Shahrukh Khan’s Home Production Billu is All Ready to Hit The Jackpot – Movie Review
February 13, 2009
Star rating: 
Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Irfaan Khan, Asrani, Lara Dutta, Ompuri, Kareena Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra, Deepika Padukone
Producer: Gauri Khan
Director: Priyadarshan
Music Director: Pritam
Lyricist: Gulzar, Sayeed Quadri
Amidst all the controversies surrounding the use of the word “Barber”, the Priyadarshan’s Billu hit the theaters today. Initially titled “Billu Barber”, the film is a story about a simple man (played by Irfan Khan) who works as a barber in a small village. Produced by Shahrukh Khan’s wife, Gauri Khan, the film underwent a change in its title following the objection of the Hairdressers’ Associations of Mumbai to the use of the word “Barber” in the title. In fact, Shahrukh Khan, who has made a guest appearance in the movie, has gone a step further by planning to invite barbers and hairstylists across Mumbai for the premiere of “Billu.”
I wanted to watch the movie solely because of its brilliant story and of course, Irfan Khan. Known as one of the most talented actors currently in Bollywood, Irfan Khan has marked his presence by doing a multitude of characters. This time, he played the character of a small town barber who lives with his beautiful wife, Bindiya (played by Lara Dutta) and two cute kids. Both Irfan and Lara have been brilliant in portraying the life of an ordinary couple. They know how to live happily even without enough money and all luxuries of life. The entry of Shahrukh Khan in the movie as a superstar was simply awesome. The special dance numbers featuring King Khan with Kareena Kapoor, Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone can keep everyone glued to their seats. Priyadarshan has once again hit the right chord by being able to create a lively comparison of a simple village life and the glamorous life that of a movie- star.
It is not only the story of Billu that catches your attention, but also its music. Composed by Pritam, there are 15 tracks with a combination of both originals and remixes. This is the first ever Bollywood movie, where a composer has tried all styles, ranging from bhangra to rap, sufi, folk and also the western style. So, if you are a music lover, the film is a retreat. Also, there are a dozen singers, including Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, KK, and many fresh voices in the film. In particular, the song “Marjaani” sung by Sunidhi and Sukhwinder, and the soulful sufi number “Jaaon Kahan” sung by Rahat Fateh Ali Khan are the two most attractive songs in the album. However, in totality, the music of Billu could not match up to the levels of “Jab We Met”. You may love them in the theater, but once you are out, you may not even remember their tune.
Another remake of a Malayalam film from Priyadarshan’s camp. This movie is about how the lives of two people who are from the two extremes of the society come face to face due to a twist of destiny. The movie deals with very basic issues like the highly concentrated form of self-respect of that category of people who are underprivileged.
Music is average. Pukka popcorn movie. I guess the first day cashings were decent because of Valentines Day!
Billu is a sweet-n-simple film that lingers in your memory even after the show has concluded. The final 20 minutes are the highpoint of the movie and that elevates the status of the film to great heights. SRK as always rocks!!! and to add to the icing Irfan Khan with one of his gr8est acting. Lara Datta goes through her part with complete understanding. and Pridarshan with his own story telling skillls.
The good thing about Billu is an attempt to tell a story, and for top stars and production houses to do something that is not exactly mainstream. With a little comedy, rustic humor, catchy tunes, SRK’s appeal and a few touching moments, Billu’s not bad. And not great. Decent film!
Average movie. Srk’s speech is simply mind blowing that touches the heart so much. The song marjani is superb. Lara Datta acts her character very honestly & looks very simple and charming.