Kal-Ho-Naaho Review

Naina (Zinta) is a very serious young woman living an altogether too serious life. When her new neighbour Aman (Khan) moves in, he teaches her the importance of vitality. As she awakens, she falls in love with him. But Aman has a secret, and cannot reciprocate.

by Omar Ahmed |
Published on
Release Date:

05 Dec 2003

Running Time:

186 minutes

Certificate:

12A

Original Title:

Kal-Ho-Naaho

Popular Hindi films place emotion and sentiment above complex characterisations, and writer Karan Johar's latest continues this tradition with relish. But while Johar's previous efforts (Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai) have left audiences in tears, debutant director Nikhil Advani merits praise for tackling themes of family, emotion and love in a more jovial manner.

Shah Rukh Khan is chief among the film's plus points, playing the charismatic Aman, who attempts to reignite happiness in put-upon Naina's (Zinta) life. Though Johar's shadow looms large over it, the film breaks from the weepie format and compels us to share Aman's vitality for life in an unreserved climax.

Advani's neatly polished assemblage has all the ingredients needed for a traditional Bollywood flick, but succeeds in taking it to a more contemporary and progressive place.
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