The story revolves around three friends studying in India's most prestigious Engineering College. From my understanding, it's loosely based on Chetan Bhagat's novel, 'Five Point Someone' (just a small portion, the rest is all original).
Ten years after finished their studies, Farhan (Madhavan) and Raju (Sharman) try to find their long lost ex-room mate, Ranchoddas Shamaldas Chanchad aka Rancho (Aamir) who just vanished silently on the graduation day.
The story switches from present to flashback mode often. Rancho being the life of the college, believes that life is not about getting the grades but living the moment and being true to one's self. He always have difference of opinions from the strict head of the college, Viru Sahastrabuddhe (Boman) which leads to lots of clashes between them throughout the college episode. Despite his fun and frolic, Rancho always surprises everyone by topping the class.
At the same time, he encourages his fellow friends to look beyond the ordinary and effects their lifes deeply - eventually earns the wrath of the college head. But Rancho's greatest contribution lies is making his friends realise their true calling.
In the meantime, Rancho wins the affections of Pia (Kareena), daughter of the college head.
Before leaving, Rancho brings a major change in almost every person's life he come close to. How Farhan and Raju meet Rancho from Delhi moving on to a few places like Shimla, Manali and Ladakh forms the climax of the film.
If you are wondering whether this film lives up to the expectations since it's from Rajkumar Hirani, (the man behind the masterpieces like Munna Bhai MBBS and Lago Raho Munna Bhai) then, yes it does. The director cleverly comes up with a story that everyone can relate to in a very unique story-telling, laugh-riot with funny dialogues and without a doubt, carries messages to society.
Unsurprisingly, Aamir is the sole of this flick with both Madhavan and Joshi have their own moments of pure genius. Ameer proved himself as he can very well excell in comedy too. Just check the way he successfully carries out the role of a 22 year old despite being 44 years older. There is a scene when Boman drags him out of his cabin and the body language which Aamir displays then, deserves applause.
Madhavan is incredible, delivering his most retrained act ever. Like a backbone to the story, he takes the film back and forth with his narrative. His acting is just awesome especially when he tries to explain his stand to his father. Sharman is quite good too. He pulls off his dilemma with ease (when he's given choices between his friendship with Rancho and his studies).
Kareena's performance is satisfactory as she does her part well.
As the vicious head of the college, Boman is superb. Boman's appearence, mannerisms and dialogue delivery are exemplary. It's just a treat to watch the scenes between Aamir and Boman where two powerful actors clash on the big screen.
At the sametime, another character who really leaves a mark is the always-chasing-after-success Chatur, the southie nerd played by newcomer Omi. He deserves a pat on his back.
The film is no exception from minuses. Look wise, all three of them - Aamer, Madhavan and Sharman never quite passes off as a 20-something-year old. It's a bit draggy in later half. For example, the child delivery sequence in the pre climax has been unnecessarily over streched.
Do yourself and your family a favour: Watch 3 Idiots. A must-watch especially for fans of Aamir Khan and R.Madhavan. The film has tremendous youth appeal and feel-good factor to work in a big way. This emotional, entertaining and enlightening movie is guaranted to make you laugh. Even if you don't understand the language, you will come out of the cinema hall with one thought - "Aal Izz Well"
