Ritu's Reviews

Kabul Express is your insight to what happened in Afghanistan post 9/11, Bollywood style. But it’s not a core entertainer or a documentary. With light moments, it’s a mix of abstract and commercial cinema. Director Kabir Khan attempts to make the experience educational. After all, the story’s inspired by his own experiences in Afghanistan as a documentary film-maker. Well versed in his research and knowledge of the issue, he tends to the subject with due sensitivity but doesn’t shy away from coming across opinionated. From the Taliban to Afghan civilians, America to the Pakistani government, everyone’s depicted as he views the situation without the precinct of being politically correct. There may be a divide in viewers opinions, but that’s what stir the pot and brews conversation long after the two-hour flick.
The fact that it’s a thought provoking film can’t be denied. Shot with in a span of 45 days in the ruins of the war-torn plains of Afghanistan the film is saddled with various moments and fluctuating tones. Heavy thoughts are masked with dark humor.
Arshad Warsi may not have the selling power of John Abraham in theatres, but he’s the true star of the film. His dialogues and personal touches sparkle. John Abraham is stiff and has few to no scenes that are noteworthy. The Taliban escapist and Kabul Express driver perform with great competency. Linda Arsenio, portraying an American journalist is average at best.
Kabir Khan’s transition from a documentary filmmaker to entering the Yash Raj team is smooth. He doesn’t compromise enlightenment of truth for Bollywood ho-hum. There are no songs or romantic subplots for distraction. The focus is very clear. But this isn’t to say the film is without flaws. From a storytelling perspective it has its share of holes. The biggest detractor to the popularity of Kabul Express is its inability to attract a wide set of viewers. Only select audiences will appreciate the efforts showcased in this bold feature. Also, given the sensitive nature of the subject, it may be offensive.
Kabul Express is a refreshing change from the Bollywood melodrama and actually addresses a theme that has affected the world. A first of its kind for Indian cinema, its worth a watch, if not in theatres, at least on DVD with Ritu’s shining 3 stars.

Posted by Ritu at 12:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Bhagban was a story where the Chopra’s listened to their heart. They simply made a film they believed in and one that clicked with their values. Without hesitation if the film would be perceived old-fashioned, or rejected due to elderly greats playing the lead of a hero and heroine, they delivered a message they felt strongly about.
In Baabul, the Chopra’s play it safe. While the theme is still relative to a social stigma, they present it in a way that can be appreciated by fans of commercial cinema, putting known ingredients and using the same formula vs. cooking up a new recipe.

Baabul explores a concept of too good to be true in-laws and the widow of their son, not just their daughter-in-law but a daughter to them. The concept isn’t entirely original and nor is its approach. In fact its slightly archaic in thought with stale dialogues, and very few golden moments that aren’t borrowed from previous hits. Granted it is forthcoming for in-laws to think of re-marrying their son’s widow and be unselfish, but its nothing that isn’t shown on daily Indian soaps.

The first half is filled with solid entertainment. Salman Khan can be solely accredited for keeping the film lively with his loveable character. The second half plunges, largely due to John Abraham’s inability to pick up from where Salman left off. Although a dramatic turn of events causes the film to slow down, the director still slacks on keeping the pace and ensuring the climax is’nt predicable. The editing could use work, as the film fails to be cohesive. The viewers mind finds itself wandering many a times and there’s nothing to keep you glued to your seat. From a visual perspective, cinematography is of standard. The melodies by Aadesh Srivaastav are decent. ‘Come on, come on’, ‘Bebasi Dard Ka Aalam’, and ‘Baawri Piya Ki’, appeal to the ears.
So while Baabul’s script isn’t nearly as strong and unique as Bhagban and it doesn’t have nearly half the charm Bhagban did, it does have half the star cast to save the film with their amazing grace. Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, and Salman Khan along with the new leading lady Rani Mukherjee put a twinkling touch to the otherwise average screenplay. Thanks to the competent execution by these artists there are some notable moments that remain with the viewer long after the film is over.

The characters of Hema Malini and Amitabh Bachchan have some touching moments with their ‘bahu’, Rani Mukherjee. The child artist evokes emotion with his understanding of death and desire to be close to the scent of his father. Rani’s grief is agonizing.

