Swept away

The comedy is loud, frenetic and silly (it's Johnny Lever, you have been warned!), some of the filming style is dated and the villains are straight from the pantomime but who cares when you are swept away by the romance and music of this classic Bollywood film?

Aamir Khan totally inhabits the character of the endearingly naive but short-tempered, country taxi driver Raja, and Karishma Kapoor, with her hour-glass figure and shining eyes, is perfect as the innocent rich, city girl Aarti, initially oblivious to their growing love. The romance and comedy of the first half of the film, with this adorable young couple finding love while struggling to understand each other's differing attitudes and values, gives way to pure melodrama in the second half as Raja and Aarti are separated by her dastardly relations. The final climax is a jaw-dropping fight sequence.

One of the keys to the film's appeal for me is the character of Raja. Surely the pride of a poor man has never been more sympathetically portrayed. Yes, Raja is hotheaded and touchy but when his pride is contrasted with the empty vanity of Aarti's rich city relations, you understand it and side with him.

Add to this some of the most haunting songs ever written (why oh why is the music not available online?) and the most scandalously passionate kiss ever filmed in Bollywood, and you'll see why this film just sweeps you away.