Are you really educated or just well trained?

Ratings: – * * * ½

Ever wondered about the difference between well educated and well trained? Ever thought that intelligence and good marks are poles apart? Ever felt that our education system sucks? Ever thought being happy, satisfied and successful doesn’t always mean earning big bucks? Ever felt the urge of doing what your heart likes? If your answers are yes, go and watch Rajkumar Hirani’s 3 Idiots and feel proud of yourself. And if your answers are no, still watch 3 Idiots to destroy your illusionistic image of life.

Loosely based on Chetan Bhagat’s book 5 Point Someone, the film embarks the journey of three engineering students – Rancho (Aamir Khan), Farhan (Madhavan) and Raju (Sharman Joshi).

Rancho never hesitates to challenge, question or prove somebody wrong even if it is the director of his college Viru Sahastrabuddhe (Boman Irani). He will go any heights to help someone and even enlighten others like he does to Farhan and Raju, who have joined engineering without any passion to learn the subject. After changing people’s lives, Rancho, however, suddenly disappears after graduation. Today, after five years, Farhan and Raju get a chance to finally meet their best buddy.

After Munnabhai MBBS and Lage Raho Munnabhai, Hirani is back with an enlightening film, but of course, without appearing preachy. The way he has narrated the tale will appeal to both youngsters and their parents. Even as the writer, Hirani deserves full marks for adding some jaw-dropping funny moments, that will leave you in splits even after the movie is over, and also some touchy incidents.

Shantanu Moitra’s music and Swanand Kirkire’s lyrics add icing to the cake. All the tracks – Aal Izz Well, Give Me Some Sunshine, Zoobi Doobi, Behti Hawa Sa and Jaane Nahin Dungaa – fit the story and the plot perfectly. Even the cinematography deserves special mention.

Despite, however, a long list of winning moments, there are present some flaws in the plot as well as in some scenes. The whole motto of Rancho while he was graduating (which is revealed after the first half) is purely unrealistic. And the destination where Aamir’s character reaches at the end is highly questionable. Mona Singh’s child delivery scene is indigestible and debatable while Sharman’s hospital scene doesn’t fit well. Also too much shedding of tears could have been avoided and the overall length should have been tighter. The inclusion of  a large number of filmi moments doesn’t suit in a film which has an enlightening message. Lastly, some funny moments are not comfortable for family viewing (especially the ragging scene).

Aamir Khan proves yet again why he is one of the best in the business when it comes to carrying the film on one shoulder. The actor is adorable in each and every scene. Because of his brilliant portrayal of a college youth, you completely forget his real age. Madhavan and Sharman Joshi provide perfect support. Both are flawless and lovable throughout. The nature of Boman Irani’s character is the same as in Munnabhai MBBS. Despite that, he portrays his part with a new dimension and perfection. Kareena Kapoor (Pia) too should be proud of her act. However, it is Omi’s (Chatur aka Silencer) mind-blowing comic act that takes everyone by surprise. Omi’s character and its hilarious accent will be remembered as long as the movie itself!

All said and done, watch 3 Idiots for the shower of hope that it provides while giving a new definition of life. And those creatures who are looking for non-stop fun, the film is worth multiple watches. The huge and extraordinary first weekend collections indicate that 3 Idiots will surely become the highest grosser ever in Bollywood!

Personal Note: – I never felt ashamed or disappointed for scoring less than 50 % marks in most of my college exams and after watching Rocket Singh and 3 Idiots, I have started flaunting my marks.