Finding Fanny (2014) User Reviews

A Collaboration Of The Finest Actors Conveying A Peculiarly Lovable Tale.

[iamggn · 6/10 · 13 September 2014]

Finding Fanny definitely helps you in finding the expected solace. The plot presents a road journey involving a post master and his troupe of hysterical companions.

I went inside the cinema hall with an expectation of experiencing something unusual and that was exactly what the movie bestowed upon me. Most of the Indian flicks in recent times are supported by hackneyed ideas and illogical story lines and this is the region where Finding Fanny stands out. Also, the film gets covered up convincingly within a tolerable run time of 110 minutes thus managing to keep the audiences awake. According to me, the conclusion drawn out was slightly stereotyped. But even then, it was acceptable.

The performers assembled were certainly top-notch. Naseeruddin Shah is charming as ever while enacting the character of a depressed post master belonging to a delirious village. Deepika Padukone looks completely adorable while playing a lonesome widow. The naturalness that she is able to carry along with her throughout the movie is unquestionably worth admiration. Arjun Kapoor as Savio is greatly expressive. His last couple of projects have undeniably managed to bring out the best in him unlike his initial performances which were not really up to the mark, in my opinion. Dimple Kapadia is bold while playing the role of Deepika's mother-in-law. Pankaj Kapur too is one of the several laudable elements.

Direction by Homi Adajania is fair. A quirky adventure where the protagonist tries to find his long lost love is wonderfully put on the big screen. Screenplay by Homi Adajania and Kersi Khambatta is odd yet likable. Editing and Cinematography departments have managed to pull of their respective jobs decently. Music by Mathias Duplessy is disparate and alluring.

In addition to the above mentioned qualities, a number of unpredictably bizarre sequences are bound to leave you hilariously flabbergasted. If you are someone who is tired of watching clichéd narratives and masala dramas, then this must be the movie that you're looking for.

India's "Wes Anderson" film

[benighted2005 · 7/10 · 16 September 2014]

The one unique feature about this film is that though it is shot in English and Goan, the English that is spoke is Indian-Indian-English. People speak this kind of English in Mumbai, Goa and neighboring places so I was pleased to see them play attention to the distinct language accent that various parts of India employs. I laud the director for that.

I thought all the actors did a good job. The reason I saw this film was because it had come highly recommended and secondly I wanted to see what Deepika would do with a film where she has to speak in English. I came in with expectations but I enjoyed the film. It is very unique, some scenes are funny, the film has its own gripe with the character subtleties.

The film is quite unpredictable except for the end. Yes, it is humorous but don't expect the best film of the year. It is far from it. It's a good film that doesn't take itself too seriously. Neither is it indulgent at all. This stands in its best favor.

Dimple Ji was outstanding I thought. Arjun Kapoor who I actually dislike a lot was also tolerable so the director has done something right.

Watch at the theaters, please don't be a cheap-skate and go with 7/10 expectations. Bye now.

Humans die but love does don't..... Oooo Fany RE

[jmoneyjohal · 7/10 · 12 September 2014]

Angie (deepika) and Roselyn (dimple) are two widows living at a quiet place called Pokkolim in Goa. Things change when the local postmaster Ferdie (naseeruddin) gets a returned proposal from Stefanie Fernandez, after 46 years. Angie decides to help the distressed Ferdie and to locate the missing Fanny (Anjali). The group is joined by Savio (arjun), Angie's ex, a car owner Don Pedro (pankaj) who has a strong desire towards Roselyn. What happens after that forms the rest.

The director has come up with an unusual storyline and while the presentation was rich, the narrative was quirky and engaging. The dialogues were witty and well written. The script was good and the screenplay made even better. The background score was melodious and three songs were worth watching. Cinematography was magnificent and impressive. Editing was good. Costumes were well designed to suit the backdrop while the art department was apt. Deepika Padukone looks very beautiful and she has merged herself into the role very well. Dimple Kapadia looks dazzling. Arjun Kapoor was first rate, Naseeruddin Shah was excellent, Pankaj Kapur was the best among the lot, he was simply mindblowing. Anjali Patil was brief. Others didn't get much scope.

The film comes across like a breath of fresh air amidst the flood of racy commercial entertainers but then, it is also a subject that will appeal only to the thinking audience who seek intelligent entertainment . The first half goes on a lighter note with elements of comedy, some romance and also some bold scenes. The interval bang was good and the second half again has comic moments, but this where the films soul lies, that humans die love does not. Overall I enjoyed the film, it well acted, its quirky and funny, but the main strength is in the films soul. A highly recommend watch,because in bollywood films like these are not made every day.

