Indian Film Reviews

These are in the order I watched them, the most recent first.

Gayab (2004)
Movie: 8.25
Music: 7.5
This movie was all over the place. It had the makings of a romantic comedy at first, turned into a drama about the boy who can't get the girl, then stalker thriller, and finally superhero introduction film. Still, I thought it was enjoyable. Tusshar does really well in both comedic roles and romantic roles, but I felt like he was uncomfortable playing a guy who feels like the world is working against him. Perhaps he hasn't ever felt that way and had trouble getting it. I do wish this story had continued. I'd really like to know more about what become of the characters, but I doubt a sequel would come after so many years. The music was okay. More effort could have yielded something amazing, but it fits into what seems to have been happening in filmi music in the early 2000's. It's as if Hindi cinema was trying to redefine itself musically in the new millennium, but ended up with mostly bland music that is instantly forgettable. Gayab suffered from this a bit, but the soundtrack is still worth having in a playlist of lots of Hindi music. I won't remember where I heard it, but it'll be nice to hear anyway.

Hum Kisise Kam Nahin (2002)
Movie: 6.75
Music: 7
I'm not sure how you can make Amitabh Bachchan & Aishwaraya Rai seem dull. Even after I got past that, I had trouble with the end. Not to give too much away, but after spending well over two hours following a story it just irritates me to give us a happy ending in the final two minutes of the movie. It felt like an afterthought - "oh yeah, and they all realized they were wrong to stand in the way. the end."

Hum Kisise Kam Naheen (1977)
Movie: 6
Music: 7.75
I really wanted this movie for a song I'd seen during a preview. That song was still worth it. Action films don't hold my interest very well though and I had trouble sitting through this movie. Even with all the songs still intact, it should have been about half as long as it was. The storyline of trying to retrieve a belt full of diamonds starting to become taxing. I didn't care all that much to begin with how it ended up getting back to its rightful owner... and it was always obvious that it would. Stretch it out for 3 hours now... yeah, it was hard to stay focused. Those who enjoy these action movies will probably like it more than I did. I want to like it more myself and will probably give it another try, taking frequent breaks to not make it feel so lengthy.

Eklavya: The Royal Guard (2007)
Movie: 9.25
Music: 6.5
Maybe it's age. I've become a sucker for aesthetically well-made films. That really sounds like an obvious piece of film watching. There are millions spent on each film just making sure that the visual is as pleasing as possible. However, I've never liked a film to be too beautiful... it doesn't feel as real as it should to me. But that is clearly changing. Eklavya was beautifully shot. It certainly wasn't what I was expecting (I rarely read a synopsis before watching a movie), but it was an excellent piece of storytelling as well. Bachchan is great; he has such presence in his films. Even when he isn't the "strong" one in the role, he still commands the camera. Everyone did a great job in this film. I was particularly impressed with the performance by Raima Sen who played the mentally challenged Princess Nandini. Mentally challenged characters have been pretty common in the Bollywood movies I've seen, but they are rarely as realistic as Raima's portrayal. There is something for everyone in this film and it was added to my list of recommended Hindi movies.

Mazaa Mazaa (2005)
Movie: 5.5
Music: 4.75
A rather adult remake of 13 Going On 30. I was really tired of boobs about halfway through this movie... not that it would have taken much, but they did seem to saturate the screen. And while the back of the case promised "a gasbag of laughter at every opportune moment," perhaps there were no opportune moments. It was pretty dry. There were a few fun parts, but I'm certain I'll forget that I ever watched this one... and soon.

Money Hai Toh Honey Hai (2008)
Movie: 8.75
Music: 9
Fun movie. While the plot was somewhat predictable, I didn't really mind so much. A group of strangers is willed a company by an eccentric old man who chose them by phone numbers. Silly, but not distractingly so. Great music. My only complaint about the songs is that they don't seem terribly connected to the film. They were more like music video breaks than I've seen in any other movie. I even liked Govinda in this movie. Maybe he has realized how old he is.

Muqaddar Ka Sikandar (1978)
Movie: 8.5
Music: 7.75
Everything good about Hindi cinema. There were a few slower parts to muddle through, but this story is well developed and engaging. The plot follows Sikandar from street kid to a wealthy man who can't have the one thing he wants, the girl he has been in love with since childhood. Amitabh & Rekha made it through the entire movie together without any tiger wrestling. I'm a little disappointed, but more relieved.

