Well, if you are as new to the Bollywood phenomenon as I am, you will be as confused by this movie as I was (... and if you are a Bollywood expert, you should skip this review). To Eureopean tastes, and probably also to American tastes, many aspects of the movie seem to be implausible. The male lead, Shah Rukh Khan, THE Indian Top Star, seems not be able to act, but nobody seems to care; the story is outrageously simple and pure kitsch; the movie is extremely long; the actors tend to break out in song and dance for no reason whatsoever; etc. However, the movie is quite charming in its way. The actors, Khan included, are lovable and do not even try to display any skills at the Robert de Niro-type of method acting. The overly emotional acting is highlighted by dramatic panning and freak breezes that even turn up in closed rooms, but it is exactly what the audiences want, and it goes hand in hand with the over-the-top lavish extravaganza of the sets and the well-choreographed song and dance sequences, since ENTERTAINMENT is all the movies aim at. So, if you are a purist, if you cannot accept kitsch for all it is worth and if you want psychological drama instead of bright sets and sentimental love stories, DO NOT WATCH THIS MOVIE. If, however, you occasionally indulge in something that is neither intellectually challenging nor deemed high art, but that is clean, bright and bubbly fun, you will enjoy this picture. There I will not bother you with a synopsis but I will only point out that you will probably want to watch one or two other movies to understand this phenomenon. The chances are high that you will see the same actors again, playing the same roles again, only with different names.


Hands down this is the best film of the year, and deservingly so. Although Nikhil Advani started off in the backseat, it looks like from now on his job is in the director's chair. With the support of Karan Johar and Papa Yash Johar, it's almost impossible to go wrong.

With such blockbusters as Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham to his name, Karan Johar is ready to add another feather to his cap with his beautiful and heartwarming Kal Ho Na Ho. Kal Ho Na Ho is directed by Karan Johar's associate director Nikhil Advani and produced by Karan Johar, who has also written the screenplay for the film. Nikhil Advani was Johar's close assistant in all his films including Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, K3G, and Aditya Chopra's Mohabbatein.. The main cast has Shah Rukh Khan, Preity Zinta, Saif Ali Khan and Jaya Bachchan in the lead, and a plethora of others, including Sonali Bendre, in support.

Kal Ho Naa Ho takes place in Manhattan, New York, and is the story of three friends, Aman (Shah Rukh Khan), Rohit (Saif Ali Khan), and Naina (Preity Zinta), who travel on a journey that teaches them the true meaning of friendship. It teaches them to discover themselves, and to find the courage to live through times of happiness and times of sorrow. With the constant arguments and bickering in her semi-Punjabi/semi-Christian family, Naina, 23, is completely distraught by the conditions which surround her. In addition to this, she is bombarded with the responsibilities of taking care of her younger brother and sister, as well as helping her mother, Jennifer (Jaya Bachchan) handle the family's economical complications. Between all these burdens, Naina never has time for herself.

As far as the technical performance of the film goes, it is almost impossible to create a more perfect film. The editing skills are extremely sound and the cinematography shows the viewers what a difference a few angle adjustments can do for a film. The overall effect of the film is merely jaw dropping, for a lack of a better term. To put all rumors to rest, Kal Ho Na Ho is NOT a copy of Hrikesh Mukherjee's 1970s classic, Anand. Although Nikhil and Karan have adopted a shade of the film, by no means is it a copy, and should be regarded as a purely original story, written by Karan himself.

The greatest asset that Kal Ho Na Ho has is its cast. The magnitude of chemistry between Shah Rukh Khan, Preity Zinta, and Saif Ali Khan is mind blowing! Adding Jaya Bachchan to the mix creates for an even more awesome effect. It's safe to say that this is one of Shah Rukh Khan's best performances ever. He breathes so much life into his character, Aman, and literally has you feeling for him as if he was your very own. He puts on a mesmerizing performance and will definitely earn himself many awards.

Shankar, Ehsaan, and Loy are a major part of this film as well. There music, which has been topping the charts ever since its release, brings a beautiful touch to the film. Their soft yet mellifluous melodies compliment the film wonderfully. To top it all off, Javed Akhtar's mastery of the language creates for some heart warming lyrics.


This is the only movie in the world that made me cry so much. This isn't your conventional love story, and yet it will leave a mark.

Though there are subplots in the movie, it's not as complicated. It blended very well in the main story. The setting of the place also blended very well in the story.

Kal Ho Naa Ho is a good combination of drama & comedy, unlike the so-called "dramedy" movies which aren't funny or what at all.

Shah Rukh Khan's acting was superb. Wait, he didn't act at all, he let Aman (his character) enter his body and he became Aman. Preity Zinta did an excellent job. Karan Johar made a good choice of choosing her. To be honest, if Kareena Kapoor would be Naina, it would not make an impact at all. Saif Ali Khan blew my mind off! He's amazing! I was impressed, I can totally relate to his character. Overall, the main actors were 11 out of 10.

Overall, Kal Ho Naa Ho is the best movie I've ever seen in my entire life. A perfect film for everyone. Anyone can relate to this story, even the stone hearted will cry to the highest level when they see this. This movie made me proud that I'm an Asian & that Bollywood is better than Hollywood.


I read the negative comments made about this movie and I was moved to reply not only as a movie goer but as part Indian as well. This movie was done with grace, cleverness, and with such brilliance that anyone who did not feel that they wanted their lives to matter more didn't get the true message. The actors were full of whit and at their best. Anyone who watches anything from Bollywood knows that Shahrukh delivers best in any of Yash's films. Bravo to Yash Productions and boo to anyone who didn't appreciate it. I can only say that if you want to see a great movie with a colorful cast, great humor and something that will touch your heart, watch Kal Ho Naa Ho. This movie is why I watch movies.


If you liked last year's "Sometimes happy, sometimes sad", you will certainly love this new Bollywood-Hit. Located totally in New York and presenting a mix of Woody Allen's Manhattan and Saturday Night Fever, it's three hours of absolute pleasure with a heartbreaking finale (remember Love Story or Terms of endearment?).

Indian star Shahrukh Khan does his best to bring the girl he secretly loves together with her best friend, because he's going to die. A group of wonderful actors, funny dialogues and sexy musical-numbers make this Indian love story pure joy and entertainment. Just until the end, when you can't hold back the tears any longer.


I believe that Karan Johar and Nikhil Advani have tried to do a cross between drama and parody. Mind you, it'd have been a hoot if they lampooned the serious Bollywood tearjerkers that are churned out dime a dozen. But they want the cake and eat it too. They want to parody the Bollywood tearjerker and still cater to the section of audience that wants to believe it to be real. I ended up getting a bit disoriented because at times they were showing serious stuff but were laughing behind the scenes and at other times, they took their own script too seriously. It all seems confusing and disastrous. But the end product is not too bad and that is due to the tremendous talent of the crew and cast.

Too many movies have been shown where the old ones in US adhere to Indian traditions more ritualistically than those in India and the young ones conveniently go between being the ultra modern (whatever that means!) and ultra traditional as the script demands. They also have the poor girl married off and going to India (Some traditional family from India will ask for her hand) which doesn't make much sense because it seems to defeat the very purpose of uprooting the entire family from India. Kal Ho Naa Ho takes every one of these supposedly serious stuff (including Karan Johar's own DDLJ) and pokes fun at them. The uppity Naina (Priety), the confused Rohit (Saif), the serious grandmother and I must make bold to say, the ultimate do-gooder Aman (none other than Shah Rukh) - everyone of them is a caricature. And they have done these roles before. It is hard to take them very seriously because you get the feeling that the director and the writer are chuckling behind the cameras even as they are filming these scenes.

And then there is the pretty funny, long comedy track of a mistaken homosexual relationship between Saif and Shah Rukh. That "O ... Kantabhen" just puts it way over the top. I laughed like crazy. Is there an inside joke there Karan and Nikhil?

I don't know if I should say the casting is perfect or the performance is perfect for the parody. Every time I think nobody can ever act more theatrical than Shah Rukh, he out does himself. His performances are so unnatural and stilted that they are actually funny. With all the parodying going on, I am wondering if Karan and Nikhil decided to milk Shah Rukh for all he is worth and make him ham it up even more! Saif Ali Khan acts brilliantly in his repeat performance of Dil Chahta Hai and so does Priety Zinta of a number of her own roles.

Then, the writer-director duo decide to take things seriously and the problem is I still can't stop laughing. That makes it uneasy. They take every dramatic scene, blow it out of proportion - as is the convention of Bollywood standards - and keep showing it long after it has exhausted all its dramatic potential. This makes the second half of the movie a bit uneasy to watch. Particularly when Shah Rukh leaves the hospital to go convince Saif and Priety, I was very uneasy. Then they show Saif Ali Khan in that I'm-20-years-older-so-I-need-gray-hairs wig that is just too much!

Overall, it was an interesting movie. Somehow I feel that the filmmakers had more fun making it than we have watching it. Makes me wish I was involved in the process! 7 out of 10.

PS: The only issue I have with the gay joke is this - India is one of the few countries where men are not as inhibited and uptight as those from Europe or US. After this movie, I am afraid that Indian guys are going to become a lot more self-conscious about non-sexual intimacy between each other. It is a pity!


I believe that Karan Johar has amazing capacity to make people laugh or cry.

In this melodramatic movie he has put very nice and humorous patches of comedy. But I strongly believe that the movie is with plenty unforgivable loopholes. I cant understand how a person with such a serious heart trouble can run like Carl Louis, dance like Michael Jackson and sing like Enrique.

Please make some realistic hindi movie like Satya.


If I had to select one film to represent Hindi Cinema, it would be Kal Ho Naa Ho. I don't really care if people say this is not the most influential or historically significant film.

Kal Ho Naa Ho is the best Hindi Cinema has offered me. I have a special connection with this film and its believable characters especially Aman{SRK}. I regard this as his best role. Aman is the greatest character in the history of Bollywood. The main reason for it is the way he played with my emotions was unbelievable, he made me laugh out loud initially and during the climax he melted my heart and I cried with him. I've never seen and maybe will never see another more vibrant and colorful character. Kudos!

