I know I’m not the only one that believes every novel pinned by young Indian author Chetan Bhagat will get a movie adaption, for this will be his third completed film in five years, with another on the horizon. His latest paper to screen story is based on his autobiographical love story, 2 States: The Story of My Marriage.
A Dharma Productions project, 2 States examines the pitfalls of two people from two different regions (Punjab and Tamil) determined to help their families fall in love. Two college students Ananya Swaminathan (Alia Bhatt) and Krish Malhotra (Arjun Kapoor) who meet, fall in love and decide to marry but once their parents meet, their cultural divide and familial backgrounds clash.
The general premise of 2 States doesn’t sound much different from dozens of other rom-coms and tortured love stories the world over— especially out of Asian countries. For, combining two families can be akin to a lit fire and gasoline. However, what I appreciate about this journey, is a genuineness in the hearts of the couple to create a family union. Though they have decided on one another as life partners, they also want their families to be apart of the life they intend to build.
The extremely attractive Ronit Roy and much missed Amrita Singh, with Shiv Kumar Subramaniam and Revathy portray the “warring” parents and with two strong actresses at the helm of each family unit, there won’t be any backing down without substantial understanding and acceptance.
Therefore, this film isn’t about rebellion or capitulation but a heart-warming tale about two people willing to wait and watch for the prime opportunity to work it out. Along the way, I’m positive there will be tons of laughs (given the tone of original work) and possibly a few tears as people who may have never met in life, give each other the chance to become an integral part of their lives forever.
One thing I’m totally digging about the stills for this film is, even with the glitz of being a Dharma Productions piece there is something simple, sweet and tender about this couple together. Each still showcases a companionship one can only hope will last a lifetime.
2 States is currently bridging borders in a theater near you.
[all stills courtesy of Dharma Productions]
with.subtitles.please. 