STUDENT OF THE YEAR
(12A, 146 mins) 
Four stars 
Starring Varun Dhawan, Sidharth Malhotra, Alia Bhatt. Director: Karan Johar

Launching newcomers is a risk for any film-maker, especially when the director is responsible for some of Bollywood’s biggest blockbusters in the past.

With super hits such as Kuch Kuch Hota Hain, Kabhi Kushi Kabhie Gham and My Name Is Khan under his belt, director Karan Johar is back behind the camera to present Student Of The Year.

But unlike his previous successes, Johar has no big star names to rely on. Mainly backed by reigning star Shahrukh Khan in the past, the acclaimed director has taken the bold move in investing in three new comers.

But Johar is a master when it comes to narrating a story and is confident that the script will carry the movie rather than the cast.

The story focuses on Abhi (Malhotra) and Ro (Dhawan), who are students at St Teresa’s High School. Brash, cocky and oozing confidence, there is no love lost between these two popular students. But they only have one thing on their mind.

They both desperately want to win the Student Of The Year trophy. To add to the mix is Shanaya (Bhatt), who is a childhood friend of Ro. Abhi develops feelings for Shanaya resulting in a tale of romance, betrayal and friendship.

All three newcomers deliver fantastic performances and it is hard to believe that they are making their debut on the silver screen. Dhawan and Malhotra are confident and talented. Alia Bhatt is photogenic and will no doubt have many offers in the future.

In fact, all three are here to stay! Karan Johar has delivered yet another winner. With a catchy soundtrack to complement the overall ambience of the film, Student Of The Year is a great entertainer!