Salman Khan is back as the lovable do-gooder Prem in yet another Sooraj Barjatya set up. Diwali seems like a perfect setting for a family drama which talks about caring for all. But does it manage to impart the message fair and square? Our critic Sreeju Sudhakaran tells us…
Prem Ratan Dhan Payo has finally released today. A Diwali bonus this year for all Salman Khan‘s fans who are still trying to get over the Eidi he distributed in the form of Bajrangi Bhaijaan. They loved him as a nerdy Bhaijaan who decides to help a kid despite all odds even if that means entering Pakistan illegally. Now, it’s time to spread some light all around with a Barjatya film and this is what Sreeju has to say about the first half of the film…
“Prem Ratan Dhan Payo is Salman Khan’s treat to his fans and everyone in general. He returns to Rajshri stable after almost two decades since Hum Saath Saath Hai. And whenever he works with Sooraj Barjatya, it has been magic for sure. In PRDP, Salman Khan plays a double role, Vijay who is the royal prince of Pritampur and Prem who is a simpleton and a do-gooder infatuated by Sonam Kapoor, who plays a princess betrothed to Vijay. By a twisted act of fate, Prem gets to live the life of Vijay and get to know the princess better. And this also leads him right into the middle of Vijay’s muddled family mess. Vijay has a stepbrother who wants to get him out of the way, while his two step sisters are estranged. Since Prem is Salman Khan, we know how he will solve things.
It was a welcome relief to see Salman Khan change tracks in Bajrangi Bhaijaan where he left behind his action image and played a family friendly avatar. And he continues to do so with Prem. It’s his infectious charm and inimitable acting style that never makes the film boring even for a minute, even when the plot moves on predictable terrains. Sooraj Barjatya also must be appreciated for not changing the filmmaking style to suit Salman Khan’s new image. And thank God, the film doesn’t reach the diabetic levels of saccharine in Hum Saath Saath Hai. The film is reminiscent of the 90s, even the songs, so it’s a nostalgic trip for many who feel today’s films are dark. Sonam Kapoor looks pretty, while the rest of the cast, including Anupam Kher, Deepak Dobriyal, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Swara Bhaskar, provides able support. It has been a watchable experience so far, so hoping that second half would continue with the same flow.”
Come back right here for the full movie review!