SPOILER ALERT!!


Watch Fanaa for Aamir, Kajol!

** I would for Kajol ofcourse!

Sukanya Verma | May 26, 2006 19:01 IST


When the choice of notes falls just right, neither an octave higher nor a rung lower is what we call a perfect composition. The slightest bungling in these notes could have a discordant impact on the creation.

Fanaa works largely because it gets its notes correct on celluloid.

Combination of gifted but diverse actors; right from the lead to the supporting roles is impeccable. If it weren't for the casting, the story would, in all likelihood, go haywire.



Considering it spans almost a decade and gets predictable with its melodramatic content that runs a lengthy 18 reels, Fanaa, despite its palpable flaws, is engaging and entertaining.

Director Kunal Kohli has so far dealt only with romance. Be it the mushy triangle, Mujhse Dosti Karoge or the Mars vs Venus tiff, Hum Tum. Fanaa, too, explores another facet of love; only it is more serious and dramatic in nature.

Though all his films, under the Yashraj Films banner, have been a star spangled affair, Fanaa featuring Aamir Khan and Kajol is inarguably colossal. The pressure of these expectations shows in the beginning as Kohli labours to establish passionate sparks between his hero and heroine. But as the story advances and his characters find their own bearings, Kohli's confidence settles in its skin.

The underlining patriotism reveals itself right at the onset as Zooni Ali Beg (Kajol) in her dewy-eyed enthusiasm salutes the Indian flag albeit facing the opposite direction. Her mother (Kirron Kher) nudges her to veer slightly and it is delicately suggested that Zooni is blind. The Kashmiri mother-daughter duo shares a demonstrative relationship and a common love for poetry, including Kabhi Kabhi Mere Dil Mein. Zooni's father Zulfikar (Rishi Kapoor) is the protective daddy on surface but a softie at heart.

After seeking her doting parents permission, Zooni sets out of the sheltered confines of her home to discover the real world as a part of her college dance troupe. The troupe includes a fussy head (Lilette Dubey) and her shielding buddies Fatty (a vivacity personified Shruti Seth) and Bobo (an endearing Sanaya Irani), is putting up a Republic-Day concert in Delhi. There they meet tour guide Rehaan (Aamir Khan) who volunteers to show them around. Brash and flirtatious, Rehaan comes on strongly to Zooni, who responds with equal fervour.

Both Rehaan and Zooni have a stereotypically, jazzed up introductory scene in the film. And their first encounter together, too, is picturised in a glitzy manner with heavyweight poetry flowing as repartees and quips. He brazenly makes digs about her handicap, she gleefully ignores it. He makes passes on her gal pals, she indulgently chuckles.

A wooing session, that gives you a complete Old Delhi darshan, wraps up with Zooni head over heels in love with Rehaan. A little resistance and rain song later, Rehaan also gives in. Though by now, it is suggested that some stinky skeleton lurks in Rehaan's past.

The lovebirds inform Zooni's folks and gear up for a wedding. Though not before Zooni gets a quick retinal transplant and Rehaan's true identity is loosely revealed. What happens next? I suggest you watch Fanaa to find out.

With its innumerable twists and unfolding drama, even if foreseeable, Fanaa keeps you hooked on the sheer conviction and chemistry of its actors. Without overplaying the implausibility of their circumstances, Aamir Khan and Kajol play it real, lending credibility to the going-on. They share a dynamic equation, which makes their inability to let go of each other, believable and heart-felt. Fanaa would be empty without Aamir and Kajol's joint passion.

Kajol looks ethereal. The actress who is seen after a five-year break swaps her bouncy vivacity for sensual grace and assertive intensity. In her earlier films, Kajol's body language has always appeared impatient. As Zooni she maybe subdued but applies the ardent nature of her emotions effectively. There are times when she lifts an entire scene to new levels, single-handedly and you cannot help but sit in awe. But then Aamir Khan is not an easy actor to overshadow. Not to be relegated to the background, he bounces with meticulous restrain and touching emotionality.

Rehaan is not a character as well written as Zooni. The difficulty of his choices and the mystery of his conditioning are never broached on. Therefore the viewer thinks him confused, never really getting the subtext. The third star of this enterprise Tabu plays a no-nonsense anti-terrorist bureau agent with élan. It is a brief role but she is compelling.

One cannot help but fault Fanaa's ill-defined patriotism. Take the case of a few other films of this genre. While Roja succeeds in representing the Kashmir crisis and Dil Se's projection of terrorism is more detailed, Fanaa uses it as ploy but never articulates its impact or urgency. Another con is: when Lara Dutta and Shiney Ahuja's name is mentioned in the opening credits you accept an interesting cameo. The actors, however, are simply wasted in blink-and-you'll-miss cameos to utter meaningless lines.

