In the close to 3 hours running time of the lone Bollywood Diwali release "Prem Rathan Dhan Paayo"(PRDP), Sooraj Barjataya weaves into his predictable plot inspired from "The Prisoner of Zenda" all his routine family sentiments and sugar coated sweetness and opulence larger than life.But nothing charms us as much the leading man Salman Khan in a dual role.Though his Prem Dilwale endears in no doubt, his prince serious but dapper avtaar Vijay is equally stunning.The actor has grown over the years in a way that his charm, personna and energies tower much above the films he does.Post Bhajrangi Bhaijaan, its nice to see Sallu as MR.Nice guy again.His phonetic eyes and swashbuckling smile makes u even over look that nearing 50 bulky frame.Indeed Prem has come a long way from the scrawny boy next door in Maine Pyaar Kiya to his latest PRDP.
The supporting cast are relegated to the periphery when the actor here oozes oodles of charm and makes the most inane and kiddish of scenes so bearably beautiful..I am referring one silly football sequence and even some coy moments of his on scrren romance with the lovely Princess Maithili(essayed with elegance de force by the ravishing Sonam Kapoor.The fashionista that she is, this film offers her the platform to add all the glitter and sassy gloss.Kapoor looks the part and shines through in most her scenes.Her costume designer and stylist deserve all the brownie points here indeed).Anupam Kher makes for an endearing diwan of the palace,Swara Bhaskar gets few moments of sparkling performance oriented screen time as th angry self respecting step sister and Neil Nitin Mukesh simpers through in spite of his royal and handsome looks.Armaan Kohil steps into the villainous role still reeling under the Jaani Dushman hangover.Deepak Dobriyal is the one performer who works his charm in spite of his cross dressing act initially.Pity this film does not offer him the meat that Tanu weds Manu part 1 and 2 did.
The film is shot splendidly(Manikandan plz take and bow) and the classy sets stand testimony to Nitin Chandrakant Desai's body of work as the sophisticated art director.The film suffers from too many songs placed one after the other which are rather situational.The title song of the film is splendid ly choreographed, styled and shot in vibrant hues.Himesh Reshamiyaas other neat contributions here apart formt he title song include Jalte diyae and Aaj unse milna hai mujhe both having a catchy lilt.
But ultimately this is one film which rests on the broad shoulders of its leading man to make its impact.PRDP is the seasons saccharine sweet entertainer wholesome in its appeal and should not be missed by Sallu fans.For others its a wonderful one time watch at the cinemas.So bring on the cola and popcorn and indulge in an ideal family cinema outing.