Rating: ***

Break ke Baad has a little of a lot of movies. A little of I Hate Luv Storys, a little of Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na and a little bit of Love Aaj Kal. The movie marks the directorial debut of Danish Aslam who has earlier assisted on movies like Swades, Thoda Pyar Thoda Magic, Salam Namaste etc.

The movie is somewhat cute and somewhat confused much like the love story in it. But overall, there can be no denying that it could have been much much better. What you can expect from the film is a typical tale of love, space and committment.

Aaliya and Abhay grow up together and end up as lovers. But that Abhay is more serious about his relationship and his whole life revolves around Aaliya, her bent is more towards her dreams and ambitions. When the free-spirited Aaliya decides to go abroad to pursue her long cherished dreams, much against the wishes of her mother and boyfriend, life changes completely.

Break Ke Baad is a film that doesnt give you too many breathers. The movie is quite pacey and keeps happening at a great speed. This is not to say that we are glued because the movie is engaging but we get time to think about little else. The positives of the movie include its carefree, light and fun loving character.

Even when the characters are seemingly under emotional duress, it is not passed on to the viewer in any melodramatic avtar. And though the movie is a love story there are few teary eyed scenes. The chemistry between the two stars is also quite laudable. The movie has a dash of humour which we enjoy.

As far as the loopholes are concerned, Break Ke Baad appears to be a tad bit confused. Aaliya and Abhay break up and get together too many times, too frequently. We cant till the end, understand Abhay's undying love for Aaliya, who is quite evidently selfish. Her momentary lapses, eccentricities and somewhat scizophrenic behaviour gets quite annoying.

Now for the performances. Imran Khan has certainly matured as an actor and Break Ke Baad is his film.

As for Deepika, her de-glamourised look in the film leaves her looking quite dark and pale. Her tomboyish character seems like quite a contrast to her otherwise girly proper self. So it looks like the actress doesnt manage to get fully into the skin of her character.

Sharmila Tagore, who is seen on the big screen after a while is able to cook up on magic. Lilette Dubey on the other hand is very appealing in her small role.