The background score is also tremendously strong and emotional. Excellent score by SEL. The music/songs were awesome. My favourite of the lot was the title track sung by Sonu Nigam, which instantly became my all time favourite song before I even saw the film, just listen to its lyrics...Again PERFECT!

The story is relatively very simple but the film does a superb job in showing it. People may say the last part of the film is too emotional and not required but I strongly disagree. This film gave me exactly what I wanted...Complete satisfaction. Perfect acting {by all}, Perfect music, Perfect story.

In all, A Gem of Indian Cinema IMO and my one and only favourite Hindi film of all time. Enough said!

Rating: 10/10


Oh my God! I love this movie, this is the best movie i have seen so far.. This movie is set in New York! This movie is a blend of romantic comedy and family melodrama. The first half of the film is absolutely hilarious and is packed with moments that will bring a smile to everybody's face. Meanwhile Johar(producer) and Advani(director) develop the storyline subtly by sneaking in drama which adds spice to the proceedings and paves the way for a dramatic and emotional climax.

It is a wonderful film about living life and enjoying the days we have because we don't know what tomorrow will bring. Aman (Shahrukh khan) the main leading actor falls in love with Naina Catherine Kapoor (Preity Zinta) who belongs to a Punjabi family, she is not married and have no intentions to be. Shahrukh Khan later find out in the movie that he has a heart disease and would not be able to live for long. So he never tells Naina that he loves her instead of that he hooked Naina with her best friend Said Ali Khan whose a total flirt but later on fells in love with Naina too..

I cried a lot when i watched this movie in the theater I was crying the whole time but enjoyed it a lot! I would encourage every one to see this movie because I learned a lot from this movie.. Life is beautiful guys so live it the fullest!!


Kal ho naa ho is a great story combining laughter and tears to perfection. Some viewer comments strangely focus on SRK's far-from-realistic performance, totally missing the point of this film in my opinion.

It goes way beyond technicalities such as realism, along the lines of a fairy tale dealing with a multi-dimensional range of emotions and relational situations at a deep symbolic level, somewhat reminiscent of the french new wave of the 60's at its best.

Poetry should not be scrutinized for its lack of realism but rather taken in from a distance, its inner message interpreted at a more intellectual level, with candor and an open heart. A such, kal ho naa ho hits the mark much like a wonderful display of fireworks.


I'm sick of reading bad reviews of this movie. This is such a funny, heartwarming and endearing film. One look at the premise and many people would think it's hard to make the movie work that way but it does. This was my favorite movie of 1994 and it works on so many levels. The interaction between the actors is fantastic. Even though it is more a light-hearted comedy the teenaged stars are given a realistic treatment throughout the film which is something rarely see in film. Michael Patrick Carter, Melanie Griffith and Ed Harris are all stellar. This movie is filled with wonderful enduring scenes and is truly a delight.


I saw "Milk Money" when I was eleven; much of what happens in the movie is the sort of stuff that would make any eleven-year-old boy think "Whoa...cool!" Looking back on it, I still think that it was pretty funny, but was it the most mature movie? No, and it doesn't pretend to be. I read somewhere that this movie was sexist; I wouldn't know one way or the other. All that I interpreted was that the movie was a nice, horny excuse to have fun. Richard Benjamin has proved himself to be quite capable as a director, and this adds to that.

I know, the prostitute-with-a-heart-of-gold context is a cliché, but this is a comedy, so it passes. And believe you me, this V (Melanie Griffith) is definitely a V for vendetta! Also starring Ed Harris, Malcolm McDowell, Casey Siemaszko, and a very young Anne Heche. Really entertaining, especially the report on the female reproductive system.


MILK MONEY is a lovely and sentimental romantic comedy about a precocious pre-teen who decides to set up his widowed father with a warm-hearted prostitute, who is on the run from some bad people. This film is a warm slice of contemporary Americana, beautifully conveying small town sensibilities and their positive and negative effects on the fictional hamlet of Middleton. The story is simple (though it does take Dad a little too long to figure out what this girl does for a living)and the environmental subplot is underdeveloped, but the movie is filled with believable characters and funny scenes, including one very funny scene where the boy uses the hooker as a visual aide for a school project on the female anatomy. Melanie Griffith shines in a tailor-made role as V,the proverbial hooker-with-a-heart-of-gold, in her most appealing performance since WORKING GIRL and Ed Harris is charming and sexy as the dad. Michael Patrick Carter is utterly charming as the boy and Malcolm McDowell and Anne Heche offer funny supporting turns as a gangster and his ditzy moll, V's best friend. An entertaining romantic comedy that's beauty lies in its simplicity.


In some cases I'd say this is better then Pretty Woman. I say "some" with weight because Pretty Woman is a classic. But Milk Money fills that "hole" you had watching pretty woman. Ed Harris's character is sincere and attentive which matches Melanie's softness (which at the best of times can spoil her on screen performances) perfectly. It's a classic boy meets girl movie with that dash of "damsel in distress but is now hardened and tough due to life being so rough and who now finally meets a man who breaks through it all and understands and loves her for who she is" - as far as romantic comedies go- it was better then I thought it would be and even gets the heart strings welling when Ed Harris tells her "this could hurt"...The story itself can be at times almost childish, but in the end that's part of it's charm.


Please forgive me but I fell in love with this movie even if it's not exactly the kind of movie that is hip.... Three young boys have no clue how a naked woman looks like so they save money to go to town and ask a hooker (Melanie Griffith) to show them her delicious body. One thing leads to another and V the hooker ends up staying by one of the kids (Michael Patrick Carter) who tells his dad (Ed Harris) that she's a mathteacher. And then in pure Pretty Woman-style the kid wants the hooker as his mum and tries to unite dad and the whore...and does it work? You know the answer but just a pimp (Malcolm McDowell) wants his moneygoat back... Well well, you laugh and I guess you are right as this history could have end up in something terrible but there is a freshness à la "Stand By Me" that makes "Milk Money" great and of course the performances from both Ed Harris and Melanie Griffith...just as usual Malcolm McDowell suffers from terrible overacting.


Another stupid American comedy especially for people who want to waste their time, sitting in a couch and watching crap. The usual plot: small town, widower, son trying to set up his dad with warm-hearted prostitute, bad guys.... happy end!!! Apart from that, there's no plot, no depth, no fun, no characters, no no no... Watching it, simply created me a feeling to smash the TV. I just feel sorry for people who paid to see this bulls**t in cinema. English (legend) Mc Dowell and Harris must have been in terrible need of bucks. :P Griffith is simply awful and jokes are colder than North Pole!

*Only for a "special" type of people :P*


Melannie finds her life as a hooker is much over-rated with a nasty pimp ripping-off his mob-associates & finding herself accused of stealing the missing money.

Escaping to the suburbs she finds life as a future step-mom is just like that portrayed on TV. Helping the son of the bloke she has taken a shine to pass his school-biology presentation her past life catches-up when a former client recognises Melannie & demands her services.

Unaware the stolen money is hidden in the car she is driving Melannie has no way to prove her innocence to her pimps mob-associates or rumoured mob-boss under pressure from the media leading to a life on-the-run.


To be honest, this is one of the movies I thoroughly enjoyed when I first watched it. Of course it is a simple and predictable story, but the actual transformation did it for me. The three boys are awesome. The way Melanie Griffith and Ed Harris fall in love with each other and how they find together despite unfavorable circumstances is nicely staged. Michael Patrick Carter is able to assert his character's emotional condition, his expectations and dreams, which puts this movie above the average family story, despite the hackneyed elements it may have. The happy end is indeed rather corny, but hey, the movie has a message, it is entertaining and funny. Thus you may watch this movie with your entire family.


I know people who are just as shy and ditsy as Tom Wheeler and certainly adolescents who wish for the same thing. I doubt that there are many hookers like V but she has the proverbial "good heart". The son's (Frank) well meaning hopes for his dad and the situations it creates are truly funny.The sex-ed presentations is one of the funniest comedic plots ever. It also strongly point's out that a "book should not be judged by it's cover". The plot is not complicated, the characters well developed and understandable and it doesn't take itself too seriously. What more can be asked of a comedy? I own it and have seen it many times and always feel really good when it ends. Outstanding Entertainment. A must see and must buy for your film library


I have seen the movie for the first time back in 1995. I found it delightfully funny, great entertainment. Yes, the plot is a bit on the complex side, over-elaborated and somewhat predictable and yes, the content might be questionable, but the movie combined some characters into a pretty entertaining entity. Not Oscar material, but definitely enjoyable.


the movie is quite a bore. cannot believe that ed harris wasted himself in this brainless plot. a cheap attempt to recreate some of the magic of pretty woman, but without the class, conviction or the charisma of the former.

watch the movie only if you're desperate to see melanie griffith in yet another role as a skimpily clad sexpot. she's quite good in the role though.

a stupid 4!!


Okay so it is a story about a young kid trying to set his father up with someone because daddy has been lonely. Mommy is gone. So where does this boy and his band of innocents turn? Where else, a hooker! Horribly unbalanced, unentertaining, and downright unwatchable. Featuring Melanie Griffith at her whiniest and most annoying yet. Ed Harris' performance was, to put it kindly, forgettable. Avoid this one.


I can't believe someone wrote that this was a good movie for kids!!?? I'm sure having an ex-hooker for a mom would be ideal for any young boy. I can see it now...he and and his friends are sitting around playing Nintendo and drinking Kool-Aid and one of his chums says

"Hey, you remember the time your new Mom showed us her breasts for money?That was great!"

"Yep! That's my Mom she really enjoys exposing herself to preteens for money....anyone want some Cheetos?

As if he didn't have problems enough with dealing with a dead mother?? Now a hooker stepmother??

 Alternate ending: Ed Harris was eventually fired for having a wife that exposes herself to schoolkids and had to pimp out Griffith to make the rent.


Melanie Griffith stars in this time waster as a hooker with a "heart of gold" Hmmm i doubt that most hookers have a "heart of gold" or that they look like Melanie Griffith or Julia Roberts for that matter..but anyway some local school boys end up saving their milk money to see a woman naked..of course they run into Griffith, who is being chased by a bad guy, so one of the children bring her home to their dad who is divorced and looking for love again and...zzzzzz....Oh I'm sorry i fell asleep..you will too.,, The only good scene is the one part where Griffith takes over a health class and talks a little about the birds and the bees.. on a scale of one to ten...2


Whatever people say about this or any movie, you are your own best critic. This movie gets better with watching.

