Almost a decade in the making, Afzal Khan's love story Mehbooba will feature younger versions of the lead actors.
Mehbooba features Sanjay Dutt, Ajay Devgan and Manisha Koirala and is seeing the light of day almost a decade after producer-director Afzal Khan began filming it. The most striking element of this film, the promos of which are currently on air, is its opulent sets.
The plot
Shravan Dhariwal (Sanjay Dutt), a New York-based business tycoon, believes his charm and money will fetch him whatever he wants. When his advances are rejected by Varsha (Manisha Koirala), he plans to take revenge on her.
Shravan convinces Varsha that his intentions are good and they get engaged. But after getting intimate with her, he dumps her.
Shravan is then summoned to his hometown for his younger brother Karan's (Ajay Devgan) wedding where he meets his brother's bride – only to find out that she is none other than Varsha.
Younger versions
As the movie was shot ten years ago, fans will be happy to see younger versions of their favourite stars. Everyone else, however, may find it very odd. Dutt has chopped off most of his hair and piled on the pounds.
The same goes for Manisha Koirala. Spotlight will be on the talented actress again, as she will be seen in a film after a long hiatus, even if it is a delayed one.
Devgan may be the only actor who has looked the same over the years. However, it will be strange to see him play Dutt's younger brother.
Rich but outdated music
When Mehbooba was launched, Ismail Darbar was a happening music director. Darbar composed the Mehbooba soundtrack for a '90s audience. Therefore, most of the songs may not do very well. However, two songs – Kuch Karlo and the superb qawwali Deewana Main – stand out. Had the film released at the right time, the music may have made a big impact.
Devgan's bad luck may continue
Devgan's Cash and Ram Gopal Varma Ki Aag bombed last year. His bad luck continued this year with Halla Bol and Sunday. Even his directorial debut, U Me Aur Hum, wasn't a huge hit.
And this much-delayed film, with its '90s ambience, may not help his cause either. But audiences can be unpredictable and they just might lap up a formula flick. If this happens, Devgan will be thanking his stars.
Afzal's hopes
If the film does not do well, Afzal will get a chance to redeem himself soon as his next release, God Tussi Great Ho, starring Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan and Priyanka Chopra, is set to hit screens soon.
The film has already garnered positive reports. But for now, Afzal would love to see Mehbooba do well. However, this will only be possible if audiences feel like going back in time.
