Ritu's Reviews

Sometimes you think a film’s going to be a complete bore so you walk in to the theatre grudgingly already having made up your mind. That’s a bit how I felt about Jaan-E-Mann. The ads made it seem like a tasteless comedy and in comparison to my anticipation for Don I felt like it’d be a chore to watch. But I was pleasantly surprised and proven otherwise.

Debutante Director, known to many as choreographer/director Farah Khan’s husband, Shirish Kunder plays multiple roles for a first timer. He pen’s the screenplay, writes the dialogues, directs, and edits! Given the huge array of responsibilities he proves he’s able to manage them all with proficiency.
The screenplay is a love triangle with a comedic twist. However it’s nowhere near a basic triangle, as you’d imagine. The story factors in a good mix of new concepts. The dialogues are hilarious with great timing between the characters. As for the direction, Kunder’s able to provide capable guidance but is weak in some areas.
From a technical standpoint, certain scenes make the right use of special effects while others abuse it. Too much color, flashy lights, and loud sets distract. It wouldn’t be hard to mistake the experience, the same as watching a cartoon. Cinematography covers the usual sights of New York, now seen plenty times. After a slow start, the editing keeps the pace fluid.
The film is a musical of sorts as the songs brief you through moments and tell a short story. While they serve a functional purpose it takes away from completely enjoying the soundtrack on its own. Anu Malik does a fair job. The top 2 notable tracks are , “humko maloom hai” and “aajnabee shehr hai”.
With producer Saajid Nadiawala backing the project and the team of Salman and Akshay resurrecting the magic of Mujh Se Shaadi Karogi, the film undoubtedly provides laughs. The flashback sequences are the real treat worth watching! At times the scenarios are so silly that laughing at them, even while you roll your eyes at the buffoonery give comic relief. Salman and Akshay have better chemistry with each other than they do with their heroines. The two make an excellent pair. Both deliver fantastic performances. Salman is a natural in his role and performs with ease. Akshay has to work a bit harder to fit in his role, but does so with mastery. Preity plays her part with grace. Anupam Kher is a bit over the top.
Jaan-e-Mann has a lot going for it and a lot against it. It’s major plus point is its talented cast. Its major drawback is that it’s a romantic comedy whose humor can be interpreted any which way varying on the audience. Not to mention it’s special effects gone wrong give it a tasteless look.
But all said and done, it’s a goofy film that can be watched with family for a fun, frolicking, time! A pat on the back to Shirish Kunder for a well executed first attempt, hopefully not the last and to the team of Salman and Akshay for hitting the bulls eye again with great camaraderie, earning Ritu's 3 stars.

Jaan-e-Mann and Don do cater to the same audience. The difference is in their genre and the mood of the viewer. If your up for something snazzy with superior direction and technological finesse, than Don is your pick. If you want something light, tension free to laugh at or with, Jaan-e-Mann will do the job.