Tanu Weds Manu

Based on the movie's trailer and soundtracks, I thought this one would crackle with wit and amusement. I like Madhavan (a.k.a Maddy) and the beautiful Kangana and was therefore, inspired to watch the movie. However, for the most part, Madhavan appeared un-spirited and ordinary. Well, his character is an NRI doctor who leads a tedious, unromantic life making pacemakers in London. Instead of transforming into the night in shining armor after meeting the love his life, he continues to shine less brightly than even before. Kangana's character is a rebel. And why she is so, I couldn't figure out. She defies her parents in everyway she can. She consumes alcohol, puffs cigarettes and parades with one man every week (where do you find so many desirable men, anyway?) just to spite her parents who seemed quite sweet to me. Anyway, the director/writer didn't bother to elaborate on her rebellious nature. 

I just felt sorry for Maddy because he's a charming actor with a charming smile. And I hate to see that wasted on a dull character. There was just one line that I liked from the movie. Kangana's character (Tanu) tells her friend that Manu was the only one who didn't try to "customize" her. I thought that was a nice way to explain what we do in relationships. Tweeking, customizing, training our partners to be whatever it is that suited us. 

The dullest moment in the movie was the climax scene with Tanu's boyfriend (Jimmy Shergil) darkly pointing a pistol at Maddy, while Maddy stands dull, fearless (apparently) and Kangana tearfully standing by Maddy. All that rebellion disappeared once she fell in love with the unlikely candidate. Imagine this scene with them and a crowd of supporters for each side. The angry mob should have actually pounded at each other without even knowing the reason for the riot. Instead, they stand in pin-drop silence and listen to a monologue from Jimmy. Jimmy continues to point his gun at Maddy and only hints at bloodshed. Why does Maddy stand still? Because, he says, "this feels right". Remember, if you're right, someone else is wrong and then things could go very bad. So, you either fight or flee. But, adrenaline was one thing not flowing through this NRI man or this movie. I think you can skip this one. If you liked this movie and you're a bit surprised by my review, please pardon. I just expected more from this cast and the movie.