As someone who hopes to one day have consumed all of Bollywood with a weird verging-on-obsession illogical passion, I must say, for the most part, this film fulfilled what the Bollywood experience should contain: outrageously beautiful sets and scenery, exciting dance numbers, interesting music (preferably with badly translated lyrics-- unfortunately, my Hindi rather limited-- such as ’’we are today/ our style cannot be old’’), over-acting, and random nonsensical plot twists that aren’t really twists. Overall, the film was very entertaining. However, the plot and dance numbers were not enough to fill well the customary three hour block. The action hesitated in a few places. Some of the characters failed to ever gain my sympathy (though, granted, I only ask so much from them), specifically Aamir Khan’s (soooooo much better in Lagaan... and what is up with that soulpatch???). Alcoholic abusive mother psycho divorcee Dimple lacked deeper characterisation. Oversensitive puppy-eyed artiste balding boy was hot, but also somewhat static. Whacky buddy who fell for the Swiss chica... generally stupid, added nothing but a laugh or two to the film (can someone explain why the heart balloon gifts were so funny? perhaps I’m simply a stupid american and lack the cultural awareness to grasp that). Creepy uncle who was also creepy in Monsoon Wedding... good at being creepy. Khan’s love interest ... not sure how I feel about her. (All I can say is, no one compares to Ashwarya. Ever.)
So, in closing: money, music, mindless, mockable, all in all, despite its hints at exploring the deeper aspects of the Now Generation’s lifestyle, just a fun 3 hour trip to Goa.