Tanvi The Great review: Anupam Kher’s slice-of-life drama on an autistic girl will make you emotional, but plot loses focus

“Because I’m different, I’m no less…”;  These aren’t just words, but a powerful reminder that being unique doesn’t make one lesser. Disability is often seen through varied lenses — sometimes with pity, sometimes with confusion, and rarely with understanding. Tanvi The Great, directed by Anupam Kher in his return to direction after 20 years, challenges these perceptions with heart and grace. The film tells the deeply moving story of a young autistic girl who sets out to fulfil her late father’s unaccomplished dream, to serve in the Indian Army. With sensitivity and strength, the film goes beyond stereotypes, offering a narrative that’s emotional, inspiring, and truly unforgettable.

Tanvi The Great: Plot

The film takes you on an adventurous journey from Delhi to the beautiful serenity of Lansdowne, Uttarakhand. The story begins when Vidya Raina (played by Pallavi Joshi) leaves for the US to attend a conference. Before heading to America, she leaves Tanvi (Shubhangi Dutt) with her grandfather, Colonel Raina (Anupam Kher), a retired Army officer whose world revolves around the teachings of the Indian Army.

There is a huge gap in understanding when it comes to nurturing her granddaughter, Tanvi. Tanvi agrees to visit Lansdowne with the sole purpose of learning music from Raza Saab (Boman Irani). Within the first few minutes, the film explores the beauty of Lansdowne through Tanvi’s eyes, setting the perfect tempo for the story and gradually drawing you in.

You’ll quickly get immersed in the story, thanks to the introduction of debut actor Shubhangi Dutt, who beautifully plays Tanvi throughout the film. Tanvi dares to dream the impossible; for her, the sky is the limit, and her dream is to join the Indian Army.

Tanvi’s Journey and Themes

The film weaves various elements together with subtlety, without relying on heavy drama or larger-than-life characters. It strikes the right tone of acceptance of who we are and what we have. Tanvi, who is autistic, seeks permission for everything and doesn’t take another step unless allowed, making her appear dependent on others. From “I’m different but no less” to asking softly, “Permission to hug?”, the film is filled with moments that tug at your heart.

Tanvi’s character (played by Shubhangi Dutt) is written with precision, reflecting her extraordinary perspective. Her constant questioning and curiosity take you on a journey through an extraordinary mindset that doesn’t fit into the world’s idea of “normal.”

As the story progresses, the bond between Tanvi and her ‘daadu’, Colonel Raina, deepens. She starts to call him her “distant daadu.” Things take a turn when Tanvi learns about her father, Samar Pratap Raina (Karan Tacker), an army officer who died in service. Discovering his unfulfilled dream inspires her to pursue a career in the Indian Army.

Anupan Kher as a Director

After a long gap of 20 years, Anupam Kher returns to direction and takes full creative charge of Tanvi The Great. His direction is commendable, especially in the way he brings sensitivity to the screen. Each sequence is handled with precision, and he uses the screenplay effectively to take the audience through Tanvi’s emotional journey.

Anupam Kher as an actor

Anupam Kher also plays Colonel Raina, Tanvi’s grandfather. His performance shines — arguably one of his best roles to date. As a disciplined Army officer, Raina initially struggles to connect with his granddaughter, whom he sees as a child with special needs. But over time, the softness of Tanvi’s nature melts his rigidity, transforming him into a nurturing grandfather the ‘daadu’ she so dearly embraces.

Shubhangi Dutt as an autistic girl

Debutant Shubhangi Dutt delivers an exceptional performance as Tanvi. She portrays autism with great sensitivity and realism. Her character reflects love, affection, politeness, curiosity, and strength — all with remarkable depth. Shubhangi reportedly prepared for the role by spending time with the real-life Tanvi in Assam, gaining insights into autism, which shines through her deeply natural performance. Her portrayal never feels like acting; it feels lived.

What was lacking behind casting such big actors?

Tanvi’s journey to becoming a soldier is supported by Brigadier Joshi (Jackie Shroff), Raza Saab (Boman Irani), and Major Kailash Srinivasan (Arvind Swamy).
Jackie Shroff, as Brigadier Joshi aka ‘Tiger’, plays a small yet impactful role. Arvind Swamy impresses as a former Army officer running a training academy. Boman Irani, as Raza Saab, adds warmth and softness as Tanvi’s music teacher.

However, despite having such powerhouse performers, their roles are underutilised. Their characters had the potential to contribute more meaningfully to the story, but were given limited screen time. Anupam Kher could have made better use of their talent to enrich the narrative.

Writing and Direction

The writers,  Suman Ankur, Abhishek Dixit, and Anupam Kher, have created a story that speaks beyond limitations. The first half of the film is strong, engaging, and emotionally rich.
The film sensitively highlights that autism is not a disability. As Colonel Raina says, “It is autism that makes them extraordinary.” The condition is portrayed realistically — never exaggerated or downplayed — making it a thoughtful and responsible depiction.

Music and Cinematography

The film’s music perfectly complements Tanvi’s gentle and compelling personality. M.M. Keeravani’s score elevates the emotion in key moments and adds musical depth to Tanvi’s character.
The cinematography is another highlight. Set against the peaceful landscapes of Lansdowne, each frame is visually soothing and emotionally evocative. The visuals align perfectly with the film’s emotional tone.

What doesn’t work?

The second half of the film, however, doesn’t maintain the same momentum. Anupam Kher stretches the story unnecessarily, causing the pace to slow down. This affects viewer engagement and dilutes the emotional impact the first half builds so carefully.

Verdict

Tanvi The Great carries a powerful message, one that goes far beyond autism or joining the Army. At its core, it’s a story of human connection — a reminder that everyone is different, but no one is less. Anupam Kher, both as an actor and director, delivers a sincere and heartfelt film. Through its honest storytelling and emotional performances, the film speaks about life, empathy, acceptance, and love, without the need for melodrama.

Tanvi The Great is low on theatrics and high on emotion. It presents relationships that will make you emotional, conversations that make you reflect, and decisions that may change the way you see the world. It’s not just a film — it’s an experience.

Rating: 3.5/5

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