Barfi!
wogma rating: Beg or borrow, but do watch (?)
Everything you'd felt it would be after having seen the promos. Subtle, delightful, sensitive and thoughtful with some wonderful performances. Brings with itself a dream-like world that any lyrical film would.
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Barfi! - Preview
How can you not look forward to Barfi! after watching this trailer?
How can the scene that starts at minute 0:47 not warm your heart and make you smile? Okay, maybe it won't, considering you are one of those stone-hearted people. Yes, the atmosphere created, the compassion aroused for the characters just by the two-minute collage of scenes from the trailer, makes me want to judge you.
Sure, things could still go wrong. Like the innocent characters could get over-bearing and repetitive over the run time of a feature length film. But, a strong intuition says this time around, it just might not. It's been a while since I am wholeheartedly looking forward to what looks like a 'happy' film. Not to mention, the actors look like they have taken up the onus of not disappointing us. The make-up, the setting all look set to impress us. The last film I had hopes of enjoying was the Gangs of Wasseypur saga and that didn't disappoint.
The reason for the slight apprehension is the director's last venture, Kites. And that things do go wrong. Anyway, let's try to keep anxiety at bay and enjoy the lovely old-world charm created by the music. (You can listen to it here.)
Music Reviews:
Milliblog - "Much like his earlier combo with Anurag Basu in Life in a Metro, Pritam delivers a whopper, again!"
Music Aloud – "9/10"
dunkdaft - "There is something about the team Anurag+Pritam that always give the best results."
Bollywood Hungama – "3.5/5"
Bollyspice – "4/5"
Apun Ka Choice – "4.5/5"
Happy Sing - "Special accolades for Pritam for doing something that I’d say out of his comfort zone."
- meeta, a part of the audience
Usually, 'sweet' films get overbearing and sticky because of the unreal overdose. But Barfi! carries the charm with such elegance and confidence that you can't but want to go along with it. It's not because the lead characters have handicaps that demand sympathy. The film takes you beyond the most obvious and endears you with the inherent charm and innocence these handicaps bring along with them.
So much so that it makes you wish the plot didn't manipulate and that it got rid of characters who take advantage of their disabilities, however noble their intentions. You wish they didn't take you into the real world that deviates from the sweetness. More so, because they look like aberrations from the unreal and fantasy world of Barfi (Ranbir Kapoor) and then Jhilmil (Priyanka Chopra).
Barfi! is as dreamy as a film can get. Ranbir and Priyanka play their characters so convincingly that you forget that the film is far from reality. Ileana D'Cruz looks lovely and bring her own share of grace. Just knowing our top-ranking 'stars' take on such challenging and risky roles is joy enough. But watching them give performances that make you forget their star status is way beyond expectations. You realize you were watching Ranbir Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra when you step out of Barfi and Jhilmil's fairy tale story.
There are times when the romance doesn't seem romantic enough. But when characters cannot express their feelings in words, when there are things that cannot be said, it opens up a whole new world of beautiful questions. Question marks that Barfi represents in just one scene where he breaks down.
It is after you step out of the theater and your analytical brain takes over that you begin to wonder if Jhilmil was over-simplified. If it is indeed so easy to fall in love with an autistic woman? If it was necessary to bring in elements from the 'thriller' genre to this film that is mostly beautiful? Should I let these thoughts take away from the warmth the film created while I was watching it?
At its core, it is ultimately your standard love triangle. Yes, there are a few films that Barfi! reminds you of – Hindi, English and silent. But, like with anything as standard as that, it's how the audience flows with the narrative that makes or breaks the film. And Barfi! doesn't let go of one chance to make you smile. Even if it is rather dark masked behind Ranbir's omnipresent charm.
Neither does Barfi! let go of being melodious. The songs stay soulful and playful together. This once, I didn't mind the background score coming into the foreground and wanting to stay there most of the time. It made Barfi! the lyrical and soothing film that it is.
Other than the light-hearted cloak Anurag Basu's writing garbs the sadness of the characters with, it creates an intriguing atmosphere with it's non-linear narration. The back and forth between the two years in the 70s make the film a lot more engaging, 'thriller' element notwithstanding. As the film closes and you see an increase in the back and forth between the 70s and present time, you wonder if the non-linearity is used to keep you with the tenderness that the film has created and not leave the theater feeling too bad for the characters.
These characters don't want sympathy, they want to engage you in their bizarre story. The dark comedy of errors, the slapstick, the romance itself is captured in a series of captivating moments that keep you smiling throughout the two and half hours. Ever-so-slightly Anurag Basu also comments on the sorry manner in which the mentally disabled are treated with in society.
Who would have known there would be a romantic comedy that I enjoyed, where the romance is sweet, the comedy mostly slapsticky with background music running throughout the film. To top it of, it also had non-linear narration that it could have done without. All elements that put me off a film. Boy, do I like it when a film turns my generalized dislikes into things that I like about the film.
- meeta, a part of the audience
Thumbs up, by Stefan S, A Nutshell Review : ...Anurag Basu has a winner in his hands, and that's without resorting to sex or violence, but a healthy dose of charm instead. ... full review
Thumbs up, by Amodini, Amodini's Movie Reviews : ...And then it has it’s comedic moments, very Chaplinesque and home-grown in nature. ... full review
Thumbs up, by Naresh Kumar Deoshi, Apun Ka Choice : ...Priyanka Chopra -- an actress with experimental streak and talent that seldom gets the praise it deserves -- who is unbelievably convincing as the autistic Jhilmil, with her convulsive, erratic body language and a highly expressive face.... full review
Thumbs up, by Baradwaj Rangan, Blogical Conclusion, The New Sunday Express : ...Leaving the bittersweet Barfi!, I was trying to think of another film that’s so sad that made me feel so happy watching it. I still haven’t come up with a name.... full review
Thumbs up, by Bobby Sing, Bobby Talks Cinema.com : ...for me the film was more a milestone achievement of Priyanka Chopra than the over-publicized classy triumph of Ranbir.... full review
Thumbs up, by Pooja Rao, Bolly Spice : ... the silence gets unnerving that you fight the urge to not get distracted... full review
Thumbs up, by Pooja Rao, Bolly Spice : ... the silence gets unnerving that you fight the urge to not get distracted... full review
Thumbs up, by Taran Adarsh, Bollywood Hungama : ...The typical masala movie-loving audience may/may not embrace the film enthusiastically. Yet, I'd like to adjoin, Ranbir's character has relatability and one can only hope and also recommend that in these fast-changing times, an untouched theme like BARFI! is embraced with affection and warmth! ... full review
Thumbs up, by Taran Adarsh, Bollywood Hungama : ...The typical masala movie-loving audience may/may not embrace the film enthusiastically. Yet, I'd like to adjoin, Ranbir's character has relatability and one can only hope and also recommend that in these fast-changing times, an untouched theme like BARFI! is embraced with affection and warmth! ... full review