I Have Found It (Kandukondain Kandukondain) (2000)
Movie: 8.75
Music: 8.5

Cheeni Kum (2007)
Movie: 9.75
Music: 8.5
Amazing film! Andre was absolutely correct in his assessment of this one; it's a fantastically well made movie about a 64 year old man (a chef named Buddhadev) and a 34 year old woman (Nina) falling in love. There are so many things I loved, but perhaps my favorite thing was the relationship between Buddhadev & Sexy, a neighbor girl who has leukemia. While not a musical, the movie is full of beautiful music that suits the film very well.

Heyy Babyy (2007)
Movie: 8.75
Music: 8.75
I had just watched Housefull. This movie had 3 of the actors who later appeared in that movie. They each play pretty much the same part. This movie was cute and it made me cry (it's hard to find any movie that doesn't honestly). The silly antics that so annoyed me about Akshay Kumar & Ritesh Desmukh in Housefull actually seemed to fit the tone of this film better. Pretty good music as well.

Housefull (2010)
Movie: 8.25
Music: 9.25
I hate that I liked this movie. It's a bit pointless. Everyone overacts their parts. Still it was fun and had infectious music. Download the soundtrack if nothing else. Due to a lawsuit about rights to a song there is a scene missing in the movie and it feels like the scene is missing. Too bad.

Slumdog Millionaire (2008)
Movie: 9
Music: 8.75
While extremely well done, I had a few of issues with this film. First, it felt like a view of India through an elitist Western point of view. I was a little put off by the treatment of Hinduism as well. Lastly, I didn't like the use of Who Wants To Be a Millionaire? as a vehicle for the story. That will severely date the movie in the future... it also seemed like shameless promotion. But, I still loved it.

Aashiq Banaya Aapne (2005)
Movie: 7.25
Music: 7.5

Let's Enjoy (2004)
Movie: 7
Music: 8
The plot almost doesn't matter in this movie. It's about the music. The story is of a party and several party-goers getting to the party and interacting while there. I felt like the movie was much longer than the party it portrayed, but the soundtrack was excellent. There are some very low points in the music, but also some of my favorite songs from Bollywood are from this movie.

Sarkar Raj (2008)
Movie: 9.25
Music: ~NA
The story continues. This sequel is nearly as good as the first film, perhaps even better in some respects. I won't go too far into specifics, but it was both heartbreaking and made me want a third movie really badly. It took me a while to warm up to Aishwaraya's character, but I definitely did and ended up loving her in this movie. Both Bachchans reprise their roles from Sarkar and were as good as before.

LOC - Kargil (2003)
Movie: 9
Music: 8.5
4 hours, 15 minutes. Even with the extreme length, there is rarely downtime in this intense war movie. This is the story of the Kargil War in 1999 and is tough to watch at times. The large cast (full of amazing Hindi actors), makes it easier to focus on the story for the full time, but I still took a significant break between discs. The music, which could have been really hokey, is excellent and fitting for the genre. I cried a few times, but I managed to hold it together during several death scenes. Thinking I was okay, I let my guard down and lost it again during the scene of those killed being brought to the families. It is a war movie after all. I know I praise Suniel Shetty a lot, but he was wonderful in this movie... as was Saif Ali Khan.

Bada Din (1998)
Movie: 5.75
Music: 6
Made for TV movies in the U.S. are generally far more exciting that this large release film from India. It was so hard to keep interested in such a slow movie. There were a couple of time when it got easier, but even then only just.

Pankh (2010)
Movie: 9
Music: 8
This movie is so impressive. It is very different from everything else I've seen from India. It tells the supposedly common story of child actors only being cast in opposite gender roles for a period of time in Indian cinema. It is apparently a practice specific to India and is no longer done. The main character is one of the former child actors and is mentally off as a result of being passed off as a little girl for so long. His struggle to find himself feels hopeless. For such a beautiful film, it never manages to pick up its head and remains depressing as the end credits start. I stared at the screen for several minutes after, trying to process and decompress. It is definitely an experience.

Main Hoon Na (2004)
Movie: 9.25
Music: 8.5
This movie absolutely sold me on Farah Khan as a director. I'd seen her later film, Om Shanti Om. This one was nearly as good. The story is of an army major posing as a student in order to protect the army general's daughter. He also uses the opportunity to try to reconnect his father's family who have been estranged since he showed up as a child, refusing to live with a bastard. There are some fun moments and excellent songs. Shahrukh Khan is already one of my favorites and Zayed Khan is well on his way.

Kiss Kis Ko (2004)
Movie: 7
Music: 7.5
Silly comedy about a boy band. I liked it okay and the music has some highlights, but my DVD stopped just before the end. I'm pretty comfortable with what I've seen of it though.

Chor Bazar (1954)
Movie: 9.5
Music: 7.25
I loved this classic film.