When I first watched "Milk Money", I initailly squirmed when V and Tom were talking. V is talking about sex, and Tom is talking about math.

Another point people might squirm is when a mother thinks Tom and V are brother and sister, and mentions to her children them as a good example. Then Tom kisses V in a way most people think brothers and sisters should not kiss. The kids are grossed.

In other areas, it is a very good movie. In a gentle, and comic way, it deals with boys interest in sex and girls. It is done with the right balance. The boys all seem to be normal boys, in spite of the fact that no one has a "normal" family life. Who does.

For instance, one of the boys is a neat freak because of his father, who unknown to him, has real issues. Later, he decides to stop washing. It's an overreaction, but there is truth when the father blames (wrongly) Tom for turning his son into a pig. Tom says at the boy is happy. He doesn't say it, but it is implied unlike before.


I really enjoyed the movie. Sometimes you want to watch something that is fun and lighthearted with a happy ending. Not every film is a great epic. People tend to be hard on films like these when writing a review because they think every film must be deep and intellectual. This movie can be enjoyed by the whole family, has a lot of funny moments, and won't give you nightmares. Not a waste of time if you like fun!


I LOVED this movie, all of those bad reviews you've just read are completely wrong. It is so sweet, and realistic when it comes to the terrible reality of the modern-day slaves: prostitutes. It was wonderful that they showed that "hookers" are really human, despite their less-than-normal job. The little boy, Frank, was adorable in everything he did, the actor who played him was wonderful. It was heart-warming to see just how much he cared for V, even though he knew what she did for a living. I would have my kids see this movie if I had kids; it has underlying morals, such as anti-prejudice and the like. This movie definitely deserves a ten!


Average family style drama suited only for liberal minded people.This movie could have been good if it had better cinematography and script/screenplay.Still,if you are a liberal and a fan of family comedies and like any of the lead actors here,you will probably ignore this movie's limitations and be quite entertained by it's feel good fantasy.......


I like this movie very much. That is because I am a sucker for a good romantic comedy.

And this is a good movie. Harris and Griffith did an excellent job. I am not a big fan of Griffiths but in this movie she does an excellent job of portraying a person who has never been loved.


Ever since I saw this movie when it first came out, I have loved it. Okay, so it's about a boy who wants his dad to marry this hooker. But, once you get past that, it's really a cute movie. If you are in the mood to watch a fun movie, this would be a great choice.


This movie SO typifies Hollywood.

We get (1) another prostitute who is gorgeous, sweet and with a heart of gold. (2) the prostitutes are nothing but victims of the cruel and abusive male pimps; (3) kids ages 10-12 are obsessed with sex (I'm talking about how Hollwyood sees the culture); (4) there are few higher callings than being a tree-hugger, this one chaining himself to a tree to save some wetlands.

On and on and on it goes in ultra-Liberal, politically-correct, morally-clueless Hollywood. Well, to be fair, the movie did have lots of charm and it's always nice to see Ed Harris actually play against type, meaning play a decent human being. Melanie Griffith never looked better, either. Too bad the story was so stupid and insulting.


I really loved this movie. I live close to the set it was filmed at. The movie was made in Lebanon, OH and my cousins live there and they lived close to where they were filming. My cousin told me that they were filming another movie in Lebanon (also the location where a medical movie was made, but I can't remember what it's called). She invited me to spend the night with her and we walked down to the set on the very last day to meet some of the stars. I got to meet Melanie Griffith. She was so tall in person at the time. She was a very sweet person. I remember also meeting Jessica Wesson. Me and her clicked right away. She was the greatest person to hang out with. I couldn't believe how hot and sexy Adam La Vorgna was in person. I still have his autograph and picture of me and him in front of the ice cream parlor that they filmed at a couple of scenes. They were so tired on the last day we asked them if it was OK if we took them to the ice cream parlor and the director said that was fine. We ate ice cream and talked and laughed with them. Michael was so funny in person. He made a lot of us laugh. He was great. They were the nicest people I have ever met.


why anyone would give this movie anything more than a 1 rating is beyond me.

It is filled to the brim with clichés, terrible acting, a bad script, and just badness. C'mon, a hooker with a heart of gold? Again?!?! I watched this with my family when I was 12, because we lived in a town with one theater that showed one movie, and only on the weekends. We would go every week, no matter what was showing. We agreed unanimously that this was the worst piece of drivel that has ever been created. We still pretty much stand by that judgment.

I won't go so far as saying that this movie was created by Satan, but it has such a concentration of raw evil and bile underneath it's lily white veneer, that I wouldn't be surprised if Lucifer's hoof marks weren't all over this one.

Shame on anyone who gives this movie a 3 or better.


This for me is a must see film for independent film fans everywhere. The acting is great and is put together very well. Also the use of animation works perfectly. Its a shame that this film is only available on a region 1 format as I believe there would be a demand for it especially in the UK. The story is interesting, showing how a group of close friend perceive the world in very different ways when on acid and not. I think there are characters in the film that everyone can relate to and comes together very well. Its a film that I have watched again and again taking something new from it each time. You may need to be patient with this but is worth the effort.


When I saw this movie in the dollar rental bin at the video rental store I should have left it there. Let me start off by sharing with you what happened upon completion of the movie. My friend Rob and I looked at each other with blank stares on our faces. Neither of us could express what we had just seen into words. After a few seconds of that Rob made his way to the VCR. When he got there, he pressed the eject button. The tape seemed to take hours to eject. Once it decided to show it's face the tape was yanked out and broken into at least 243 pieces. We both new that we would have to pay the video store for the tape. To us though this was worth it. There was even talk of renting it at every store in our area and doing the same to them.

The movie was obviously written for a small specific group of people inside a specific generation. This is not a movie that can weather the times and still be enjoyed and understood by future generations.

Please for your own good do not watch this movie.


I picked up this DVD for $4.00 today and just finished watching it. I've watched a whole lot of really bad independent films, but I guess I'm just an eternal optimist. Green was one of the better ones I've seen in a while. It was clear that the director had a vision for this film. He knew exactly what he wanted and he made it happen. It's well acted and the script touches on some very serious topics, but with quite a bit of humor thrown into the pot to make it all go down easier.

If you're looking for something different, but well made, then Green might be just what you're looking for. Go ahead and take a chance on it. I don't think you'll be disappointed.


I think this movie, while dated due to some comments in the dialogue, is a great film about how priorities change as we grow older. Yeah life sucks when you are young and if you focus on that life will always suck. I know that as I have grown older I have come to realize that there is more to life than complaining about the "Raw Deal" I have been handed. The four main characters in this movie all know this fact but find it out in one traumatic slap in the face evening while trying to drown the suburban noise in Phoenix Arizona. (Which in having visited I know is no small feat.) This is a film that spoke to me and everyone I have showed it to. Thanks, wherever you are Karl T. Hirsch.


I saw this movie at a festival, and was completely struck by it. The characters were written so artfully that it quickly became my favorite film there. I kept expecting I'd hear about a theatrical release at some point.

Unfortunately for this movie, on paper it probably seems like another Gen X bitch-fest. But in actuality, it is a really eye opening look at human issues NOT related to a specific generation. Groping for success, love and happiness is a basic human action, no matter how old you are. And the characters that populate this film want for the full range of human desires. Sometimes it's heavy, but usually it's funny.

The writer/director of this film has eerie insight into how people work (especially with the female character). He's surely going to go far.


Upon watching the closing credits at the end of this movie, I was awestruck. All I could say was, "WOW." As a fellow member of the so cliche'd "Generation X," I completely identified with this movie. However, one need not be a member of any specific generation to appreciate it. Beautifully written, amazingly well-directed, esp. for an independent film, this movie not only touches on familiar conflicts in life (such as trying to make life not "suck"), it also has a somewhat sarcastic flair that would make anyone smile. Karl T. Hirsch has an amazing mind and a great eye/heart for what makes a film easily a favorite. I give it a 10. :)


We learn from 'Alien' that "in space no one can hear you scream." Well, I wish I could have been in space during this movie so I wouldn't have had to hear any of these characters bitch.

The egomania of this director is so apparent in this movie that there is nothing under the surface no matter how far you want to attempt to scratch.

Green is four shorts brought together with a mediocre beginning and an even more mediocre ending. Originally, the movie was a short but for some reason Mr. Hirsch decided he could add 75% more material to an already lame premise.

If I was being forced to watch this movie again, I would be more than happy to take the alternative route of overdosing on anti-depressants and narcotics (no matter the color) chasing it down with a bottle of Jack.

But, I'll stop before I go into a rant. You can certainly find enough of those in this movie.


Total crap! A bunch of idiots, one is a fat *beep*. Please don't make any other films EVER! Please for the love of film! Keep these people out of film. I want to smack these losers for being so lame. The dialogue is terrible and the acting is even worse. No one in this movie ever has the appropriate reaction to any situation.I recently attended an Eyeball Stabbing Convention, and I must say it was most refreshing after watching this monstrous filth. fact of the matter is their is nothing to be proud of about being fat. Sure you can say I'm a fat-stoner thats the way i am, but fact of the matter is your unhealthy, your body is being pushed to the limit and your more than likely gonna die young. Hey all power to ya, but if you were really proud of your body you would take care of it and lose weight!!!!!


Multiple Maniacs (1970) was Waters' second feature length film. Heavily influenced by the Manson Family murders, Waters creates this film about a band of murdering, sideshow freaks/performers who travel from town to town robbing and murdering their rich,nosy customers. This is a weird film that showcases what Waters likes to do best. Try and repulse the audience as much as he can (mirroring the side show performers themselves).

Unfortunately, most of the humor is pretty dated and the very low, low budget might turn off most viewers (if they were not repulsed by the first twenty minutes). Other than that, it's a very enjoyable movie.

Waters will finally perfect his film-making a few years later with the back to back to back releases of Pink Flamingos, Female Trouble and Desperate Living. Shot on 16mm, B/W.