7.5/10

A road trip into the nature of love

[ooliganism · 7/10 · 13 September 2014]

Finding Fanny is a simple anatomy of love. Ending with the finding that true love is a false epiphany. And along the way reflects on ego, the short life of lust, the razzle-dazzle of courtship, the pleasure of love in its barest forms.

Very nice watch all along the way. Very good images, good aesthetics, authenticity of the location and Goan culture have been maintained. Music is good.The characters are all well developed and the actors, some of the best to come from India have portrayed them well. Except for the end where it rushes to an end, and leaves much less impact than it carries through the journey.

Not worth the time spent

[anoopktm · 5/10 · 11 January 2015]

Agree or disagree, this movie is not great at all. I didn't watch it with great expectations but thought it would turn out to be a decent one as I've really liked the Director's previous 'Being Cyrus'. Casting is the only plus point I see in this movie. The plot doesn't have the grip to glue the viewer to the movie. Story is about searching for a person and the events are very flat and dull. Very boring I must say. Not complaining about not having the regular Bollywood ingredients but this movie could've been better. Narration style was not interesting. Felt like the mood of the movie was going off at places.

Personally didn't like this movie at all.

A quirky tale with a Soul

[shiraj-dakshy · 7/10 · 13 September 2014]

Homi Adajania is back after his commercial mainstream outing in "Cocktail" to what he does best, tell another quirky tale of dysfunctional individuals which he convincingly told with his debut "Being Cyrus".

"Finding Fanny" let me warn is not your run of the mill movie, it is abstract in its narration but the soul is at the right place.

Homi Adajania adapts Kersi Khambata's story again after "Being Cyrus". "Finding Fanny" primarily tells the story of five individuals Angie (Deepika Padukone), her mother-in-law Rosie (Dimple Kapadia), her naïve affable friend Ferdie (Naseeruddin Shah), her mother-in-law's admirer Don Pedro (Pankaj Kapur) and her brooding secret lover Savio Da Gama (Arjun Kapoor). Based in a small village of Goa Pocolim, the story unfolds when these five principle characters take a road trip to find Ferdie's love, whom he confessed love 46 years back Stefanie Fernandes a.k.a "Fanny" (Anjali Patil). How each character comes to his own and discovers themselves is what the story is all about.

The story premise by Kersi Khambata is wafer thin but it is the screenplay which accentuates the narration. It is the situations that make the story funny; each character is defined well with their set of eccentricities and insecurities. Kersi has done a brilliant job in defining the characters well. But I felt the proceeding goes from quirky to awry as the movie comes to an end. The climax could have been written better. But overall the pace never dips and at the end you have a smile. Well as I said earlier this is not your conventional film so do not expect the obvious.

The Dialogues written by Kersi and Homi is the highlight of the movie which complements the narration and lifts the scenes. They are brilliantly written with subtle humor but the impact is hilarious.

It is the performances by the ensemble cast which is a major highlight and the reason why the movie is a delight to watch. Homi undoubtedly had an enviable cast. Naseeruddin Shah as Ferdie, the emotional affable post master is brilliant. Naseer underplays his character,he has modulated his voice and his body language to portray Ferdie and the outcome is just mind-blowing. Pankaj Kapur who plays the eccentric lusty painter Don Pedro, he again proves his brilliance with this portrayal. Although amongst the five characters, Don Pedro's character is wafer thin as far as the writing goes but Pankaj Kapur with his portrayal takes the character to the zenith. It was delight to watch both the thespians in one frame. Dimple Kapadia as Rosie is brilliant and gives one of her best performances; she captures the nuances of Rosie's character well. Deepika Padukone again gives a good performance with Angie, Homi extracts another cracker performance after her Veronica act in "Cocktail". Arjun Kapoor as Savio, the brooding loser and lover shows his range as an actor.

Anil Mehta's cinematography is so breathtaking that after watching the movie you want to take a trip to Goa. He captures the old Goa so well, something which has not been highlighted well after "Trikaal". Goa's beauty lies beyond the beaches as well and Anil has captured it brilliantly.

Costumes by Anaita Shroff Adajania are so well done that it actually blends with the narration and does not look out of place. Production Design by Manisha Khandelwal is another highlight, every detail is painstakingly executed. The last highlight being the Music by Mathias Duplessy especially the backgrounds score, it just transports you to another world.

Homi Adajania breaks the conventional norms of film making and tries to create an Indian "Little Miss Sunshine"; well he partially succeeds as well. The movie's unconventional take makes it for niche audience and it may not find takers in the masses.

