Cast: Shahrukh Khan, Irrfan Khan, Lara Dutta, Kareena Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra, Deepika Padukone, Asrani, Om Puri, Rajpal Yadav, Manoj Joshi,Jagdish, Rasika Joshi, Pratik Dalvi, Mitali Mayakar and others Director:Priyadarshan Producer:Gauri Khan Music:Pritam Chakraborty Date of Released:13th February, 2009
'Billu Barber' is remake of tamil movie Kuselan starring Rajnikanth, which was a box office disaster in south. The original story was copied from Malayalam movie 'Katha Parayumbol'. But sadly Billu doesn't have Priyadarshan's trademark comedy nor the intense dramatic depth. Priyadarshan has not delivered any good movie after 'Hera Pheri'. All his movies after Hera Pheri were stereotypical with no real depth or nativity in the story. Billu has nothing to offer except for masala songs featuring Sharukh and his ladies.
Story:
The film tells the story of two childhood friends Shahir Khan (Shahrukh Khan) a rich guy and Billu (Irrfan Khan) somewhat impoverished friend. They go on their separate paths early in their life to achieve different heights. While Shahir achieved his dream of stardom and the riches, Billu was content with his simple and humble life as a barber in Budbuda village. Billu's life takes a U-turn when Shahir arrives in Budbuda to shoot for his next film. Villagers are thrilled about the filmstar's arrival and every other person is desperate to get a glimpse of him including Billu's wife and two children. When the village folk learn that Shahir Khan was Billu's childhood friend, they leave no stone unturned to please Billu so that they can somehow get to meet the superstar through him. Meanwhile Billu is hesitant to meet Shahir as he feels that he would embarrass himself with his shabby state. What consequences does Billu have to face for his hesitance and how does he finally meet Shahir Khan? That forms the crux of the remaining story.
Performance:
Irrfan Khan as Billu the barber delivers a good performance. Shahrukh Khan does well in a role very similar to himself. His final speech at the school is very emotional and he delivers exceedingly well. Lara Dutta is apt as Billu's wife. Cameos by the three ladies; Deepika Padukone, Priyanka Chopra and Kareena Kapoor, were just about okay. Om Puri and Rajpal Yadav are funny.
Music:
Pritam's music is a huge hit in the markets. Songs are peppy and catchy. Lyrics by gulzar are good. 'Khudaya Khair' and 'Billu Bhayankar' are the pick of the lot. Choreography and special effects are good.
Verdict:
No doubt Irfan steals the show but mere presence of Sharukh makes all the difference. If you are a diehard fan of Shahrukh Khan, then go watch the movie on the big screen. Movie can be rated as above average.