Recommended


Of all of John Waters films, this is the only one that offended me in some way. But more on that later. I was surprised to see that this early John Waters movie was available on video, presuming it would be long out of print (like "Mondo Trasho" and "Female Trouble")! It can usually be found for sale dirt cheap or for rent easily.

Divine stars as a brunette for the first time in Waters' first sound film. The sound, cinematography, and editing is real rough, but it gives "Multiple Maniacs" a priceless documentary-like quality that is enhanced by the near flawless delivery of Waters' hilarious dialogue! Waters' early cast is here and two new additions (Cookie Mueller and Edith Massey) liven things up a bit. Great performances worth catching are given by Divine, David Lochary, Mary Vivian Pearce, Cookie Mueller, and Rick Morrow. Mink Stole gives one of only two mediocre roles in Waters' films (the other is "Mondo Trasho") and Edith Massey is not as great as she would be in her subsequent appearances in "Pink Flamingos", "Female Trouble", "Desperate Living" and "Polyester"! Watch close for Cookie Mueller and Mink Stole in cameos as two of the snobby patrons of the Cavalcade of Perversions! The music is fantastic, more copyright-infringing oldies that are great listening (including Elvis Presley's "Just Because" and a bunch of unidentified but classic instrumentals).

Now why this movie offended me: the rosary job and the crucifixion. I just thought these scenes are the sickest things I've ever seen done in a Waters film (topping even the dog sh*t-eating in "Pink Flamingos")! The crucifixion is very well done, but just seems in VERY bad taste and the rosary job just defies any description. It's not even fun for me to watch! But everything else about "Multiple Maniacs" is classic Waters. The film does get a bit boring after Divine's rape by Lobstora, but the ending shows the lust for violence found in Vietnam Era America, juxtaposed with Kate Smith's "God Bless America" playing in the background. Not for a Waters fan who has only seen "Hairspray", that's for damn sure! Underground film fans will find lots of great techniques to use and psychotronic film fans will eat it up!


I love the grainy, inky black and white look of this movie, the bad cuts and scratches and even all the jumps in sound. It's just so gorgeous and couldn't be duplicated today...just a strange feeling is captured here, amplified because it's populated with so many hedonistic weirdos and perverts. Of course, these slight perks only exist because Waters and his crew were completely inept in the technical ways of cinema.

Content wise...this has at least a flash or two of brilliance, which is impressive for a film that cost around "5000" bucks. The opening at the Calvacade of Perversions is great ("She's not a tramp. She's an auto-erotica copraphrasiac and a gerontophiliac!"), but I don't know what to make out of all the dated cultural references (too much Manson/Tate stuff)...then there's an incredibly tedious and overlong delusion with Divine narrating her version of Christ. Even more time is padded with endless scenes of characters sitting and/or lying in bed talking (and often forgetting their lines), plus topless gitterbugging from Cookie Mueller, people riding around in cars and Mink Stole ("the religious whore") and Divine walking down the street.

Despite all that, the closing sequences (starting with Lobstra) make up for it and are just priceless. Best use of the song "God Bless America" here! And the film is still unique and original 30+ years later, so I give it credit for that.

Score: 6 out of 10.


A lot of people look at the performances in Waters' early films as crude but I think both Multiple Maniacs and Pink Flamingos (and, to a lesser degree, Mondo Trasho) are a testament to the talent the Waters' troupe really had. Divine has probably been discussed enough though I think she remains sadly underrated as an actress but what stands out for me in Maniacs is David Lochary's performance. He steals the show and improbably manages to provide some genuine soul to a contemptible character, perhaps because he looks positively saintly compared to Divine. Lochary is funny, sincere, scared and ultimately empathetic as the helpless, brainwashed victim of the implacable force which is the Lady Divine. You couldn't just hire regular actors to play the Lochary or Divine roles - you had to have the real deal and the magic of these movies does come from the superior casting.

I think Waters' early films are by far his best, the movies he made before he learned "how to make movies." Some of his later work is cute but never as engaging and fresh as Maniacs and Flamingos. How exactly did Waters manage to combine slimy depravity with wide-eyed innocence in equal doses?

The rosary job is perhaps the finest scene Waters ever concocted and then there's Lobstora, one of the most inspired moments the cinema has ever brought us.

I don't think of Maniacs as mere camp. I think it's genuinely great film making with far more verve and inventiveness than most of the so-called "well-made" Academy fare.


I have seen all of John Waters' films, but something in this one seemed to stick out. I noticed that in his other movies, the characters are rarely developed, and if they are, you never get a glimpse at their personal lives.

This film is different in that way... it begins as racy as all of his other films, with "Lady Divine's Cavalcade of Perversion" a circus for perverts, drug addicts, homosexuals, and weirdo's. Mr. David, Lady Divine's boyfriend, wants Lady Divine to let Bonnie into the cavalcade, but she quickly dismisses the idea.

 From here on, the film switches to a bizarre, and long, view of the characters personal lives. This is done by, long monologues, long shots in which the camera does not change, and very long scenes. These long scenes aren't that badly written, but it is more that they are real, and not part of a movie. After the first 10-15 minutes characters seem to have disassociated themselves from the original plot of the film, and it becomes some sort of a deranged soap opera. But just when you think that this film is different from all other of John's films, a giant lobster appears out of nowhere (and for no reason), named "Lobstora", and it rapes Divine. Divine then goes insane and goes on a rampage, and is then put to death by the national guard.

Besides the fact that Divine is killed in the end, it seems to be a prequel to a young Divine's life that is later portrayed in "PINK FLAMINGOS". This because in "PINK FLAMINGOS", Divine, is supposedly in hiding from the FBI, for murder. This murder which happened in "MULTIPLE MANIACS" of basically all the characters.

All in all, this is most definitely a must see for John Waters fans, it will bring new meaning to his other films.


This film suffers from what a lot of low-budget-inexperienced-director films suffer from: long intervals in which nothing happens in an attempt to get to the better parts of the movie. This one has it is spades, which makes it hard to sit through to get to the highlights. But the high points are some of the most inspired of any John Water's flick: the surreal appearance of "The Emperor of Prague," played by small boy in full monarch regalia who guides Lady Divine, and the completely unsolicited cameo of "Lobstora," the enormous lobster prop who, like nearly everybody in the early films, has its way with Divine. I found these scenes far more interesting than the film as a whole, despite the (possibly unintentional) social commentary of the opening sequence. Here, a crowd of "straights" visit the Carnival of Perversions and witness horrors ranging from the "Puke Eater" to the "Homosexuals." Each attraction is viewed with similar disgust from the suburbanites, yet they make no effort to leave the show, which seems to call to Water's fascination with the American public's fascination with the fringe of society.


This is my favorite of all the John Waters movies. The script alone is priceless. It is really amazing to hear David Lochary, Mink Stole and Divine spout out lines of harsh, cutting dialogue...but to appreciate it, you really need to see the other wonderful movies he has done, especially Pink Flamingos, Female Trouble...well, just about anything! I highly recommend it to anyone with a sharp sense of humor. If you don't, you will not appreciate it.


Multiple Maniacs is excellent. Better than excellent. This is my favorite Waters film. It is funny, yet serious. A few lines give you a chuckle, like "And then she inserted her rosary into one of my most private places." This movie, unlike other Waters movies, moves into the well-crafted characters' personal lives. My first Waters movie was Pink Flamingos, which I adore. But Multiple Maniacs ties Pink Flamingos in every way. If you like Waters, or if you don't, buy Multiple Maniacs. This is one of the strangest movies (other than Pink Flamingos) that I have seen. Divine is fabulous in this movie. She is excellent. This movie is scary, bizarre, and somewhat sacreligious. So, if you're not of the faint at heart, weak stomached, or religious freaked, at least rent Multiple Maniacs.


Positively revolting!! A tasteless piece of low-budget garbage, with not one redeeming value. It's just too bad John Waters doesn't make them like this anymore, not that he ever really did, Multiple Maniacs is a bit different from the other Waters trash classics of the 70's. A bit more bizarre, and unpolished, and just a tad more unrealistic. Multiple Maniacs mostly comes off as a rough draft for Waters next and most famous trash epic, Pink Flamingos. Multiple Maniacs is the first real example of what this John Waters guy is all about, rubbing you the wrong way. Meet the cavalcade of perversion. Posing as a traveling freak show, an odd gang of criminals, led by Diving rob and/or murder unsuspecting shock enthusiasts, just looking for a thrill. Divine is an irritable, outlandish hog of a woman just looking for a reason to off someone... anyone. Lately, that boyfriend of hers, Mr. David has been a real pain in the ass, and today, he just might get it, that is, if he doesn't get her first. As the would be love birds plot on each other and cheat on one another with their new girlfriends, we, the audience are subjected (treated) to vulgar atrocity after outrageous one-liner after obscene sex act, a delightful little movie indeed. We got all our Dreamland favorites, Cookie, Mink, Mary, David, Divine, and even our pal, Edith pays us a visit. Everyone brings their A games, A standing for amateur, really, unpolished doesn't even begin to describe what's going on here, but out here in Exploitation Country, flaws such as screwed up lines should be expected and embraced, if you didn't know, now you know. Multiple Maniacs was Waters' first film that wasn't silent, as well as his last black & white. For more colorful trash check out Female Trouble and Desperate Living. As unpolished and inept as it might be, this is one of the most mean-spirited, unflinching, and flat-out rebellious comedies I've seen, and I passionately recommend it every bit as much as Pink Flamingos, unless you're Catholic, in that case, never mind. 9/10


John Waters is quoted in Hoberman & Rosenbaum's "Midnight Movies" (1981) as saying, with "Multiple Maniacs" he had finally flushed all the remaining religion out of his system, and that his intent was to "scare the world." In 1970, he likely did so with this. One shudders to ponder what he'd have to come up with Today, to achieve the same goal.

However, when one considers the parade of human failure and misery that willingly allows itself to be showcased in a weekly strip's worth of Jerry Springer episodes, Waters' Dreamlanders, not only in "Maniacs," but in "Flamingos," "Female Trouble," and "Desperate Living" too, come off as a misfit bunch of lovable zanies.