Pretentious pseudo intellectual bullshit

[gupta-achin · 2/10 · 3 January 2015]

It really irks me when one of these kids from a privileged background i.e. director Homi Adajania (see. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homi_Adajania) try to flesh out (in vain) some of the innermost feelings and closely guarded secrets of common folk who lead ordinary lives within the constraints of their demons and circumstances. To add insult to injury, in this movie, bollywood's prize bimbette:Deepika Padukone is the main protagonist. She has nothing more to offer than a combination of the only two things she knows to do best: Take off her clothes and play an agony aunt in distress. The film begins with her latter act and concludes with the former. Her narration of the movie is as deadpan as a kid reading out a page during an English literature class. Not much happens in the movie otherwise. A bunch of characters with many quirks set out to find Shah's lost love and discover themselves while doing so. How this happens is half baked, uneven and predictable. You can almost watch the road trip unfold before it even begins. Pankaj Kapur has the most intriguing character but that track is abruptly ended with a whimper instead of a bang. Apart from Miss Bimbette, everyone else (including Arjun Kapur) rise above the dumb script and stupid screenplay for a few moments of inspiration which is the saving grace. I am not quite sure what should one watch this movie for. If you want to watch Deepika do what she has done in numerous masala films then just watch those. If you want to watch the other more celebrated actors give performances then just watch their earlier films. If you want to watch a road trip movie then watch ZNMD, Darjeeling Limited, Little Miss Sunshine etc. This movie is just about a rich kid (the director) who saw a lot of such movies from acclaimed directors and said: I need to get me some of that.

Refreshingly Good, Simple, and Feel Good Comedy, with its own share of ignorable flaws

[raja-mishra7 · 8/10 · 12 September 2014]

FINDING FANNY (English): 7.5/10

Finding Fanny revolves around five rather dysfunctional characters on a road trip to find "Fanny"- the love of the life of one of them. As the amusing plot unfolds, the characters are shown in vibrant shades and a rather refreshing climax wraps it up in a very nice way. All in all, a good movie worth watching at least once.

A brave attempt to recreate the magic of the old time comedies lost after Hrishikesh Mukherjee and his school of film making. Its a feel good comic-drama backed by some decent performances.

The actors brought alive the characters, which, must I say, were rather well built. While Pankaj Kapoor was the best in the lot and Naseeruddin Shah was just about as outstanding as ever, it was Dimple Kapadia, who did that bit of extra-effort to fit into the canvas with an air of grace. I have had my reservation on the selection of Arjun Kapoor, who seemed to be edgy at times; all credit must go to the director who was able to judiciously moderate the character to hide Arjun's monotonous limitations rather colourfully within the frame. Deepika Padukone for a change performed surprisingly well, and dare I say beyond expectations. Worth mentioning: she looked stunning in her rather simple get-up for the film. However, making her the primary narrator, well, was apt, but not judicious. An out and out off-beat feel good movie, without much of melodrama, grandeur and unnecessary colours, Finding Fanny is a tale right out of a book of great Indian short stories and stands as a one off instance of a movie that has been narrated and directed well from behind the camera. The script was seamlessly flowing, and the story was well woven, the camera man, requires a word of praise for making Indian locations look as beautiful and appealing. To sum it up, its rare to find that feel good brew, which has been ever so elusive from Hindi films for some time now.

The dead cat didn't smell for a real long time, almost through out the trip, apart from that continuity was well managed.

A movie worth watching!

[johnthomas123 · 7/10 · 16 September 2014]

Finding Fanny is a good movie. Brings out well the pace of life in a typical Goan village. Good acting by all. However, the audience feels some confusion over what genre the movie belongs to. There are many incidents throughout the movie which suggest that the Director wanted it to be a laugh riot. To name a few:-

• the groom dying on his wedding night due to getting choked by a large piece of cake. - Rosie howling like a dog at night. - the cat creating problems, its sudden death and the carcass accompanying them. - Rosie throwing up tantrums. - Pedro's obsession with Rosie's derrière. - Ferdie howling at midnight. - the car experiencing a brake failure. - the painter getting shot dead in the car, and nobody noticing it or missing him thereafter. - the funeral procession.

But instead of making it an out-and-out laugh-a-minute comedy (similar to the good old hits "It's a mad,mad,mad world", "Jaane bi do yaaro", etc), the Director tries to weave in some philosophical message in to the movie, viz. "when you lose your love, don't lose yourself, but keep seeking new loves in your life",or "when love does not knock at your door, you knock at love's door".

Very thought provoking messages! but that slightly changes the mood of the audience. The viewer sits up to appreciate the movie more seriously!