Jawani Diwani: a Youthful Joyride (2006)
Movie: 8.25
Music: 8.5
This felt eerily familiar. I thought it had to have a connection to One Two Three, but it has a different director, cast, ... everything. Even the music is similar, but the writer isn't the same. It is a fun movie in spite of itself. I guess sexual politics are always going to be funny to people. I liked the movie and music pretty well.

Paheli (1972)
Movie: 9
Music: 8.25
It's a ghost story... not a scary one though. A ghost takes the form of a woman's husband after falling in love with her. It's a little silly and I'm a little troubled by the ending, but it's well worth watching. Very unusual plot and beautifully shot.

Pakeezah (1972)
Movie: 9.25
Music: 9
The opening scene is one of the most ridiculous dramatic moments I've seen. A woman is rescued from the brothel where she lives, but when she is taken to they man's home the family initially rejects her. The woman flees to a local cemetery where she lives alone with her shame until giving birth to a daughter. Before dying, she sends a note to the father to come rescue his daughter, but that note is lost and the baby is picked up by another girl from the brothel. The child is therefore raised as a courtesan. The movie is her story. Excellent music.

Paagalpan (2005)
Movie: 7
Music: 5.75
It's okay. One of those movies to watch when you're feeling lazy on a Sunday afternoon. It will be enjoyable, but by evening you'll have trouble remembering the plot.

Coolie (1983)
Movie: 8.25
Music: 7.5
Amitabh almost died! I'm so glad they freeze frame at the shot where it happened. It was really weird, but I still liked it. While I enjoyed the story being told, I found the execution of this movie a bit messy. Still, there was plenty to enjoy.

Straight (2009)
Movie: 8.75
Music: 8
I'll continue to praise Hindi cinema's handle on what it means to be gay. This film follows a straight guy who starts to question his sexuality. Queue the laugh track. But where this differs from a Hollywood film is that not only is the central character actually straight, but his very "normal" brother is gay. While the broad comedy of stereotypical gay portrayals makes for fun comedy when the characters are straight, Bollywood seems to avoid making caricatures of the characters who are gay. This movie was silly, but fun. My only real complaint is that the orientation of the hot guy was never verified. I guess I'll make that up for myself.

Disco Dancer (1982)
Movie: 9
Music: 9.25
I always knew I'd love this for some reason. I just assumed that the reason was going to be its ridiculousness. Actually, the story was pretty well done and the music is infectious. While it is a clear product of its time, I loved this film... and the soundtrack is worth the watch. Unless you haven't decided to give disco a second chance.

An Evening In Paris (1967)
Movie: 8.5
Music: 7.75
This is a fun romp through Europe. The music is characteristic of early 1960s Hollywood musicals. I did have a little trouble caring about the main character, but the rest of the cast was compelling enough until I ultimately come on board.

Veer-Zaara (2004)
Movie: 9
Music: 8.75
Beautiful film. Has two of my favorite filmi songs, "Tere Liye" and "Lodi." There seemed to be a camera issue for me. Everything seemed distorted. Would be slightly higher otherwise.

Sarkar (2005)
Movie: 9.25
Music: NA
My previous experience with Amitabh Bachchan have been two types of roles: young action star & comic relief character (as an older man). His portrayal of the respected Sarkar was the best performance of his I've seen so far. Based on the American film The Godfather, Sarkar follows the events of a family whose lives are devoted to ensuring that justice is realized. As a don from Dubai defames the Nagares, the family struggles to maintain the respect from the citizens of Mumbai they've spent so many years cultivating. Abhishek Bachchan, Amitabh's real-life son, plays the son of the Sarkar in one of the finest roles I've seen him in as well.

Haal-E-Dil (2008)
Movie: 8.75
Music: 8
Nakkul Metha does a fantastic job in his debut. He's so enthusiastic and joyful; I hope he gets more roles in the future. I'm looking forward to seeing more. This is a sweet movie and the relationship of the three strangers riding together on the train is a lot of fun to watch. The music is pretty fun.

Darna Mana Hai (2003)
Movie: 7.5
Music: NA
My least favorite films are horror films and my least favorite horror films are slasher films. I tried to disregard that when I watched this one. It's really a series of shorts that cover various horror genres. I particularly liked the apple story, the no smoking story, and the homework story. As slasher films go, it was pretty okay.

Bhola Bhala (1978)
Movie: 8.25
Music: 6.75
Rajesh Khanna plays two parts in this crazy film and is very convincing in both roles. There's a lot going on, from romance to action to comedy. Enjoyable.

Tera Mera Saath Rahen (2001)
Movie: 8
Music: 7.5
I wonder if this is the only film with cameo appearances by Batman, Superman, & Donald Duck. And they appear in a single song. My favorite part of this story was the way the apartment complex takes care of each other. While they are all in each others' business, they look out for one another as well. The main storyline is of a brother who sacrifices his own dreams to act as the parent to his developmentally delayed brother... and then falls in love.

