Ghajini, Dark and Colorful Heartbreaker

My husband actually told me about this movie first before he made me watch 3 Idiots. He loved it so much (and he watched it without subtitles) that he watched it again and again before choosing to Google the actor and checking out Aamir Khan's other movies. Which led us to 3 Idiots and Taare Zameen Par.

I watched those two movies first, LOVED 3 Idiots so much that I watched it a few times more before I chose to watch this. Hubby offered me his copy but I really didn't like not knowing what was being said. So, I discovered the world of subtitles which paved the way for many nights lost in Hindi films.

Anyway, I do believe that whoever conceptualized the movie must have been "inspired" by Memento because, while a lot of people from different parts of the world can have the same ideas, there were a few things that were just way too similar (the amnesia, the killing spree, the quest for vengeance).

Memento is a great, dark film.

Ghajini, on the other hand is equal parts dark and colorful. And I love it (present tense, I watched it again a few days ago, will watch it again when I want to).

I love the contrast in character of the stiff Sanjay and the murderous, troubled Sanjay.

I love the generous spirit that emanated from Asin's portrayal of Kalpana.

I love all the funny moments, I love the use of diaries.

And yes, I feel bad that Jiah Khan is no more.

What's more, I love the songs. Again, present tense because I still listen to them.

Kaise Mujhe is haunting. Just plain haunting and perfect for those scenes.

Guzaarish is my favorite though, I do not need to have the lyrics translated to feel the wish, the request, the longing, the hanging question in the song.

Definitely  worth watching!

Tanu Weds Manu and Tanu Weds Manu Returns

I watched the first movie maybe two years ago, because I loved Kangana Ranaut and R. Madhavan.

I did not like the first movie much though. The acting was great but I did not like the story much. I felt Manu deserved better. Still, Kangana did wonderfully portray a woman confused about what it means to be carefree and fun, and only knew that a certain way.

Tanu Weds Manu Returns is a much better movie, I feel.

It was poignant, funny, heartbreaking.

Kangana's acting was on point, as she sought old thrills and realized they did not bring the same joy. That things have changed. That she has changed.

And her portrayal of Kusum is also really wonderful! I mean, it was not hard to believe they weren't different people. Kusum talked, stood, moved and even showed emotion with her eyes differently. And yes, in my heart of hearts, I want a Kusum Weds _____ movie! It broke me when she was looking for that earring, watching her realize what has happened (that she has fallen in love!).

R. Madhavan was so cute as a stalker, I think it is hard not to give off creepy vibes. Haha. And he's really gotten the shy, quiet, enduring character down pat.

For those interested in watching these movies, I honestly think the second one can stand alone BUT to fully appreciate the second, one needs to suffer the Tanu circus of the first.