This was my first experience of early John Waters movies and I found it pretty quality. Though quality is not something that one might immediately associate with the film owing to the extreme low budget and various goofs, it has a lot going for it. Divine and David Lochary put in fine performances and Mink Stole is also awesome with the rest of the cast effective too. The script, although dated, is often very funny and draws some fine characters, making the craziness that goes down pretty involving even while the technical ineptitude is offputting. The ineptitude doesn't matter too much as it is quite amusing, and the film has a few very memorable scenes that make one forget all about the shortcomings. Though I didn't find the film as demented as I expected it to be there are still moments that could cause a fair amount of offense. Personally I thought them to be sheer genius. I would definitely recommend this, mostly to grindhouse/cult weirdness fans.


Many people find John Waters' early films endearing and funny. I find them rather sad in a way. The acting is so bad, the story is worse, and the famed lobster scene I have heard about for years was not worth the wait. Give me "Cry Baby" anyday. Space Maggot writhes in agony and vomits a 2.


Aaja Nachle is Madhuri Dixit's case for still being the best out there. And I'm signed, sealed, and delivered. No one delivers the emotional expression through the entire spectrum the way she does. I just sat there in awe watching her. I guess my standards have slid a bit since she left. But she makes all the competition seem like runners-up to me.

I can now say that I think the movie should sweep a lot of awards: It deserves Best Screenplay, Best Musical Director, Best Cinematography, Best Choreography, and Best Supporting Actor and Actress (Kunal and Konkona, of course). If there was an award for a woman carrying the lead all by herself, there's no question Madhuri Dixit would deserve it. There have only been a few (Nargis, Hema, Shabana) who've been in that elite group. Madhuri belongs there too.

There is SO much music and dance in this movie, it is hard to pick a favorite. But as soon as I saw the dancers in red with their hair flying, doing the song about Ishq during the Laila-Majnu play, I knew that I had seen this year's favorite for me. I like them all, especially the traditional one for Aaja Nachle. But the staging, lighting and choreography for this Ishq dance were so DRAMATIC that it stands out.

I loved the subplots, like the "most boring man" and his wife. The quarreling of Imran and Anokhi. The conflict between the Raja and Dia (Akshaye, a favorite of mine, really gave this movie a nice bit of electricity). And, of course, when they told the story of Laila and Majnu as kids, with her feeling every pain he had and the world tearing them apart, my heart went awwwwwwwwwwwww (not mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm this time).

Oh, did I mention Best Costume. Madhuri was dressed so nicely! That last one when the play concluded was just gorgeous. I can see that this play would win the hearts of townspeople in a small village.

Anyway, EVERYONE should see this movie. I did a 50 mile round trip and this time I don't even regret it. Out of all the movies I've seen this year, this one truly made driving worthwhile.

9 out of possible 10


2007 has been dry, but finally, we have been delivered. Aaja Nachle is full of elements Bollywood has been missing for some time and is in SORE NEED of. Namely:

1a) Dance numbers. That is to say, numbers focused on DANCING, rather than someone's flashy Western outfit, locations, batman angles, etc. 1b) LOTS OF dance numbers. I'm sick of scanty three-song phoned-in craptations. Aaja Nachle keeps the music coming all the time! That's the way it should be done.

2) Classical infusion. The end of the film is a knockout surprise in this respect. I don't want to spoil anything, but there is so much here for those who love the ancient stories as well as the new.

3) Hot dudes. OH MY GOD, Kunal Kapoor!

4) MADHURI. Looking spectacular, so charming, totally in control of her performance and giving it her all. Her hips are the world's 9th wonder.

5) Great young leading ladies i.e. Konkona Sen Sharma. She is the best actress to have come out in the last couple of years and the girl is here to stay! Sonam Kapoor? pfft! Katrina Kaif? pfft squared!

The story is simple but busy, with dramatic moments that touch deeply and comedic moments that have the audience rollicking. There isn't a single minute that drags; this film is not only well written and well acted, but well paced (a dear rarity in Bollywood). In short, it is here to bring Bollywood back to where it belongs! An unmitigated success from the inimitable Madhuri. I'm going to see it again this week, then I'm going to buy the DVD--ORIGINAL! Not that anyone needs to be reminded, but you must see this film!


I have to agree i went to see this film with my mum and we throughly enjoyed it. Everyone in the film has acted well and the Laila Majnu climax is one of the best adaptations that i've seen. It's truly a beautiful concept and a feast for the eyes. It felt as if i was in a theatre enjoying a stage play. Madhuri has done well in this film, the role suits her perfectly but hats off to the other actors who have shown their talent in the climax. The songs are also pleasant and fit in perfectly with the pace of the film,not once do you feel that they are out of place. In my opinion this is much better than Om Shanti Om and should have been released for the festive season instead of OSO. Don't miss this film in the cinema, ignore all the critics and go see it for yourself!


I'm quite frankly bewildered and saddened by some of the negative reactions, both from movie goer's and critics, with regards to Aaja Nachle. Many people expected, for the return of Madhuri Dixit to films, that Yash Raj would have created some huge spectacular epic full of pomp, color and costumes. But that simply isn't Madhuri's style now. It was a script she approved because she felt it was most like her life now. And she chose well.

Frankly, the movie is perfect for her. The dancing reflects all of Madhuri's abilities as a dancer, from classical Indian styles to modern. She dances better than ever here. Is the script original? Absolutely not, but critics of this movie have conveniently forgotten that most Hindi films do not have scripts that are particularly original. Aaja Nachle is simply a movie that every country in the world who produces films has made at one point or another. The "underdog" takes on the government/the bad guy/the evil ruler, overcomes a lot of obstacles, and wins the day (and usually the heart of the people or someone else). The difference here is that Madhuri, the lead actor, doesn't end up with a romance at the end (though we get the future possibility). Madhuri, like Juhi Chawla and other Indian actresses who are over 40 and married, realize that they can no longer "run around trees" believably like their younger counterparts. So a role such as this is perfect for Madhuri. The problems/flaws of this script shouldn't unfairly rest upon her shoulders.

What people also forget is the wonderful ensemble cast this movie has. I throughly enjoyed their stories and personal relationships and problems: corrupt politicians, a best friend held back by her husband, a boring man who wants more spark in his love live, the angry young man who finally learns what love is, and the young woman who learns what depths love can take her to. It's the solid characterization that this movie has that makes it engaging. Not elaborate costumes or big musical production numbers.

That having been said, the musical numbers, particularly the play-within-the-movie run the gamut from being fun to beautiful to heart breaking. I was particularly struck by one song not on the soundtrack, "Ishq Ishq". Madhuri's dancing in this is both modern and reminiscent of a worshipful devotee. Breathtaking.

Ignore the naysayers. Notice that most of the people here actually liked the film. Don't expect some elaborate script or huge costumed melodrama like "Devdas." It is what it is: a feel-good movie with a wonderful cast and the return of the Queen of Hindi cinema doing exactly what she does best. May this not be her last film.


The first thing my dad did when the credits were done rolling (do stay through the end of the credits because they don't tie up a storyline until then), was to pat me on the back and say thank you for pushing him to come see Aaja Nachle because he hadn't seen such a good film in a long time. Not counting Omkara, this was probably the best film I've seen this year. It was uplifting and beautifully done, especially the Laila-Majnu part, which I wanted to watch again. Madhuri (who I was too young to appreciate in her hey-day) was vivacious and elegant and seeing her dancing and her expressions were such a treat. She's surrounded by the stalwarts of Hindi parallel cinema- Raghubir Yadav, Irrfan Khan, Konkona Sen Sharma, Ranvir Shorey, Vinay Pathak, etc, and I won't even bother saying anything about Akshaye Khanna because I'm just too damn biased. The plot drew from stories that have been around since the beginning of cinema. It's cute and inspiring and it appealled to me more than Chak De India because of the dance/theatre aspect of it. I think Anil Mehta did a wonderful job. As I was leaving the theatre, everyone kept saying how wonderful it was, and that oddly made me feel proud because I think this a truly non-conformist film and if it does well, which it should, it does completely on it's own merit, not because of star-power (Madhuri excluded), gimmicks, or because it's part of some trend. So, do go see it!


A movie dedicated to the arts. A movie spellbinding enough to woe any audience. A movie so beautiful it gets you speechless. Aaja Nachle, stars the dancing legend Madhuri Dixit, in a comeback role as Dia. Well, as we know her dancing skills are inevitably one of de best Hollywood has seen, to top it up her timeless beauty and on screen grace grabs the attention of any movie lovers. The movie resolves around a controversial topic Where Dia, an average Indian family daughter falls for a white guy and runs away from home due to parental and society objection. Dia, is a dancing student in an arts institution in her hometown India. Her world revolves around Indian arts. When a national geographic photographer comes to town, he is captivated by her and love blossoms. Due to objections from her world, she decides to run away with him to the United States. There she becomes a well established dancer with a dancing school on her name. She returns to India after several years when she hears the news of her dying guru. The man who taught her How to dance. Upon her arrival with her daughter, diva realizes it's too late. Not only her guru has passed away, the arts foundation founded by her guru is left abandon. Political play comes in when a new mall is proposed to be built replacing the history old art centre. Story kicks in with the message from her guru asking her to save his institution, and diva without doubt, takes control and places a bet with the politics involved that she will drive the residences towards her act in saving the country's piece of history. Her hurt always the story moves on with diya recruiting fellow city folks on her play to be staged at the very place she learned to dance. Emotions are collided with manipulations as some try to sabotage her plans. How she over comes it and How she pulls off the play is the climax of the story. The movie emphasizes on musical aspects on portraying emotions and acting. Madhuri radiates her beat in glamour's ways captivating the audiences mind and soul. Songs accompanying the movie transcends generations where classical and modern touches are combined. A must watch movie I would say. Unlike other movies, the story line is different and the movie is made with such perfection that it doesn't give a single cliché aura towards the audience. A must watch movie for its songs, dance sequence, beautiful choreography, beautiful people and definitely a well made top notch story line. Two thumbs up for madhuri and the entire crew of aaja nachle. Kudos!


Personally, it is one of the best films I have seen over a long time. It is commercial, but has a lot of meaning... there is a message for many, right from lovers... to politicians.

As you must be knowing, making a film, means spending money, and all they look for is to derive back that money. As the saying goes, if one does good, good follows. And so most of the bollywood flicks turn out to be glamour and mimicries.

