October 22, 2010 (Sampurn Wire): Director: Abbas Tyrewala

Starring: John Abraham, Pakhi, Raghu Ram, Manasi Scott, Anaitha Nair, Omar Khan, Alishka Varde, George Young, Prahsant Chawla, Madhavan, Nandana Sen

Rating: ***

Who says lying is bad? Watch Jhootha Hi Sahi and you will come to understand that lying will get you everywhere. In the twenty first century when everyone is desperately seeking their soul mate, lying is perhaps the best way to find that perfect someone for yourself.

After the phenomenal success of Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na, Abbas Tyrewala is back with his next romantic comedy about a simple guy who lies his way to love. John Abraham plays the role of Siddharth aka (Sid) who runs a bookshop in London with his Pakistani friend Omar (played by Raghu Ram). In true Bollywood style the bookshop is called Kagaz Ke Phool. Sid is already in a committed relationship with Krutika (Manasi Scott), who controls all aspects of his life.

Accidentally, Sids phone number gets listed on a suicide helpline flier and he starts getting calls from unknown people attempting suicide. Being the good guy that our hero is, he starts counseling these lost souls. One night Mishka (Pakhi) calls up the suicide helpline and Sid stops her from committing the act. The two become good friends and start having regular phone conversations every night.

One day Mishka comes to Sids bookshop, Sid recognizes her immediately but Mishka cannot. The duo start dating, John puts up a nice double act in this movie. During day he dates Mishka as the stammering bespectacled geek while in the night he has phone conversations with her as a confident young man. The movie has the light and fresh feel of the Tom Hanks, Meg Ryan starrer Youve Got Mail. Will Mishka forgive Sid when she finds out about his lies? You will have to find that out for yourself.

The film has strong ensemble cast that has put up some really good performances. John Abraham looks convincing in his guy-next-door appearance. Raghu Ram of the MTV Roadies fame puts up a commendable act with his superb comic timing. The scenic beauty of London and its locales are used extensively to add to the fresh appeal of the film.

AR Rahmans music does a bang-up job and stays in your mind long after you leave the movie hall. However the movie gets tad bit boring in the end thanks to its extended and over-the top climax. Overall Jhootha Hi Sahi is the perfect weekend rom-com to watch with your family and friends.

--Sampurn Wire