Review of Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna (2006) by Kristin K — 05 Nov 2007

One of the best of 2006 - I don't understand why everyone seemed to hate this...for once, a mature realistic love story that for some possibly is too much so. Everything about this film is nearly wonderful...the script is smart and witty (the best lines are reserved for SRK and Amitabh), the music is gorgeous, and the cinematography is beautiful and color-coordinated for moods in the film with hues of blue and red. The acting is first-rate: SRK pulls a career best with a double act: Part of his character harks back to his more aggressive/psycho roles in Darr and Baazigar, the other half is the candyfloss Khan that we regularly see in 99% of his other movies. On one hand, you hate him for being such an egotistical bitter bastard, but than Khan's charm oozes through, and you cant help but love his character...no matter how absurd his beliefs and intentions are. Amitabh manages to steal the show from all others with his presence alone...he could win accolades for not saying a damn thing. But he does...and the best lines are reserved for him. Like SRK, half his character is wacky and zany, and the other is serious and somber...he does incredible with both. His moving speech near the beginning of the film, the mix-up that occurs between the two families, the dinner scene, and his death scene were all incredible. He keeps this movie alive. The rest of the cast perform credibly and lend amble support: Abhi exudes confidence and is comfortable in his supporting role as the doting loving husband. His scenes with Amitabh are some of the best in the movie. Preity is the best of the females as SRK's wife, she is very good, as usual. The scene where SRK confesses to her about his cheating is very good. She exudes a more restrained mature performance in this film than the typical bubbly roles she is seen in. Kiron Kher is the second-best, her scenes with Amitabh are hilarious. Lastly, Rani is her typical annoying self...her performace dosen't call for much besides crying...but when she does speak, she still sounds whiny and like she has a coal stuck in her throat. She gets the best wardrobe...but her performance is strictly average. A far cry from Black. Arjun Rampal is good, as always, in a small supporting role. Overall, this large ensemble cast does very well...though besides the two superstars, the rest are left in the shadows.

The only negatives in this film, as far as I can see, is the idiotic behavior and hurtful actions SRK and Rani partake in throughout the movie. Their is not much depth to their 'affair' story at all. When their spouses love them so much, they go about constantly degrading them. Why is SRK always mad...why the hell doesn't he get a job..its not like he lost his leg...go back to school dude. And Rani is depressed throughout the movie, about what? Very selfish/ignorant characters. Its only near the climax that the 'affair' story gains some credibility and these two characters feel more 'human' as they feel remorse for their actions. Overall, that and the funny, though unnecessary 'Black Beast' scene are the only negatives of this otherwise very good movie. Direction by Karan Johar is immaculate, his writing is also superb. This is his best work yet - far more interesting and mature than Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. See it.