The narrative style of story telling ( in Angelina's voice), the tearful scenes, the melancholy, all make the mood even more solemn, and the viewer involuntarily anticipates a serious thought-provoking story to unfold. As a result, at times, the viewer tends to sympathise with the characters, when he is supposed to laugh out loud at their quirkiness! Mixing slapstick humour, sadness and philosophy is not a wise move.

Despite this confusion, it is a very enjoyable movie, and a brave attempt at doing something different. And the happy ending drives home the lofty message (knocking at love's door) in to the hearts of viewers, especially those who are loveless or lonely.

Very bad Direction and Screen Play

[suchitpandya890-744-875914 · 1/10 · 14 September 2014]

This is one of the worst movies I have ever watched. The story line is just very bad each. There is no single scene in movie which makes any sense. Please don't waste your time. Theater is far away, You should not even watch at your home. There is even no space for any actors to even act. I wish there should be negative stars to give to this movie, below zero. It seems that director only made this movie to earn some money. And I guess he will earn with such strong star cast and publicity. These guys are just making fool out of people. Just avoid this movie, That is it. Just avoid avoid avoid it. It should not be called a movie.

Delicious, quirky characters add fizz to this funny film

[anagpal · 8/10 · 12 September 2014]

Naseeruddin Shah : is a shy, solemn loner, the post master in a village where no one posts or receives any mail, still is a choirboy singer even though his days of being a boy are well behind him. And he brays, nay, sobs inconsolably as he receives a marriage proposal he'd made to his beloved Fanny via mail, forty-six years ago. It was never posted ! And the only one who understands him, is willing to help him is the girl he considers to be like a daughter, who he thinks will make one lucky bugger a great wife and will also be a super mother…Deepika…

Deepika Padukone : ethereal, leggy, flashing that dimpled smile of hers, a vision in floral dresses, floating through their tiny Goan village, remains upbeat despite all that's happened to her, with her husband choking to death on her wedding day, she till today isn't sure whether she should've accepted her hubby's proposal or gone with his friend instead, her quiet admirer, the quiet, quite infatuated… Arjun….

Arjun Kapoor : left town the day Deepika was going to get married. Rumour has it he went to Mumbai and was successful in some business. Is now back in their village. Not happy about how things have turned out. Prone to angry outbursts. Alone in his dilapidated house, which is falling apart. And working on his old car, which is also falling apart. Which he's just sold to… Pankaj….

Pankaj Kapur : is the new man in town, an award winning artist, a painter who earns huge sums for his every brush stroke. Is enjoying his solitude, the idyllic sylvan surroundings, his alcohol. And is also indulging in his fetish for 'big' women…by ogling at Dimple…

Dimple Kapadia : who does have a really large ass ! Also happens to be Deepika's mother in law and house mate, the woman who makes the tiny village tick, the one who organizes everything and loves being the centre of attention…the type who will try to commit suicide but will cough first to make sure someone is watching…the stingy type who will hide the cookies if she thinks her guest is eating too many…the type who feels too many drinks don't agree with her legs. Gout? Inquires Pankaj, solicitously ? No, she laughs, it makes them spread open…

These five quirky characters set off on a drive to locate Naseer's precious Fanny. In the dilapidated car. From the village that we're assured is so tiny, you cant locate it on a map. And interesting things happen on the way.

This is one of those delicious movies where its not so much about the story but more about the characters and the conversations. Where the script and the dialogue is, quite refreshingly, actually king. Where the music sets the mood but doesn't overpower. Where the performances by the stalwarts, Pankaj, Naseer are every bit what you would expect – they get into the skin of their assigned roles, changing body language, their walk, their way of talking to ensure we believe in them. Pankaj, in particular, has more scope to display his intensity, especially in a little bit towards the end.

Dimple is very good too, dominating yet hesitantly finding her way through the challenges life has thrown at her. Arjun has probably the most unidimensional role and he does it credit. In acting chops, probably the one who has to go the furthest, but he can still hold his head high after this one. And Deepika…ah, sweet, lovely, Deepika! Anyone who doubts whether she can act…I mean, really act…better be advised to watch this one. None of the histrionics, over the top gestures and mannerisms of say, Chennai Express…just subtle changes of expressions, a slightly quizzical mien of inner happiness with just a smidgen of indecision.

This is one of those films which is about journeys, self-discovery, life and more. The lessons made easy with the humour and the idiosyncratic dramatis personae. Set in a place where we all wish we could be…simpler, where time seems to stand still. And its not so much about Finding Fanny, but finding love…at any age…

More reviews at ApurvBollywood

It's a joyride with Fantastic performances

[brij-raychanda · 7/10 · 14 September 2014]

Review Finding Fanny

Direction and Filmography is fantastic... Story was simple and dialogues made movie subtle comedy and fun ride... Music is enchanting and characters are made with very special treatment... Acting and actor chosen are really great.. weather it is Naseeruddin Shah as shy lover like teenager, Dimple Kapadia as Egoistic lady, Pankaj Kapoor as lecherous artist, Deepika Padukone as simple and sweet girl, and Arjun Kapoor all are simply superb...

