Kho Gaye Hum Kahan: Film Review

Do you often hear reminiscences about a bygone era when life was less complex before the advent of mobile phones? Or discussions about the irony of becoming less sociable due to technological advancements intended to enhance communication? This review, which might initially seem like a nostalgic piece penned by someone from an older generation, is a deep dive into Arjun Varain Singh’s first directorial venture, ‘Kho Gaye Hum Kahan’. This film critically examines the challenges posed by social media. The question arises, does it come across as a lecture akin to parental admonishments for excessive phone use? The movie 'Kho Gaye Hum Kahan', featuring the talents of Ananya Panday, Siddhant Chaturvedi, and Adarsh Gourav, has recently made its way to Netflix. This review aims to shed light on whether the film is a worthwhile watch.

Film Overview, Setting and Initial Impressions

'Kho Gaye Hum Kahan' features Ananya Panday, Siddhant Chaturvedi, and Adarsh Gourav in pivotal roles, embodying the characters of three inseparable childhood friends – Ahana, Imaad, and Neil. Initially, viewers might find themselves critiquing these characters, particularly their distinctive accents that are emblematic of South Bombay's (SoBo) affluent youth. They inhabit an idealized living space, complete with expansive French windows, set in the heart of Bombay. Their professions – a budding stand-up comedian and a corporate professional with an MBA – seemingly support their opulent lifestyle. Their lives are filled with moments of leisure and relaxation, set against a backdrop of OAFF-inspired aesthetics and the melodies of Ankur Tiwari. Their social life extends to frequenting upscale pubs, where the entry fees alone could deplete a week's earnings.

Characters' Social Media Struggles

As the story unfolds, there's an opportunity to connect deeper with these characters. The film portrays the universal effects of social media and the emotional experiences that come with it, which are shared by many, transcending the initial judgments of their lifestyles. In 'Kho Gaye Hum Kahan', the central trio is constantly together, each grappling with their individual traumas and insecurities. Their coping mechanism? Seeking affirmation through the world of social media. Imaad, portrayed as a habitual user of Tinder, struggles with the concept of long-term commitment. Ahana, on the other hand, turns to Instagram in a bid to recapture the attention of her former boyfriend, Rohan. Meanwhile, Neil, working as a gym trainer, is on the hunt for celebrity endorsements to aid in achieving his dream of owning a gym. Standing out from his peers due to his less affluent background, Neil frequently finds himself comparing his life to others through their social media posts, leading him down a path of increased self-doubt. This is further compounded when his date, social media influencer Lala (played by Anya Singh), shows reluctance to share his pictures online.

Screenplay and Direction

The screenplay, crafted by Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti, shines throughout the film, with Arjun Varain Singh being credited for the original story. The narrative deftly weaves through the complexities of social media addiction, scrutinizing friendships, male pride, and unfolding traumas with a delicate touch.