In contrast, Rishi Kapoor gets to play a role that suits him to the T. A romantic who enjoys his occasional drinks, Kapoor spews philosophy with his classic candour. And whilst he does that, you can't help but smile at a photoshoped picture of a young RK and dainty Kirron Kher (animated but not boisterous), sitting pretty on the bureau.

Cinematographer Ravi K Chandran's gives Delhi and Poland (passed off as Kashmir) a magnificent aura. The approach he takes to shoot a particularly thrilling chase sequence involving parasailing and skiing is terrific. The grand finale concerning a face off at gunpoint reels a cinematic high. And is somewhat reminiscent of the memorable climax in Ramesh Sippy's Shakti.

Go see it for yourself!

Rediff Rating:


***/*****

SPOILER ???


By Taran Adarsh, May 26, 2006 - 16:55 IST

The industry has been thirsting for a good film that works at the box-office as well. With a majority of Hindi films sinking faster than Titanic, all hopes are pinned on the first big release this summer: FANAA. Quite naturally, the expectations are humungous and there're two vital reasons for it: Yash Raj and the principal star cast.

A Yash Raj film is special. The illustrious banner has cemented its position as the Numero Uno production house by churning out memorable films and successfully transporting us to a world of make-believe in those three hours, over the years. And if the avant-garde production house teams Aamir Khan and Kajol -- two of the finest talents of Indian cinema -- together for the first time, you expect nothing short of a landmark film.

Now to the question every avid moviegoer is curious to ask: Does FANAA work? Does this much-hyped film live up to the colossal expectations? Is it worth the price of the ticket?

FANAA is one of the finest products to come out of Yash Raj. In fact, it wouldn't be erroneous to state that it's one of the most accomplished products to hit the Indian screens in a long, long time. The film works on every level: script, music, visuals, technique and yes, the performances.

It would be gross injustice if one overlooks the contribution from the captain of the ship: Kunal Kohli. While Kohli showed a meteoric rise as a teller of tales in HUM TUM, he establishes himself as a master storyteller with FANAA. Kohli catches you by your finger, introduces you to Rehan and Zooni, makes you peep into their lives and also the varied emotions they experience -- from joy, elation, euphoria and contentment to grief, distress, sorrow and anguish. And at the end of the day, the proficient craftsman narrates a story that leaves you with a tear in your eye and a smile on your face.

In short, FANAA is not just worth the price of the ticket, but also the price of the samosas, popcorn, sandwiches and soft drinks that you stock up in your lap while watching the film. In short, FANAA is an experience to cherish!

Choices... to choose between right or wrong is simple, but what defines one's life is the decision between the greater of two goods or the lesser of two evils. This is the advice that Zooni [Kajol], a blind Kashmiri girl, receives from her father [Rishi Kapoor] just as she is about to venture into the world on her own for the very first time. Little does she know that these very words will shape her life.

Zooni meets Rehan [Aamir Khan], a local tour guide and an incorrigible flirt, who goes from city to city exploring their architecture as also the women. Her friends warn her against this good-for-nothing roadside Romeo, but she chooses to ignore them. She is not the one to be protected. It is now her time to discover life and love.

Rehan is fascinated by Zooni. He truly wants her to see life as it should be seen, in its many colors -- and he promises her, the time spent with him will be the most precious in all her life. Zooni sees Delhi, life and love like she never has before, because of Rehan.

What Zooni doesn't know is that there's more to Rehan, the other dark side of his life that he has kept away from her… something that cannot only change her life, but also destroy it.

Originality is a prized commodity because there is so little of it in Bollywood these days. Of late, critics [and non-critics, for that matter] are fond of complaining about how cineplexes are populated by motion pictures that follow safe, formula-derived patterns, designed to please audiences who want a different version of a story they have already seen dozens of times. While there's some truth to the maxim that 'There's nothing new under the sun,' FANAA is an exception.

The initial portions of FANAA may give an impression that it's one of those archetypal Hindi films that follow the similar route of boy meets girl, romance blossoms, song-n-dance routine…, but there's more to it as it unfolds. The terrorism aspect, the emotional moments in the post-interval portions and the climax specifically hits you like a thunderbolt. FANAA is powerful and disturbing stuff. It is not for those who strongly believe in fairy tale endings. While hearts and flowers are great for a fantasy, this is the kind of expression of emotion that touches a deeper chord.

