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Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na

Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na

“Woh gaana to sirf mai usi ke liye hi gaaonga. For that special someone”, says Jai (Imran) when his friends ask him what’s that song he will sing for his love. He goes dreamy eyed, chococate smiles. Typical moment for an archetypal romantic film to break into an alaap! But no! “Gaaega ki maar khayega!”, pips Aditi (Genilia). Such spontaneity, wit and humour, take Jaane Tu at a level that very few films reach.

What’s new in this film? Nothing and Everything. There is no pretence in the director’s approach. He knows what he is doing. He gives us what we have always gotten - but makes sure that the sum of parts is greater that the whole. While each department of the film excels on its own, put together, the experience is Simply Superb! Its fresh, relevant, contemporary, identifiable and an amazing movie experience..

A story of a group of friends. Two of them (the lead pair) are so close to one another, that the obvious is expected. Questioning the popular Ek ladka aur ek ladki kabhi dosst nahi ho sakte lines, the couple are sure that they are just good friends and set out to prove it. To resolve life, they decide to find one another a partner. The new partners, the following drama and the hilarious transformation of Jai from a boy to Ranjhor Ka Rathore is the plot of this must watch.

The story is simple, but the treatment is unique. Within 5 minutes of the film’s start, you are sure this is a film with its heart in the right place. The language is enough contemporary to encourage repeat viewing from the college crowd. The relationships are earthy and believable. Be it the dysfunctional family of Jai’s new girlfriend, the warmth of the mom-son relationship, an impossible brother, they are a treat to watch and give the film its depth.

Of course, it’s a fun film. The one liners are just too good. The pet names of the characters – Rats, Meow, Peachy, Pumpkin, Rotalu -will catch on the college kids: The cameos are really well placed. (Watch out for two brothers riding horses into discotechques only to eve tease and for the police inspector Waghmare and his verbal duels with Jai’s mother (Ratna Pathak Shah)). All characters are beautifully carved and utilized. My favorite is that talking portrait and his animated expressions. The camaraderie and the repertoire of the five friends is such a real take on college life. Replete with crushes, broken hearts, leg pulling, and even the Pappu-dance everyone will relate and remember his college and buddies. The chemistry of the friends reminds you of the pals of Dil Chahta hai!

The film’s music does justice to the script. Be it Rehman’s crooning at crucial moments, the cheekiness of Kabhi Kabhi Aditi , the spunk of Pappu can’t dance saala, Rehman’s numbers grow on you slowly and steadily. The camera work, editing, art direction all fall in perfect symphony to create the effect.

The performances hold your attention throughout. Perfect casting. Imran Khan sure has a bright future. Genelia lights up the screen every time she enters. All the support cast is fabulous. Special mention to Ratna Pathak Shah and Naseeruddin Shah, whose chemistry and timing is to be seen to be believed.

Everything is great. Although, the climax treads towards a bit of absurdity, it is not a reason why this filmed should be missed. Even in moments of absurdity, the genuine effort of the director to keep your smiles and laughs going, is commendable. Jaane Tu.. belongs to a class of films you will always want to watch and remember- at friends reunions, at family get-togethers, just for a small break and sometimes, just like that.

Moral of the story: Do yourself a favor, watch this one!



4 Stars!

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