Dil Jo Bhi Kahey (2005)
Movie: 7.75
Music: 7
This movie was shot is some very picturesque locations, making it visually appealing. The story is pretty common, although I found the Mauritius angle interesting. I don't know if the choices were intentional, but the Indian actors are much more believable than the British actors. Amitabh is definitely the star of this film, as is so often the case.

Mera Pati Sirf Mera Hai (1990)
Movie: 8
Music: 7.75
There were moments when I felt like I had slipped into an 1980s nightmare of some sort, especially during musical scenes which made liberal use of fog machines. I've read a number of reviews of films where the reviewer laments the passing of the naivete of Indian cinema of the 1990s and before, in particular its ability to be free of Western culture. What rose-colored glasses are these people wearing? Nearly every Hindi film I've seen has been of its time culturally and hasn't shunned "Western" fashion or trends. Perhaps the past decade has seemed like a fuller embrace of these things, but we're now in the age of globalism and movies will reflect that. Oh, the movie... Rekha was her usual fantastic self, of course. Jeetendra has failed to impress me, but he isn't terrible. His presence doesn't really change my opinion of a film one way or the other. While the character of Roopa is frustrating, Raadhika does an excellent job portraying her. This film is essentially about a woman who is obsessed with her own bitterness at having been married off to a man she didn't love that she has to put down everyone around her to make herself feel superior.

Milenge Milenge (2010)
Movie: 9
Music: 8.5
I did not see Serendipity; this film is based on that one. For such a predictable plot, this movie was fun. These two completely different people are brought together by destiny, but when Immi is discovered to be less than truthful, Priya decides to test destiny and the rest of the film is about if (when) these two will find each other again. I found Shahid Kapoor's attempt at being the "bad boy" Immi off-putting, but ultimately funny; it does not work well at all. He is way too pretty for that. Priya (Kareena Kapoor) is hard to follow, switching her own beliefs every 10 minutes, but it is necessary to keep the plot dramatic. Kirron Kher does a fantastic job with her tiny part as the card reader Sunita Rao, the one who predicts the meeting of the two main characters. Great music on the soundtrack. The film includes these excellent songs, but the sound quality seems off during them. I felt like an editor overcompensated for the music seeming too loud and now it is too low. I can handle that; I already have the soundtrack.

Sholay (1975)
Movie: 8.25
Music: 8
Sholay is India's biggest hit film, at least of the last century. When I start watching anything that is supposed to be the best of the best or that has won many awards, I prepare myself to not like it much. Somehow I feel compelled to see these movies because they are seen as classics, but I almost never enjoy them that much (Citizen Kane, for example). Sholay was actually excellent for its genre (action). Its a story about friendship and vengeance, and its the closest I've seen to a western from India. Excellent performances by Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, & Sanjeev Kumar.

Khatta Meetha (2010)
Movie: 8.5
Music: 9.5
I liked this movie, in spite of its flaws. It starts well enough, but quickly becomes a bit of a mess that is hard to get out of. It isn't exactly a comedy, but has its moments. It is a story about a family's greed and the plight of the only member of the family who refuses to give in to corruption, Sachin (Akshay Kumar). This performance solidified Akshay Kumar as a decent actor for me. Its the second acting role I've seen of his that I didn't have a problem with. Who was responsible for the very silly looking CGI elephant? If you don't want to use a real elephant, just don't use an elephant at all! Very energetic music.

Kambakkht Ishq (2009)
Movie: 8.75
Music: 9.5
Oh, so Akshay Kumar can act. I enjoyed these main characters, Viraj (Akshay Kumar) and Simrita (Kareena Kapoor). They contempt they have toward each other is a lot of fun to watch. This is actually my first Sylvester Stallone movie and his role is great (even if he does play himself). I was amused by two different scenes. First, the awards show scene with the audience of celebrity lookalikes. When the shots are brief, it doesn't register as much. Longer shots make it much more obvious that these aren't the real people, but lookalikes. The other really amusing part was when they run into a group of thugs, all around 40 in camouflaged outfits and each with either a British of very forced American accent. It was just awkward. I really liked Kirron Kher's role as Simrita's aunt in the movie. I was previously impressed with her performance in Karz and it seems she is extremely talented. I look forward to watching her in lead roles.

