Looking at the much-hyped promos - I entered into cinema hall with not over the top expectations, specially looking after "south-styled" action scenes. Nevertheless, it did not disappointed me.
It is Momento - Thriller + Indian (South) Masala which is much watchable due to sheer charm and power of Aamir Khan. It is intended to be "hatke" movie on the whole but slips into the masala formula very soon. Movie opens with the action films with Aamir with revealing about his "sort term memry los" (as Ghajini says). It has no intentions of keeping people guessing of what may happen next - though basic plot offers much more potential of doing so. (Read Momento). However, script takes very expected route about unfolding the "mystery" through flashback mode. Additionally, it is really very LOUD at times. Let it be the ROD scene where Asin dies OR the much stretched climax. I wonder how soothing experience it could have been - if there was bit heart poured in those scenes.
On positive notes - the only thing that stick my mind after leaving cinema hall was the romantic track between Asin and Aamir. The scene where she offers him money to help OR scene where Asin takes the footprint touched me. It's bit strange going by the genre of film but Asin's character was very well written and executed. Aamir has shown good shades of before and after character - though the later lack soul in it. His sheer presence on the screen gave audience much to cheer about. This time he shown that he can do the typical masala films with 8(!) packs if he wants to. It just that he chose to be different!! Jiah Khan has been utilized minimal as it should be. The villain was the most disappointed part. It was old 80s OR 90s style badman who kills people as everyday routine; nor his presentation was of any thoughtful.
All in all - it was an enjoyable watch for 3 hours which matters the most. With loads of loop-holes in the story and script which lacks the intelligence of Momento - I give 3.5 stars to Ghajini. It's just the way to show how great intelligent stories can turn into popular bollywood films - when great stars shows their colors.