Like previous Salman ventures Bodyguard is also an amalgamation of action, comedy and romance and seems to have every ingredient to make it a hattric success for Salman who seems to be going through the best phase of his career.But if the film is on par with wanted as far as action is concerned it lacks the charisma and charm of Dabangg that made the character of Chulbul Pandey iconic. Also the script and narrative style is not as gripping as the other two. However, these hiccups are covered to some extent by the invigorating and soulful chemistry that Salman and Kareena have showcased leaving behind all their previous encounters which had noting to write home about.
The film's first half has its moments here n there with more focus on the lighter and action sequences.But as said the action vows but comedy seems to be forced and gets repetitive after a certain point of time. Wish the director had given more footage to the Salman n Kareena's endevours rather focusing on the repetative antics of Rajat Rawail . But the second half of the movie more than makes up for it as it renders the rare soft side of Salman Khan which many directors fail to capture and Kareena's histrionics as an actress. The twists n turns in last 20 minutes do spring a pleasant surprise and may leave you moist eyed.
Technically the film scores in action department and music by Himesh Reshamiya n Pritam(I Love You) is a perfect mix of foottapping and soulful numbers. Special mention for Teri Meri that is a class apart form rest. Direction by Sidiqui impresses in bits n parts as he handles the emotional secnes with aplomb, good in action while leaves a lot to be desired in comic portions of the movie.
Performance wise Salman Khan as Lovely Singh once again overpowers the weaker parts of the movie with his towering screen presence and is equally convincing in both the action scenes which are his forte and in emotional scenes which is a welcome change. Kareena Kapoor as Divya is the soul of bodygaurd and performs her part with such innocence and charm that seems so effortless and convincing .This has to be her best mainstream performance after Geet in Jab We Met. Rajat Rawail as Tsuanami may bring some laughs to begin with but tends to get ambiguous with his antics which seems to minimize the impact of his charm. Mr Raj Babbar as Kreena's father puts in a sincere and convincing portrayal. Others in supporting cast are there just to fill the numbers.
Bodygaurd is a film worth watching with your family given this festive season but you have to curtail your expectations that may help you enjoy the journey of lovely Singh a tad better.
Rating: *** 1/2
