The Dhoom effect!

Ok, so, the long wait is over. 'Dhoom 2' is out and open to public criticism. Let's come to the point straightway: Is 'Dhoom 2' as big as its hype? Does it meet the monumental expectations? Or is it a gas balloon with a leak?

Yes, 'Dhoom 2' works big time and here's why…

Very rarely do you come across Hindi films that marry form and content so beautifully. 'Dhoom 2' is cool, but beneath the sheen there's substance too.

Mounted on an extravagant scale, the film is a visual delight. The film travels from one breath-taking locale to another in those 16 reels, often making your jaw drop to your knees thanks to the sweeping impact it makes.

For any sequel to score high marks, it ought to be embellished with pulse-pounding moments. 'Dhoom 2' is a hi-octane thriller and the thrills, stunts and pace -- vital for any thriller to strike a chord -- are sure to keep you on the edge from Scene A to Z. Most importantly, 'Dhoom 2' delivers what it promises: Escapist cinema at its best!

Any hiccups? Not really, but the music could've been better. That's about it!

      So, what's the verdict then? A film like 'Dhoom 2' raises the bar for Hindi films. If you've tasted the best, you would never settle for anything komsi-komsa stuff later, right? That's the 'Dhoom 2' effect. For film-makers that tread a similar path, it's going to be an added responsibility to go beyond 'Dhoom 2'.

In terms of business, 'Dhoom 2'is bound to create dhoom at the ticket window. It's a box-office triumph all the way. Time for Yash Raj to pop champagne yet again!