Love Aaj Kal (2009)
Movie: 9.25
Music: 9.5
This is a fun movie about love. Initially believing in their no-strings relationship, Jai (Saif Ali Khan) and Meera (Deepika Padukone) decide to split amicably before she moves to India to restore frescoes. After the breakup, Jai stays in London, and later goes to work in San Fransisco. But they can't stop thinking about each other. There is also a running storyline that takes place 20 years earlier, as a story told over time to Jai by Veer, an older friend. It is a very similar story, with the couple who has fallen in love and hopes to marry. Her family gets her engaged to someone else and Veer has to fight to win her back. In the end of this story, the two elope. This helps to make the point that while customs may change over time, love never does. Saif Ali Khan is pretty good in this movie, but at times seems to be a 40 year old trying to play a 25 year old. Deepika Padukone is adorable and sweet. She's still relatively new to Bollywood, having debuted in Om Shanti Om (2007) and is someone whose films I'll keep looking forward to.

Souten Ki Beti (1989)
Movie: 8
Music: 7
Highly dramatic. A man gets a girl pregnant and then marries another woman. The wife then convinces him to marry the mother of his daughter, giving him two wives. When the daughter grows up, she too gets pregnant before marriage. What I liked most about this film was how the situations that bring so much scorn from the outside and not really issues of concern to the family. They've accepted each other fully. The performaces of Rekha, Vijayendra Ghatge, and Dipinti are all excellent. Jayapradha seems to hold everything back for her finale scene, which is well worth the wait.

Mumbai Matinee (2005)
Movie: 8.25
Music: 7
Enjoyable film, if a little predictable. The plot doesn't ever get as silly as it easily could have. I was relived to finally see a decent gay character in a Hindi film. His role plays a little like gay characters in Hollywood 1980s movies, but that is where India is on the subject. Progress is progress. Very little music, but I liked what there was.

Billu Barber (2009)
Movie: 10
Music: 10
Absolutely one of my all-time favorite movies and the best modern Hindi movie I've seen so far. 10's seem so strong, but I still have trouble finding any fault. While some may find the songs too Western or out of place, in the context of the story they fit in just fine. Like Om Shanti Om (by the same studio), Billu was able to exploit the story of making a movie to include songs that don't apply to the main plot. It works; I even wished I could see the movie they were making within this movie. Although I could write about this film for days, I'll leave it for now.

Paras (1971)
Movie: 8.75
Music: 8
When I wish I'd been alive in 1971, this is the 1971 I wish I'd been alive in. Farida Jalal is so adorable as Bela. Just a fun movie without any pretense.

Mr. Hot Mr. Kool (2007)
Movie: 7.5
Music: 6
Fun, but I was disappointed by the small number of songs. Perfect type for having on and only giving your attention occasionally. You aren't likely to miss a lot and it's still enjoyable.

Karz - The Burden of Truth (2002)
Movie: 7.75
Music: 7.5
Suniel Shetty is always great. Ashutosh Rana is excellent. The real star of this movie though is Kirron Kher. She does a fantastic job playing a mother and rape victim. Her scene with Sunny Deol is really moving in spite of his apparent lack of acting talent. This was the first Sunny Deol performance I've seen. I'm hoping for better ones in the future. Worthwile movie, if extreme in its drama.

Mother India (1957)
Movie: 10
Music: 9.5
Nargis blew me away. She created such a compelling character that I found it difficult to not fix my eyes on her when she was on the screen. This is one of the most perfect movies I've seen. I loved every beautiful moment. Every character was brilliantly cast. Aside from Nargis, I can't quite single any one actor out. They are all so amazing that I wished there could have been another hour to spend with them. If it wasn't enough to be well acted and stunningly filmed, this movie also has great music. Add this to your must-see lists now. NOW.

Lucky - No Time for Love (2005)
Movie: 9
Music: 8.25
Tons of points for being visually interesting. There are some really amazing shots; the funeral scene is particularly lovely and sad. The lead actors work well together, in spite of the 22 age difference. At least Salman Khan has a youthful face to not let you think on it too much. The music isn't overly produced, which works well in this tense storyline.

Mr. Natwarlal (1979)
Movie: 8.5
Music: 5.75
What is it about the pairing of Rekha and Amitabh Bachchan that makes him need to wrestle a tiger? This is the second of their movies I've seen, and the second time he's gone at it with a tiger. Does it mean something? This is a well done movie and I enjoyed it - I just don't always like rooting for an anithero. The music was fine, but not terribly memorable.

Ghar Grihasti (2004)
Movie: 6
Music: 5
Tragedy after tragedy. It was almost too much and then comes the most heinous scene of all. The main character, Janki, stays strong and handles the burden of a difficult life well, making it easy to like her. Throughout the movie, the antics of Janki's coworkers allow for some decompression. Akshay Kumar makes a special appearance in my favorite performance of his so far. He plays himself.

