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Amit Jadhav

Kanjoos Makhichoos (2023) Movie Review: Lighthearted Tale of a Miserly Man



Where larger-than-life characters and grand narratives often take center stage, Kanjoos Makhichoos emerges as a refreshing change of pace. This heartwarming comedy-drama, directed by Vipul Mehta, revolves around the life of Jamnaprasad Pandey, a man whose frugality borders on obsession. Known throughout his community as "Kanjoos Makhichoos," or "the miserly miser," Jamnaprasad's penny-pinching ways have become a constant source of frustration for his family.


However, beneath Jamnaprasad's penny-pinching exterior lies a deep-seated desire to fulfill his late father's wish of embarking on a Char Dham Yatra, a pilgrimage to four sacred Hindu temples in the Himalayas. Jamnaprasad's relentless pursuit of saving every penny, often at the expense of his family's comfort and well-being, is driven by his unwavering devotion to his father's memory.


Kunal Khemu delivers a delightful performance as Jamnaprasad, effectively capturing the character's eccentricities and vulnerabilities. He seamlessly transitions between moments of comical miserliness and heartfelt moments of parental love, making Jamnaprasad a character who is both exasperating and endearing.


Shweta Tripathi, as Jamnaprasad's wife, provides a strong counterbalance to his penny-pinching ways. Her portrayal of a woman who is both understanding and firm in her demands adds depth to the narrative. The supporting cast, including Piyush Mishra, Raju Srivastava, and Rajiv Gupta, also contributes to the film's lighthearted atmosphere with their quirky and relatable performances.


Kanjoos Makhichoos' strength lies in its ability to balance humor with heart. The film's comedic moments, often centered on Jamnaprasad's extreme frugality, are genuinely funny without resorting to cheap or slapstick humor. At the same time, the film explores the emotional undercurrents of Jamnaprasad's behavior, revealing the deep-seated love and guilt that drive his actions.


The film's cinematography, by Pratik Parmar, effectively captures the essence of small-town life in India, while Shantanu Moitra's background score adds a touch of warmth and nostalgia to the narrative. Sachin-Jigar and Nakash Aziz's song "Kanjoos Makhichoos" is a catchy tune that perfectly encapsulates the film's lighthearted and humorous tone.


Overall, Kanjoos Makhichoos is a delightful and heartwarming comedy-drama that offers a refreshing take on the classic theme of family dynamics and the pursuit of dreams. Its relatable characters, engaging storyline, and lighthearted humor make it an enjoyable watch for audiences of all ages.


Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ out of 5 stars

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