Patiala House may not match up to his debut film, Kal Ho Na Ho, but director Nikhil Advani does make amends for the disastrous Chandni Chowk to China. Watch this family drama for its redefinition of patriotism in a going-global age, dominated by the growing Indian diaspora.

Quite conveniently, a politically correct Advani never shows Akshay playing against India. Predictably, the men in blue do march to victory; it’s just a few shades darker than I would have liked to cheer for.

For a Bollywood- and cricket-crazy country, Patiala House seems like a dream that marries both off with aplomb… patialvi style.

On the whole, PATIALA HOUSE is a film about attachments, affiliations and familial bonding. It’s a compelling watch, more for its drama and histrionics than anything else. It’s a film that explores the father-son relationship and not just those in India, but around the world should be able to relate to the predicament depicted in this film. The hallmark of the film is the merging of its engaging drama with cricket and that’s what makes this product stand out from the earlier Akshay starrers. Especially its penultimate 30 minutes, which is the brightest spot of this enterprise. If the movie succeeds in pulling the heartstrings of the moviegoer, it would propel Akshay back in the same position he once was after the victory of NAMASTEY LONDON and SINGH IS KINNG.

PATIALA HOUSE is a heart-warming drama. Do pay a visit to this house with your family. A fun time is guaranteed.