But here is a bunch of people who require a grand appluase for their hard work, time and money.

I am sure there are more who wish to do good, am sure, watching this film will inspire them.

In this case too, am sure the film is going to succeed well. And I really hope they get the money back, so that more "MEANING-FULL" films come up.

I am not commenting on the story, because I guess its already available, am here trying to just share the treasure.

films like this can definitely make the world a better place...

Congrats!!!

Thanks for reading this review and hope you do good.


Aaja Nachle is not a typical Yashraj film in the sense of scenery - snow, mountains, etc. But one thing is for sure and that is that this is the return of Madhuri Dixit, whose last film was "Devdas." Dia, a dance instructor, who lives in New York, receives a call that her tutor, who lives in the village of Shyamilee, in India, is very ill and has called for her. Upon her return, she is informed that he has passed away and that it was his wish that she tries to save the arts centre in which she, herself, was once a student. She then finds her best friend, Najma, but she refuses to help her.

Directed by Anil Mehta and written by Aditya Chopra, this is a musical genre movie and the songs are memorable, which makes it a change since nowadays, there are only some songs and music that can be hummed to or remembered. The most memorable is the title song itself and off course, with Madhuri Dixit looking so slim and gorgeous, the dances are worth while watching. The cast includes Akshaye Khanna, Konkona Sen, Kunal Kapoor, Vinay Pathak, Divya Dutta and Irfan Khan.

Madhuri Dixit's charm is still there and this movie, for all her fans, is worth watching - this is the return of Madhuri. Yes! It is expected that she will work in movies but not so much as before,


Talk about over use of melodrama. I cannot understand how audience is expected to digest this pathetic excuse of a movie. Something like this is better left as a reality show or made for TV movie or for some saas/bahu kind of soap opera. From the time Madhuri received the call and has the first meeting with Ahshaye, the rest of movie is entirely predictable. There is absolutely nothing in the movie that is worthy of mention apart from a couple of good scenes by Raghuvir Yadav and Irfaan Khan, which is why this gets 3 and not 1 out of 10. Melodrama is not alien to Bollywood movies, but this was way too much. I mean at the end of it the goonda politician who would sell his soul for power and money is shown crying and business man who would bribe one and all has had a sudden change of heart! Please!! Is this the best you can put out?!! Also, too many musical numbers and none really catchy. I detest movies like these, they make me want to quit watching desi movies...it is that bad.


The movie is fantastic.An excellent comeback from Madhuri after 5 years.The story is brilliant.It opens when Dia a dance teacher works in USA with her family.One day she gets a call that her dance instructor is dead.And wants her to come back to Ajanta.She comes back.The old Ajanta is being converted to a shopping mall.Its now dia turn to save this.At the end she does a few dances which attracts peoples.She wins their hearts.An enjoyable family movie.Madhuri was superb.Divvya was superb.Konkana was superb.Kunal looked hot and was awesome.Irfan was superb.Akshaye was wonderful.Ranvir Vinay add humour and were funny.Direction is wonderful.Cinematography is excellent.Chereography is wonderful.The music is faboulous and superb.The lyrics are wonderful and so is the picturisations.A must see Rating-10/10


Madhuri Dixit's comeback movie, though bit loose in script and the story-line, sums up the importance of arts in our life beautifully. Aaja Nachle brings to surface how the business of expressing oneself (read performing arts) is an integral part of life.

Aaja Nachle has captured commendably well in the movie, the idea that everyone has an intrinsic desire to have that 'one moment of glory', the idea that everyone can 'show us some jalwa or the other', that dance, theater, music programs and such socio-artistic activities are essential to keep a society in tune with its innate desires to express, relate and emote to situations, that art forms can elevate a bored society stuck in the mundane business of life to new energy levels from time to time, and most importantly, the state has a role to ensure that the citizens have enough modes and means to avail entertainment at low costs.


When I first saw the promos, I thought it will be a desperate attempt of a veteran (Madhuri Dixit) to make it back. But, I just wanted to see if Madhuri Dixit has lost the grace and charm after the break. And I am really glad to say that she's still easily the best of actresses Indian Film has seen.

The plot is not new (Swades, Lagan and so on have the same type of plot), but the way story was told was really good. There were times when they dragged the scenes a bit long. But only to emphasize on different emotions.

In the End, the Laila-Majnu play was just amazing. The sets and the costumes were really good. We have to give credit to that. Although the music was not so great but was good enough to keep the audience in theatre. Kon Kona Sen Sharma was amazing. If you have to take names, then the list would not end. Everyone did their best for a movie that dared to showcase art. Two thumbs up!

BOTTOM LINE: Its a bold attempt to show the art as it should be and not attempting to appeal to the new generation. That is the best thing I loved in this movie.


Just for Madhuri Dixit! This is MD's first movie role since Devdas (2002) and it is worth a watch just to see the India's beauty on screen again.

HOWEVER...THE MOVIE'S PLOT LINE SUCKED. It was beyond ridiculous and boring and unrealistic at best. Plus, Madhuri Dixit (now a mother of 2 boys) certainly did hold back in her acting, as she is known as being a bold, confidant type of female character.

The songs are good, and the movie has a number of great actors such as Madhuri, Akshaye Khanna, Konkona Sen Sharma, Irrfan Khan, Kunal Kapoor and Divya Dutta.

However, Madhuri if possible should return to films but accept small supporting roles as well (such as Rani Mukherjee's character in Saawariya) because there won't be a great shooting load and she has aged and no longer can carry a film judging by Aaja Nachle's failure.

AGain, I do say watch the film if you want to see Madhuri again, the movie does solely get a 7/10 for her presence (or else it would get a 2/10) or watch one of her other films instead such as HAHK, Devdas or even Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam.

Also, there should have been more focus on her relationship with Akshaye Khanna than the "theatre play" and politics.


This is a sweet, well-made, beautifully-photographed film. It has a good plot, a refreshingly modern script, and believable characters. Surprisingly wonderful performances are given by Madhuri (including her terrific dancing), Kunal, Konkona, and Dalai (who plays her savvy young daughter), as well as all the junior and minor players in this film. Akshaye Khanna has a smaller but pivotal role, initially as an antagonist who must be won over by Madhuri's determination to do something meaningful for the village she grew up in. The music and dance numbers are very enjoyable, including the opening scenes with Madhuri teaching modern jazz style dance in a studio in the US. The highlight of the film is a spectacular 'stage play' production number as the culmination of the lead character's (Madhuri's) efforts to save her village from unwanted "progress." I'll watch this memorable movie again several times, I'm sure, and I wouldn't say that for a lot of films, either! This movie is definitely worth seeing, if you love Bollywood like I do!


This is more than Bollywood. Madhuri Dixit is versatile as Hema Malini, Aishwarya Rai, Rekha & Sridevi. Just like in Devdas, she has performed excellent as expected in this movie after a period of R&R.

The music, choreography & actors were excellent. The young love in the acting performance was excellent... Laila-Magnu. The young actors playing those characters real love was romantic in the Bollywood way & as in Romeo-Juliet way.

The director showed that even when a man is "jilted at the alter", he can forgive his love even after 11 years apart.

The weakest directing is that Akshaye Khanna could have been more romantically challenging. His role was very short. In the ending, it wasn't solid but dull. With the end though, it was nice to see everyone happy but making the whole villagers look gay (happy) is so unrealistic. A grumpy old man or woman should have added some real comedy.

The evil man turned out not to be a strong villain. But then this movie tells you more about the society & how they think or will say. The directer showed the real dilemma of a young girl's love for her life & happiness, her best friend's obedience to her own husband, the villager's harsh branding words & insults, and a middle-aged couple whose marriage was getting boring. These are real life reflections in every country. This director showed it all in one film & Madhuri Dixit acting showed that although it looked like a defeat, you need to try your best, get up your courage & face your demons whether it be 10 years ago or 5 years ago. This is not a documentary, but read between the lines and see what the message is.

Some songs were not so interesting but the best of all is the finale dance Ishq. Madhuri Dixit put the flexibility in her dancing that makes you wish you could dance like that.


I don't think Aaja Nachle was meant to be a groundbreaking movie with the coolest screenplay. On a whole its even somewhat uninspired and not entirely original but its a good movie nonetheless. In the context of Bollywood however, it's actually is pretty original. Which was the last big-scale female-fronted Bollywood movie there was? Frankly, I can't think of anything in the past two decades. Nothing from of the large scale, Yash Raj fame.

To the critics who think this movie wasn't even worth a watch, I think you've got the point wrong. Well sure it is a bit too polished- a bit too commercial and "safe" but what choice do the producers have? I don't think the Indian film industry is ready for something more experimental and adventurous. There had to be some trade off.

Even then, some of that commercialised coat melted with Madhuri's charm. Yes, I think Madhuri played her "magic" well in this movie. She sunk her teeth into the role and exuberanted her charm so well, I think she alone added a lot more colour to the movie. She almost overshadows the second and third lead in the film- Konkona Sen and Kunal Kamar. Both of them played their roles well and did a commendable job at that.

To sum it up, I think most critics of this movie expected too much from the comeback of the lady who's been hailed as Bollywood's greatest actress. As it is, she shone brightly in a movie that's decent. Its storyline may be somewhat predictable from the onset but its still an untapped genre in Bollywood.

I'd say, sit back, relax, don't think too much and watch it for what its worth.

I'd give it 7.5/10


"The first opening shot sets the tone of the movie its about dance, music, art and also it is about happiness, love, culture, goodness in human beings. If you apply the first 15 min formula (word courtesy my friend, raj), you know that this movie rocks! It grips you from the first scene till the last scene. The story starts in flashback which madhuri tells to her daughter..."

"All the actors and actresses in the movie are perfectly cast. Everyone does their job best. To mention the few are Kunal Kapoor as Imraan who acts as Majnoo in dia's show. Shushmita Mukherjee, as Mrs Chojar is good. Mr. Chojar, a boring government offices played by Vinay Kapoor is hilarious. His friend, Ranbir shorey, plays mohan, the hotel owner. He is silent lover of madhuri. Her real life majnoo (in the film). Also the child artist who plays the role of dia's daughter is also good. The most standout performance is by Akshaye Khanna as a young generation MP. He acts the role with elan and style. He brightens up the screen every time he is there. His character is most contemporary political character we have ever seen in bollywood movies. Both the role and the actors deserves applause..."


