I must first admit that this movie, Baghban, introduces me to Bollywood, Indian made movies and what I hope will be a continuing experience with many more. My succinct comment of review and overall impression would recognize that the movie was delightful, refreshing, magnificent and charming. Delightful, refreshing, magnificent and charming cover a great deal of territory, but then so does a three hour movie, a lifetime in the case of Baghban. While in agreement with some critical comments in other more technical reviews, I believe, every movie leaves the viewer with an impression that will either endure for a period of time after the movie ends or finish as the movie finishes. The unique aspect achieved in Baghban, absent in so many movies these days, is that an uplifting quality of family, sacrifice and love is packaged so that viewers may take away a positive experience that is remembered long after the credits end and the lights come on. A lasting impression and a successful movie would seem to be synonymous. Baghban was both pleasurable and positive so if it lasts a while, who can complain? Since I write this from the prospective of a professional musician, I know that an ability to criticize and analyze does not constitute the focus, intent or impression any audience member takes with them nor does it change their overall experience. A momentary lack of continuity, inequality in the depth of characters and the lack of plausible reality within circumstance matters very little if such perceived weakness is embellished creatively. Technicalities can certainly fail any artistic endeavor and Baghban exhibits a few, however, `who cares' would be the proper response to criticism that completely misses `the big picture', pun intended. Finally, if the viewing audience gains anything that enhances their own lives through, in the case of Baghban, an example of respect and love for others, then escapism may just become character building. Movies are, if nothing else, a reflection of life so nearly everyone should be able to identify with Baghban.
