Straight(2009)
Straight is a 2009 Indian Hindi-language comedy-drama film directed by Parvati Balagopalan. The lead cast includes Vinay Pathak and Gul Panag, with supporting performances by Anuj Chaudhary, Sid Makkar, and Ketki Dave. The story follows Pinu, a London-based Indian restaurant owner who, after repeated rejections from women, begins to question his sexuality. He hires a new cook and a cashier, leading to a love triangle and a series of misunderstandings. The film is notable for its sincere and humorous treatment of sexual identity, avoiding the mockery common in mainstream Indian cinema of the time. It received positive reviews for Vinay Pathak's performance and the director's sensitive handling of the subject. The movie was released on 20 March 2009 and runs for 110 minutes.
Straight (2009) OTT release date is not officially announced yet — GudVibe tracks its streaming availability daily.
Where to watch:Quick Facts
- Theatrical Release
- 20 March 2009
- Director
- Parvati Balagopalan
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 1h 50m
- Rating
- 4.6/10
Storyline
Pinu runs a popular Indian restaurant in London. He has been rejected by every woman he has tried to date. Confused and lonely, he starts to wonder if he might be gay. To hide his confusion, he pretends to be gay, but the lie backfires when his new cook, who is actually gay, falls for him, and a kind waitress falls for Pinu. Pinu must choose between honesty and pretense.
“Love has no label”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Straight
Cast reunions in this film: Vinay Pathak & Gul Panag (3 films together).
Trivia
- The film was originally titled 'Straight... Ek Tedhi Medhi Love Story' but was shortened to just 'Straight' for release.
- Director Parvati Balagopalan had previously worked as an assistant director on the popular TV show 'Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi'.
- Actor Vinay Pathak, known for comic roles, played the lead role of Pinu, marking a shift from his usual supporting characters.
- The film's plot was considered bold for 2009 as it openly explored themes of sexuality and confusion in mainstream Hindi cinema.
- It had a very limited theatrical release and quickly moved to home video and television broadcasts.
- The soundtrack featured a song called 'Mann Bawra' sung by Shreya Ghoshal, which did not gain much popularity.
- Despite its comedy genre, the film attempted to address serious social topics about identity and acceptance.