Review: SRK delivers a breakthrough performance in ‘My Name Is Khan’

Spicezee Bureau

Mumbai: Despite all the political hype and hoopla surrounding Shah Rukh Khan starrer ‘My Name Is Khan’, the movie comes out as a clear winner! Shah Rukh has delivered a very convincing and a power-packed performance, something that he was desperately seeking after BO duds like ‘Billu’ and ‘Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi.’ SRK not only proves his acting prowess in the flick, but also shows that he is much beyond the mushy romantic flicks that he is often associated with. Starring Shah Rukh, Kajol, Jimmy Shergill and Zarina Wahab, Karan Johar’s ‘My Name Is Khan’ is an emotionally charged film that grapples with the burning issues of religion and humanity. ‘MNIK’ is the story of Rizwan Khan (Shah Rukh), who battles with Asperger’s syndrome. This milder form of autism damages Rizwan’s socializing skills and leaves him with eccentric behavioral patterns – he can’t stand yellow colour, loud sounds and hugs. Yet, despite all his eccentricities, Rizwan finds love and family with Mandira (Kajol). Unfortunately, post 9/11, the Rizwan-Mandira relationship gets apart and Rizwan sets on a grand journey across America, to tell the American President that his name is Khan and he is not a terrorist. Starting in a flashback mode, the scenes of Rizwan’s childhood are quite moving. The Rizwan- Mandira romance is a bit mushy. Nevertheless, helmed by KJo and supported by ace cinematographer Ravi K Chandran and editor Deepa Bhatia, ‘My Name Is Khan’ is a beautiful film that effortlessly coalesces personal and political believes of its central protagonist Rizwan. The story moves on a brisk pace in the first half; yet, the second half slackens a bit both literally and figuratively. Yet, despite all this, Rizwan emerges as a clear winner who not only manages to shout down a hate-breeding Muslim doctor but also and saves the citizens of flood-hit small town of New Orleans. Undeniably, Rizwan is the essence of ‘My Name Is Khan.’ In Rizwan, Shah Rukh gives a stellar, heartfelt and endearing performance. And yes, the SRK-Kajol chemistry still works wonders! ‘MNIK’ is a must watch film. A treat for Shah Rukh-Kajol fans! Ratings: Four cheers for this one.