Must watch for everyone's performance...Specially of Don Pedro(Lecherous Pankaj kapoor)

Nothing new!!

[dilun1989 · 1/10 · 14 September 2014]

Frankly, the movie was an absolute waste of time. The cast did their best to make the movie interesting, but the plot was totally boring. Even the jokes were way below par. Apart from the kissing scenes which appeared to have been added to make it appealing to the youngsters, there was no commercial value in the movie at all.

Naseeruddin Shah tried his best to portray the character Ferdinand but at times that too felt a bit artificial. The movie was totally unrealistic. All that said, Arjun Kapoor did a wonderful job in portraying Savio Da Gama. Also commendable is the role played by Pankaj Kapur.

Overall, this is not a movie worth spending your time. It is just a big mess put into screen.

A nice movie for the weekends

[akshay-ak-kumar · 6/10 · 14 September 2014]

Finding Fanny is a perfect film to watch on weekends. On a Sunday morning after a long tiring week, this film will help you unwind. Its a nice mix of comedy, romance and drama which we rarely get to see nowadays.

Set in a small fictional village in Goa, the movie tells the story of 5 people. Angie is a 26 year old window whose husband died 15 mins after their wedding. Her mother Rosie thinks of herself as the lady of the village and is always ready to help people. Don Pedro is a famous artist who wants to paint his last piece with Rosie as his muse. Savio is a frustrated young man who loved Angie and is back to his village after 6 years searching for peace. And finally, there is Freddy. The innocent postman of the village who receives a letter he wrote to his love Fanny 46 years ago only to realize that it was not delivered. Thinking that she rejected him, he never married.

When Angie comes to know about the letter, she convinces Freddy to find Fanny and meet her. And in this road trip, she pulls along Savio, Pedro and Rosie and how things unfold is the rest of the story.

FF is a very simple story with solid characters. Each have their strengths and weaknesses. And the movie works because of the characters. They are layered and as the audience, I was more interested in knowing their secrets than Freddy finding Fanny. The movie states what we most know of people....that what we see is not what we get.

The casting is perfect. Shah is fabulous as the innocent Freddy. His character grows as the film reaches its climax. Kapur is pitch perfect hammy as Pedro. His lustful eyes convey a lot. Kapadia is excellent as Rosie. Check out the scene where Pedro after painting Rosie's picture tells her who she actually is. Padukone is turning into a fabulous actress. A few years ago, I thought she was no actress and I'm eating my words. And finally Arjun. I thought he would be the weak link but the guy holds on to his scenes in front of the veterans.

Goa is beautiful place. However, the movie portrays Goa as some magical land. Breath taking visuals. Not a long film and much better than the rubbish Bollywood dishes out each week, its a perfect weekend film to be watched with friends and family.

Worst movie of 2014

[tamoorth · 1/10 · 8 October 2014]

There is nothing much to watch in film.There are so long and boring conversations.This film is just like that you watch its first 4 scenes and then last 4 you will understand the whole story.Acting is good by the way.Talking about story,i can say most awful story i have ever heard in my life.Finding Fanny revolves around five rather dysfunctional characters that live in the quaint sleepy village of Pocolim, nestled deep in the interior of Goa, India. Pocolim is a village where pointless conversations are a way of life.Indian filmmaker Homi Adajania clearly doesn't follow the Bollywood play book. finding fanny contains no musical numbers (save for an end credit throwaway); maintains a fairly consistent tone throughout; doesn't run a marathon length; and is in English, with subtitles for those unable to decipher the accents.However i can say i have never seen this type of bollywood film,but it is clear that Homi Adajania failed to maintain the satirical level of comedy in film.

Good entertaining offbeat film

[silvan-desouza · 6/10 · 14 September 2014]

After making BEING CYRUS and the commercial film COCKTAIL Homi Adajania is back with FINDING FANNY. The film is an offbeat film, shot with flat camera and it's a fun film. This time Homi shows Goan lifestyle, from Goan clothes, old houses.etc also with the help of Cecil Pinto(Goan Consultant), the director gets major help though not exactly authentic and also it has stereotypes,Konkani Language too isn't well pronounced also few parts are in a bit bad taste. But yet the film is a fun joy to watch. The humour is really too good, at times risqué too but it works The first half is a joyride, second half slows down a bit too long but the end is good.

