Zamaana Deewana

I enjoyed this movie along with the cast. It had the right amount of comedy, action and romance. It does contain the "old school" type of aspects to the story but I find it fun to watch now since they rarely make movies like this anymore and I grew up watching them! Shah Rukh and Raveena had good chemistry, the songs were pleasant and the action scenes were plenty. I recommend this movie especially if you are a SRK fan or a old fan of Jitu and Shotgun respectively. Anupam Kher is also very funny in this movie. This movie revolves around the 2 stars Shatrughan Sighna and Jitendra being rivals who were once like brothers. The story unfolds to tell us what went on between them. Shah Rukh and Raveena play the children of each of them who are made to fall in love with one another in order to patch up the differences. At least that is the goal that Anupam shoots for and whether he succeeds or fails is the big question! It is a fun watch. Well acted.

If only you can get past the farcical first half hour then you can enjoy the film!! It's a sporadically smart film, a bit advance for the times it was made.

Judging by the ratings and having heard the opinions of many people, 'Zamaana Deewana' seems to be one of Shahrukh and Raveena's most disliked films. I wonder why because for me it's total entertainment. Why would anyone expect a movie with such a title to be anything else? Not only does it stay true to its title, it brings together all the Bollywood clichés and molds into a fun movie. It doesn't take itself too seriously and that's where it scores.

Speaking of clichés, you'll pretty much see everything to be witnessed in a pre-2000s typical Bollywood film and that's why 'Zamaana Deewana' in a way works as a spoof. Here are some examples: The ongoing feud between the two families caused by a misunderstanding which is followed by parents disapproving their kids relationship, the guy running away with the girl, the over the top action sequences (Shahrukh on his motorbike fighting the goons), 'dishum dishum', the unsuitable boyfriend who drinks, gambles and visits prostitutes, the helpless mom, the evil maternal uncle etc etc. What's notable is that all the sequences are presented with humour. The entire first two hours are hilarious.

The songs (and entire soundtrack) deserves special mention. The soundtrack pretty much has all kinds of songs present in a typical Bollywood film and they are filmed quite well. There's a title song, a semi-item number (those weren't so big then), a dream sequence, a parody number, a song in the rain, a song in a car, a song with two desperate lovers, a gypsy song where the two lovers finally realize their love for each other. One particular song 'Soch Liya Maine' is executed that way with several dream sequences that include themes like lovers singing in the snow, in the rain, in the car and even in a tropical jungle. 'Neend Kise Chain Kahan' is one of the most sensual looking songs. The songs themselves are quite pleasant to the ears.

'Zamaana Deewana' isn't entirely spoofy. There are some genuine humour like Anupam Kher as the common love interest of the fathers, some very funny one-liners and the moments between Shahrukh and Raveena. It very much works as a multi-genre film as, in addition to the comedy, it's got romance, action, suspense and lots of spice. The last hour could have used more humour as it becomes a tad too dramatic (still using the clichés).

Shahrukh Khan and Raveena Tandon totally rock as a pair. Tandon's already well recognized for her comedic abilities and I wish Shahrukh was offered more comedy movies as the actor clearly shows a knack. They are sizzling on screen. Also Raveena's Priya is not the typical Bollywood lover-girl bimbo. She's quite headstrong and smart. Unfortunately, she and Khan have never done a movie since. Anupam Kher is at his funniest and kudos to him for the dance number where he's seducing Shatrughan Sinha and Jeetendra. Jeetendra and Shatrughan Sinha do a good job as the typical disapproving parents who hate each other's guts. The scenes where they cuss at each other is another LOL moment. Tinnu Anand and Asif Sheikh are alright as the caricature villains.

So, for me the only flaw is that the last hour is a tad too dramatic and could have used more comedic balance but otherwise this is a typical Bollywood film. I have revisited it after 10 years and still managed to laugh throughout most of the three hours. Why take this film seriously if it doesn't take itself that way?

Other reviewers provide in depth summary and analysis, and I think they do far better than I can. Another reviewer noted if you can get past first 30 mins, this movie is entertaining. I agree. Anupam Kher, Kiran Juneja, Shatrughan Sinha and Ravi Kapoorb were very good in their various roles. Shah Rukh Khan and Raveena Tandon slayed this film. Their challenging relationship made for a lively build into a very steamy romance. Both actors used their facial expressions and eyes to communicate without words. It seems impossible to doubt their love for each other as the film progressed. Having watched more of Shah Rukh's later films, I was prepared to be unimpressed by this pairing. And was I ever wrong. Better editing, cutting some of the early scenes and the one in the hospital would have netted a higher rating from me. Final analysis: I am glad I decided to watch this - kept me very entertained on a rainy Saturday.

There is not such thing as would be loved by everyone. Some might not love this movie but I did. Watch this movie with less expectation and I guarantee it will give you the feeling of watching something good. But if yiu are not fan of RH and Ravena , it would be better to stay away. Highly recommended, otherwise. It's a good film because it stirs some feelings of love, not only love but also friendship.