Madhuri Dixit has done it again. She mesmerizes with her powerhouse performance, dancing and on-screen presence. The story is absolutely unique and well paced. It keeps one glued to the screen. Dances have been choreographed excellently living up to the reputation of Madhuri's dancing. The musical climax scene leaves you spellbound is an absolute joy to watch. A completely clean and entertaining movie. Go watch it and enjoy. Me and my family loved this movie. All the supporting actors have also performed very well. There are no unnecessary songs and action in the movie. Full credit to Madhuri to have maintained her so well even after having 2 kids. KUDOS to AAJA NACHLE. 10/10.


This movie a musical about this girl from a village (in India), who's a dancer, falls in love with an American guy, leaves her family to go live in the states. Later we find out that the guy left her with a kid and that she's making do as a dance instructor.

11 years later she comes back to the village because her dance instructor is dying and wants her to save the local theater, which is going to be demolished and a mall built in its place. To save it, she then makes a bet with the local Minister of Parliament that if she can put on a musical show (Romeo and juliet), and the people like it, the theater stays.

Well anyways, this movie is awesome because it's not over the top emotional, its very light - hearted and the music and the performances are TOP-NOTCH. I had a bit of an issue with the chemistry between the "laila" and "majnu", mainly that they didn't have much, but whatever it didn't detract too much from my enjoyment.

10/10, ENJOY!


Marshall is the kind of President referred to a change in the U.S. foreign policy He took a great risk when he stated that America will no longer tolerate any terrorist government His policy is soon put in practice when he boards his plane on his way home

Once is in the sky, 'Air Force One' is hijacked and currently controlled by Russian radicals who ask for the release of their leader or they'll execute a prisoner every half hour

Harrison Ford is the action hero making his way through the plane taking out few terrorists, managing to free several hostages, trying to get to his wife and daughter who are prisoners on board

Gary Oldman almost steals the show as the head terrorist Ivan Korshunov who takes over the president's plane

Beautifully directed by Wolfgang Petersen who controls the action with his usual extreme intelligence, building the challenge with captivating, tense sequences from every compartment of the huge aircraft to the White House contingent in Washington


This movie is intriguing in that it actually presages some of the terrorism realized in the tragedy of 9/11.

That said, the film is mortally flawed with stupid and ridiculous contrivances that make is more of a comic book yarn than having the sophistication of, say, a Tom Clancy novel.

High on the "oh come on get real!" factor:

1. Any White House PressSecretary would be far too astute to let a self-describe TV journalist on Air Force One (AF1). The very first thing they would do is check the reporter's credentials and publication/broadcast record.

2. The spectacle of a 747 jumbo jet careering through an airport on an aborted landing is simply light-years beyond absurd.

3. Why would AF1 have a stash of enough assault rifles to take over a small country? And, with all the gunplay in the passenger cabin there's not one bullet hole in the fuselage?

4. I have it on good authority that Air Force One does have countermeasures, but putting the president in an escape pod  though fundamental to the plot  it just inane. That's the *last* thing you would do with the U.S. President at 30,000 ft.

5. Equally ridiculous is the idea that AF1 conveniently has more parachutes onboard than the Titanic had life preservers. Just as silly is the image of Washington bureaucrats easily jumping off the plane at 15,000 ft.

6. I've been inside an open, stripped-down 747 airframe, there isn't nearly as much room as shown on the cargo deck. There certainly isn't room for a cargo deck vending machine?!

I could go on and on, but this film is another example of filmmakers believing that movies goers are gullible enough to swallow any tall tale for the sake of lots of action shots and melodrama. If you've gonna concoct an action drama tale like this, at least have one foot in reality and plausibility, or otherwise call it "science fiction."


An Action movie is made to entertain, and should always be taken at face value. With this in mind Air Force One hits the mark, despite some minor flaws it still delivers tension, drama and action in abundance.

The cast is strong and full of believable characters, the story is compelling and the traditional dose of sentiment is added sparingly and to good effect. Harrison Ford and Gary Oldman both put in solid performances and they are well supported by the likes of Glenn Close and Wendy Crewson.

Overall Air Force One is an safe bet for the average movie fan and should entertain most, without ever really excelling.

7/10


Air Force One features Harrison Ford, Glenn Close, Gary Oldman, Dean Stockewell, and William H. Macy. A dream cast! In the freshest, friskiest, funniest, laugh-out-loudest comedy of the year! Cheer as President Harrison Ford takes on the baddies all by himself  "Right now, he's our only hope". Hiss as Dean Stockwell tries to get Glenn Close to sign away power and "take down Air Force One". Will she sign? Like hell! Sigh with relief when the fax machine stalls, stalls a little longer, and then just when we'd given up hope stalls a little longer, and then works! Clap like a whacked-out space cadet on class-a drugs when the fax lady parachutes to safety. Scratch your head a little when you realise that the big plot device of the bad guys having a guy on the inside is of no interest or use whatsoever. Ponder for a long time just why Gary Oldman's character doesn't just shoot the wife and the kid, for crying out loud. Marvel at the advances in special effects technology that can make a plane crash in a big budget movie look like a plane crash in a primitive video game. Thrills! Spills! Drama! Action! Utter, utter, crap!


Harrison Ford plays a president who refuses to negotiate with terrorists. But after one terrorist (Gary Oldman) hijacks the Air Force One and the president's wife and daughter, maybe he will have to rethink his position.

Allegedly, Kevin Costner was supposed to be playing the president. Boy am I glad he was too busy making "The Postman" for this movie. Not only did he make a great Postman, but he would have made a horrible president. When you want drama, you call Costner. When you want action, you call Bruce Willis. When you want the perfect blend of drama and action, you call Harrison Ford (think "The Fugitive", for example... don't think "Star Wars").

Ford is great as a diplomat, but equally as good with a gun and in a fight. But the real star of this is Gary Oldman, who plays an evil and soulless terrorist determined to get his old general freed from prison. Oldman plays it like he means it, killing mercilessly while still appearing cold and calculated rather than insane. The writer even had the decency to have Oldman deliver lines condemning the president for bombing villages while being against terror.

Glenn Close and Dean Stockwell made great supporting stars, and even William H. Macy seemed a little less flamboyant than usual in his role as a military man.

This film is especially interesting in the context of our current president, George W. Bush. Bush has also gone on record many times for not negotiating with terrorists and takes a hardline approach similar to Harrison Ford. What would Bush do if terrorists hijacked his plane or kidnapped his family? Even giving me that visual image made this film worth the viewing.


**Warning** Possible Spoilers **

I gave this a 1 because IMDb wouldn't let me give it a zero.

I also must admit that I watched only 30 minutes of this piece of garbage. The hijacking of the President's aircraft by terrorists posing as Russian media was difficult to believe. That six people would be able to carry off such a feat, given the number of secret service agents that travel with the president, is highly unlikely. That hundreds of rounds from automatic weapons and large-caliber handguns could be fired on board an aircraft without affecting any critical systems is debatable. That terrorists could blow the cockpit door open, using some sort of plastic explosive, detonating it by firing a pistol at it (hitting it on the first shot, no less!), yet not injure the pilots or cause any damage to the flight deck is astonishing. When they managed to take control of the plane during landing, perform several off-road maneuvers with the plane that would make a Jeep proud, then get a Boeing 747 airborne again without benefit of a runway, that's when I went Popeye and decided I'd had all I could stand and I could stand no more.

I can suspend my disbelief as well as the next guy, but this was just asking too much.

I won't even go into the cheesy script and listless acting. Shameful.


Air Force One is one great ride. What makes it work so well is the conviction that Harrison Ford and Gary Oldman bring to their roles. You can see in each actor's eyes that they stand behind what they believe in. Gary Oldman makes a perfect villian and a very complex one at that. He is not just an average, run of the mill madman. He has a family, he is someone's son and those facts make him that much more real. Harrison Ford is great as the president. He's strong, quick witted, and will do anything he can to save his family and staff from the hijackers. A good ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat for two hours, just as long as you don't ask any questions.


Very entertaining action, once you get past the "believability" problems, i.e., terrorists getting on the plane at all, the plane having an on-board armory, Secret Service agents' inability to shoot accurately, etc.

Acting is good enough that you care about the characters.

As others have noted, the CGI aerial sequences sometimes have the aircraft moving in unnatural or impossible ways, and this is visually jarring. (After the touch-and-go, Air Force One turns a 180 almost like a helicopter) I gave it a 7 out of 10 - not brilliant, but makes for an entertaining evening.


"Air Force One" is an action picture so full of excitement that it had me on the edge of my seat when I first saw it on the big screen back in 1997. This movie is one heck of a ride. Harrison Ford gives one of the best performances of his career as one U.S. President not to mess with. There are also terrific performances turned in by Glenn Close as the Vice President who deals with the terrorist's demands, and Gary Oldman in a scary piece of acting as the lead terrorist. The other actors in the movie do a good job also. In addition to the performances, there are two other big elements that make "Air Force One" a great movie: the special effects and action scenes; and the presence of the plane itself. The action scenes are some of the best I've ever seen. And when we first see the plane from the inside, it looks as if were on a tour of the actual Air Force One itself and it's fascinating. Suspenseful, thrilling, and just downright exciting, "Air Force One" is a definite must-see.

**** (out of four)


Air Force One is a very good thriller. The action and suspense will be nothing to forget. This movie is about the President's plane, Air Force One being hijacked by Russian nationalists with the President on board. Now it's up to the President and the Vice-President to negotiate with the terrorists or the hostages will die. The acting in this film is pretty good. Harrison Ford did justice with his outstanding performance as the President. Gary Oldman is good as the evil terrorist. The music in this film is fabulous and patriotic considering that the score took two weeks by Jerry Goldmith to compose. I liked the effects in this film. There is nothing special, but for a film from 1997, this has good effects even though there are few. Overall, this is a good movie for everybody except for kids. This film is a moving picture with outstanding courage. My rating is 10/10.


