Critical response
I Want to Talk received positive reviews from critics, [13] [14] [15] with praise for Bachchan's performance. [16] On the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes , 70% of 10 critics' reviews are positive, with an average rating of 6/10. [17]
Catherine Bray of The Guardian gave 2 stars out of 5 and said "A greater degree of setup would have given this story of a Don Draper type’s determination to beat a terminal diagnosis more dramatic heft". [18] Sukanya Verma of Rediff.com gave 3.5 stars out of 5 and observed that "Abhishek Bachchan conveys the numerous chapters and challenges of his mind, body and soul with a never-before candour". [19]
Shubhra Gupta of The Indian Express gave 2.5/5 stars and observed that "Abhishek Bachchan lets go of vanity, revealing a thickened gut, and scars-on-the-belly, and an ability to bare. But Shoojit Sircar's film leaves you wanting more.". [20] Devesh Sharma of Filmfare rated 4.5/5 stars praises the performance saying "The actor has completely immersed himself in the character, showcasing a side of Abhishek we haven't seen in quite some time. Watch it to appreciate the exceptional acting and the subtle yet impactful message it delivers.". [21] Bollywood Hungama gave 2.5 stars out of 5 but praising the acting performance of Abhishek Bachchan saying "Abhishek Bachchan delivers one of the greatest performances of his career. One forgets that one is watching Abhishek on screen as he goes into the skin of his character effortlessly.". [22]
Rishabh Suri of Hindustan Times said about the film that "Bachchan fully utilizes his real-life demeanor as a chill guy with some of the best one-liners in the room, for his character.". [23] Zinia Bandyopadhyay of India Today gave 4 stars out of 5 and said "Shoojit Sircar masterfully uses silence to enhance Arjun Sen's story in I Want To Talk and Abhishek Bachchan delivers a flawless performance as Arjun Sen. [24] Renuka Vyavahare of The Times of India rated 3.5/5 stars and said "In book terms, ‘I want to talk’ may not be a page-turner but it’s not a sob story either. It reminds you that you are way more stronger than you think you are". [25] Vinamra Mathur of Firstpost said in his review that "The film offers a poignant exploration of pain, resilience, sorrow, and determination. Told through Abhishek Bachchan's perspective and narrated in his voice, the frequent voiceovers are fitting, as they reflect the only moments he can express himself freely." [26]
Anuj Kumar of The Hindu said in review that Caught between moments of introspection and inertia, Shoojit Sircar’s human drama on the impermanence of life and relationships struggles to find its bearings". [27] Nandini Ramnath of scroll.in observe that "The film focuses on the disruptive impact of serious illnesses rather than being a typical feel-good drama. Its most impactful moment comes during Arjun’s marathon, highlighting his bravery, physical effort, and Abhishek Bachchan’s strong performance." [28]
