~ Let’s get to know each other ~
Movie Salaam Namaste
This movie kinda reminds everyone of last year’s release Hum Tum. Anyway, the plot which’s as old as the walls in my grandma’s house goes something like this -
The Plot (source: imdb.com)
Join us as we say ’’Salaam Namaste’’ to Nick (Saif Ali Khan) and Ambar (Preity Zinta) down under in the city of Melbourne. He’s a Chef; she’s a Radio Jockey. They’re young, they’re cool, they’re independent - and together they make the BEST pair! Or do they? Surrounded by quirky friends, bosses and landlords but far away from home, Nick and Ambar take a huge leap of faith as they decide to move in together. And now they must tiptoe towards getting to know each other! They are attracted to each other - but they fight. They live together, but as friends, in different rooms. They’re in a relationship but then again they’re not. They seem to want the same things, but it seems that they have very little in common. So are they really made for each other? Are they actually compatible? Is this whole thing worth it? After all, if a relationship is what happens when you’re busy not thinking about it - then what does it mean when everything has to be such a ’’decision’’?
My Review
I found the movie to be a pleasing time-pass. It gave me entertainment, so I have nothing to complain about :)
Beautiful shots of the lovely locales in Melbourne city, peppy songs (’’my dil goes mmm...’’ is my favorite) and enjoyable comedy from Saif, Javed & Arshad (not to mention the bubbly act of Preity) makes Salaam Namaste quite a treat.
Another aspect of the movie which I found endearing are the funny takes on each character of the movie. They are introduced to the viewers in a light-hearted manner - the characters of Saif, Preity, Saif’s best friend Arshad Warshi, Javed Jaffrey as the landlord, the owner of radio station Salaam Namaste.......
No arguments about it, Saif Ali Khan once again proves that he can carry a movie alone on his shoulders instead of relying on multi-starrers like Kal Ho Na Ho, Parineeta or his initial flicks like Main Khiladi Tu Anari or Yeh Dillagi. It’s endearing to watch him move effortlessly between being comical, intense and vulnerable. He’s easily the best thing of the movie :)
Preity Zinta is good. Cute roles like this suit her to the T. However, she has a long way to go if she wants to prove herself as a versatile actress.
Arshad Warsi was there just for a few laughs and to be Saif’s best friend but he does it with elan. He deserves more.
Tania Zaetta, more famously known for the ’’Who Dares Wins’’ episodes aired on AXN was okay in the role of Preity’s best friend. Phirangi roles in Bollywood are limited so our chances to see more of her in future movies are less too. If she’s seriously interested in acting, she has to improve significantly or else worry not - we like to watch her anyway in AXN :)
Javed Jaffrey was hilarious. And also nice to see Jugal Hansraj (in a short role) after a long time. He looks better with the added weight.
And finally, the guest appearance of a popular actor in the end brought loud whistles from the male & female viewers alike. It was refreshing to see this fellow do some funny antics.
Caution:- Family audience may prefer to stay away ’cause the movie has too many bold scenes.
Direction - Siddharth Anand
Year of release - 2005
Starring - Saif Ali Khan, Preity Zinta, Arshad Warsi, Tania Zaetta, Javed Jaffrey
My verdict - Sit back with a big bag of popcorns and pass time with this romantic comedy