Bollywood has a long history of films focusing on the challenges faced by elderly parents, but The Signature takes a fresh approach by showing the emotional journey of a devoted husband, Arvind Pathak, fighting to save his wife’s life. Directed by Gajendra Ahire, a prominent figure in Marathi theatre and cinema, this emotional drama takes viewers through the struggles of an aging man as he faces life’s toughest decisions.
Featuring stellar performances by Anupam Kher, Neena Kulkarni, and Ranveer Shorey, The Signature stands out as a poignant portrayal of love, loss, and the hardships of growing old.
A Tragic Turn in Life
Arvind Pathak, played by Anupam Kher, is a retired man who, after spending his entire life raising his children, dreams of traveling to Europe with his wife, Madhu (Neena Kulkarni). However, their life takes a sudden tragic turn when Madhu collapses at the airport due to a brain hemorrhage. She is rushed to the hospital, where she is placed on a ventilator.
The story revolves around Arvind’s struggle to cope with this heart-wrenching situation. When doctors ask him to sign a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) form, Arvind finds himself unable to accept that signing the document would mean losing his wife forever. His son, driven by practicality and financial concerns, pressures him to sign it. However, Arvind, unwilling to give up on his wife, embarks on a desperate journey to raise funds for her treatment.
A Father’s Desperate Fight
Arvind’s love for his wife drives him to explore all possible options to save her, from selling their property to seeking loans and even turning to crowdfunding. The film does a powerful job of portraying the emotional toll this journey takes on Arvind, a man who has devoted his life to his family and is now struggling to come to terms with the possibility of losing the person he loves the most.
Emotional Depth and Social Commentary
The Signature delves deeper into issues beyond Arvind’s struggle. The film touches on society’s treatment of elderly people, raising uncomfortable questions about how aging parents are often neglected and taken for granted. The film highlights the disconnect between children and parents, as Arvind’s son coldly pushes for the DNR while his father fights to hold on to hope.
Director Gajendra Ahire also uses the film to critique the healthcare system, particularly how hospitals exploit patients. Ranveer Shorey’s character, a man struggling to save his comatose son, represents another perspective on this issue. His frustration and helplessness at the exploitation of vulnerable patients mirror Arvind’s experience, making the film’s social commentary more impactful.
Stellar Performances Bring the Story to Life
Anupam Kher once again delivers a remarkable performance as Arvind Pathak. Known for his ability to bring emotional depth to his characters, Kher shines in this role, evoking sympathy and admiration for a man who refuses to give up on his wife. His portrayal of Arvind’s quiet strength and vulnerability is reminiscent of his iconic role in Saaransh.
Neena Kulkarni, despite her limited screen time, leaves a lasting impression as Madhu, whose tragic illness is the emotional core of the film. Ranveer Shorey also stands out, with his portrayal of a father consumed by anger and frustration at the exploitation of his son by the healthcare system. Mahima Chaudhary’s role as Ambika, Arvind’s first love who offers him a fresh perspective on life, adds an extra layer of emotional complexity to the film.
A Story of Love and Loss
At its core, The Signature is a film about the power of love and the painful realities of life. The slow pacing of the film allows viewers to fully immerse themselves in Arvind’s emotional journey, though it may feel a bit too slow for those used to fast-paced films with unexpected twists. However, the film’s simplicity and emotional depth make it a compelling watch for anyone interested in human stories.
The background score, composed by Rohit Sharma, adds to the film’s emotional weight. Songs like Ghir Aaye Badariya and Ghar To Paunga sung by Talat Aziz, beautifully capture the film’s tone, providing a soothing yet melancholic backdrop to the unfolding drama.
Final Thoughts on The Signature
The Signature is a deeply emotional film that explores the themes of love, aging, and sacrifice. With powerful performances, a strong social message, and a touching storyline, it’s a film that will leave audiences reflecting on the value of life and relationships. Anupam Kher’s portrayal of a man torn between hope and despair is particularly memorable, making The Signature a must-watch for those who appreciate heartfelt, character-driven cinema.
