Kurbaan, an emotional ride

Would we have witnessed a 9/11 if the terrorists planned a prelude to it? No, we wouldn't. And this is exactly where Karan Johar's plot falters. He's done an in-depth study on terrorism, no doubt, but not enough to convince us that a terror group would plan to display their power in the run-up to a main debacle. It's his inability to question the fundamentals that kills what could've worked in the lines of a Mani Ratnam-styled Dil Se or Bombay.

Debutant director Rensil D'Silva lends his expertise to Kurbaan as well, but fails to understand that tackling terrorism on-screen is as nightmarish as it is on the ground. He loses perspective along the way, leaving us with his over-ambitious, half-baked take on terror. Looks like he was unsure whether he wanted to make commercial or realistic cinema.

D'Silva's advertising background enables him to give the grim story a pretty frame. Hemant Chaturvedi's cinematography is spot on. But glaring holes in Johar's story, leaves a lot to be desired. Apart from the numerous flaws in the plot, he fails to flesh out his characters. We are told Avantika is a reputed college professor, however we hardly see her in that context except for one scene. Also, when put in a tricky situation, she forgets to dial 911 for help. Instead, she decides to lock herself in her house, almost as though she could wish the bad guys away.

Even when she uncovers a terror plot, she prefers to leave a phone message instead of calling the police. The same goes for Mr Oberoi. Despite being an experienced war reporter, he prefers to tackle the terrorists head on rather than work with the FBI. Surely, life isn't a movie and we aren't all super heroes!

Kurbaan, however, garners points for some fine performances. The glamorous Kareena Kapoor gives one of her finest performances to date. Barring her finely manicured nails, she gives professor Avantika a convincing twist. However the same can't be said about her beau Saif Ali Khan. He gave Ehsaan a staccato expression all through. And for this, he has only botox to blame! Vivek Oberoi's liberal Muslim mask is convincing, but strains appear when he oscillates between an Indian and American accent. Legendary actors like Om Puri and Kirron Kher are exceptionally brilliant. Even the supporting cast packs in a convincing act.

The chilling background music by composers Salim-Sulaiman is intriguing. Anurag Kashyap and Niranjan Iyengar have penned some gripping dialogues that leave us hooked. A tighter edit, would've gone a long way, of course!

By Bollywood standards Kurbaan will be remembered as a fine thriller, but it doesn't have enough substance to place it on top. Maybe Johar is saving it all for his next venture, My Name is Khan, which is based on terror.

But if you are willing to suspend your beliefs, as is a prerequisite while watching most Bollywood films, then Kurbaan could work for you. It would get three stars out of five for D'Silva's maiden venture and only because it's thrown up some fine performances and a few impressive technical shots.