"Three of Us," directed by Avinash Arun Dhaware, is a poignant exploration of memory, relationships, and the intricate dance between past and present. The film, featuring a stellar cast including Shefali Shah, Jaideep Ahlawat, Swanand Kirkire, and Kadambari Kadam, weaves a contemplative narrative that unfolds against the picturesque backdrop of the Konkan coast.

Summary: The central storyline revolves around Shailaja (Shefali Shah), who grapples with the early stages of dementia. Accompanied by her husband Dipankar (Swanand Kirkire), the couple embarks on a soul-stirring journey back to Shailaja's old home. The nostalgia-laden expedition takes an unexpected turn with the reappearance of Pradeep Kamat (Jaideep Ahlawat), Shailaja's childhood sweetheart. As the characters confront buried memories and untangle the threads of their past, the film delves into the broader tapestry of life, love, and the unresolved chapters that shape our existence.

Likes and Dislikes: "Three of Us" masterfully avoids the sentimental pitfalls often associated with films exploring themes of memory loss. Avinash Arun's direction, complemented by Varun Grover's insightful dialogues and Alokananda Dasgupta's evocative background score, creates an immersive cinematic experience. The narrative seamlessly navigates the delicate balance between memory and reality, prompting viewers to reflect on the interconnectedness of their own life stories. Metaphors intricately woven into the script invite contemplation on the nuanced interplay of memory and the present.

Performance Evaluation: One of the film's standout aspects is the stellar performances delivered by the cast. Shefali Shah, portraying Shailaja, exhibits a profound understanding of her character, choreographing her expressions and gestures to convey the profound impact of dementia on her life. Jaideep Ahlawat's portrayal of Pradeep Kamat is marked by depth and nuance, showcasing vulnerability and resilience. Swanand Kirkire's depiction of Dipankar adds a nuanced layer to the narrative, bringing forth the complexities of relationships in the face of memory loss.

Verdict: "Three of Us" emerges as a poignant and thought-provoking cinematic experience. Avinash Arun's deft storytelling, coupled with stellar performances, offers a mature exploration of memory, love, and the cyclical nature of life. While some moments may be marred by self-awareness in writing, the film, set against the captivating Konkani milieu, leaves a lasting impression. In its directorial debut, "Three of Us" serves as a compelling ode to the complexity of human relationships.

Star Rating: 4/5

IMDB Rating: 7.9/10

In conclusion, "Three of Us" stands as a testament to the power of cinema in capturing the intricacies of the human experience. The film invites audiences to embark on a reflective journey, prompting introspection on the connections that define our lives and the chapters left unresolved in the recesses of memory.