Go to any town BUT - 36 China Town
Duo Abbas-Mastaan don’t know what failure is when it comes to directing what they’re best at - commercial thrillers. From Baazigar to Humraaz, Ajnabee, to their most recent Aitraaz, they leave little room for error. 36 China Town, stars candid celebrity couple, Shahid Kapur and Kareena Kapoor, Akshaye Khanna, and also debuts internationally applauded model Upen Patel. If girls couldn’t get enough of John Abraham’s physique, check out the chiseled features on this guy…
Abbas-Mastaan films are never an insult to the viewer’s intelligence. Their films are full of suspense and surprises even for the most avid watcher. In addition, there are barely any loose moments or holes in the script. At then end there is a feeling of having sat thru good entertainment and great acting.
36 China Town, does not meet these standards. For director’s that leave little room for error, their biggest blunder in 36 China Town is the script. Its an overall weak plot with average execution. Writer Shyam Goel appears to be lazy, relying on his directors, the cast, and music to support his pointless murder mystery. Forget challenging your mind to solve who the killer is, you just don’t care. Its so disappointing that it’s not worth the effort. The slow pace further takes away from the thrill.
Technically a prolific package, 36 China Town proves looks can be deceiving. The cinematography is first-rate, allowing the visual appeal to empower.
Nasally sensation Himesh Reshamiya belts yet chart topper. “Aashaqui Hai Meri” is hypnotic when Upen Patel puts on his moves. Choreography by Ganesh Acharaya for both versions of the song is commendable.
From the full cast of Paresh Rawal, Payal Rohatgi, Johnny Lever, Tanaaz, Isha Koppikar, Kareena Kapoor, Shahid Kapoor, Akshaye Khanna, Upen Patel and a score of others, the only actor that brings life to the film is Akshaye Khanna. He is absolutely super! Next in line worthy of credit is Upen Patel. With a great on-screen presence, the role of a ladies man inarguably suits him and he performs with confidence. Kareena is average. Shahid reminds one of a cartoon character, with his over the top facial expressions. Paresh Rawal and Johnny Lever share good chemistry. Payal Rohatgi and Tanaaz pull through with decent performances. Isha Koppikar makes a timid appearance. Tanushree Dutta features in a pointless song with Shahid, 30 seconds apart from the first song.
36 China Town is not nearly as clean and well thought out as previous Abbas-Mastaan thrillers. For once they are the ones that are guilty with giving audiences a yawner. I yawn rudely and entirely manner less giving it 2 ½ stars.