Vacations are in, and what better way for a family to have a fun time out in this heat, than watch a movie! Bhoothnath, an overall family entertainer, has the competence to capture adults as well as children. The story’s baseline is about the bonding between a ghost and a seven year old child, who develop a grandfather and grandson like relation. The story is set in Goa beginning with a ghost of Kailash Nath (Amitabh Bachchan), which haunts Nath Villa, his quondam house, and does not allow anybody to reside in the house. This continues till Banku (Aman Siddiqui) along with his parents Aditya (Shahrukh Khan) and Anjali (Juhi Chawla) rent the manse and start residing in it. Banku, unafraid of ghosts, presumes the ghost to be an angel. The ghost in turn, is impressed with the child’s innocence and both develop a special friendship, unknown by the rest as they can only see Banku and not the ghost. The first half is hilarious, exhibiting the various tricks played by Banku and the “Bhooth” in school and other places. The second half includes coalesce of emotions, wherein Anjali finds out about Bhoothnath, we also come to know about the past of the ghost. Kailash Nath’s son (Priyanshu Chatterjee) then comes into picture, as he tries to sell off the Nath Villa. They then help Kailash Nath’s spirit attain salvation.

The movie is a treat for children. The story line may not be anything new or “hatke”, but the execution of the plotline is done in such a way, that the movie becomes a must watch for each one. The director, Vivek Sharma has done a splendid job, considering the movie to be his directorial debut! The script has been developed in a very good manner. The special effects used are excellent. The simple cinematography supports the use of these special effects. The music of the film works in support of the storyline and can be called catchy in terms of kiddies! The choreography of the song “Mere Buddy” proves out to be exceptional. “Banku Bhaiyya”, and “Hum to Hain Aandhi” are the melodious, and dance numbers (respectively), targeted towards the kids. Juhi Chawla and Amitabh Bachchan lend their voice to the song “Chalo Jane Do”, which turns out exceedingly good.

Amitabh and Aman have given a very good performance, with the proficiency of carrying the entire movie on their shoulders. Shahrukh, though having a small role, has done absolute justice to his character. Juhi Chawla, looks fantastic, and has done a brilliant job. Satish Shah and Rajpal Yadav have given out their best ever comic skills.

The best scene of the movie is the first encounter of the kid and the ghost. Both Amitabh and Aman have been extremely natural. Aman gives out alluring presentation with his expressions.

The movie not only has a great star cast, it also has very well formulated characters. With a fast moving story line, the movie has not a minute to spare for deviating the attention. It glues the audience to the screen with its most unpredictable twists.

The movie promises to be a roller coaster of emotions and definitely compels one to ride on. So jump into this pool and enjoy the swim in this potpourri of sentiments.