Thumbs up, by Suparna Thombare, Bollywood Life : ...The strength of the film is the nonlinear narration, raising your anticipation levels and making you curious about how the story is going to unfold. ... full review
Thumbs up, Buzz in Town : ...Goodness! I am already gushing. It's the narcotic effect that Barfi has on you. ... full review
Thumbs up, by Deepa Gahlot, cinemaah : ...Basu does tend to overdo the cute quotient, but the actors just carry it off. ... full review
Thumbs up, by Bikas Mishra, DearCinema : ... Barfi fills our lives with everything that it lacks for two hours and thirty five minutes!... full review
Thumbs up, by Khalid Mohamed, Deccan Chronicle : ...The screenplay does go through bumpy weather; But you may happily ignore the flaws... full review
Thumbs up, by Rony D'Costa, Desi Martini : ...The body language can make it look caricatured but Priyanka hits all the right notes here. I could see the hunger in her to nail the part right and not disappoint her director... full review
Thumbs up, by Ameetbhuvan, Desi Martini : ...Matching him scene to scene is Priyanka Chopra as Jhilmil, the autistic girl who finds love in Barfi. It is nothing less than a shock to see a mainstream glamorous actress get into a role like this with such sincerity... full review
Thumbs up, by Smita, Desi Martini : ...Ileana DCruz makes a fine debut as the love interest. She manages to convey complex emotions in a couple of crucial scenes very well besides looking gorgeous.... full review
Thumbs up, by Shabana Ansari, DNA : ...Priyanka as the autistic Jhilmil is to watch out for. She brilliantly portrays love, longing, jealousy and possessiveness without uttering a single word.... full review
Thumbs up, by Blessy Chettiar, DNA : ...The hero here has no dialogue, yet says so much with the serene smile, overt gestures and sign language, reminiscent of the tramp-like aura of Raj Kapoor. ... full review
Thumbs up, by Aniruddha Guha, DNA : ...Basu plays puppet master efficiently, using every tool he has at his disposal to craft his most honest film to date. ... full review
Thumbs up, by Aniruddha Guha, DNA : ...Basu plays puppet master efficiently, using every tool he has at his disposal to craft his most honest film to date. ... full review
Thumbs up, by Mansi, Eat Pray Love Movies : ...Shruti (Illeana d Cruz) doesn't give the slightest hint its her Bollywood debut. She is certainly not the prettiest faces around, but definitely someone who can act. ... full review
Thumbs up, by Deepa Deosthalee, Film Impressions : ...when was the last time you laughed, not at corny jokes or because someone slipped on a banana peel, but at life's everyday quirks and charms?... full review
Thumbs up, by Rachit Gupta, Filmfare : ...A key factor why PC is so effective is Anurag Basu’s decision to not give her dialogue... full review
Thumbs up, by Samrat Sharma, fullhyd.com : ...The supporting cast, too, rallies behind him, with some genuinely heartfelt moments from all of them.... full review
Thumbs up, by Samrat Sharma, fullhyd.com : ...The supporting cast, too, rallies behind him, with some genuinely heartfelt moments from all of them.... full review
Thumbs up, by Divya Solgama, Gomolo.in : ...Music by Pritam is breath-taking.... full review
Thumbs up, by Rajeev Masand, IBN Live : ...Yet these lovely bits are offset by a messy screenplay packed with too many flashbacks, and a long-drawn second half that doesn’t benefit from the Gone Baby Gone-inspired subplot about a botched kidnapping.... full review
Thumbs up, by Fatema H Kagalwala, India Entertainment : ... it is infused with abundant whimsy, tenderness and dedicated charm that leaves the suspense as a mere hook that takes the story forward.... full review
Thumbs up, by Gaurav Malani, indiatimes : ...it doesn't rely on a very inventive storyline. ... full review
Thumbs up, by Gaurav Malani, indiatimes : ...it doesn't rely on a very inventive storyline. ... full review
Thumbs up, Indicine : ... fabulously entertaining first half, with standout performances by the lead stars. ... full review
Thumbs up, by Roshni Devi, koimoi : ...Ranbir and Priyanka both deserve credit for not going over the top with their acting and keeping it quite natural.... full review
Thumbs up, by Sanjukta Sharma, Live Mint : ...Darjeeling has got to be far more mundane than what we see... full review
Thumbs up, by Janhvi Samant, MiD DAY : ...Ileana makes a mature debut. Although she looks too young for her role, she manages to be competent.... full review
Thumbs up, Movie Talkies : ...one of the most visually appealing movies seen in a long, long time... full review
Thumbs up, by Aakash Barvalia, MoviezADDA : ...artistic and sensible cinema presented in a commercially way... full review
Thumbs up, by Saumil Gandhi, Mumbai Mirror : ...Huge credit to the director for making a film that doesn't sit comfortably in a slotted genre. Anurag Basu easily avoids pitfalls of overplaying a mute or an autistic character to evoke sympathy. ... full review
Thumbs up, by IANS, NDTV : ...Silences seldom spoke so eloquently. ... full review
Thumbs up, by IANS, NDTV : ...Silences seldom spoke so eloquently. ... full review
Thumbs up, by Mansha Rastogi, Now Running.com : ...Barfi is an emotionally stirring yet joyous ride that will make you fall in love with love and life. A must watch for one and all! ... full review
Thumbs up, by Mansha Rastogi, Now Running.com : ...Barfi is an emotionally stirring yet joyous ride that will make you fall in love with love and life. A must watch for one and all! ... full review
Thumbs up, by Jaykumar Shah, Planet Bollywood : ... The problem with the structure is that the narrative is complicated and non-linear. ... full review
Thumbs up, by Afshan Shaik, Planet Bollywood : ...All the simple events and feelings in everyday life are portrayed amazingly! ... full review
Thumbs up, by Jaykumar Shah, Planet Bollywood : ... The problem with the structure is that the narrative is complicated and non-linear. ... full review
Thumbs up, by Afshan Shaik, Planet Bollywood : ...All the simple events and feelings in everyday life are portrayed amazingly! ... full review
Thumbs up, by Raja Sen, Rediff : ...As Jhilmil, Priyanka Chopra, god bless her soul, does indeed try valiantly to play autistic, but -- trapped not just by the film's most flawed character and plotline -- makes that cardinal mistake expressed so unforgettably in Tropic Thunder: she goes full retard. She's not bad, even very effective in a couple of scenes, but her character belongs to a different film. (Ideally a shorter one, because it does drag this one down.)... full review
Thumbs up, by Sukanya Verma, Rediff : ...Barfi's distinct equation with each of these girls produces some of the sweetest moments on celluloid that I've seen in a while.... full review
Thumbs up, by Shilpa Jamkhandikar, Reuters : ...Each frame is picture-perfect and some are bound to induce a sigh or two. ... full review
Thumbs up, by Sonia Chopra, Sify Movies : ...The dexterous screenplay is aptly supported by the smooth editing as the film traverses between the present and past. ... full review
Thumbs up, by K N Gupta, SmasHits.com : ...At last, Anurag Basu has succeeded in making a movie attractive enough for the audience with his taste and his lead cast's best performances.... full review
Thumbs up, by Bhawana Somaiyya, Star Blockbuster : ...a refreshing story and completely unpredictable... full review
Thumbs up, by Tanul Thakur, theW14.com : ...so many movies never seem to realize this. Which is why most of the movies look the same, feel the same. And we just watch and hear those movies, never feel it. Here, you experience Barfi... full review
Thumbs up, by Tanul Thakur, theW14.com : ...so many movies never seem to realize this. Which is why most of the movies look the same, feel the same. And we just watch and hear those movies, never feel it. Here, you experience Barfi... full review
