The much-anticipated film, "Once Upon Two Times," released on December 29, 2023, has captured the audience's attention since the release of its trailer. The family drama, which marks Nitesh Pandey's posthumous appearance, blends humor with truth, delving into themes of commitment and fidelity within the realm of marriage. As the movie graces the screens, let's dissect the key elements that shape this feel-good cinematic experience.

Cast and Crew: Directed by Sonakshi Mittal, the film boasts a talented cast, including Anud Singh Dhaka, Sanjay Suri, Kashish Khan, Mrinal Kulkarni, and the late Nitesh Pandey. With an ensemble that promises to deliver a heartwarming narrative, the expectations were high for this drama.

Summary: "Once Upon Two Times" revolves around the lives of college sweethearts, Ruhi (Kashish Khan) and Ahaan (Anud Singh Dhaka), who decide to tie the knot before Ahaan pursues further studies. The storyline intricately weaves through their families' dynamics during a holiday, unveiling a significant secret: Ruhi's mother and Ahaan's father share a romantic history. As the tale unfolds, it reflects on the love story between Purnima (Mrinal Kulkarni) and Kaushik (Sanjay Suri), intertwining the destinies of the older generation with the challenges faced by the young couple.

Performances: The performances in "Once Upon Two Times" contribute to its charm, with each character playing a pivotal role. Anud Singh Dhaka and Sanjay Suri, portraying the father-son duo, showcase remarkable character development. Anud's emotional depth and Suri's experienced acting create a captivating on-screen bond. The Roongta family, depicted by Kashish Khan and Mrinal Kulkarni, portrays a typical middle-class Indian household. While Khan's performance may come off as trying too hard at times, Kulkarni's portrayal of a fierce yet genuine woman adds depth to the narrative. However, the standout performance comes from the late Nitesh Pandey, whose role as a connecting thread amid chaos is both poignant and outstanding.

Script, Direction & Technical Aspects: The screenplay, penned by director Sonakshi Mittal, successfully navigates between the older and younger protagonists, injecting meaning into the plot. While not groundbreaking, Mittal's debut effort showcases promise. The cinematography by Jayesh Nair effectively establishes the settings, providing viewers with a visual treat of Nainital. However, some editing issues are noted, with certain scenes feeling rushed or abrupt.

Soundtrack: The film's soundtrack deserves special mention for its effective use of classical ragas, adding emotional depth to Ahaan's character. The instrumentals complement scenes, creating a genuine atmosphere.

Conclusion and Outlook's Verdict: "Once Upon Two Times" is a feel-good film that explores complex family bonds, love, and revisits the sensitive past of two lovers. Despite its familiar plot, the movie offers a heartfelt narrative. Sonakshi Mittal's directorial debut showcases potential, with noteworthy performances from the cast. While some technical aspects could be refined, the overall cinematic experience earns it the label of a 'one-time watch.' In her tribute to Nitesh Pandey, Mittal has succeeded in delivering a heartwarming family drama that resonates with audiences.

Star Rating:  (3/5)

IMDB Rating: 7.5/10