Any blemishes? The length and the pacing. Most of the times, three hour movies have a few flat spots and FANAA is no exception. The film tends to get very lengthy and also, the narrative tends to get very slow towards the second half. Slight trimming would help tremendously.

The writing [screenplay: Shibani Bathija] pushes the envelope, taking us in new and unexpected directions. Every time you thought you recognized where the story was headed, the movie surprises you. Cinematically speaking, this is a well-balanced, multi-course meal. Dialogues [Kunal Kohli] are excellent, specially the shayari throughout the movie. FANAA is gorgeously composed and photographed by cinematographer Ravi K. Chandran. The locales of New Delhi and Poland enhance the visual impact.

Music [Jatin-Lalit] is pleasing to the ears. 'Chand Sifarish' and 'Mere Haath Mein' are two melodious gems. 'Chanda Chamke' [the tongue twister] appeals because it comes at a time when you yearn for some relief. The action scenes [George Aguilar ], in minimal doses, are kinetic and exciting. Background score [Salim-Sulaiman] is topnotch. The sound quality [Dileep Subramaniam] is excellent. Visual effects [Tata Elxsi] could've been better, especially the blasts of the helicopters.

The acting is of the highest caliber. In fact, most performances in the enterprise are perfect -- no hints of artifice or fakery. Yet, there's little doubt that one of the assets of the film is the chemistry between the lead pair. For Aamir, FANAA is another opportunity to broaden his range. He successfully buries his personality beneath Rehan's, allowing the character to come to the fore. The ferocity with which Aamir delivers his lines and the restless energy he imparts to his character, electrifies every scene that he's in.

It's an altogether different experience watching Kajol after a hiatus. It is her complex work, depicting a woman torn by love for and fear of the same man, that elevates the film to a higher level. Without doubt, FANAA ranks amongst her strongest works. Her performance only makes you realize why she's still the best in the business. Moreover, she looks gorgeous all through!

Rishi Kapoor is efficient. Kiron Kher is lovable. Tabu gets limited footage; she's just okay. Shiny Ahuja is wasted in an inconsequential role. Ditto for Lara Dutta, who is there for just one scene. Shruti Seth is excellent as Kajol's friend. Satish Shah, Sharat Saxena, Lilette Dubey, Jaspal Bhatti and Vrajesh Hirjee are effective. The child artist is fantastic.

On the whole, FANAA is a beautifully written, effectively acted and meticulously crafted effort that is likely to remind many viewers of a simple axiom: A movie doesn't have to be groundbreaking to be compelling. At the box-office, the film has already embarked on a record-breaking start and thanks to [i] the massive print count, [ii] the 12-14-16 shows being performed at movieplexes every single day and [iii] the inflated ticket rates will yield rich dividends in days to come. The first weekend business will be historic, the first week billing will be unprecedented and in the wake of no major oppositions for the next two weeks, FANAA will attain the 'Hit' status in a matter of days. In short, FANAA is yet another landmark film in the remarkable and enviable repertoire of Yash Raj.

Well, good or bad, Fanaa seems to be on its way to recover its costs in the first few days of its release before audience reaction spreads.

not bad, just don’t expect anything realistic or original. it has a fairly filmy plot, and the light first half doesn’t really gel w/ the serious second half, but is still worth a watch imo for 1 - aamir’s performance in the second half and 2 - ravi k chandran’s excellent camera work

not to mention, some of the music worked really well in the film

btw, the kabul express promo looked really interesting, cld be a film to look out for

Here are my thoughts (applicable only if DD theatre, not Albion-Woodside and AMCs that don't have DD)after watching Fanaa screening in an A1 DD-THX theatre:

1) Started with Krishh promo about 70 Sec. Wow, what a sound (thundorous bass), and effects. 2nd to none, even Hollywood flicks. Paisa Vasool even before the main feature starts.

2) Then came "Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna" promo, nothing exciting. And later at interval, they showed Kabul Express promos (looks good).

3) My eyes stayed glued to the screen and ears alert during the first half as all of it was filmed where I grew up (Delhi) and seeing it after decades. Can't recall any other film filmed in Delhi locales to this extent.
Deserves Entertainment Tax Exemption in Delhi for promoting Delhi Tourism.

4) Shairy dialogs worked real well.

5) Didn't find any boring segments despite story plot stagnated for more than 2 hrs at same situation as in the beginning.

6) Excellent DD sound, including distinct rear speaker activity. (But, Krishh audio was much more aggressive bass and surround. (But, don't expect this good in non-DD theatres).

