Karthik Calling Karthik - ALL REVIEWS POST HERE

Page

Next Last

ajooni

@ajooni

Rocker

Posted: 15 years ago

Director: Vijay Lalwani
Cast: Farhan Akhtar, Deepika Padukone, Shefali Shah and Ram Kapoor
Quick Take: Spectacular cinema calling

How often do we get a precise piece of cinema, one that fulfils both technical and creative expectations emphatically? Karthik Calling Karthik (KCK) is a film that can safely be labeled a movie that can even please Hollywood buffs.

KCK is the story of an odd-ball guy played by Farhan Akhtar. The almost naive Karthik struggles to make good in a world full of guile and manipulative people. His lack of self confidence over shadows his talents and Karthik finds himself isolated and even insulted at times. So much so that he isn't even able to send an email to Shonalee (Deepika Padukone) the female colleague he's head over heels about. And suddenly out of nowhere a call changes his life and gives him new found confidence.

The best thing about KCK is its spontaneity. It stays away from all traditional potboiler materials and themes. In fact, it surprises you with its wit, humour and an awe inspiring premise. The screenplay goes back and forth and leaves you guessing if this is a psychological thriller or a supernatural feature. Deepika Padukone does a fantastic job as Karthik's sweetheart and exhibits calibre in scenes of shock and fear. Farhan handles the nuances of his role with ease and makes you believe in the contradictions of his complex character.

KCK would've been a classic had Vijay Lalwani, the director and writer, spent a little more time, developing an ending that equaled the brilliance exhibited in the preceding length of the film. The rushed ending leaves some aspects unexplained. But the bottom line is, when you watch this movie you will feel that finally Indian cinema has what it takes to impress on an International level

stars 4/5

http://www.filmfare.com/articles/karthik-calling-karthik-526.html

Edited by ajooni - 15 years ago

Quote

Frequent Posters

ajooni

@ajooni

Rocker

Posted: 15 years ago

'Karthik Calling Karthik' is thrilling

OyeG Rating

/

User Rating

Director: Vijay Lalwani

Starring: Farhan Akhtar , Deepika Padukone , Ram Kapoor , Vivaan Bhatena , Shefali Shah

OyeG Review

A slick casting credits sets the mood for this unusual suspense thriller. 'Karthik Calling Karthik' is the story of a reserved and introvert guy who works like an underdog but takes charge of his life after he receives an inspiring phone call. Life is looking up for the new, improved Karthik (Farhan Akhtar) who gets whatever he wants – good job, money, respect and a sexy ladylove (Deepika Padukone). But, happy times don't last long. What happens eventually is something to be experienced on 70mm!

Story/Screenplay/Dialogues/Direction

Another talented filmmaker from the ad world, Vijay Lalwani is here to take you by surprise. He scores big in writing-direction department. The unusual plot of this romantic thriller is the USP of the film and Lalwani's work doesn't fall short of expectation. The film is youthful and the director's depiction of Farhan and Deepika's love story has sugar and spice. Although the plot seems dragging and unconvincing in the first-half, a powerful second-half with ample dose of suspense, thrill and edge-of-the-seat moments makes up for the flaws. The sequences find a justification in the unpredictable suspense.

Performances

No, Farhan doesn't play a double role in the film, but his performance sure has a double impact – too simple a guy and a prince charming combined. Farhan Akhtar is pure talent. Wonder why he took so long before showing his charisma on screen (he has proved he is excellent behind the scenes as well)! Deepika epitomizes a GenX working girl to the core, and carries a short crop and shorter dresses with effortless lan. Though her character has a tinge of her Love Aaj Kal persona, we are not complaining. Other actors play their part well.