Kaash Hamara Dil Pagal Na Hota (2003)
Movie: 5.75
Music: 4
The love story of 5 unfortunate looking young women and 5 developmentally challenged young men. Technically, that isn't what this movie is about, but that is how it plays. At least a couple of the guys are attractive or this would have been a total loss.

Koi... Mil Gaya (2003)
Movie: 9.25
Music: 8.5
This deserves all the attention it received. As the Hindi version of E.T., there was danger of this coming across as silly and childish. But this is really well done. Rekha is beautiful and so warm in this role. Preity Zinta & Hrithik Roshan are great as well (Hrithik overdoes it a bit here and there). A few songs are fun and memorable.

Umrao Jaan (1981)
Movie: 8.25
Music: 8.75
I'm a huge Rekha fan, so I was excited to see this film. She delivers an excellent performance. My copy had some quality issues, so I may have judged the film itself on those problems a little. As was true of the 2006 remake (which I preferred), the music is the highlight of the film.

Mitter Pyare Nu Haal Mureedan Da Kehna (2004)
Movie: 7.75
Music: 8
This film tells the story of one family during the Partition of India and in the decades following. The individual pieces are very interesting and often hard to watch (when the subject matter is grim). But I felt like there was too much going on here. I'd have preferred to keep the focus on the Partition and its immediate aftermath.

Agar Tum Na Hote (1983)
Movie: 8.75
Music: 6.5
Rekha is awesome. I can't say it enough. I enjoyed this movie a lot. Its a bit of a overcoming tragedy feel good type of movie that has been beaten to death in Hollywood. This doesn't really feel like that though.

Bachke Rehna Re Baba (2005)
Movie: 8.5
Music: 8.25
Con-artists aunt and niece run into a snag and take their game to Mauritius. Fairly typical con comedy (except the protagonists are women). I thought it was a lot of fun. With such a beautiful setting, I hoped for more beautiful music. It was nice, but I wanted better. Oh, and Rekha.

Muthu Maharaja (1995)
Movie: 6.5
Music: 6
Rajinikanth is a big deal in Tamil cinema. I suppose that gave him license to act like a crazy person. It was a little lost on me and I found him really annoying. I did find it hard not to be amused by some of his eccentricities. This was my first Tamil movie (mine was dubbed into Hindi) and I found its style to be a little strange. Still, the story was okay.

Suno Sasurjee (2004)
Movie: 6.75
Music: 5
I was lured in by having seen previews for this movie on nearly all of my previous Bollywood DVDs. It was a bit of a letdown. A few humorous moments save it though. There is still only one song I liked... the one from the previews.

Khoon Pasina (1977)
Movie: 8
Music: 7.5
This is a fun action movie. I love stories that take place in villages like this one. It has a freer spirit than one bogged down by urbanity. Amitabh is pretty good here, playing the rebel he seems to play well. Rekha quips and flits about, clearly defining herself as different from the typical shy and subservient Indian girl. Each of these great talents has made better movies, but this one is pretty fun to watch anyway.

Shaadi No. 1 (2005)
Movie: 7.5
Music: 8
I'm not entirely sure how to feel about a movie that glorifies infidelity. Okay, it attempts to change tacks, but that feels like a response to being caught. While this movie lost points for that and for Sanjay Dutt's abrasive performance, I still thought is was fun. The music was above average, with a few songs that get stuck in my head occasionally.

Run (2004)
Movie: 7.75
Music: 8
This was okay. It got a lot of points for Abhishek Bachchan being in it. The story is rather pedestrian. Still, Bachchan gives a solid performance. The songs were just okay. I’d like to see the Tamil original starring Madhaven.

Chocolate (2005)
Movie: 8
Music: 8.25
I knew something was wrong from the beginning, but I did not have it figured out like I so often do with Hollywood mysteries. And yes, I thought I did. Suniel Shetty is good as always, as is Irrfan. Surprisingly good music.

Om Shanti Om (2007)
Movie: 9.75
Music: 9.25
I didn't know exactly what to expect from this film it was a nice surprise. The story is compelling and I instantly fell in love with Shahrukh Khan, who I'd previously decided I wouldn't like. The sets are great, the cast nearly perfect, and the songs are some of my favorite Bollywood songs so far. I’m not really sure if the end tied everything up, but it was fine by me. Even if you aren't terribly interested in Bollywood, this is well worth it for the songs... and no, just listening to the soundtrack isn't the same.

Aladin (2009)
Movie: 9.5
Music: 9
Most of the film is interesting, but I felt like the storyline was a bit hard to follow. I couldn’t tell which story the director really wanted to tell. Obviously, giving Amitabh more face-time was important, but trying to make a full story out of him as Genius while trying to follow the more familiar Aladin & Jasmine story made for an overstuffed film. Perhaps ‘Genius’ would have made a nice companion movie or prequel and given each story the time it deserved. Still, I felt like it was a fantastic film with plenty of catchy music.

