Veer

As another reviewer already commented, the trailers suggest a historical battle fest. This is not really what the film is all about, more based on an ongoing love story inbetween the main character and an untouchable princess.

There are battle scenes, not that well done (slightly poor CGI) I hasten to add, and the film descends into song and dance at fairly regular intervals. Again, this was fairly unexpected, but I suppose it is in keeping with Bollywood tradition!

The film is also overly long, not helped by the aforementioned song and dance at every possible opportunity. The principal 'love song' gets repeated ad infinitum which does get irritating, but it sticks in your head afterwards!

So, onto the good stuff. The main character (Salman Khan) is incredibly personable and is perfectly cast as fearless warrior who can then be very funny, romantic and an excellent dancer/performer. He really elevates the story, and gives a captivating performance from start to finish. The strength of family bonds is also nicely developed, injecting real emotion into the film.

The 'other' story, a rivalry between two Indian clans in the face of the British Raj rule, is also quite poignant. It deals with the British tactics employed so effectively during the Empire's golden years of expansion, and paints us in a less than brillian light. Truth hurts!

You may not sit through all of this in one go, and at times it may appear cheesy with the odd bit of hammy acting, but stick with it - overall it is worth the time investment. A very good film just short of greatness.