7) Mass hysteria about this film was the casting coupe Amir - Kajol pairing, but in my opinion, a younger pairing would have been better. Lead actors' excellent performances more than makes up for the older looks, though. (recall Dilip Kumar in his later films like Gopi, Bairaag etc or Raj Kapoor in Diwana, Around the World etc)

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Theatre was not 100% full but full by local standards (Matinee show more than 50% full with audiences sitting all the way to front rows). With this type of attendance and promotions, there is no excuse not to show this film in proper theatres. Front Speakers only sound (AMCs and non DD theatres in Toronto Montreal) should not be acceptable.

SPOILER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!SPOILER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
i think its a spoiler
since amir is a terrorist, is this another hindu muslim thing?
and how long is the movie?
i might go tonight to see it in a white theater, i phoned them and they are claiming its in DTS i wish it is
does kajol being blind in the movie become annoying ( celina in janashhen) or is it good(rani in black) i think it would be good but not to sure
since this movie is going to be a hit just wait for more movies with people with disabilities

The film screening I saw is aprox 172 min (aprox 175 min less 3 min promotions, no Interval break).

End credits did show DD and DTS logos. I assume, Ottawa print was Dolby Digital. If DTS print (&CD) in DTS theatre, sound will be even better.

Kajol blind or not blind is immaterial. Definitely not annoying or disruptive. It's part of the plot.

BTW, can anyone check if remember, which actress played the part of Kajol's friend "Fatty" or "Fatsy" ?? Her looks and voice resembles Preity Zinta.
Character name Fatty or Fatsy did appear in end credits but before I could read actor name, it rolled off screen.

i know one of the friends of kajol in there is in a drama i think her real name is shruti seth, she appers in the drama shararat on star plus and is the host of bollywood cutting on sahara one but i am not sure if she is one of the 2 you are asking for since i didnt see the film yet, and i dont really pay attention to her voice so i am not sure

Surprisingly, despite Kashmir/ Terrorist related plot, the film manages to be non-offending to Pak, India, Kashmiri people or even to terrorists ?? Amazing.

This movie turned out to be rather disappointing. I wonder how Aamir could even think of signing this after having done something truly offbeat and path breaking as RANG DE BASANTI. i simply have to get my hands on the script(i am that intrigued) because either he was drunk when he read it and saw a 'different' movie in his head or Kunal Kohli is a complete idiot to have ended up with the product he did.

There are gaffes aplenty in the script. Too many holes, too many coincidences, too predictable. It really could have used a half a dozen re-writes.

IMO a wasted opportunity of a terrific cast and crew. What could have been turns out to be oh god what a waste !

Watch at your peril in theatres. My recommendation is to catch it on a rented DVD and even if you miss it, you have not really missed anything!

Btw!! no one is commenting TABU's role in this film? is it like MHN

Tabu is in a minor role that of an Intelligence Officer parachuted in, to the unliking/ dismay of local male seurity chief, to foile the terrorist operation.

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"unliking/ dismay" ---- can you think of a better word ??

Watched this tonight and thought it was a very average Bollywood movie - predictable and over stretched throughout. Typically what you would expect from the YRF camp. Without Amir & Kajol this movie is missable. Tend to agree with Aarkayne when he says an opportunity missed. Highlight for me was the trailer of Kabul Express at the intermission – didn’t get any other trailers! If it helps, my 11 year old niece rated it as a ‘10/10’ movie – you can guess the target audience from that

Ali

i just came back from the 12:30 showing and it was really in DTS the sound was excellent! and the picture quality was also good, i liked the movie its a good time pass, especially the first half they could have made it short by cutting some scene of amir running from the military and that kids song, kajol acting was good, and rana fatty is shruti seth, they showed the trailors of mistress of spices, kabul express, krissh, chup chup ke, and phir hera pheri, i asked if krissh will be in dts they said they are not sure but a lot of people are asking for dts sound instead of dd, so they keep on asking to get a dts cd, and the person who gives them the indian movies said he will try to get a dts cd for each movie, i hope he does

I'm quite pissed-off right now for two main reasons:

1. I initially spent nearly an hour long writing my thoughts on Fanaa, realizing little that unmoved lengthy sign-ins, logs me automatically out of the forum, also deleting my review.

2. I am utterly surprised to say that I hate this film with a passion. It's cheap. Racist. Cliched-ridden peace of junk. Coming out from watching this film gave me a sense of mental shock, back-stabbing betrayal, and a sickening desire to vomit my brains out.

It's late, will try to discuss this film in detail later(hopefully, though, usually I lack the desire and emtion to discuss film's I loathe).