Hi!
This serial, Karishma preceded almost unprecedented hype and controversy and I ended up watching the very first episode (something I regret).
Cast-
The cast includes Karishma Kapoor, Sanjay Kapoor, Ayub Khan, Arbaaz Khan, Jugal Hansraj etc. etc.
Story-
I have watched ( or rather tolerated ) numerous episodes and am still find one. The plot just moves on and on at less than a snail?s pace and devoid of any direction at all. There are innumerable and absolutely miraculous - true to its name -bends in the story. There are frequent flashbacks (and long ones at that) as if U have to learn everything by heart before moving on.
Big Budget?...No use here-
Yes the producers have been utterly lavish, but in vain. The Devyani house changes everything almost everyday. One day U see a black couch in the living room, the other day its beige! The locations seem to belie any sense. A poor Karishma Kapoor (Avli is the character?s name) wears designer capris and makeup.
Acting-
Add ?over? to it. An actor of Ayub Khan?s caliber ends up doing nothing but flailing arms and raising eyebrows every time he comes on screen. Karishma Kapoor?s repertoire is not harnessed. Even she fails to impress.
Everyone is either good or bad and none else- seems to be the serial?s theme. There is little or no characterization and the viewer can?t relate to any of the characters whatsoever. The lifestyle of the rich families lacks authenticity. No-one ever seems to be doing any work and U?ll always find everyone at home at almost all times.
Strengths?
If U like interior decoration and furniture combinations etc. then watch it . Otherwise nah?. It just fails to satisfy any criterion for a good serial. Not worth a second look.