PK Hindi Movie
A third person view is often far more objective than what you and I may have. Which is why there are bodies that can provide judgments, objectively, on matters we could end up complicating otherwise. Somewhat like a viewer, who can be brutally honest about the drawbacks in a film. Objectivity is probably what Hirani and his co-writer Abhijat Joshi sought to explore when they started developing the concept of this film. Hence the character of PK, one with an 'out of the world' viewpoint, literally.
PK, the film is not quite unique in its inception, sharing space with a very compelling Oh My God (2012),directed by Umesh Shukla. PK, the characters, lands on earth with an intention to understand it. God turns into his subject. And in process of him understanding the power that made us all, he pokes at faulty notions that are developed and protected by us.
Like his first two films, Hirani's PK is driven by a character and the way he functions. The most delightful part of the film hence is easily the protagonist. The story is about PK's pursuit of God to hear his request. Much like Kanji Lalji Mehta of OMG, who is told that it is only God who could answer his plea.
The screenplay is woven to provide PK and his actions credibility. The first half is dedicated to establish his plight while the second half moves towards a resolution. Clearly the resolution proved tougher. PK has a brilliantly written first half, making it an absolutely delightful ride till the intermission. It makes you laugh and at some point it could even make the tender hearts cry! It entertains certainly. The second half is when things get loose, and you start drawing comparisons with OMG, which easily had a stronger second half. PK slacks as it moves towards the end, in contrast with Hirani's last three films. Nonetheless it ends on a perfect note; one which should leave smile on the viewer.
Providing PK the biggest boost is lead actor Aamir Khan, in probably one of his finest efforts. With wide open eyes that never blink, Aamir is at his best. Anushka Sharma is perfectly cast. Sanjay Dutt, Sushant Singh Rajput add their bits. There is also Parikshit Sahni playing the disapproving father reminds of his 3 Idiots acts, and Saurabh Shukla playing the fraud God-man takes us back to his Batuk Maharaj act in Lage Raho Munnabhai. Not to forget the usual suspect Boman Irani, this time in a perfectly positive role!
The deficit in the screenplay aside, the director in Hirani shines again. Every other department of filmmaking is top notch. Even the songs, which did not quite impress as an independent album, blends perfectly well into the film. It is a film that has the Hirani stamp all over it - an entertainer with a message. And of course it too has tremendous repeat value. And yet, PK is not Hirani's best!
PK is by far the most honest and earnest big-budget film of the year.
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