Om Shanti Om

Om Shanti Om
2007
4/5 stars

The less known about the plot of this film going into it, the better.  In brief, Om Prakash Makhija (Shah Rukh Khan), a "junior artist" at the movie studio, is in love with top actress Shantipryia (Deepika Padukone).  They both meet with an unfortunate event, and are killed.  Thirty years later, Om Kapoor (Shah Rukh Khan) realizes suddenly that he is the first Om reincarnated, and sets a path to avenge the death of Shanti.

Comedy and drama combine to make this an entertaining film.  In addition, Om Shanti Om, makes gentle fun of itself and Bollywood movies in general, adding another level of fun. Both of Khan's performances are solid, and Padukone (in her debut role) is a confident, convincing actress.  The movie is full of  Bollywood big names giving special appearances and cameos --well over 50-- giving an added dimension to the movie, as the viewer tries to recognize them all.  It contains impressive dance numbers, with mostly good music.  Overall, while not perfect, Om Shanti Om is thoroughly enjoyable.

(Other cast members include Bindu in a small role, Kirron Kher as Om Prakash Makhija's mother, Arjun Rampal as Mukesh Mehra, and Shreyas Talpade as Pappu Master.)

Note: This movie can be rented from Amazon video.