fernandes answers with his mature, older-man wisdom. It is a beautiful story, and the ending is left open by the writer and director.
Final Thoughts
Mr. Fernandes is portrayed by the late Irrfan Khan. The movie definitely deserves a cult classic tag — I am sure about this. I think this movie deserves the hype. I mainly liked its middle-class touch — the Mumbai local travel, the tiffin service, the financial problems, Ila's mental pressure, and Mr. Fernandes's loneliness. I think this is a great watch.
Who Should Watch The Lunchbox
If you enjoy slow, realistic, and emotionally rich films — The Lunchbox is made for you. This is not a typical Bollywood masala film. It is quiet, mature, and deeply human. If you connected with films like Jalebi (2018) or enjoyed the emotional simplicity of middle-class Indian life on screen, you will absolutely love this. Watch it on a calm evening when you are in a reflective mood — it will stay with you for a long time.
However if you are looking for action, drama or a fast-moving plot — this is probably not for you. The Lunchbox is intentionally slow and that is exactly its strength.
Similar Movies You Might Like
If The Lunchbox resonated with you, here are some films and posts from this blog you might enjoy next. If Only, Destiny and Terabithia — another reflection on love, regret and emotional connections that stay with you. Also check out Jalebi (2018) — a Bollywood romantic drama with a similar quiet emotional depth and beautiful music. Both are reviewed on this blog.
Outside the blog — Dil Dhadakne Do (2015) for its realistic portrayal of Indian family life, and Piku (2015) for its warm middle-class story and strong performances.
Rewatch Value
The Lunchbox is definitely a rewatch film — not for the plot, but for the feeling. The letters, the dabbawalas, Irrfan Khan's expressions, the open ending — every time you watch it you notice something new. Personally I think this is one of those rare films where the second watch is actually better than the first because you already know where it is going and you just enjoy every small moment without waiting for what happens next.
Basic Details
Film: The Lunchbox (2013)
Genre: Drama, Romance
Language: Hindi
Director: Ritesh Batra
Cast: Irrfan Khan, Nimrat Kaur, Nawazuddin Siddiqui
Where to Watch: Available on Netflix and Amazon Prime
More Reviews You Might Like
- Jalebi (2018) – A Heartbreak Story Worth Watching
- If Only, Destiny and Terabithia – A Reflection on Regret
- Gifted (2017) – Movie Review and Recommendation
- Dybbuk (2021) – Indian Horror Movie Review
Thanks for reading. Harsh Goyal signing off.