Thumbs up, by Madhureeta Mukherjee, Times of India : ... speaks volumes about unconditional love.... full review
Thumbs up, by Madhureeta Mukherjee, Times of India : ... speaks volumes about unconditional love.... full review
Thumbs up, Zee News : ...one can’t decide who the shining star of the film is- Ranbir for his hilarious cute act or Priyanka as the autistic Jhilmil who yearns to be considered as a woman. ... full review
So-So, Free Press Journal : ...a multitude of epiphanies without a strong story to hold it all together... full review
So-So, by Martin D'Souza, Glamsham.com : ...There is too much of going back and forth from 1972 to 1978 to the present day. In between all the coming and going, the plot loses its sting... full review
So-So, by Martin D'Souza, Glamsham.com : ...There is too much of going back and forth from 1972 to 1978 to the present day. In between all the coming and going, the plot loses its sting... full review
So-So, by Anupama Chopra, Hindustan Times : ...And yet, for me, Barfi was a singularly frustrating experience there was so much to like, but the film never became more than the sum of its parts.... full review
So-So, by Vinayak Chakravorty, india today : ...What you get in the end is a love triangle - sweet, sublime and differently told, but obvious to the core anyway. There is a hint of a mystery in this story too, but it all ends without much of a surprise.... full review
So-So, by Shubhra Gupta, indian express : ...It’s good in many ways; what stops it from being a great film is a degree of fuzziness, and an insistence on prettiness. ... full review
So-So, by Ruchi Mehta, Roochster : ...Ileana D’Cruz was also quite decent in her acting and looks so delicate and skinny that Priyanka looks like Tuntun in comparison.... full review
So-So, by Sudhish Kamath, The Hindu : ...They are not trying to compete in this world or trying hard to prove a point like the characters in Black. They are happy living a life together, far away from the madness of materialism of today. ... full review
So-So, by The ThirdMan, Upper Stall : ...many might argue this is brilliant compared to the Housefulls, Bodyguards and Raaz 3s and loads of other junk that Bollywood throws up week after week. Yes, it is undoubtedly a notch above them cinematically but merely comparisons to mediocrity don't make a film great. ... full review
Thumbs down, by Mayank Shekhar, Daily Bhaskar : ...This is odd, given that most deaf and mute people usually attempt to make some sounds or the other while they express themselves largely in sign language. Maybe the one in this movie is conscious of looking too awkward, given so many cameras before him!... full review
Thumbs down, by Trisha Gupta, FirstPost : ...it is also untainted by the invariable crisscrossing of mutual expectations, or the occasional messiness of egos, or the essential frisson of desire. It is devoid, by its very nature, of any of the elements of real-life love as most people experience it.... full review
Thumbs down, by Gary Goldstein, Los Angeles Times : ...Despite a hard-working cast, a lush score, exotic location shooting and scattered warmth, "Barfi!" is ultimately more endurance test than entertainment.... full review
Thumbs down, by Gary Goldstein, Los Angeles Times : ...Despite a hard-working cast, a lush score, exotic location shooting and scattered warmth, "Barfi!" is ultimately more endurance test than entertainment.... full review
zceeviiy: watched #barfi #ranbeer steal the show.#carnivalcinemas #ankamaly
ZahQureshi: Barfi though. #FilmOfTheYear
xav_neel: Outstanding performance by the team #Barfi. Must watch
WwAyesha: watched barfi its Awsomeeee!!! @croydon grant's
vrigu: Faith in Mainstream Bollywood : Restored. #Barfi
voguishsoul: BARFI was amazing. Just incredible. #barfi #ranbirkapoor #priyankachopra #anuragbasu
visheshjoshi: Watched Barfi today in LA.. and I haven't seen an actor get so immersed in her character ever.. Outstanding work @priyankachopra
venkateshhwar: Just to say the movie BARFI is awesome would be an understatement. Go watch it friends. It makes you cry, laugh, fall in love
umeshluthria: Each time I think I have seen his best performance; Ranbir Kapoor comes up with a better one. Barfi - a standing ovation.
TypeWriterMom: The kidlet has been enchanted with Barfi ever since she saw the movie”But he CAN talk mumma-he can say ‘bufeee’ and everyone talks to him!”
trushadepala: Just saw barfi - @priyankachopra and ranbir kapoor's acting is amazing!!! Defo one to watch :)
trishaalaninan: #barfi was just amazing! #priyanka chopra really showed her amazing acting chops! #ranbir kapoor and #ileane d'cruz were fantastic!
tornado1617: Barfi!.....#lovely...
TheRetroJunkie: Lyk Indian movies? Pls go nd watch 'barfi!' Awesome, awesome movie!
TheRajAdnani: #Barfi! 4.5/5 according to me!
TGaire: Barfi HASTO be the cutest film EVER!!! Loved itttt
taruna_me2: Caught in the sweetness of barfi...
TariniGaire: #BARFI is definitely film of the year! Dont think i've cried like this in a movie before :') @priyankachopra acting was beyond amazingg! <3
SunKissedHippy: Barfi! Love it. <3
sunilganesh: #Barfi had stunning cinematography, picture perfect locales. Some close up shots of actors were stunning.
SunandiniV: Barfi is genius. Amazing performances @priyankachopra and @ranbirkapoor
SteveUnknown: Just watched #Barfi for the 2nd time! Stirred so many emotions in me again. Love it! @priyankachopra @basuanurag
SprootLoop: #Barfi was f*cking beautiful. Priyanka Chopra is even more beautiful and Ranbir has stolen my heart<3
Spriyaaaa: Barfi was amazing ! I love youuuuuuu Ranbir kapoor haha. ❤
SlainPorcelain: A visual treat! And some great acting! Thank you Mr. Basu for #Barfi!
sksami123: make u cry in comedy (barfi)
Simi_Garewal: To think Ranbir did not speak a word in Barfi! No buzz lines, no voice theatrics; his silence expressed more than words cud say. Am in awe..
sidRauniar: Great Scenes in #barfi My being the one where Jhilmil takes possession of Burfi in front of Shruti at the end of the story. Whats urs ??
ShwetaShah: Love needs no words, no language only feelings #Barfi
shruti1504: Btw, Barfi... Recommended! :)
shreyaspurohit: Barfi, awesome movie!
Shreiyaa_: Not to forget, barfi is amazing and Ranbir Kapoor is a class apart! #barfithemovie
ShivyS95: After a LONG time have I enjoyed a Bollywood film #barfi
shiva_rana: Barfi..Not sheer entertainment..but a cinema experience..Nothing extra ordinary what cinema lovers hvnt seen before..still movie should...
ShefaliMangtani: #Barfi is an amazing movie. @priyankachopra
shanshanksharma: Unimaginary choreography placed in flawless directions. Ranbir Kapoor & Priyanka chopra completely devoted there talent in movie #BARFI
shamolyk: And Barfi! made me write! Marvellous - http://shyshys.livejournal.com/17891.html
shal_oz: #Barfi is simple, sweet & sublime; it is one of those rare movies which is meant to be seen by heart not head. (cont) http://tl.gd/jalh2f
ShailiP: What a wonderful film Barfi is. Smiled from the start to end. Loved it. <3<3
Shai5a_albhawed: Barfi .. amazing !
sauravsinha001: BARFI !! A must watch movie..
SardanaSandeep: Just watched the movie Barfi. Recommend it highly.
sanketutd: If nothing else, watch #Barfi for Ileana for bringing simplicity & acting back to Bollywood!
SanjeetPandey: Have just watched the movie. Barfi is as sweet as "barfi"(the sweets). Just taste it. It is like a poetry with lots of emotion.
SanjaySaji: Just saw barfi!!what an amazing movie....undoubtedly the show stealer is ranbir!!! truly a nice movie... @priidela
Sandeep_uk: Very impressed with barfi the movie.. Seeing @priyankachopra in a completely different light today #Barfi week at @spicefm
salma_mansuri: Hats of the entire cast and crew of #Barfi Well done @AnuragBasu amazing performance done by @priyankachopra & @RanbirKapoor Love this movie
SakshiSherpa: A mixture of laughter n tears...awesome performance by all...three cheers for #Barfi n crew!!!
