This bollyromcom is frothy, colourful, formulaic Hindi cinema at its emotionally satisfying best. Of course, the plot is pure bolly-corn: will mismatched lovers, fun-loving Bunny (Ranbir Kapoor) and geeky Naina (Deepika Padukone), realise that they are meant for each other? The two first meet on a trekking trip where studious medical student Naina learns how to unwind from adventurous Bunny, whose mantra is ‘life’s got to have some spicy fun.’ Post-interval, and eight years later, the couple are reunited at a friend’s wedding and have to confront not only their feelings for each other but also reassess their priorities in life.
There is much to admire about the standard ‘live your dream, listen to your heart’ message. It’s updated to India 2013 and addresses a real dilemma many educated global Indians face: should they accept that dream ‘green card’ job in Chicago/Paris/London and consequently risk alienation from their friends and family and ‘Mother India’ herself?
At its heart, this vibrant film is a celebration of friendship not only amongst friends but also family. The model-beautiful cast can actually act and the lavish song and dance sequences (frustratingly, not subtitled) are as glorious, camp and colourful as to be expected.
If you have still not seen a proper Bollywood movie before, this is an ideal introduction to the joys of commercial Bombay cinema. Go see: smile and weep!