Since Imtiaz’s previous works and the soundtrack already raised the expectations to an unforeseen cresecendo, the film was destined to undergo a litmus of sorts.However, to anyone who already has all tracks on the playlist since day one or to the section that relishes realistic love stories, here garnered with abundant campus fun, is bound to be enchanted.
The first half is trademark Imtiaz from Jab We Met while the 2nd half is rather a more sensitive Love aaj kal revisited. Post interval gets a bit too long, unless you want even more of the music maestro and the extremely well shot, international feel of the film. The plot of the film is worth a mention and applaud for its novelty and treatment but I would love the screenplay to endorse the plot itself rather than being added here as content to just add to the review’s length.
The performances in an Ali film have to be all top notch, but this time the bar sees a new high with the adorable duo leaving a lasting impression. Ranbir as the Pitampura guy with all his chuckle inducing histrionics is sure to get imitated over the years to come. Nargis manages a neat debut, though she will take some time to learn the nuances of being the lead in an Indian drama. The ensemble cast is rather perfect with Piyush Mishra leading the pack.
The cinemato, background score, exotic locales, technically strong screenplay keep you awed along except a few bumps towards the end!All that said, despite a bit elongated second half, there is no such thing as over the top all through the 150 minutes. If you are ready to ’see’ the already-a-rage soundtrack, ’share’ the despair of being in love, ’laugh’ your heart out in one half and ’live’ the journey in the second, there shouldn’t be a reason to miss this one.
Even if I almost broke a thousand hearts with 4 to Ra.One, this one easily bags 4.25 stars.