Before I begin, I just want to say, props to the Kapoor sisters for making the movie trend all over Twitter/FB/Instagram, you guys did well! Mmkay now let's talk about how #khoobsurat this movie turned out :]
Can't quite remember when the initial buzz for this movie started but I can tell you this much, I was pretty excited. I was eager for the movie to release for a multitude of reasons: 1) It was supposed to release on my birthday (Sept. 19th) so I already knew what I was going to be doing 2) Because who doesn't love a rom-com now and then? 3) We get to see the magic that Rhea, Sonam, and the rest of the crew translate once again on-screen 4) The delightful new addition of a Mr. Fawad Khan 5) Ratna Pathak Shah (Need I list more reasons?!)
So like I've already mentioned, I went ahead and watched Khoobsurat the evening it released here on my twentieth birthday! And what a treat it was. I didn't want to walk into the theaters expecting too much but I wanted to walk out knowing that this would be one of those movies that I'll occasionally watch whenever I get bored or when I'm in the mood for a "not-too-cheesy" chick-flick. And that's exactly what happened. Albeit a predictable plot-line, it's a rather sweet watch.
So like I've already mentioned, I went ahead and watched Khoobsurat the evening it released here on my twentieth birthday! And what a treat it was. I didn't want to walk into the theaters expecting too much but I wanted to walk out knowing that this would be one of those movies that I'll occasionally watch whenever I get bored or when I'm in the mood for a "not-too-cheesy" chick-flick. And that's exactly what happened. Albeit a predictable plot-line, it's a rather sweet watch.
Dr. Milli Chakravarthy (Sonam Kapoor) is a happy-go-lucky twenty-something who's unapologetically goofy and has temporarily sworn off men. Vikram Singh Rathore aka Viku (Fawad Khan) is a disciplined royal Rajput prince, engaged and all set to marry within the next few months. Milli arrives at her new client's home (ahem, palace) only to find herself amongst strict rules and forbiddance against any dilly-dallying. In the process of helping Rathore senior (Viku's father) eventually get out of his wheelchair, Milli has several awkward occurrences with the young prince. But if you thought those initial meet-and-greets were awkward enough, you should wait for the conversations between "Ranisa" (Viku's mother) and Milli. Some moments I loved (without revealing too much of the storyline) are:
-The video chats with Milli's mom-Manju and the adorable friendship they seemed to share.
-The subtle ongoing romance between both Milli and Vikram, that they keep hidden from each other for most of the movie.
-The queen's disapproving looks and constant need for obedience and how Milli wriggles her way out of those situations.
-The video chats with Milli's mom-Manju and the adorable friendship they seemed to share.
-The subtle ongoing romance between both Milli and Vikram, that they keep hidden from each other for most of the movie.
-The queen's disapproving looks and constant need for obedience and how Milli wriggles her way out of those situations.
As far as performances go, I feel like everyone carried everyone throughout the movie. Sonam's portrayal of Milli was on-point, both with her bubbly personality and her quirky wardrobe (loved her mirrored vest, too gorgeous). I know she gets a lot of flak for her acting skills but I can tell you this, Sonam has greatly improved and it definitely shows! Fawad looks and acts every bit of his royal on-screen character. To exude prince-like sophistication would be an understatement. Can't wait to see more of Mr. Khan! Kirron Kher playing Milli's mom, Manju, is at her usual Punjabi best. Ratna Pathak Shah (one of my all time favorites) again seemed to fit her role perfectly as Viku's mother and as the intimidating queen. Her saris/jewelry were so beautiful! The rest of the supporting cast did well too. It was nice to see that no one "over did" their parts.
Closing thoughts: Songs are catchy! I loved Engine Ki Seeti, Abhi Toh Party Shuru Hui Hai and Maa Ka Phone (especially when her phone rang at the dinner table). The palace is lovely! The glass room they show in one of the other palaces is particularly eye-catching. Wardrobe and costume styling for the cast is très bien.
VERDICT : If you're looking for a cute rom-com mixed with a royal backdrop set in one of the majestic palaces in *Rajasthan, do give Khoobsurat a watch. I can bet you'll soon be on the hunt for your very own prince & palace after watching this :)
*Coming soon under the TRAVEL tab
VERDICT : If you're looking for a cute rom-com mixed with a royal backdrop set in one of the majestic palaces in *Rajasthan, do give Khoobsurat a watch. I can bet you'll soon be on the hunt for your very own prince & palace after watching this :)
*Coming soon under the TRAVEL tab