I know what you're thinking, "What the hell is he saying?" It's true that we've had so many biographies about presidents in which some of the movies told about historic incidents, why not have a fictional president that could kick ass and take names? Harrison Ford is the man for the job.

"Air Force One" is a thriller that involves Russian terrorist Ivan Korshunov (Gary Oldman) and his gang of criminals hijacking the first plane along with the president's wife and child and his staff. Meanwhile, President James Marshall (Harrison Ford) is hiding after an attack on the ship where he must reunite with his family before they end up victims to Ivan's plan if the president doesn't release a Russian prisoner who happens to be a general and a terrorist.

The film itself is a nail bitter thriller with an all star cast as Ford and Oldman play their usual good guy/villain roles with Glenn Close, Wendy Crewson, Xander Berkerly and William H. Macy in supporting roles. If there was such thing where Harrison Ford had a nomination for president, I would vote.


Harrison Ford is THE movie President of the United States in this movie. Action packed heroism keeps you on the edge of your seat the whole movie. Although the mid-air rescue sequence is a little improbable, the remainder of the movie is extremely believable. This is one of the ten most enjoyable movies I've ever seen - and I've watched it at least six times.


Now I admired the director Wolfgang Petersen after seeing DAS BOOT. This was a flick where I thought: Can't get any better. Of course, at the time, people obviously considered Hollywood a smart career move, but if we now take a look at Petersen's Hollywood films, I really think he should have stayed in Germany. Sure, he wouldn't have the money that he's having at his disposal now, but remember: DAS BOOT had a rather infinitesimal budget and nevertheless managed to thrill, enlighten and entertain millions of viewers. Now, what do we have: A German director who directs patriotic and nationalistic filth that invites the average American Joe to believe in the moral and military superiority of his own country. A movie that doesn't really discuss the topics at hand and divides the cast into good and evil with no shades of grey at all. There's one scene where Gary Oldman as the terrorist aboard the plane says to the president's daughter: Do you think your father is a better man because he's wearing a tie and a suit and because he uses smart bombs? I found this scene to be very interesting, however, in the film it is not dwelt upon. Instead we get Harrison Ford playing the father and leader of clean, wholesome politically America and being politically correct and charming and funny and whatnot. What's the moral of this film: God bless America and no place else.


Ford and Oldman have strong performances, and the script is incredible. Unlike most action movies this film is fresh, and the Russian villains act as believable terrorists. Too bad Ford is not the US President, I would vote for him any day. The director, who did Das Boat, directs this film mechanically, and it is a pleasure to watch the mechanics of this film unravel.


LOL, that just summed up the whole movie, didn't it? So last night I was looking for a movie to watch and in my mom's collection I found "Air Force One" and I noticed that Harrison Ford was in it, so I figured I would give it a look. So I watched it and all I can say is American Propaganda much? Now I'm all American, don't get me wrong, I love my country, but this was a bit much and incredibly insulting. If we really had a president like James Marshall, played by Ford, I'd say America would be a very exciting place of nothing but none-stop action. The whole movie either took itself too seriously or then would get into an Arnold Schwartzenegger type of action movie where Ford would say that little one liner before the big climax. Oh, I loved the 25 endings of how they could keep the action going. Now I love action movies, don't get me wrong, but this story was just silly and unnecessary.

President James Marshell is on the fight of stopping terrorism, Russian terrorism to be more specific. Well he boards his flight back to the states, Air Force One starts off well, but is quickly hijacked by Ivan Korshunov and his men, terrorists who want their General Radek released from prison in return for the passengers on board, which isn't good since I guess he was hard to capture and is a deadly terrorist. Ivan makes threats to kill of the passengers every half hour if the vice president does not meet his demands. But the President does not chicken out, he stays on board and will fight these terrorists and win back the plane.

Air Force One is non-stop action with a mixture of the hit TV show West Wing. Like I said, I don't mind an action movie, sometimes I love the most cliché'd one's, but not when it comes to serious stuff like terrorism, but I think I'm speaking from a post 9/11 view, so maybe if I saw this movie a before then, I wouldn't have mind it that much, but even then, there were moments that were terribly over acted and for me, it just didn't work for having a president like James Marshall, please, I wish. I can't wait to see President Bush on top of a tanker sporting a look like Rambo, but I guess I shouldn't hold my breath.

4/10


A1 acting and casting. Story-line excellent but slightly unbelievable as to the "special effects", such as the escape capsule. Highly rated, nonetheless. Harrison Ford, as per his norm, does a magnificent and highly believable job in his portrayal of the President - Some day we might have a president that is so action-oriented - but I doubt if we would in my lifetime.


Harrison Ford is the president of the United States, and mighty bad ass one man army he is. I wonder if Petersen ment this film to be a parody? the evil Soviet Union threatens to come back! the president of USA is kidnapped by a bunch communist terrorists! but be afraid no more! Harrison Ford steps up and teaches the bad ivans a lesson.

This has got to be the worst movie I have ever seen. Full of cliches, laughably typical red neck patriotism and equally laughable plot!

I was rooting for the "terrorists" for the whole film.


This is a propaganda film Leni Riefenstahl, Mao and Stalin would be proud of. Senseless, waste of time, starring wooden Harrison Ford who has been playing the same role, since Han Solo and Deckard of Blade Runner, now for 20 years. He is certainly one of the worst professional actors in the world.


It's easy to understand why Airforce One was such a big hit. The President saves the country. America has an honorable man as their leader and he's saving them from those no good filthy Reds again. Audiences walked out with pride in their hearts (fuelled by Jerry Goldsmith's rousing score) and they forgot about the LewinskyGate scandal that was going down with the REAL President.

But the film is very good in it's own right too. Wolfgang Peterson creates a heavy feeling of tension, Ford a likable hero and Oldman a hissable villain who was actually quite scary. The film is also very well put together technically. The editing and sound is top-notch.

But there are flaws. And one BIG flaw. Some of the dialogue really sucks. And Wendy Crewson is VERY bad as the First Lady. The only reason her character is even in it is because every President has a First Lady. Her role is totally useless. I predicted her EVERY line of dialogue before she even said it. I am not kidding. Even Oldman at one point tells her to 'SHUT UP!' I never thought I would find myself agreeing with a Russian terrorist but now I have.

If you can overlook this minor, although highly irritating, glitch you will totally enjoy a high-octane action film with many, increasingly exciting, set-pieces. Very cool.


A riveting, exciting, edge of your seat thriller that never lets up. Buoyed by a good cast, script, special effects and directing, this movie is tops in its genre, in my opinion. The only thing I wonder about is Harrison Ford's range of facial expression - he never seems to be able to get that baffled look off his face. Gary Oldman is top-notch as usual, and Glenn Close has ample opportunity to demonstrate her acting talent. If you're looking for a movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat from the first moment, Air Force One is it. 8/10.


This movie is by far the most gripping movie of all time! I am a great fan of Mr. Ford and his acting in the movie is spectacular! The graphics alone will shock you and the music by Jerry Goldsmith is very delightful. Anybody who knows Jerry Goldsmith's work will note a Star Trek feel to the music! To sum it up this is a total movie and very watchable over and over again! 10/10


An imbecile, a liar and a coward for president. Someone who was so fetching afraid of his ally (Bulgaria) that Secret Service agents ORDERED the soldiers from President's escort company to remove the bayonets from their riffles which of course were empty of bullets too. He was so fetching afraid that even the police who were supposed to protect him were disarmed. This movie is so blatant propaganda it is shame for everyone that has created it. Apart from that, the enemies since long time ago are not the Russians. We all know who exactly they are and who exactly they were before becoming an US enemies. Right - they were friends and protected and working with CIA help and American taxpayers money. So don't give us bullshits for breakfast with this, excuse me, movie. 0 points from me.


The movies plot itself is highly improbable, and there are a lot of factual errors, but do you want a documentary or do ya want to see a cool action movie featuring a butt kicking president played by the guy who did Han Solo? What we have here are some terrorist from Russia I think (why are terrorist from countries that don't actually have gripes with us in the movies) taking over air force one with president and family in tow. Of course, the president does not get captured, but instead eludes the terrorist and complicates matters for them as he frees some of the hostages and instead of leaving himself stays to get his family back. The movie seems to run a little long in places and there are a couple of pointless plot points (the whole Dean Stockwell character), overall though and mainly it is a cool action movie in the same vein as Die Hard or other movies where you have the one free guy making trouble for the bad guys. Speaking of bad guys, Gary Oldman is pretty good here as the head bad guy, so is most of the cast of this flick. Harrison Ford is usually good in anything so he fits right in here and makes for a very heroic albeit unrealistic president.


At the risk of sounding like a broken record,this film is more or less a remake of Die Hard,only the skyscraper is replaced with an airplane, and our ordinary tough guy cop is replaced with the leader of the free world.Knowing this fact,it's still a good film.Harrison Ford makes a very believable president,and Gary Oldman a very convincing baddie.Although you know where the plot is going,something about it compels you to continue watching.The very fact that they are thousands of miles in the air grips me personally because I am not very fond of heights,and I found myself gripping my chair arms very tightly as a result.This is basically a "run of the mill" action flick,but still good nonetheless.


STUPID! I think when they rank the worst 100, it should be done relative to the film's budget. If so, Air Force One should qualify. The story is completely asinine. The characters all behave recklessly and ridiculously. Only the redoubtable Jurgen Prochnow manages to come out of this mess with his dignity intact.

Harrison Ford is the least Presidential-acting US President ever to appear on film -- and that includes the likes of Polly Bergen, John Ritter, and Donald Pleasance. Gary Oldham is every cold-war caricature mixed together, then run amok, all wrapped up in a preposterous accent, overblown mannerisms, and a maniacal laugh. Xander Berkeley's stunt was almost as impossible as his wooden performance. Paul Guilifoyle is the most disloyal and ignorant Chief-of-Staff ever depicted. Wendy Crewson is doing a nothing job, and does less with it.

The pacing is so painstakingly slow, it was hard to believe this was an action movie. The special effects were labored and cumbersome, and the score was a near-perfect parody of action movie scores.

I had to write all this because IMDB no longer accepts four-line reviews. If they did, I simply would have written: STUPID STUPID STUPID STUPID STUPID STUPID STUPID, etc.