mnalgirkar

What an amazing movie this is. The lead characters -- Amir, Hassan, Baba, Rahim Khan, and others -- are such decent and honorable people, although not without their flaws of course.

The pride, honor and righteousness of the Afghan people has been part of the lore in classic cinema from India too, where I grew up. The 1961 classic Kabuliwala based on Tagore's novel comes to mind -- Balraj Sahani as the Afghan Pathan is simply superb in that movie.

Coming back to The Kite Runner, it is sad to see the transformation from a vibrant, happy Afghanistan to the latter (current?) day devastation. The film-maker has done a great job of depicting that stark contrast very effectively. This hopeful story from Afghanistan provides a welcome characterization of Afghanistan, the Afghan people and culture. Must-see cinema from Marc Fortster and his team!

This is such a sensitive portrayal of a simple story from simpler times. The rural India, the characters, and the plot depicted in this movie might now seem to be from a totally different era; however, it is easy to relate to the human drama unfolding in this movie in the context of the value system of the time.

Jitendra is restrained but dignified in his portrayal of the doctor who is one of the two central characters in this movie. Hema Malini is simply superb as Kusum; watch this movie to see what a fine actress she was even relatively early in her career, but you can also understand her "Dream Girl" status in Hindi cinema.

Master Raju is hands-down the best child actor in Hindi cinema in my opinion, and you cannot help but be charmed by his role in this film. Fareeda Jalal is probably one of the most underrated actresses of Indian cinema, and together with Hema Malini, she simply shines in this movie. Asrani has a relatively small role, but as always, what would Hindi cinema of the 70's be without the rich supporting character roles played by this superb actor?

Throw the musical geniuses of R.D. Burman, Lata, and Kishore in the mix to render the beautiful poetry of Gulzar, and you end up with a complete masterpiece!

Growing up in the 70's and having thoroughly enjoyed Hindi (not yet Bollywood) movies from that decade, I was intrigued when I read reviews about the 70's references in this movie. I wasn't disappointed. The first half of the movie uses some interesting special effects, characterization of stars from that era, and also some very subtle references to stars and film-makers to depict that decade. The cameos of prominent stars throughout the movie adds to the fun factor of the movie.

The movie offers light-hearted entertainment, several enjoyable songs, and some good performances; especially from Shahrukh Khan and the débutante Deepika. Although the movie plot and several key segments are something you have seen before in other movies, OSO's format is irreverent, goofy and enjoyable. Watch this movie for nostalgia, and an overall good time!