Like Stars on Earth (2007)

Directors: Aamir Khan, Amole Gupte

Starring: Darsheel Safary, Aamir Khan, Tisca Chopra

An eight-year-old boy is thought to be a lazy trouble-maker, until the new art teacher has the patience and compassion to discover the real problem behind his struggles in school.

Wow, this is an incredible movie! ‘Like Stars on Earth’ is a film every parent and teacher should see! This film can even be used for educational purposes.

‘Like Stars on Earth’ tells the story of 8-year old Ishaan (brilliantly portrayed by Darsheel Safary) who has trouble learning. At first, he comes across as a trouble maker – or just plain naughty and spiteful. Then we notice his interests lie elsewhere. He loves nature, and he loves animals. When in class, his mind quickly wanders to the outside world. He is also creative and inventive, and loves painting

The film takes its time showing how his parents and teachers perceive him, and how quick they are to judge him – often being rude in the process. This only fuels Ishaan’s anger. When he is sent to boarding school and the teachers continue to be judgmental, Ishaan starts suffering from depression, feeling completely empty.

All is about to change when a substitute teacher, Ram Shankar Nikumbh (Aamir Khan) shows up. Ram is a kindhearted soul who is extremely patient and willing to put in extra time to help people. I absolutely loved Ram’s approach to Ishaan’s dire situation, and the chemistry that developed between them. This film choked me up so many times!

‘Like Stars on Earth’ is an eye-opener, and thought-provoking on so many levels. Everyone should see this. It is an absolutely beautiful, stunning film! It is heartbreaking, uplifting and inspirational. I also loved the soundtrack, and the editing. Although it runs 162 minutes, I never became bored and it didn’t feel that long at all. Watch this movie!!

‘Like Stars on Earth’ received 45 award nominations, winning 27 including Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Story, and Best Supporting Actor.

In Hindi.

Would I watch it again? Yes.