Sajeevb: Saw Barfi, nice movie in recent times, brilliant performance by RK, PC, well done Anurag.
saharraza: #Barfi -love and joy can be found in the simplest things. These actors exceeded my expectations @priyankachopra #ranbirkapoor #bestmovieever
sagarsane: Masterclass! #barfi
safpopal: #Barfi Although there were not too much dialogues, but the music of the movie has done pretty much the dialogues job, beautiful music.
sadpidnas: Barfi! Hindi cinema at its finest. Cast and crew - take a bow!!!
ryan_twitting: Life is all about finding happiness in small things. And so love has no boundaries, it is an array of countless emotions.. # "Barfi"
rumna: Genuinely sweet story, very well - & humorously told. Anurag Basu totally nailed it!!! I rated Barfi! 10/10 http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2082197
ruchinbecks: Saw Barfi!. Loved it. It's brilliant.
ROWDY_ANKIT: Wtchd #barfi last nite : finest film of recent times_
RonikaDebnath: yippie!!!! :D watched #barfi yesterday!!! super cute movie......ranbir n priyanka roxx :D luv dem both <3
rokul59: I know obsession is not good but kya karoon completely obsessed with #barfi giri of @basuanurag.Grt acting,Sublime music & photography.
rkrishy: That's a mind blowing performance from @priyankachopra that changed the genre of a movie Barfi into a beautiful poetry.
ritinb: Saw #Barfi! The voice of silence cn b seen thru #RanbirKapoors acting prowess. Tricky screenplay.Nt 1 chrctr rdndant. Brilliant bakdrops.
ritika_bhagya: #Barfi was one good movie after a really really long time!!
RitenGohil: Impromptu trip to cinema caught Barfi superb performances from Ranbir & Priyanka playing disadvantaged characters hats off to you both
Risabhrocks: Yesterday I watched #BARFI!its rely !! watch it guyz it is a amazng movie.
reddy8689: Be happy. Be Barfi. #RanbirKapoor . Respect . #Barfi
Realist_Indian: Wow!! What a movie .... Barfi! :)
rathinikesh: Liked a senti movie after a long time ... Barfi!
Ranjit_Bains1: Just seen barfi. I think it's excellent
rampalarjun: Barfi, so proud of Ranbir he is superb. The girls very good as well, cinematography excellent, moments so beautiful. Anurag wow. Congrats.
RamneekPantal: Saw #Barfi last night!! Still playing on my mind♥ wow Indian cinema has come a long way! Simple,loving &very touching!!#superb
rajeshba: Speech is silver, silence is... #Barfi!
RajeevChoudhury: #Barfi is a movie of emotions .... #ranbir was awesome ...nd #saurabhshukla entertained a lot.. #Mustwatch movie
Rajeev_gpillai: Barfi is an amazing movie. hats off to Priyanka chopra and Ranbir kapoor
Rajborah: Barfi rocks
raindroprose: Finally got to watch Barfi today. Someone from here was right, it was poetry on celluloid. Beautifully made, but could've been edited better
rahulg1991: Glad bollywood is raising deaf awareness! "barfi" great film! Great acting! Must watch #barfi #film #bollywood #deaf #awareness
radhika756: On another note, thought Barfi was an adorable movie.
punvati: Even if Barfi weren't so awesome, everyone should watch it anyway because it has a non annoying Priyanka Chopra. #WhatSorceryIsThis
prsannab: brilliant! wasn't it? RT“@Spriyaaaa: Barfi was amazing ! I love youuuuuuu Ranbir kapoor haha. ❤”
PriyaTaank: Barfi was wow! Amazing acting and versatility from @ranbirkapoor and @priyankachopra . First time I've had to stop myself crying at a movie.
pritipatel11: #Barfi & Jhilmil are still playing on my mind. True example of pure, selfless, innocent love. :)
Prithamsadashiv: Hectic Monday! Massive smile on my face, Super Excited about the day ahead! Must be the #Barfi effect-"Don't worry,Be Barfi!;) Hv a Grt day!
pri_agrawal: I went with no expectations for #Barfi considering it looked so similar to #Amelie but came out surprised. Lovely movie!
preetishrs: Barfi awesome movie. @priyankachopra Your acting simply outstanding. Simplicity is magical :)
PratikHPatel: Barfi - nonstop fun
prat33k_Singh: !! Barfi !! One of the best movies Indian Film Industry has seen !!
PoojaRoyKumar: Barfi! A must watch!! Superb story, superb performances, feel good film!
poojachopragoel: Touching story and heart rendering performances; that's 'Barfi!' for you... Go watch it right away! :)
pooja1013: Saw Barfi....cried.....nice movie...great acting by Ranbir & PC...happiness is in every small thing...true love exists despite limitations!
pooja_ahuja: What a beautiful potrayal of #love. The most subtle and tender hindi film i would have watched. #Barfi <3
ponjitdowarah: Watched barfi.....an awesome movie.....hats off to all the actors
piyushsjain: Flip flop for Barfi would b that it would sweep all major awards which Wasseypur deserved. Ranbir beats even Khans in acting.
peeee_kay: Saw #Barfi last night. Great performances by Ranbir and Priyanka... Super! 4 stars
pcandlite: First Bollywood theater experience was awesome! If u like Bollywood movies go see #Barfi!
par7h: Barfi : Ranbirs work is flawless, @priyankachopra acting leaves you speechless. Fantastic story and absolutely amazing direction.
pakpatel: Must watch movie #barfi . @RanbirKapoorRK @priyankachopra n iliana all have done really grat work in movie. Salute all 3 of them.
OrangesinWater: #Barfi! was an awesome movie!!!!!! (since #Cocktail) that still makes me smile :) @basuanurag @priyankachopra @BarfiMovie @RanbirKapoorFC
onegirlonestory: Barfi was beautiful <3
O_Jarm: Movie "Barfi" is Superb!!!!
ntanwir: Silence also have a language ......got to know from #barfi well done @RanbirKapoorFC @priyankachopra
nitinjoshi: Barfi deserves two thumbs up, justifies all positive reviews!! plenty of smiles and "lump in the throat" moments at d same time.. #mustWatch
NishkaPermala: Barfi was awesome! Great movie. Worth it all.
NishikaSrikar: Barfi is beautiful. Its Happy. Ofcourse, they had to steal some scenes from 'The Notebook' and some Charlie Chaplin films but Hell! LOVED it
NiladriD: +1 RT @FILM9: Barfi is a gem... Take a Bow!!! @priyankachopra @basuanurag
nikki11k: OMG I JUST COME FROM BARFI..!!! IT'S THE BEST RK MOVIE EVER AND MY FAVORITE MOVIE IN A LONG TIME..!!! :) RANBIR ROCKS..!!
niith_kp: if ur planng to watch #barfi in ur lappy/computr, den u may lose actual melody of d movie..watch it in theatr...its really awsm..paisa vasul
nergusonn: Barfi is SUCH a cute movie
NehaKulkarni14: BARFI..!! is as sweet as itz name...treat 2 mind n heart, i must say!!! #PC amazin as usual ♥
Neela54: can still feel the flavour of #BARFI! aah...*fabulous*
narayanishastri: Barfi ! ( My heart is still heavy )
nanditadubey: Saw 'Barfi' today. Great movie! Respect for ranbir kapoor! Yet another flawless performance!
n33thi: BARFI WAS SO SO SO GOOD I AM IN LOVE.
MyAhSatan: If nothing else, watch Barfi for Ileana for bringing simplicity & acting back to Bollywood! @pitusultan
MR_VINOJAN: Barfi was AMAZING! @RKRanbirKapoor & @priyankachopra was just amazing! Amazing story! Direction was flawless! Hands down to the entire team!