Direction is good Music is good, the Fanny song is nice

Amongst the stellar cast, almost all perform brilliantly thanks to the workshop too their chemistry is lively Naseeruddin Shah is simply flawless, no other actor could play his part as well as him, he is simply matchless as the innocent and shy Ferdie Pankaj Kapur is too superb as the eccentric Painter, Deepika Padukone is superb too and does her role well, Dimple Kapadia plays her part superbly, Arjun Kapoor helds his own amongst the veterans and does a great job in his role, Ranveer Singh has one scene appearance, Anjali Patil is good in a cameo, Anand Tiwari is good as the priest rest are okay

The Trauma Will Stay For Days. ♦ 21%

[nairtejas · 2/10 · 14 September 2014]

A good friend told me how "Fanny" also is a vulgar slang for the female reproductive organ in the UK and it could be the makers' ploy for using that name in their film title. Why? Of course, to attract audience. It is funny how the makers failed to concentrate on the film, probably being worked up in choosing the title, which only reminds me of the greatest animation film of all time (No prize for guessing).

Consider this: Five half-baked characters with nomadic idiosyncrasies set out on a journey to find a sixth character. This, in the writers' words, should be "a sexy widow (Deepika Padukone) persuades her pre-nuptial boyfriend (Arjun Kapoor) to take her friend/uncle/father figure/taciturn idiot personage (Shah; looks unhappy throughout the film maybe because his recently released memoir's sales doesn't look good) to find his long-lost (read ill-communicative chapter) love Fanny (short for Stephannie Fernandez), accompanied by an absent- minded abstract painter (Pankaj Kapur) who is head over heels in admiration with the final visible character (Kapadia). In the journey of life and love where orgies are considered taboo, and since the math won't be right for five people to get into a relationship and satisfy the nature's preconceived equation, one wanders off and the remaining four get together."

If you could totally understand the above written synopsis in a single read, then you would definitely understand the film, for it is a Goan drama based on rambunctious ridicules, scruples, and clichés under the disguise of romance and all the things that come with it (sans sex). The actors play out like they never rehearsed. Homi Adajania (of Being Cyrus fame, and now Finding Fanny infamy) flashes his over- confidence all over the place. First, by not directing the thespian actors Kapur & Shah to their thresholds, and second, asking Kapoor & Padukone to portray pretentious crowd-pleasers in analytical love.

The film starts off without a bang and that is fine, but when the story unfolds and ends like a firecracker soaked in water, you start to get the feels that the film makes no point whatsoever. It promises love, but delivers boredom, it promises romance, but delivers aged cleavage show, it promises a happy journey, but delivers a dead cat. Literally speaking, the title is misguiding and if you do not get agitated with the climax, you ought to get yourself medically checked. I tried to pull few strings so as to try to reap some sense out of the 100 minute-drama, but I failed.

Still, I cannot write bad things about the cinematography & the art department for they bring out a stunning visual experience. Dialogs are poorly written and I can't even dream of thinking of watching this melodrama unfolding in Hindi. It tries to convey a message, but in this technological age, I'll say it is filled with noise. White, unwanted, destructive noise.

BOTTOM LINE: "Oh, thy invisible force, give me strength to forget this journey." "Don't worry, my son, why don't you watch Bipasha Basu's comeback film Creature 3D?" "Goodbye oh Lord and my dear folks, I prefer my grave instead."

Can be watched with a typical Indian family? YES (But would you?)

To start with I am impressed

[raghav-dude · 10/10 · 12 September 2014]

To start with I am impressed with the fact the director who made a commercial masala film like Cocktail actually made this film. Finding Fanny is not a regular Bollywood film, it's for a very niche audience. Most filmmakers say that their films are different but take my word for it because this one is actually different.

The story revolves around five characters and is set in a village called Pocolim in Goa where life is slow and simple. Their needs are minimal and they live what I would call a retired life. A young widow Angie (Deepika Padukone) decides to help the old postman of the village Fredie (Naseeruddin Shah) to find his long lost love. He is depressed because it's now, after 46 years he finds out that the love letter he wrote to the woman he loved actually never reached her.

In this mission of Finding Fanny, Angie ropes in her mother-in-law Rosie (Dimple Kapadia) the self-appointed Lady of Pocolim who calls the shots and throws her weight around with the locals. Savio (Arjun Kapoor) who loved Angie many years ago is back in town, he will drive the car as he is the only one who can, the car which belongs to Don Pedro, an artist who's interested in Rosalina. It actually is not the destination that matters here but it's the journey of these five characters completely different from each other but with clean hearts. There is an undercurrent of humour in the film, in fact some scenes will leave you in splits.