Home Delivery (2005)
Movie: 9
Music: 8.75
I was fully expected a silly comedy, but this one turned out to be a more emotional story about where home is. Vivek Oberoi is fantastic, but the true star of this film is Boman Irani. I really appreciated the cameos of Abhishek Bachchan & Suniel Shetty, even if they were extremely brief.

Baharon Ke Sapne (1967)
Movie: 9.25
Music: 8.5
This is excellent! I was particularly impressed with Rajesh Khanna’s performace. The one bizarre part was that a single song in the middle of the movie was colorized (I assume this was original).

Namastey London (2007)
Movie: 7.75
Music: 7
Weirdly, this was loaned to me seemingly because the owner did not like it. I thought it was decent, but really didn’t care much for any of the characters who all seem either spineless or disrespectful of one another. I still was interested to find out how it ended, which says something. Can Akshay Kumar act? Soundtrack was boring to me.

Sunday (2008)
Movie: 8.25
Music: 8.5
I feel like I’d seen this one before… as an American movie, but I can’t place it. I really enjoyed this movie. I thought Ajay Devgan was a lot of fun. While the dialogue didn’t get overly silly mostly, the character who squeaked and made odd sounds rather than speaking was a bit too much, as were the random silly sound effects. I really enjoyed the music.

Ramji Londonwaley (2005)
Movie: 8.75
Music: 4
This story is so well executed. R. Madhaven delivers an incredibly honest and warm performance of a man from a small village marooned in London. This is the first movie I’ve seen of his and I’m quite impressed. While the music seemed to fit the film for the most part, I don't think any of it works alone.

Hota Hai Dil Pyaar Mein Paagal (2006)
Movie: 2.75
Music: 3
I’d have forgiven this movie its terribly boring soundtrack for an interesting storyline. I don’t know who caused this to fail, but the best part of the movie was when I finally hit eject as the credits started. Maybe I was in a bad mood?

C Kkompany (2008)
Movie: 9
Music: 8
As silly comedies go, this is fantastic! Tusshar Kapoor & Rajpal Yadav continue to be excellent. Fun, fun, fun! This story felt really new, even though it was pretty recycled. There are a few amazing songs on the soundtrack… although, there are a couple of duds as well.

Mughal-E-Azam (1960)
Movie: 10
Music: 8.5
Perfect. Every scene is excellent. The message is from a different time and culture, but that is easy to get past. Madhubala’s performace was so good, I failed to recognize her from ‘Mr. & Mrs. 55.’ Everyone should see this amazing movie. Initially, I didn’t like that it was colorized, but I loved it too much to care about that. The music is great and fits into the film flawlessly. Most definitely one of my all time favorite films!

Speed (2007)
Movie: 8.75
Music: 8
I almost feel bad for liking this movie. It is almost exactly the same movie as the Hollywood film “Cellular.” I liked it better though. I really liked the actress who played the Indian Prime Minister. Pretty good soundtrack as well.

Dahek: a Restless Mind (2007)
Movie: 8
Music: 5.5
Well done movie about some unfortunate people. The police officer in this movie really bothered me with his brutality, which is held up as almost honorable. Reflecting on the movie makes me more sad than the movie did at the time. The songs were fine, I guess.

Ek Aur Ek Gyarah (2003)
Movie: 7
Music: 6
I’m tired of Govinda. This was kinda cute, but I’m tired of Govinda. For having such a small role, Rajpal Yadav delivers a memorable performace again… but I’m tired of Govinda. The music here was fairly lame. Did I mention that I’m tired of Govinda?

Chota Jadugar (2003)
Movie: 7.25
Music: 4
This movie had a promising start, but as it was originally a 3D movie, the director spent far too much time focusing on interesting 3D elements and not enough on keeping the story interesting. And why was there no option to watch it in 3D on DVD? Songs are boring.

Mr. White Mr. Black (2008)
Movie: 8.75
Music: 8.5
I thought I’d hate this, but I can’t hate Suniel Shetty movies aparently! He’s amazing again… and has a prop once again, this time a staff. He plays this role so well that Suniel melted away and it was only during songs that I even realized it was him again. Fun music!

Asambhav (2004)
Movie: 8.5
Music: 8.5
Asambhav [2004] ::8.5:: I can’t really remember Arjun Rampal's acting as much as I remember him being pretty. Well-paced action movie with excellent songs.

