Watch Bubble Gum

Bubble Gum is a heart-warming coming-of-age story set in the 1980s in a small town in India. Directed by Sanjivan Lal and starring Apoorva Arora as Vedika, Tanvi Azmi as her mother, and Delzad Hiwale as Vedika's best friend, the film explores the complexities of adolescence, family dynamics, and first love. The film opens with Vedika's family preparing for her elder brother's wedding. Vedika, a typical fourteen-year-old girl, is excited about the wedding and can't wait to meet her brother's fiancé. However, she also struggles with mixed emotions about growing up, fitting in with her friends, and navigating her parents' expectations.

One day, Vedika's childhood friend, Mintu, returns to town. Mintu, who is a year younger than Vedika, now looks and acts differently. He has grown taller, has a deep voice, and his interests have changed. Vedika, who is still a bit of a tomboy, does not know how to handle Mintu's changes and the distance between them.

Vedika's mother, on the other hand, is grappling with her own sense of identity. She is a working woman who wants to pursue her career but is constantly judged by her neighbors for not being a devoted wife and mother. Her relationship with Vedika's father is strained, and it affects Vedika's perception of love and relationships.

As the story unfolds, we see Vedika and Mintu's friendship deepening when Vedika's father gifts her a cycle. They cycle around the town, have picnics, play games, and explore their childhood memories. Meanwhile, Vedika's brother's wedding is approaching, and the family is tense with preparations, putting Vedika's relationship with her mother under stress.

The film's climax is touching and unexpected, as Vedika discovers how much her relationships with Mintu, her brother, and her mother have changed in only a few weeks. She realizes that growing up is challenging, but with the support of loved ones, it can be rewarding.

Bubble Gum effectively captures the intimacy and warmth of small-town India's life in the 80s. The film is anchored by strong performances, especially by Apoorva Arora, who embodies the confusion, vulnerability, and joy of adolescence. Tanvi Azmi, in a nuanced portrayal of a mother struggling to balance her own dreams with her family's expectations, is a standout. Delzad Hiwale brings a sense of innocence and mischief to Mintu, while the rest of the supporting cast adds to the authenticity of the film.

The film's music, composed by Hanif Shaikh, captures the nostalgia of the era while remaining fresh and original. The lyrics of the songs are poetic and heartfelt, adding to the sensibility of the film.

Overall, Bubble Gum is a charming and poignant film that will resonate with audiences of all ages. It deals with themes of family, friendship, love, and growing up in a relatable and sensitive manner. The film is a must-watch for anyone who has ever navigated the complexities of adolescence or family dynamics in a small town.

Bubble Gum is a 2011 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 56 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.