Anna Dostoewsky is the finest example of how a woman can bring up a man’s career. She was first appointed as Dostoewsky’s secretary and then become his wife. From there on, she drove the boat. Many of the great books by Dostoewsky were written after his second marriage to Anna. Anna was much younger to Dostoewsky. Later when they had a daughter and she has grown to her teens, she asked a question to Anna. "Mum, why you decided to marry a man who is so older to you?" Anna Answered, "Even in his 40s he was much active than those good for nothing youngsters around." No, I am not writing about Anna, but on marrying to an older person, i.e. what Cheeni Kum is all about.
Today in Yahoo, I read an article where a 60 year old woman become a mother, that too for twins. I owe the title to them…How old is old? (If you are interested, you can read the article https://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070523/ap_on_fe_st/odd_twins_at60 )
Given the background, let me straight enter into the reviewing ceremony.
Zohra Zegal is very old. She is in her late 80s. Still she is young at heart. Her main job is to cook for her son (Amitab) and then enjoy the life like youngsters. Her favorite TV program is "City & Sex", she advise her son to go to gym daily to keep the youthfulness. Wrestling is her favorite hobby….ooops watching it…
Buddhadev Gupta (Amitab Bachchan) is the chief chef and owner of London’s famous Indian restaurant. He is very strict, and bound by self set standards. He is 64, but his thoughts are still young. Nina Varma (Tabu) once visited his restaurant and a Hyderabadi Pulavu was served to her, where sugar was put instead of salt. Without knowing the fact Amitab shouted his principles to her and the next day she presented a well prepared Hyderabadi Pulavu to the surprise of Buddhadev.
Nina Varma 34 (Tabu), is staying with her friend and her face carry some regrets from past. She was impressed by Buddhadeve and their occasional meeting made them closer. She also knows that it doesn’t matter the age, but a heart to love is important. She prefers a person who can love for 10 years than living with a person with whom she may stay for 50 years without getting Love.
Mr. Omprakash Varma 60 (Paresh Rawal) too enjoys life. He is a widower. Love cricket and been with his age group friends, morning walks…however, when his daughter proposes a man older than him, he was shattered.
Ms Sexy a 10 year girl, (Swini Kara) is facing death at any time, due to blood cancer. Budddhadv is very attached to this sweet little girl where she role play an adult.
The intention of the writer Director R Balki is very clear. Age doesn’t matter, but the freshness of mind is. When he allowed an 80+ woman to stay young, 10 year old is expecting death at any time. He sends a message across, though not that strong. The movie is a light entertainer throughout. One not needs to think much…not to tense your face at the happenings on the screen. Sufficient load of light comedy is added with out much spice. Some non-vegetarian jokes are around there, but the film is generally a vegetarian treat.
Story is ok, dialogues are perfect. Script was very much holding throughout the first half and some parts of second half, but lost its grip when approaching end. At one point all characters were wandering what to do next. It could have corrected neatly. For a beginner, Balki has done a very good job. It is also have to be said that the minute details of the character and the psychology is not addressed to. For example, any aged man will be worried about the white colour for his hair and will try to blackwash it...but Buddhadev is not much concerned. Anyway, who cares when it is told that it is a mindless comedy? Even for serious cinema directors are taking liberties....
Amitab Bachchan is getting better and better every day and he is becoming younger to each film he is acting. It is heartening to see the great actor do the simple roles in utmost perfection. Tabu is back with all her natural talents, where her face reflects unpredictable emotions. Paresh Rawal is ok, but he was let down by the writer with a small role. Zohra Zegal did a fantastic job, where the child artist Swini Kara was good.
The entire length of the film has one colour, white. It is very fresh to your eyes and the characters are too transparent enough. Cinematography by P C Sreeram is great. Music by the legand Ilayaraja is simply simple. The music is for the pace and the mood of the film and there is nothing for the sake of music. The BGM too is well done. Choreographers had little to do and they have done what they are asked to, though I have a feeling that a chance for one or two good melody is missed.
Overall, the movie is a pleasant journey and a one time watch for all those who want to enjoy a day out. There is no skin show. Not too much adult entertainment. There is humour all the way, though no slapstick comedy. Audience likes the movie, though not in a big way. Though the initial pull was less, Box office results are positive.
My rating : 3.25 stars