While ‘R…Rajkumar’ entertains at some levels, it suffers from utter plainness and predictability. The raw action is impressive (Ravi Varma), the songs (Pritam) and the choreography are routine attractions. The second half seems like a sari too long and the comedy is often forced.

It has some ‘Must Haves’ of a pot-boiler, but misses the real thing – a SOLID STORY!

This isn’t the most rousing romance (second-half lacks ‘rom’), but has its feel-good moments. Chew it up with some ‘Chingam’ and a cute date.

For sheer vision, bravado and superlative execution, this one soars to new orbits. Latch on to this cape for an exhilarating ride.

Varma allows his characters to flourish in wit and humour. The plot is intelligent; there are laughs (sample: a tee printed – ‘Jab Tak Hai Trojan’), some suspense and surprises too. Though direction is not error-free, it could’ve been more innovative and he often tips the balance between comedy and thriller. This virus won’t crash your system. Watch it!

Raj Kumar is superb; he peels layers to strip to the core of his character. He magnifies the most intense scenes with sheer brilliance of an understated, realistic performance. It warrants applause. And an unadulterated encore. Catch it if real cinema is what you crave.

While this is far from the best films of the year, if you shamelessly love Ranbir, go for it. You might not like this if don’t have an appetite for typical Bollywood formula films.

You may not like this film if you don’t have a taste for silly humour & mindless gags!

Maneesh Sharma’s ‘SDR’ has a ‘Band Bajaa Baraat’ blend, but the essence lies in the conversational chemistry between the characters, some beautifully captured moments and slice-of-life scenes. He doesn’t play safe, which is good, but the second half seems repetitive. The concept is engaging, but the plot is little shudd, little desi and quite confused.

In OUATIMD, a love triangle forms the bloodline of the story, replete with ‘donnisms’, molls with maal and an overkill of ‘loaded’ dialogues pe dialogues.

If you want a change from the colourful canvas of Bollywood, and you like it dark, very dark – test this one out.