Amidst the hype, Madhuri's ghagra, the Ranbir - Deepika relationship and others, there was a sense of hope and expectation with this film for me, just because is was directed by "Ayan Mukerji". The director of Wake up Sid, which was a film where I really thought of Ranbir as an actor for the future.
This film has a cast of some young and fresh actors who bring their A game to the table. Specially people like Aditya Roy Kapoor, Kalki, and of couse the ever charming Ranbir and Deepika. Their performances do give a fresh and joyous sense to the film.
Coming to the plot, there is nothing you do not expect, A guy who lives a carefree and adventure filled life (Ranbir) and a girl who is like the one friend we all have and know is a book o'holic.(Deepika). This film does not surprise you with the plot or gives a twist or takes unexpected turns, but the actors and the screenplay makes up for it.
Like almost each and every Karan Johar film, this one has that first half fun filled and second half emotion filled plot, if you know what I mean......
The soundtrack delivered by Pritam is really foot tapping and catchy. Even with the emotional sogs, he does leave a mark. Don't be surprised if you find yourself humming some of the tunes even after you leave the hall. (Specially Subhanallah and Kabira)....
Some of the locations of the film shot in manali which shows trekking are enjoyable...
The main fault with the film is the plot itself and how it is presented in a clichéd manner. I don't have a problem with a used plot, but it could have been presented in a way that it does not get boring and too predictable. Guess the makers didn't want to take a risk.
The characters in this film are well built and we connect to them. Even small roles like Ranbir's parents, Kalki, are well acted and most importantly relate-able.
In the end this is a film with good acting, good premise, great locations, songs, but does get very much predictable and some times uninteresting. I give it a 7/10