I am not a fan of commercial Hindi cinema. Having said that, I have to say that really liked Dil Se. Mani Rathnam tries to deviate from the norm and try to attempt a story that at once captivates and disturbs. Understated nuanced acting, not valued by most Indian actors, is the norm in this movie. The images are haunting, the sensibilities are delicate and the scenery breathtaking. If you plan to see only one Hindi film that you plan to see, this should be it. Having said that, Rathnam fails in his attempt to placate the average moviegoer of India by stuffing the movie with 5 (beautifully choreographed and well-recorded) songs that jarres the narrative. Also at least at one occasion (immediately after Amarkanth Varma witnesses Meghna's outbreak right before the storm) the editing is crude and sticks like an afterthought. Manisha Koirala could well be the successor to Shabana Azmi if she chooses her roles well. Shahrukh khan is refreshing in this departure from his regular song and dance routine.
