Feb. 14, 2020|India|117 Min.
Genre: Bollywood;Romance
Description: Hum Bhi Akele, Tum Bhi Akele (I Am Alone, So Are You) is a 2020 drama that explores the lives of two homosexual individuals striving to find love in a society where homosexuality remains a taboo. The story follows Veer (played by Jha), who lacks the courage to come out to his father and escapes to Delhi in search of comfort from his long-time lover, who is married to another person. While in Delhi, he encounters Mansi (played by Zareen Khan), a lesbian preparing to reunite with her partner in Himachal Pradesh. Together, they embark on a journey that fosters a deep bond of companionship. As their relationship evolves, the film delves into themes of genderless relationships and the true essence of love.
The narrative of Hum Bhi Akele, Tum Bhi Akele has its moments of unevenness, but it gradually finds its footing. At times, the humor feels misplaced, with awkward dialogues that seem out of place in the film’s low-budget setting. Additionally, Zareen Khan’s performance appears less impactful, perhaps due to a lack of effort or connection to the role. One particular scene, where the protagonists drive off without paying a roadside vendor, feels poorly executed. Despite these flaws, the film’s soundtrack and the chemistry between Jha and Khan contribute to an overall enjoyable experience.
In reflecting on his portrayal of Veer, the actor shared, “Understanding the psychophysical aspects of a gay man—how he would react to the touch of another man or other nuanced behaviors—was crucial for me. Veer is entirely different from who I am in real life. Unlike me, who speaks my mind openly, Veer lives in fear of judgment, causing a disconnect between his thoughts, words, and actions. This role has been the most emotionally challenging yet rewarding in my career.”
Cast director: Harish Vyas
Cast actor: Zareen Khan, Anshuman Jha
Original name: Hum Bhi Akele Tum Bhi Akele