AN AUDIO SNAPSHOT REVIEW
In the Indian film The Lunchbox, a mixed-up lunch delivery has curious consequences.
Every day in the city of Mumbai, thousands of lunches are delivered from homes and some restaurants to the workplaces of their intended recipients. This system of lunchbox delivery runs with clockwork precision … except when it doesn’t. One day, the lunch that a woman named Ila packs for her husband winds up going instead to a recent widower named Saajan. And that man’s café-bought lunch ends up going to Ila’s husband.
That evening when hubby comments on the lunch and mentions a food item she didn’t pack, Ila realizes there’s been a mix-up. But a note inside the returned lunchbox complimenting her on such good food convinces her to let the mixed-up lunchbox scenario continue. Ila sends a note to the mystery man explaining what’s been happening and the two soon strike up an easy friendship. But then comes the day when Ila discovers her husband is involved with another woman. Now what to do? And who to confide in?
The Lunchbox underscores how simple, encouraging words can make a difference. Furthermore, it shows how friendship can lift a person out of depression and provide hope. On the downside, however, some well-intentioned but unwise marital advice is proffered; and mature themes of suicide and infidelity are explored. Fortunately, both are denounced.