Acting is top class. All the five actors Naseeruddin Shah, Pankaj Kapoor, Dimple Kapadia, Deepika Padukone and Arjun Kapoor display their best talent and put up an amazing show.

Saurabh Dwivedi's review |

Cinematography by Anil Mehta does a terrific job. The film is very well crafted. Music by Mathias Duplessy and Sachin-Jigar is perfect for this film. It's tough to get the music right, which plays a very important role and here it's clearly in sync with the director's vision. If you are expecting a masala film because it has Bollywood's current top actress Deepika Padukone then you will be disappointed because it's not one!?

With Being Cyrus, Cocktail and now Finding Fanny Homi Adajania's filmography is quite a cocktail. To pull this off and make it entertaining is not easy, but it's clear he is an extremely talented filmmaker. If you are up for watching something different then go and watch Finding Fanny, you won't be disappointed.

Power packed performance in a flat movie

[prahladagarwal · 6/10 · 28 January 2015]

Finding Fanny is a fairy tale by Homi Adajania very unlike his previous projects. A short English themed movie based on the lives of a romantic postman, a middle-aged woman, a lusty painter, a virgin widow and a morose lover. The movie begins with a straight forward introduction of characters, subsequently developing the story step by step. Things start setting in motion when Naseer receives an undelivered letter from his old flame and everybody joins the cause to bring back the romance in Naseer's life. Homi puts in a nice illusion where Naseer dreams of getting himself drowned, somewhat similar to Saif's bathtub shot in Being Cyrus. The plot thickens and becomes interesting when the bunch prepares for a road trip to find Fanny for Naseer. Shot in a picturesque cinematography of Goa, Finding Fanny sets up a beautiful imagery in the minds of audience in the first half. Gradually the movie loses its grip and begins to hastily conclude in a flat manner added by a cursory romance between Deepika and Arjun. One particular distraction was not using sync sound technique in a road trip movie, which makes it very artificial. The poorly thought ending has some excellent performance by each of the cast member. It is extremely difficult to say whether Pankaj Kapur was better than Naseer or Arjun Kapoor. Nevertheless, it's a rare bollywood creation and should be watched without any prejudices.

And the award for Most-Boring-Movie goes to...

[vv_ajay-242-63251 · 1/10 · 16 September 2014]

A bunch of world class actors, are asked to perform in a "Movie" for a story just well-suited for a stage-show in a local theater.

Except the marvelous performance by veterans, there is absolutely nothing in this crappy movie.

I kind of remembered 'Raincoat' (Ajay Devgan) - And I am in dilemma which one is more boring.

This movie isn't worth a penny. Producer should pay the viewers for watching this ultra-boring movie on a big screen.

Go buy A pint of beer and don't watch it, otherwise you'd need multiple!

Just Find a theatre to watch this fantastic movie :-)

[camayanknailwal · 8/10 · 12 September 2014]

Finding Fanny [4/5]

When love doesn't come knocking on your door, you go knock on its door. Out of all the valuable lessons that Finding Fanny teaches you, this one is worth taking home! Finding Fanny is the story of Angie, (Deepika Padukone) the widow of Garbo (Ranveer Singh) who stays with her mother-in- law Rosie Eucharistica (Dimple), another widow. Angie believes that no one deserves an incomplete love story, so she sets out on a road trip with her mother-in-law, her friend Savio (Arjun Kapoor), the famous painter Don Pedro (Pankaj Kapoor) and Freddi (Naseeruddin Shah) to help find Freddi's long lost love, Stephanie Fernandes.

The first half of the movie is very entertaining. Goa looks a lot more beautiful than what we have usually seen. The cinematographer is nothing short of brilliant! From the look of its trailer, Finding Fanny seems to be a comedy, it's not just that, it's a lot more.

The second half of the movie seems to go by a lot faster than the first half and is filled with some very unexpected turn of events that leave you shocked and amused at the same time! The movie inspires you to act and seek out whatever it is that you want, instead of waiting for it to come by. By the end of the movie, you'll manage to smile through your tears.

Whether you like this movie or not depends hugely on your taste. If you have been a lover of commercial cinema like Chennai Express or Kick, Finding Fanny might not interest you that much. But if you have a taste for diverse cinema, Finding Fanny is the right pick for your palette.

All actors have done a fabulous job. My favourite of the five is Pankaj Kapoor, who didn't even had a necessary role as per screenplay, is just OUTSTANDING! Naseerudin Shah is very lovable and cute. Deepika is also good but she shines in narrating the story. Arjun Kapoor is revelation. He should try more roles like this. And finally, Dimple Kapadia. She should be applauded for accepting such kinda role that not everyone can play and she is fantastic.

