Neeraj Ghaywan took to social media to show his appreciation for the recently released drama, The Great Shamsuddin Family. The film, directed by Anusha Rizvi, premiered in JioHotstar on December 12.
Taking to his X handle, the director wrote, "The Great Shamsuddin Family filled my heart with joy and a quiet ache for a time that once was. Written and directed by Anusha Rizvi, this small little gem is put together by a terrific ensemble. It observes more than it announces, speaks softly yet with clarity in its commentary, resisting melodrama and trusting kindness and humour to carry its truths."
The Great Shamsuddin Family which follows the story of Bani Ahmed (Kritika Kamra), who has 12 hours to complete an application, when her family arrives at her house, to deal with a crises. The film also stars Shreya Dhanwanthary, Juhi Babbar, Sheeba Chaddha, Farida Jalal, and Dolly Ahluwalia.
Speaking about seeing the veteran actor Farida on scree, Ghaywan wrote, "And how much I had longed to see Farida Jalal’s calming presence in a film!" He concluded by writing, "This film felt like a winter afternoon at home with chai and banter."
CE's review for the film read, "Every generation of Indians has to tackle numerous social challenges. But some challenges continue through generations. There is a constant struggle between parents and children about the latter’s individuality and autonomy. Any attempt by the children to assert their free will ends with the classic line from the parents, ‘We know better than you.’ Anusha Rizvi explores such aspects of parental relationships in The Great Shamsuddin Family. But instead of overt dramatisations, Rizvi uses a small apartment, like a theatre stage, to ground the film and its characters, to tell a heartfelt, human story."
