Saw the film “Mere Baap Pehle Aap” last week. The theatres had quite a crowd probably because this was the only film at the time that was fit for the entire family. Hope the cine goers were of the same opinion when they left the theatres as well….what with some of the dialogues and scenes drawing curious glances from kids.
Being an ardent Priyadarshan fan and impressed by his past comedy films I had very high expectations. However, the film failed to impress. The comedy of the film is definitely not of the usual Priyadarshan standard. Probably in trying to remake from Malayalam he has lost touch with his audience. A lack of focus and understanding of the pulse of the audience is evident.
Actors like Om Puri and Shobana – known for their superior and versatile acting skills – have been totally wasted in the film. Paresh Rawal has done justice to his role. Akshaye Khanna is ok so to say…but there is a certain degree of overacting in scenes where he tries to be dad to his Father. Archana Puran Singh as “Bhavani” fails to add the desired comic effect. Genelia Dsouza is a whiff of fresh air and going by her performance “Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na” is sure one to look forward to.
The music too failed to have any effect and poor direction like this is not one that is expected from the likes of Priyadarshan. Guess its time he shifts from remakes to making films for the Hindi speaking audience and pays attention to the specific preferences, language and culture differences. Hope this is just a passing phase and his next “Billoo Barber” with none other than the King Khan – Shahrukh Khan – would be in line with his earlier good releases.
Vandana
Go Bollywood
