REVIEW: Halla Bol's stuck in the 90s

What the film is about

When Sameer Khan (Devgan) refuses to testify in a murder he has witnessed, his conscience begins to prick him. He tries hard to assuage his guilt by paying off the victim's sister but realises that he has to come clean and expose the sons of two powerful men.

Sameer who hails from a small town makes it big in Bollywood but at the cost of his integrity and honesty. So much so he even justifies his philandering ways to his wife Sneha (Vidya Balan) and the lack of social commitment to his teacher Sidhu (Pankaj Kapur).

But finally when he has to make a choice between the hollow showbiz life he has built for himself and the values he once abided by, he chooses the former.

Little does he realise however that his decision will cost him not just his reputation but also endanger his life and that of his near and dear ones.

Sure enough what follows is an ugly witch-hunt spearheaded by the politician (Darshan Jariwala) and liquor baron whose sons are responsible for the murder.

Sooner than later however, the estranged Sameer finds that he isn't alone as his wife and guru rally beside him. But the war is far from over.

What we liked about the film

Halla Bol has some classic Raj Kumar Santoshi moments, which any hardcore Bollywood film viewer would enjoy. For instance there is a scene where Ajay goes to Darshan's house and is infuriated by the blatant show of wealth. He is told about the rug from Persia, Ming vase from China, sofa set from Germany. In response he relives himself on the rug and says, "This one's pure Indian. And you don't need paisa, power or public for this. You need balls."

Concept-wise too Halla Bol is strong. If you had no issues with Rang De Basanti's concept, chances are that Halla Bol will work for you too.

And Vidya Balan may not excel in the two-bit role. But she certainly stands her own ground.

IN PICS: Vidya Balan at the Halla Bol premiere | Demure Vidya says Halla Bol!