MR_Intello: #Barfi a must watch movie,, truely touchy movie.. Hats off to Ranbhir's and @priyankachopra 's acting.. Truely admirable.. ☺
motleyscraps: be charming, be loved, be chaalu, be crazy, be happy, be in love be barfi! Lovely movie to watch on a Sunday or any other day! Barfi Rocks!
mohitdharmani: #Barfi.. WoW.. Amazing.. Magical.. This one is undoubtedly a Director's film.. @basuanurag #respect
mohank: Sublime... RT @gradwolf: Thoughts on Barfi: http://bit.ly/Oz2IKg
miyaamihir: Okay. Barfi is good. Too many potential scenes & situations for manipulation & melodrama, but has been done very rarely.
mi2_2803: Barfi amazing movie... Ranbir rocks...
MEmeghana: Thinking of moments from barfi! and smiling to myself! My make up man must be thinking I'm crazy! Haha..
mazinggmeerah: 'Barfi!' was the most adorable movie ive ever watched. Soo touchingg <3
mayukhdatta1: Saw #Barfi.Shame onthe Khans 4their movies, romancin gals oftheir kidsage. Huge applause4 #Ranbir #Anurag 4 makin us luv movies allover agn.
mangeshk: If you love cinema, watch #barfi for those cinematic moments.
maheshsuraparaj: Watchd Barfi.It ws like swinging on a cradle,reading a nice poem n sleeping 2 a sweet lullaby.Ranbir,priyanka n ileana lived in their roles.
lakshmisharath: Barfi is a brilliant film and a must watch ..enjoyed a good Bollywood film after ages and what acting ! just wish it was a bit shorter #fb
LadyReenz: #barfi beautifully made movie and superb acting ..
kushalparveen: Ala ala matwala Barfi. Excellent job by Anurag Basu & PeeCee. And Ranbir, after 5 years & 2 impressive films, you have entered in My Favs.
KuhuSharma2609: Aankhon hi aankhon mein karein baatein...gupchup gupchup gup...khwabon ki nadi mein khayein gote...enjoyn d Barfi high
krishorey: If Charlie Chaplin and Hrishikesh Mukherjee made a film together, the result would be #Barfi. It is a reminder of why I defend #Bollywood.
kool_garv: watched Barfi yesterday...although a bit slow but was surely an overwhelming experience....no words to explain it...
KhurraMannan: #Barfi - A movie out of this world. @RanbirKapoor & @priyankachopra you seriously deserve an award for this Masterpiece. :) <3
KatrinasCrystal: The background score of barfi is fantastic and my favorite scene is the romantic scenes between rk-illeana from their young days <3
kanikaminocha: Finally saw a great hindi movie! Loved every minute :) #barfi
Kajal217: Don't worry, be #Barfi ;)
jitendra7gupta: Barfi - Truly an Oscarworthy movie - Great job Barfi Team :D !!!!!
jainavinash: barfi is sweetness unlimited! Iliana is so beautiful!
ItsSomysWorld: Barfi looked a complete French movie. & it was so sweet, I must have aw'd like a billion times hahah <3
itsmishaa_: Barfi's the cutest movie ever <3
ishanisolanki: Everything on television seens so dull, heavy and manufactured. After effects of #Barfi .
intnlgypsy: #Barfi is truly magical. @basuanurag -genius written all over Barfi. Thanks. I am left wondering same you chose to make Kites ;)
insiya1008: Such clean comedy after so long! #Barfi
IndiaFlickz: Watched Barfi yesterday. A must watch for all and a very commendable performance by Ranbir! Don't miss it !
In9uja: #barfi is a gem! In every little way!!
imsumit: My review for 'Barfi!' on Rotten Tomatoes: 3 1/2 stars-Barfi is a playful and poetic experience. Inspired from... http://tmto.es/Rdf0Zp
iDeepss: The sweetest barfi! Ever had... @RanbirKapoorFC @priyankachopra #barfi
ibnamra: +100 RT “@ushaneupane: @iamsrk n @beingsalmankhan learn sth frm barfi..ur movies r pointless..”
iamrajeevsharma: Saw #Barfi! Now this is filmmaking at its finest...respect to Ranbir Kapoor and @priyankachopra !!
iamaneek: Saw Barfi yesterday.Terrific,Awesome,Brilliant.It was a lovely,touching film with some great performances.
iAawara: Must Watch “@Realist_Indian: Wow!! What a movie .... Barfi! :)”
homam108: Hindi movie #Barfi is pure celluloid poetry. Teaches so much about unconditioned love & happiness, without any lecturing. Terrific acting!
hemz1984: #Barfi - great concept great film! Surely good awards coming to Ranbir, @priyankachopra and @basuanurag ! Well done guys!
harshjk: BARFI MUST WATCH!!!
HarishShah07: BARFI, IN THIS MEDIOCRACY, IS FRESH AIR RANBIR A GIANT ACTOR PRIYANKA SUPERB AND ANURAG BASU, A DIRECTOR OF GREAT CALIBRE CONGRATS ALL..
HannaBoop: Barfi was such a sweet movie. :')
GuruX: Barfi – Life’s little Lessons: - Imperfection is all around us. How we handle our flaw determines our life’s hap... http://bit.ly/RcwsgB
guptapriyanka: Amazing acting by @priyankachopra and RK. Overall Barfi was delicious! ;) #goodbollywoodmovie
gsaidhii_TW: Saw Barfi! Cried but it was totally worth it :P @priyankachopra i applaud your acting skills (:
GODOGOOD: I rated Barfi! 10/10 http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2082197 #IMDb
getfilmy: Wasn't blown away by #Barfi but I liked it! Review is up --> http://bit.ly/Ss6Kzu
friendli_ghost: *****/5 #Barfi #nufsaid
faziladsouza: Murfy = Barfi ---- it's speaks with actions eyes, expressions more louder than words, a great movie... Well made keep it Anurag Basu & Team
dulQuer: Loved loved LOVED Barfi !! Ranbir, Priyanka and Illeana, heart warming performances beautiful crafted and shot mr Basu and mr Varman !
docIMRAN: BARFI BARFI... Reminded me ov Charlie chaplin. A must watch!!!!! Gudnite mumbai!! Monday u better be kind.
divyanshsri23: Barfi - A story which is 1 in a million, Well Crafted piece of art which may require understanding. Kudos to RK, PeeCee and Ileana.
divyahajela_18: well done Anurag Basu #Barfi
dilipajm: Tasted sweet n emotional Barfi! :-)
dhruvpande: Me neither RT @Sharana_J: I can't remember the last hindi film I liked as much as Barfi
DebanjanaDasgu2: BARFI! was awesome... super duper performance by all.:)
DarshitaShah: Don't forget that little things in life give you joy #Barfi
Dan_Meyer_: Watched Barfi! with my Bambum & co (Deaf and dumb) Friends!! Enjoyed atlottt!!! :)
dafakeperson: Watched 'BARFI' .. Good movie (!)*
d3ath_blad3: I just loved Barfi!-an extraordinary and beautiful piece of cinema. My only problem with it is that I haven't seen it yet!... -_-
clapsandboos: Varun Srinivasan says, Watch Barfi. Celebrate life. Enjoy the experience. Leave the cinema hall refreshed. http://fb.me/ToCmGFyz
ChocoMundaa: When I Saw #Barfi Yesterday, I was personally touched with many moments. It was like someone fit my real life's pieces there. But I dint...
chetanhere: After such a long time I have seen pure acting in any Indian Movie. Hats off to Ranbir and Priyanka for BARFI
CheekyLeaks: 'Barfi' a must watch
carla_filmigeek: Filmi Geek gives a rather spoilerish look at #Barfi - a sweet movie, despite its unfortunate exclamation mark http://www.filmigeek.com/2012/09/barfi-2012.html
bikramd: Saw BARFI last evening.A very sensitive movie,well directed, acted,n balanced.Tough with the hero being deaf and dumb and heroine autistic.
bhavishajoshi: #barfi super cool movie .. Mind blowing acting by Ranbir and @priyankachopra. Loved it ..
benitadua: Watched #Barfi -- a truly nice movie. Great acting by all the key actors. Must watch if you already havent.
being_shevaal: "@5hekhar: Hearing great things about Barfi. Will go and see it this weekend."Its one of 2012's best movies - you will enjoy it !
beenish: Watch Barfi! It will remind you why love stories are usually the best stories.