Background score is very good. And finally, the immensely talented director, Homi Adjania deserves the maximum credit for what he has delivered. One needs to be very creative in order to tell a dark and emotional story in an entertaining way. And he does a fab job. Finding Fanny is the best movie Bollywood has produced this year since QUEEN! Highly recommended :-) [4/5]

The movie does take some time to build on you but will never fail you

[ketgup83 · 6/10 · 13 September 2014]

The art house or I would rather say off-beat cinema are meant for niche audience. Do not expect any masala popcorn entertainment in here and you will not be disappointed.

A man embarks on a journey to find his true love accompanied by 4 strangers who have their own purposes.

From the director of Being Cyrus and Cocktail, Finding Fanny comes as refreshing yet intriguing tale of 5 strangers finding the purpose of each's life - LOVE. As the movie begins, narration by Deepika Padukone catches your attention describing each character with intensity and conviction. The movie does take some time to build on you but will never fail you. Editing is decent though could have been better. Art direction is simple and realistic. Cinematography by Anil Mehta is probably the best part of the film capturing the true essence of GOA. It is devoid of songs but has a good background score. It is difficult to pinpoint a particular performance which will remain in your memory as all the actors were natural but not outstanding, considering the powerhouse talents in the film.

Overall, the film is meant for certain section of audience who will appreciate this kind of cinema. Above average 2.75 /5

Watch at your own risk

[manasrules · 1/10 · 14 September 2014]

Probably one of the most over hyped movie of this year. The reason it has been so highly marketed is because it has absolutely no storyline with in itself to sustain any kind of interest. You will be surprised just like I was and many others which have been a victim of this marketing gimmick as to what exactly happened in the movie when the interval banner will come up. The movie aimlessly drags on around for an hour and a half but does not reach anywhere in the end leaving audience confused and amazed as to what exactly was the purpose of the movie. Do yourself a favor and spend your time on something else and by that I honestly mean anything else.

Superbly Acted, but Uneven!

[namashi_1 · 6/10 · 13 September 2014]

Homi Adajania's 'Finding Fanny' is Superbly Acted, but Uneven as a film! It has its share of entertaining moments in the first-hour, but a bland second-hour spoils the fun.

'Finding Fanny' Synopsis: A man embarks on a road trip to find his lost love. But with company...

'Finding Fanny' is a crazy story about absurd people. This road-movie begins in the right note & the pace is nicely maintained in the first-hour, with most of the sequences & its characters leaving an impact. Its the second-hour, that disheartens. The pace drops & the penultimate moments disappoint. In short, a funny & entertaining first-hour works, but an under-whelming second, puts you off.

Homi Adajania & Kersi Khambatta's Screenplay isn't without merit, but it could've been so much more. Homi Adajania's Direction is well-done. Also, he needs to be credited for churning out such wonderful performances from its ensemble cast. Cinematography & Editing are excellent.

'Finding Fanny' deserves a watch for its performances, if not for anything else. Naseeruddin Shah is adorable as the aging lover Ferdie, Dimple Kapadia is all-out as the feisty Rosie, Deepika Padukone is remarkable as the loving Angie, Arjun Kapoor is mature as the difficult yet helpful Savio & Pankaj Kapur steals the show with a sterling performance as the hot-headed painter Don Pedro.

On the whole, 'Finding Fanny' is far from perfection, but watch it for its ensemble cast, who are at their best in here!

Finding a sweet message but in very subtle way

[dineshprakash · 3/10 · 12 September 2014]

Director work and approach towards the film is very subtle. There is nothing in the name of story only an idea to convey a sweet message. All characters are very complex. So, screenplay is also complex. Eventually film becomes so complex that I was unable to understand or relate with the film. Dialogues are very natural and convey things at places in intelligent way. Many things happen in starting few minutes of film but film didn't take pace and till interval it is very boring. After interval is recovers a bit but also for some time. Scenes between Deepika Padukone and Arjun Kapoor after interval are very sensible and good but for that you have to bear almost complete film. Film is full of shots for just establishing the characters and culture. I was unable to understand many metaphors, like cat incident, junk car, the painter character and culmination of his character. Lots of questions also remained unanswered. What did happen to Rosy's (Dimple Kapadia) husband? Conversation between her and Naseeruddin Shah indicates that there is something mysterious but that left abruptly. I couldn't even get the message behind the painting thing and the painting. Performance wise Deepika Padukone shines among all the veterans. She is fantastic. Dimple Kapadia surprises as her brilliant performance. Arjun Kapoor is OK. Naseeruddhin Shah and Pankaj Kapoor are very good as usual.