After APNE, the Deols are back with YAMLA PAGLA DEEWANA. Their comeback film blends the lost-and-found formula with some recent popular films like K3G and DDLJ.
Director Samir Karnik (KYUN HO GAYA NA, HEROES) takes his time to get the story going which results in a lethargic and lacklustre first half. Apart from Paramveer's awe-inspiring action scenes (which literally involves closing a bar), you have two tacky item numbers, and some con jobs of Dharam and Gajodhar. The stretched romantic track between Gajodhar and Saheba lacks spunk.
Unlike many films that lose spark post interval, YPD gains momentum as the characters arrive in Punjab. It's a mad ride from there, replete with funny gags, zany situations and uproarious dialogues. You only wish, if some of the gags were funnier. Nonetheless, it makes for one crazy viewing. You have to see it to believe it. Just a warning: don't even bother looking for logic.
YPD scores not just for being funny, but for also having a decent story which has the emotional connect. The scenes between Paramveer and Dharam and then between Dharam and Gajodhar manage to strike a chord. Poli (Sucheta Khanna) wearing a 'I love Caneda' T-shirt beneath her salwar-kameez is hilarious.
YPD is a treat for Deol fans. Sunny Deol is in his element and the fun that he had making the film, shows on the big screen. Expect a lot of seetes and claps for his action scenes, especially the ones in the climax, in which he fights without the use of his legendary dhai kilo ha haath. Bobby Deol delivers an excellent performance. Dharmendra still has his effervescent charm and is totally amazing. Kulraj Randhawa (of TV serial 'Kareena Kareena' fame) looks good and acts decently. Anupam Kher is funny. Mukul Dev is amazing in his comic stint. The two kids of Paramveer deserve special mention, especially the younger (ditto) one. Sucheta Khanna is excellent.
The right dose of action, drama and comedy, combined with a fine story make YAMLA PAGLA DEEWANA a paisa vasool entertainer. Go for it!