BarfiOfficial: The biggest human disability is we can't find happiness. So go indulge in Barfi! It'll leave you 'happy high'!... http://fb.me/1RsdA5UDe
bandraproject: Also very pleasantly surprised by Ileana. Understated and nuanced performance. #Barfi
Balu_HK_Vadone: Saw the movie #barfi yesterday. @priyankachopra and #ranbir were excellent. A unique kind of character by both.
Baby_mol: Barfi is just a feel good film. A must watch. Falling in love all over again :)
babloo12: Barfi!! What an amazing movie..makes u laugh and makes u cry :') @priyankachopra and ranbir !!! WOW!
avvaswani: Barfi - Ranbir kapoor rocks !! Amazing job. Priyanka has also done a great job ! Hats off for agreeing to do such a non glamorous role
aslamc7: 'barfi' ek achasa pyarasa film hein.agar vakth mila tho zaroor jakar dhekhna..expectations-delivered.
ArpitNext: #barfi #awesome :)
arianaandco: #Barfi! is a new standard bearer for Indian cinema and Ranbir Kapoor the champion of a generation.
AnubhavChopra: If anyone ever thought that #Bollywood doesn't make good movies watch #Barfi! Great acting by @priyankachopra @ranbirkapoor
anshu69_s: 'Barfi"....beautiful movie......awesome performances by everyone.....specially Ranbir Kapoor........not to be missed !!
Annisha12: Barfi - very nice, very sweet, but unnecessarily complicated. Must watch.
annerhea: Barfi! stole my heart http://p.ost.im/p/d25and
ankurgupta: Barfi! The exclamation mark at the end is there for a good reason. It signifies brilliance.
ankitagureja788: #barfi such a cute love story...though 2 scenes were picked from #thenotebook..bt all in all sweeet
anilanjumanwar: What a treat. Even better than the real thing #barfi
amroze1: Saw barfi tonight *awsum movie*<3
Amr1ta: #Barfi is such a special film; so innocent yet so meaningful... so out-of-the-box but so perfect... so unconventional but oh *so* beautiful!
ameyawaghmare: Barfi - a must watch for all deaf, dumb and blind! We all humans are somewhere deaf, dumb and blind...
AmericanBrother: "Barfi" is a brilliant film thus far. Definitely getting it on DVD/BluRay when it comes out. Highly recommended. Quality Bollywood film. :-)
Ali_AhmedEl: #Barfi ,One Of The Best Movie !! @priyankachopra
alfan: Barfi again! :)
akshaysruhu: Barfi amazing movie must watch..
agentjay2009: #Barfi was an amazing movie, highly recommended.
aerosum: Barfi is such a lovely movie.. Truly exemplifies that love has no language!
adityaappala: #barfi..masterclass!!
aditya_patil_: Barfi was fantastic movie! Good work by Rk. A hindi movie that's unpredictable is not a frequent affair. Strong storyline and screenplay
AditiIfraved: From screenplay to direction to camerawork to acting, Barfi is a gem. Most people around me left with moist eyes. Take a bow Anurag Basu.
adhad89: Barfi! Amazing movie. Prfct acting and direction. RK fan nw fr sure.
aathiadi: Ranbir Kapoor & @priyankachopra rocked in @barfimovie BARFI!. A must watch movie :) I loved it :)
AakritiJain16: What an awesum muvie barfi! Hats off to anurag basu!
_MunibaM: So, BARFI was actually good, but def a bad idea to watch at a place where the concept of silent movie. doesnt get through.......
_anupb: Hats off to Ranbir kapoor, priyanka chopra and anurag basu for #Barfi
saurabhsays: Saw Barfi movie and liked it. Its a sweet story insisting to enjoi every moment and spread happiness. Didn't like so many flasbacks...
sachvikas: The way people are liking barfi to 4 star level, seems I am the only one who has not liked the movie 100 percent, it ws good bt nt tht gr8
iNavta: Barfi is a cute movie but it is too slow for me !!!!!!!
boozeandshooze: Barfi is great, but completely emotionally manipulative.
Bhiku_Bhai: Barfi was sweet nd refreshing as a movie experience but then what happened to brevity??
This page has additional observations, other than the ones noted in the main review.
Plot Summary
In a weird turn of events, deaf-and-mute Barfi (Ranbir Kapoor) ends up as caretaker for Jhilmil (Priyanka Chopra).
Parental Guidance:
- Violence: Police beating up an inmate.
- Language: Silent mostly.
- Nudity & Sexual content: One lip-to-lip.
- Concept: A story of love.
- General Look and Feel: 70s. Light-hearted.
![[Facebook page of Barfi!]](/static/images/icons/facebook_small.png){kind=icon}
![[Twitter account of Barfi!]](/static/images/icons/twitter_small.png){kind=icon}
![[YouTube channel of Barfi!]](/static/images/icons/youtube_small.png){kind=icon}
![[Wikipedia page of Barfi!]](/static/images/icons/wiki_small.png){kind=icon}
![[IMDB Page of Barfi!]](/static/images/icons/imdb_small.png){kind=icon}
Comments (51)
I've had my share of apprehensions about the movie ever since its trailer came out. Initially, it looked "too cheery" or feel-good sort (what with Ranbir reprising his Chaplinesque tramp-like persona)
Besides, it seemed as if Basu is now trying to do everything at once - A deaf-mute character in lead, an autistic in 2nd lead, period-setting (an attempt to gain weight?). I mean, it all seemed too gimmicky.
But the song promos have changed my opinion for good. at the very least, it seems to deliver a very original story (Don't know why, 'Forrest Gump' came to my mind :O)
Looking particularly forward to how Ileana performs. Have been a HUGE fan of her girl-next-door personality, ever since I watched Pokiri :D :D
And How can i forget to mention the title track (Mohit Chauhan version, ofcourse)
Like the trailer, the song too sounded a little too "bubbly". But then I heard the 2nd antara... :-| Hands down, one of the BESTEST composed, written & sung this year. The tragic-comic mood it creates... its just beyond words.
@B H Harsh, really? I don't get a 'feel good' feeling from the trailer. I think it's going to be a cheerful kind of a tragedy. Let's see... :) Oh yes, the songs are beautiful!
"Cheerful kind of tragedy" is a nice way to put that :) Can you recall any other Hindi films that had this quality?
looks too makey makey... lacks reality... Ranbir looks eager to impress and ends up looking as if he is over acting... Priyanka has always been an over actor. Though the movie is set in the 70s Ranbir looks as if he is in the 40s. Over all the message of the movie looks like it goes with the tagline... TOUCH MY HEART AND MAKE ME FART...
@Dwit wow! that's harsh, that too before even watching the film! Or did you catch a preview show somewhere? :P
@B H Harsh still thinking.
Have some expectations from this film, it's Anurag's comeback since a long time
Ranbhir is already on a high and he looks impressive in the promos, Priyanka too seems to gonna give a great perf and Illena looks good
@Silvan *fingers crossed*
A failure. Noble, Interesting, very very Cinematic... and yet a failure.