Salman Khan does a superb job and is an all around treat. Rani Mukherjee continues to compete only with herself, being in the best category, and gives another remarkable performance. Hema Malini is perhaps more gorgeous than the young Mukherjee and steals the spotlight as the eye-candy, graceful as ever. Her role however is not as extensive or moving as was in Bhagban. Amitabh Bachchan is the hero of the film who remains as a solid pillar throughout, understanding very well how to cater to his character. John Abraham is the biggest disappointment. He doesn’t look sharp and he seems to have acquired amnesia when it comes to acting. Expression-less and stone-faced is how he comes across, even in the most pivotal scenes. The supporting cast of Sharat Saxena, Smita Jayakar, Saarika, and Om Puri take notice above all. The rest inclusive of Rajpal Yadav, Aman Varma, and Parmeet Sethi are wasted.

Overall Baabul doesn’t come close to being as good as Bhagban. However its still a wholesome family entertainer, with good performances, a progressive message, a striking cast, and some key highlights. Putting all criticsm aside, whatever it is about the film, there’s an endearing quality that makes it likeable, allowing Baabul pass through with Ritu Mahindru's recommended 3 stars.

Posted by Ritu at 10:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Racy and upbeat, sit tight and enjoy the ride that is Dhoom 2. Director Sanjay Gadhvi makes sure this riot oozes style and sophistication. A sleek action film for the masses, Dhoom 2 has the looks, the story, and the sizzle to keep you entertained.

But heed my warning, don’t think too hard and just enjoy it for what it is.
Continuing the cops and robber game, its an intelligent thief against a superior cop. The plot is basic but the intricacies are what make it stand apart. Neat disguises, tricky mind games, and bond-like techie toys make it a cool watch.

Well penned, the dialogues and select scenes with Abhishek and Hrithek and Hrithek and Aishwariya are impressive. Overall the script is decent, holding a rare quality in its conclusion. Where most good stories fail to wrap up properly, the conclusion here leaves you with a satisfied feeling. Only minus point is you never find out the purpose of why the thief actually steals at all. Is it for money, fame, or just to play the game?
State of the art cinematography and awesome shots of South America add to the experience. From a technical perspective the film has been looked after very well. It’s evident no details were neglected. The visual effects don’t disappoint and the action sequences are savvy. Aesthetically be it the sets or the styling of the actors, there’s a fresh appeal.

Aishwariya Rai and Bipasha Basu have worked every muscle in their body to make sure they are a drooling sight to see. Aishwariya hasn’t been seen in a feisty role that allows her to be a sexy siren, but Dhoom 2 showcases her in a new light. Bronzed up, with bleached highlights, midriffs and short skirts, she’s in a whole new avatar. Dusky super model now actress Bipasha Basu doesn’t play second fiddle and shows who’s the queen of the ramp in her bold bikini. Both beauties heat up the otherwise cool film. Where the guys hearts may have started beating faster, girls hearts are likely to have come to a full stop at the sight of Hrithek Roshan. With a golden tan and lightened hair, shirtless Hrithek is a visual feast for the females. The newbies on the Dhoom 2 set sure know how to make a fire. The original stars of Dhoom Abhishek and Uday, pull the film together with their original formula. Abhishek holds his own on the acting front, though he walks parallel to Hrithek the length of his role is less. Uday Chopra makes his mark as the class clown, Dhoom and Dhoom 2 just wouldn’t be the same without his silly antics that make you smile. With regards to acting, Hrithek shines above all. He gives his character the intensity it needs. While John Abraham is indeed missed and you can’t help but picture him playing the part, Hrithek is a class act. An amazing dancer and near perfect actor, he doesn’t leave much to criticize. Aishwariya on the other hand could imbibe some of her co-artists qualities. Some may or may not welcome her in this role, but the problem is in her own execution and understanding of the character. The way she delivers her dialogues don’t allow them to flow and her character comes off as a bimbo instead of hip and clever. She doesn’t look comfortable playing the part and does a satisfactory job. Comfortable is Bipasha Basu in her double role. She does justice to both characters, coming across confident in one and silly in the other. Rimi Sen has a small appearance to bridge the gap in which she does fine.

The background score is strong, setting the right tone for the various moods, but the actual soundtrack lacks oomph. The ‘Dhoom Again’ song works thanks to Hrithek’s dancing abilities and ‘Krazy Kiya Re’ is catchy.
Dhoom 2 lives up to its hype. From the first to the second, the team has gone all out and taken it to a new level with the hottest stars of today. A watch for action lovers and admirers of beauty, Dhoom 2 is not a 2, but 3 1/2 out of 5 stars on Ritu’s Review.

Posted by Ritu at 12:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)