Bhagam Bhag - Run Govinda Run!!
Director Priyadarshan closes the year on a comical note with Bhagam Bhag. Marketed as “the greatest comedy show ever” the film takes notice thanks to its catchy publicity. However, true to its name and commercials, the film seriously runs all over the place. Rampant and confused as the keen viewer, you go with it.
A rib tickling first half gives you the fortitude to put up with the nonsense ahead. While Hindi comedies rarely make sense, this one is just all over the board. A few one-liners help save face. Directionless it hits the wall in the second half as it tries to change modes from comedy to murder mystery. Priyadarshan isn’t able to piece the puzzle together.
Editing it shabby. Technically the cinematography adds gloss, helping the film gain appeal. Pritam’s music is average.
Generally the formula of a Priyadarshan comedy includes Paresh Rawal, Akshay Kumar, and Suniel Shetty. But this time Suniel Shetty bowed out for good friend Govinda. The original comedy King makes a comeback and steps into the limelight. Sadly, he’s sidelined as Akshay’s sidekick and overshadowed by Paresh Rawal. Akshay is repetitive in his act, but his role has more scope. Paresh Rawal manages to appear fresh in every performance. Govinda on the other hand fizzes without even creating a sizzle. In fact Rajpal Yadav’s performance stands above his. Govinda may have gotten help from good friends to get his foot in the door, but it’ll be the public that decides if they keep him in the cold or let him in. Perhaps his act in Saalam-E-Ishq will make the final call.
Bhagam Bhag makes your mind run round and round. Providing barely just enough giggles, it’s worth a glance once, with Ritu's infamous 2 ½ our of 5 stars.