Over to you... :)
Ya surely the film may not work as i doubt it's made for BO. It maybe remembered as SLB's Khamoshi
@B H Harsh really? Please elaborate :)
@Silvan here you go, a hindi film that I liked :P
:D For the moment, I am finding some solace in Raja Sen's review which more-or-less mirrors how I felt about 'Barfi'..
But yea, the final stretch was a huge huge let-down for me. I never expected it to take the usual "who-will-he-end-up-with" route. Also bothering was the unnecessary mystery angle Basu tried to incorporate.
Oh I thought it was pretty clear who he was going to end up with. The mystery angle bothered me only after walking out, but while it was on, it made me want to play along. I just thought 'failure' was too strong a word. And Raja Sen did give it 3.5 out of 5. But hey, to each is own, either way! :D
my o my.. i am so longing to watch this film. and after this review, even more.
i feel fallibleness of such a plot is quite high. and it is quite risky to play a part of this kind.
i had written off Priyanka completely after watching her in practically every advertisement and after that horror called Agneepath. may this film serve as her resuscitation of the bollywood cinema career.
Illeana is fresh as dew.
ranbir! god, i go on record to say that he is the only Actor i know who is the only actor i know. he makes me forget him and remember the character. thats the mark of a true actor.
@Harish i have a feeling you are going to like this one. let's see...do let us know :)
I knowwwwww.... now even I am getting that feeling :P (about 'Failure' being a strong word). But as I was walking out, "This has not succeeded" was all I could think. So there!
:)
B.H. Harsh and Meetu: It is not a debacle like Kites but it is definitely not a great achievement either. At best it is an ambitious pastiche slow-cooked over audience's patience--where I watched the film, people had started to leave the theater by the middle to second half. Words fail, but audiences' walk-out says a lot!
erratum: *middle of second half* ...in the last line of my previous comment.
Here's some more on Barfi (Caution: The following comment is full of spoilers)
Barfi: What didn't work for me
--Convoluted story telling; so many seemingly unrelated people reminiscing a guy...there is a sense that these are all connected but not enough clarity prevails
--Mixing of genres: mystery + romance + disability; integration though ambitious was confusing
--Background score (monotonously romantic...reminded me of 'Kites'...which was not a good feeling)
--Excessive dependence on montage; the entire first half is a only a compilation of miniscule sequences that
a) take longer to convey the characters' intrinsic traits which in turn leaves the audience perplexed as to how to/ how much to empathize with the key characters, and
b) make the film/ story seem fragmented thus also making the storytelling seem convoluted...what's more, non-linear is also attempted at the same time...causing momentary interest but eventually adding to the chaos
-- Iliana's 70's hairdo--yes, yes the story is set in 1978 blah blah, but in a period drama there should be other evident period elements than just a wig! Ok there was a grey Fiat/ Ambassador too. So what?
--Coming to think of the hairdo, even the wig for present day Iliana did not work!
Barfi: What worked
--All possible loose ends tied together cleverly at the end, the very end though-- too late for people who got impatient and left the theater in between
--Cameraman conscious of framing PC in a way that her pouty lips were avoided from being too visible, even in close-ups. Thank god!
--Ranbir...saving grace and the sole reason to watch
Verdict: The trailers promised a light and fluffy dessert. However, what was served was a large serving of 'Khichdi' with some sugar syrup. Try imagining the taste. Barfy, right? Barfi at best is a pastiche in which all possible elements of successful cinematic plots are hodgepodged together-- boy meets girl, love triangle, disability, corrupt police, period setting, exotic locales, and non-linear storytelling, -- so the aftertaste is barfy!
The movie is simply awesome though it does drag at times but I simply loved it
What worked for me:
Ranbir, Priyanka, several brilliant scenes, good music, Ileana
What didnt:
Length, Ileana's make up for the old person
Was her voice dubbed?
People who find such films boring should go and watch EK Tha Tiger again
#Barfi - Seldom comes a movie..which makes u laugh heartily even before the first frame is shown i.e. 'picture shuru' .. the lead who wins hearts without uttering a single dialogue..(well jus a sound of burrrrfeee=E2=80=BC) ...and an audience which is so spellbound tht it breaks in an instant standing ovation..n doesnt rush out thru the closing credits....
Direction: 4
Story: 4
Lead Actors: 4
Character Artists: 4
Dialogues: 4
Screenplay: 4
Music Director: 3.5
Lyrics: 3.5
I loved this movie and did not agree that it was over the top unrealistic and all that...
Very sensitively made moie and yes few things needs to be enlarged to show a perspective otherwise they end up looking like documentaries. Romance was not flawed...thankfully there were not big sexual undertones either...
I believe thriller part was essential too as it was used to bring in an objective, of an emotion to convey Priyanka's importance in her house and change of sequences where her savior was hold up against her well being. Think, the movie otherwise would be bit boring.
Yup it became a bit long at a point but logically speaking, what else u think could be the climax- to portray victory of good-will and love? :)
My advise, watch the movie without much analysis...in essence of the message it wants to convey...It was a beautiful movie!
@g-10/g-2 strange this is...even if I do agree with some of the points you've made (not their explanations) - all of that worked for me. The theater I was in - there was applause at the end and the guy sitting next to me...oh that's a story...so here's this annoying over-enthusiastic, neighbor who gets to you by reading out loud (very loud) all the signboards in the movie backdrop,wants to let the whole theater know how he is loving the film (*eye roll*) and then starts singing along loudly with the title track - at which point I had to tell him that I would like to hear Mohit Chauhan and not him and he asked me to get myself a private screening - I decided to leave the argument there and focus on Ranbir Kapoor :D. Half an hour into the film, silent. His friend asked him in the interval how he's liking the film so far and he says - speechless and stays so through out the film till after the end credits have scrolled.
My point being, I guess there were all kinds of responses to the film.
@Silvan, @Suman :)
This is not so much in response to your judgement (because I have come to value it no matter what it is) but mostly in response to the euphoria around Barfi: All I can say is we are still living in an age where stories compel us, not storytelling; Where a little real work is heralded as a big achievement just because no one else likes to deliver us real work; When PC does a little more than a 'thumka' we all melt; When a director ODs on mush, we call it an epic; When he mixes genres we call him a genius and so on. As discerning audience we must be giving these guys a run for their money. Instead we like to get carried away by this one thing or the other. I want to applaud Basu and team too, but I would rather wait till they give us pure cinema not concoctions in the name of cinema.
@g-2 I didn't take it as that either. I was just surprised at my reactions to your comments. At almost each point, I was like, "yes, but...that's what I liked the film."
And, ouch, "PC does a little more than a 'thumka'" - is that all that she did in ? Really? :(
About 'little real work being heralded as big achievement' - hmmm...i've wondered about that - is it because we have such few 'quality' films coming our way that we lap up anything 'different'. But then, I have realized I am largely incapable of comparing films. I end up taking the film for how it made me feel during those couple hours and the after taste. I really wonder if this were an Iranian or a French film, how would the people who didn't like it, react to it?
Also, just like treating little real work as a big achievement isn't good, wanting every film to be the best is a little unfair too, nahi? I'd take 10 above average films and 1 awesome/great film a year than have only 1 awesome/great film. They are trying, our 'stars' are going out of their comfort zone when they don't really need to, isn't that great?
Yes, if you say that that's what they are supposed to do anyways and don't need an extra applause for that, I understand the sentiment. We should all do our jobs to the best of our capabilities and why should we expect to be appreciated for that? That's one way of looking at it too.
