Watched "BOMBAY TALKIES": 4 short films directed by 4 talented filmmakers with only one common theme. Each film, in its own way, expresses what cinema means to India and how it influences or interacts with the common man/woman.  Other then that, each short film is completely diverse in it’s story and execution!  So lets begin….There have always been bad films, good films, and then THAT film which goes above and beyond…. “Bombay Talkies” is THAT film! Typing here isn't enough to encourage and convince people that they NEED to watch this film! This movie, as a whole, is wonderful! Each film, individually, is unique, well made and carries a particular emotion along with it. If you want something different from Hindi cinema, unlike the usual dose of masala entertainment, then watch this...If you don't, then still watch this and OPEN UP!  Now here are the individual reviews for each of the short films!

KARAN JOHAR: Never thought I would say this, but for the first time I am VERY IMPRESSED with a Karan Johar film! This is undoubtedly his MOST MATURE FILM EVER and one of the boldest Hindi films seen on an Indian cinema screen in terms of sexuality! It delves into a particular taboo in Indian society, how it affects us, and how it forces us to live a lie. It's about how the closed minded nature of this country only hurts us. Don't know how many takers it will have, but if you want to see a serious subject told sensitively then WATCH THIS! There is a scene in this film that shows us how Karan Johar isn't shying away from anything and that deserve respect! Randeep Hooda and Saqeeb Salim have acted well. Rani Mukherjee is good as always. If you are the type of individual with fixed ideas on how life should be lived, watching this segment of "Bombay Talkies" can hopefully broaden your mind.

DIBAKAR BANNERJEE: The way he merges the life of a failed actor and his personal need to find acceptance amongst his loved ones is VERY well executed. I feel this is the most well made film out of the four. Dibakar definitely has a very unique way of shooting, where everything flows so smoothly. Every moment is captured so naturally, as if the camera is simply an eye.  His shot taking communicates the essence of the film effectively. You will have a smile on your face when this short finishes. Nawazzuddin Siddiqui is a brilliant actor and Dibakar Bannerjee knows his craft! A PROVOCATIVE film!

ZOYA AKHTAR: A sweet film about being a misfit. Told from the perspective of a child, it delves into an innocent mind, clueless about the judgmental society that he lives in. A young boy in this story has the dream of being a dancer just like “Katrina” in Sheila Ki Jawaani.  When we were childen, we have all been obsessed with a particular actress or actor, to the extent where we would imitate what they do in films. This has Zoya Akhtars stamp and the child is really impressive. Katrina kaif play herself. The chemistry shown between brother and sister is wonderful. The production design of this film was impressive.  A CUTE FILM!

ANURAG KASHYAP: This film is more of a satire, but it reflects upon something that we all know exists in the country! It's about the star obsession, where superstars are respected beyond anything! This film is also about how some people find peace and comfort in the smallest of things, which others may just push away. The dialogues are sharp and Vineet Singh is a natural actor! This is also well made and filled with the subtle intricacies that Anurag Kashyap is known for...

Overall, just watch this film for a different experience even if it doesn't suit your taste. It’s great to see Indian cinema opening up and experimenting on different subjects. If I am to nitpick, then there are two issues with this film. For one, it’s not really a celebration of Indian cinema, but more of a celebration of Bollywood. Lets not forget that Bollywood is simply Hindi language cinema, while Indian cinema is vast and consists of movies made across the country in 21+ languages. Secondly, the song sequence at the end of the film doesn’t do justice to the movie. But those are 2 minor things that don’t quite matter. “Bombay Talkies” is, hands down, a MUST WATCH!

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