Yeh Tera Ghar Yeh Mera Ghar (2001)
Movie: 8.5
Music: 7
Suniel Shetty is so much fun to watch. I really cannot get enough of him. I love that he always has his umbrella with him like a security blanket, which makes for a great moment near the end. The music is pretty good, but not worth seeking out by itself. Supporting cast is a lot of fun.

Mr. and Mrs. 55 (1955)
Movie: 8.5
Music: 8.5
I loved this fun movie. The feminist aunt antagonist is so funny to me! I’d have thought this was worth buying if only the song “Thandi Hawa Kali Ghata” had played. The young ladies dancing and singing with their umbrellas made for a surreal experience to watch.

Being Cyrus (2006)
Movie: 8.25
Music: NA
Saif Ali Khan is excellent. This was such a nicely done movie, if a little gritty… which is a content issue. Well executed! Not a musical, so no songs to mention.

Sandwich (2006)
Movie: 7
Music: 5
Silly silliness. Govinda plays a man with two separate wives and kids. While this was semi-enjoyable, Govinda gets to me a little bit. Soundtrack is unmemorable.

Jai Jagannath (2007)
Movie: 8
Music: 8.5
Mythology film. Sarat Pujari seems to be genuinely enjoying himself in this one. A tad too silly, but otherwise nice. I wasn’t familiar with the stories so it was nice to learn something. I really liked the soundtrack, but can’t seem to find it.

Kudiyon Ka Hai Zamaana (2006)
Movie: 8.5
Music: 9
I wasn’t offended by the blatant boob shot that seemed to cause some sort of stir. My first Rekha movie. She was amazing! While I loved the music to begin with, it has grown on my past that and I can’t seem to stop listening to this soundtrack. The highlight for me was when Rekha sings Din Dhal Jaaye. Great movie.

Gunnah ('Crimes') (2002)
Movie: 8.5
Music: 9
These leads sure are pretty to look at. I liked this movie about a female cop and a male fugitive falling for each other quite a bit, but I do recognize that it was a bit of a guilty pleasure. The overly dramatic characters amuse me a bit.

Ladies Tailor (2006)
Movie: 3.5
Music: 6
This weird little movie was saved by casting Rajpal Yadav in the lead. Aside from him, nothing pleasurable happened here. Okay, the music was... fine.

Bas Yun Hi (2002)
Movie: 5.5
Music: 5
A little slow. The story is interesting though. Feels like a daytime drama. Good effort, but the songs aren’t very good.

I – Proud to Be an Indian (2004)
Movie: 8
Music: 5
‘I’ is a fascinating story of racism in London. The cast really does a nice job in this film. The songs are mediocre, but a more elaborate and choreographed soundtrack would have felt out of place.

Pyare Mohan (2006)
Movie: 9.5
Music: 9.5
I loved this movie more than I should have probably, but I had a good time from beginning to end. The soundtrack was great. Introduced to Vivek Oberoi, who was fun without being overly silly. Similar stories have certainly been done before, but to me it felt brand new.

Chalo Ishq Ladaaye (2002)
Movie: 6.5
Music: 4.5
Overly silly. Watch if for the grandma. I loved her. Soundtrack no good.

Drona (2008)
Movie: 8.5
Music: 8.5
Fantasy/mythology story. The villain is awesome. Abhishek comes across as a 35 year old first year Harry Potter, which is a little weird. Fortunately, that part of the movie is fairly brief and he gets better. Nice soundtrack.

One Two Three (2008)
Movie: 8.75
Music: 9.5
I wanted to like this less. I tried to like it less. I had a lot of fun watching it though and it never became dull for me. Suniel Shetty is hilarious! Introduced to Tusshar Kapoor… yes, please… more! I love the soundtrack.

Aapko Pehle Bhi Kahin Dekha Hai (2003)
Movie: 8
Music: 5
Cute movie. Om Puri is fantastic. Okay music. Didn’t stick with me much.

Umrao Jaan (2006)
Movie: 9.5
Music: 9.5
Everything about this was wonderful. The sets and cast are perfect. I’d already fallen in love with Abhishek and Aishwarya, then I was introduced to Suniel Shetty. Worth watching just for the songs.

Kuch Naa Kaho (2003)
Movie: 9.5
Music: 9.5
This is the one that started it all. I loved this movie instantly. The songs are fun and Abhishek Bachchan has great chemistry with Aishwarya Rai. Because of this movie, I've fallen for Hindi cinema.

Shakti (1982)
Movie: 7
Music: 2
I judged this one rather harshly at first. The first Bollywood film I watched, I’d have enjoyed it more if I’d taken an intermission and let my mind wrap around it. Still, with the stereotypes in my head, not having dance numbers was a letdown. Someday, I might give this another go when I am able to appreciate it it for what it is.