An Aamir Khan movie is always special and anticipated keenly, but Taare Zameen Par is even more so because it marks the directorial debut of Aamir. People want to see if he will be able to match his directing ability to his acting ability. The big question is whether Aamir has what it takes to be a wonderful storyteller and one that can be able to show it off with precision on celluloid. There are times when a film just leaves you spellbound and you just cannot put into words how amazing it is. Taare Zameen Par is one such movie. Aamir does exactly what he sets out to do and succeeds in all three departments he is involved in with this venture- acting, producing, and directing. The movie turns out to be one of the most memorable experiences you will ever have at the cinemas. It is a truly special film and a wonderful way to bring the year 2007 to a close.

Taare Zameen Par is a simple story about a dyslexic boy named Ishaan and the teacher, Nikumbh, who will do anything to help him fight this ailment and prove everyone wrong. The story is told in such a beautiful manner that you do not lose attention for one moment. The film has you hooked from beginning all the way to the end. Amole Gupte may not have ended up directing the movie, but he deserves all the credit in the world for penning such a fantastic script. It is a true to life story and something almost anybody can relate to. Also, the execution of the story on screen is absolutely outstanding. There are no hiccups whatsoever, as the story unfolds slowly, but it never bogs down. It remains at a constant flow, which makes the film even more endearing. There are many scenes in the film that truly capture your heart and make you emotional. Few scenes in particular are when Ishaan is sent to boarding school and the depression that starts thereafter, Nikumbh’s interaction with Ishaan’s father when he goes to visit their home, as well as when the father comes to visit the school, Nikumbh taking Ishaan under his wing and trying to help him learn, and the art mela during the climax. All these scenes touch you deeply and make you really put things into perspective. The situations portrayed in the film can happen to any one of us and that is where the true beauty in the film lies. The fact that we can see ourselves on the screen helps us soak in the movie even more. The movie is especially made for all parents, soon to be parents, and teachers out there in the world to let them know how kids really should be treated. The message in the film of every child being special and needing love and care rather than scolding and beating is definitely sent out loud and clear.

We all know Aamir Khan to be one of the best actors in the industry, but with Taare Zameen Par, he also shows us that he is one of the best up and coming directors. Nobody can imagine a first time director handling such a sensitive subject with such ease. But then again this isn’t your ordinary first time director. Aamir translates the story onto celluloid so beautifully that you think you are watching a film made by a seasoned vet. He knows exactly what he is doing and is able to bring out the emotions from his audience, which is the most important thing in a film like this. If Aamir ever decides to stop acting, we know he definitely has a future career lined up as a full time filmmaker.

The cinematography of the film is excellent, as it is a very well shot film and captures all the details required for the film. The editing is solid, but the film runs a bit long and could have been trimmed by a few minutes. The music of the film is wonderful and fits in with the mood of the film perfectly. The best of lot are the title track, Kholo Kholo, and Bum Bum Bole. Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy ends their amazing run this year with yet another winning soundtrack.

Darsheel Safary, playing Ishaan, gives a brilliant performance. It is hard to believe that he is just a child in his first film as he performs like an experienced veteran. The film completely revolves around him throughout and he is the main reason this films has gone the extra mile. This is a performance to remember and Darsheel Safary is an actor to remember.

By taking charge behind the camera, Aamir Khan takes the backseat to Darsheel in front of the camera. Nonetheless, Aamir gives yet another superb performance and packs a punch yet again. The movie is lifted to another level once his character is introduced at interval. His chemistry with Darsheel is also noteworthy. This is yet another film to put into Aamir’s impressive resume.

Tisca Chopra, as Ishaan’s mother, is wonderful. She enacts the role of a caring mother at crossroads about her son to perfection. Watching this performance, I feel all the mothers in the world will be able to relate to her character.

Vipin Sharma, as Ishaan’s father, does his part as he makes you dislike him in numerous occasions for the way he treats his son. Definitely not the type of father any man would want to relate to.

All the teachers and other children, especially Ishaan’s best friend and older brother, enact their parts well and leave a big impact on the film.

Taare Zameen Par ends up being one of the finest films to have come out of the industry in recent times. It also ends up being the birth of a new promising director and his endless march as one of the top acting prospects in the industry. It is also the birth of a new child star. The release of the film is perfect as you cannot think of a better way to end the year than with a film of this caliber. Let’s hope the awards people remember the movie because of the late release. It should be watched by one and all, especially with your families. If you have a heart, watch this movie as soon as you can because it is one of those films that truly touch your heart and stays there forever. Don’t miss it!

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