But, I love to say out loud when something entertains/engages/intrigues me, even if it is what they were supposed to do anyway. Haan, if like you said it did nothing for you, it did nothing for you. Hopefully, some other time. :D
Oh what a movie! I really loved watching it. Even before I could try for those sad scenes, I would get a smile on my face thanks to the wonderfully interleaved happy scenes. Awesome music too. This is also the first time I have appreciated Priyanka Chopra as an actor!
The movie reminded me so much of Korean movies, Majid Majidi's movies, French movie Amelie, that it almost seemed like an amalgamation of all those movies! Definitely a pride of anyone's DVD shelf!
Oops, I meant to write the following in the second sentence:
Even before I could "cry" for those sad scenes, I would get a smile on my face thanks to the wonderfully interleaved happy scenes.
I am so in love with this movie. I watched this at Wave Cinemas day before and enjoyed it so much. It was sweet yet so realistic. I kept my fingers crossed throughout the movie as I didn't want any bad ending. And to my relief, the movie had a perfect ending. Simply amazing!
Not a bad film but would not call it great. I think g2/g10 has covered some of my issues...
But more than that, what was disturbing me was scores of "inspired" scenes. One or tow scenes can be considered either coincidences or tributes but with so many from so many different films, it is difficult to appreciate.
& no I wasnt trying hard to find flaws... but I was repeatedly being reminded of various other films I'd seen before...
Hi Meetu,
I have quietly been reading your reviews for a year now and I trust your judgement so much!
You make me appreciate movies and have taught me to watch movies with a different perspective.
I would have loved to see a Notepad section on Barfi.
Hello..
I think I need to comment again :( :)
I am quite surprised to see the videos coming up on the internet showing the scenes copied exactly from various movies.
In this regard, I think the movie is still wonderful and great for an average Indian audience who do not have access to world cinema.
Now for those of us who have watched Amelie, the Notebook, a few Korean movies and Charlie Chaplin, would definitely be disappointed at the screenplay director's lack of innovation or creativity.
This will certainly pull down the score of screenplay or cinematography for this movie, and maybe even Music.
Lastly, sending this movie to the Oscars is a terrible idea as it will bring down Indian movies' credibility at world stage. People look up to Bollywood, and they will now look down!
Again, for an Indian audience, it is still the best movie of the year!
No notepad for this review? why?
Shiit !! 90% of those bits and pieces that make you smile are copy paste. Thats cheating. Guess its because Director works closely with Pritam !!
@Jitadiya, @Aditya, @Vishal it is rather disappointing and you can but feel cheated after you have seen some of the frame-by-frame copies. Some of the scenes were obviously inspired from Chaplin and I was ok with it while watching the film, but some of the other scenes is just not done. :( But, I guess if with my knowledge of films, if I enjoyed what I saw, I enjoyed what I saw. :)
@P Thank you!! Yet, we have a lot more to learn...
@P @ Silvan yeah, I didn't get around to doing it then and now I guess it is a bit too late. Especially considering what I liked will most likely be a lift off from somewhere else :(
Dear all we are very happy to releasing the Amazing Barfi at Turkey.
Honestly, Meetu? I didn't like most of this at all - the attempts at Chaplinesque Laughing-Through-Tears made me comment to my wife and friends, at more than one point, that if I'd wanted my heart warmed, I'd have had it torn it out of my chest and served it on a flaming skewer! I also didn't like how the movie wants us to be on Barfi's side even though I could hardly blame the Police Inspector for whacking the tar out of him every time we cut back to that storyline! I know it's supposed to be a fairy tale, but I was not sufficiently uplifted by the events and most of the performances to be transported - Ranbir Kapoor, in particular, was trying 'way too hard to be an Endearingly Poignant Little Engine of Comedic Destruction for my tastes.
But - and this is a big one - there's Priyanka Chopra's performance that almost elevates the movie to a Must Watch despite everything else. I'm not kidding when I say I didn't even recognize her, and completely bought into her character - I was going, "Who's this young girl they got? She's got potential!" I didn't think she overacted at all, but was spot-on - I think if she can show this kind of range again, Ms. Chopra might be at a Kajol level of acting talent.
So - one mostly annoying movie with one stunning performance. How do I rate that…?
@TimELiebe a not-so-nice rating for the film with a caveat?
@Meetu - yes, very much so. I would have given this film a Thumbs Down if not for Ms. Chopra's amazing performance.
I will say my opinion is not shared by everybody who watched this movie with me - Bruce Coville and Cynthia Bishop (you know them on Facebook), and my kid brother Craig loved it! But Tammy pretty much agreed with me, as did Bruce's daughter-in-law Charlotte - and Bruce's wife Kathy seemed very ambivalent, if not as openly displeased. It was a very Love-It-Or-Hate-It movie for all of us - so I guess maybe it succeeded at some level?
I will say that it succeeded in creating a perfect updated version of a silent comedy universe where these events could possibly happen - a bit of Chaplin, a bit of Jacques Tati. It's just I've never been a fan of Chaplin's more maudlin work, and while I admire Tati's work I don't enjoy it that much - it feels like film school to me. Of course, one of my favorite recent comedies is GOLMAAL RETURNS - so you can see where my bar for comedy is set! :D
@TimELiebe ouch!
;) Yeah, Meetu - I'm part of the "beer & curry" audience that keeps the GOLMAAL series, and films like ROWDY RATHORE, successful.
I'm an American - I thought you knew by now I have execrable taste when it comes to Indian cinema. :) Maybe in a decade or so, I'll have seen enough crowd-pleasers and timepasses to seek out a better class of film, but for now Indian movies are still a wonderland of beautiful people, improbable plots and amazing song&dance numbers….
@TimELiebe oh well...
PS to Priyanka Chopra's Impressive Acting Chops: Did you know she's doing a US television series, Quantico - where she plays American FBI agent "Alex Parrish"...?
I don't know whether to be happy for her - or appalled that they're Whitewashing her character.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt4428122/
@TimELiebe Yeah, I heard. Haven't seen the preview of the show yet. Somehow, not too inclined either.
PPS: Quantico has been airing in the US since the Fall - oh, brother.
Priyanka Chopra running around with her magnificent mane of dark hair not remotely hidden by a baseball cap, totally made up and stunningly beautiful, slipping through FBI security checkpoints as she tries to clear her name of treason for a bombing? Added to flashbacks of the stupidest "agent training" ever, that mostly seems designed to get these trainees to turn on each other? Even by US television standards, this show is stupid - and offensive, since the first ten episodes of the series have every Born-in-the-US person knee-jerk assuming she has to be a "terrorist" because she's, well, From The Middle East...Or India...Or Someplace Over There That's Not Europe....
Times like this, I despair for my country.
@TimELiebe As it turns out we watched season 1 and somehow didn't feel like watching season 2 even though the daughter has it recorded and ready. She loves it, what can you say about being at the very impressionable age of 12?
That your daughter is twelve, and Priyanka Chopra is a goddess who gets to run very fast and shoot a gun a lot in America, @Meeta? All the while without having to cut her hair or smear her perfect makeup - even though she's so remarkably beautiful that you'd think every guy here would remember her just for that?
She's not the role model you'd pick for your daughter - but Ms. Chopra's Alex getting to be an action hero on television every week is definitely a role model for Southern Asian girls, who rarely get to see women who look like them kick butt and look great doing it. It's kind of like Tammy's female heroes - yes, they're largely women warriors (and a few fighting mages) so they tend to solve problems by hitting them on the head with a sword, but they're getting to do "boy things" and be good at it so they inspire girls.
@TimELiebe aah! don't even get me started on this whole girl thing and boy thing. hmph!
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