Film: Talaash
Cast: Aamir Khan (last seen in 3 Idiots), Kareena Kapoor (last seen in Heroine) and Rani Mukerji (last seen in Aiyyaa)
Storyline: Aamir 'intense inspector' Khan is looking into an accident-murder, while dealing with the loss
of a family member and his straining bond with his wife. Wearing loud make-up loaded with obviously provocative dialogue, Mrs Kareena Kapoor Khan plays the conventional prostitute that Bollywood loves.

Director
Reema Kagti 
She earned accolades for writing Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011) last. For those who might not know, this isn't her directorial debut. She directed Honey Travels Pvt Ltd in 2007.

Music
Ram Sampath
After composing the hit music of Delhi Belly and Aamir Khan's TV show, Satyamev Jayate, Sampath is back with Talaash. It has been positively received.

Controversies/stunts
Like in the case of all his films, reports claimed that this 'actor-ghost director' (Aamir) fought with Reema Kagti for this one too. But then if those fights have led to his film list, doubt anyone has anything to complain about. 

Marketing/hype
Aamir went on a nine-city tour to meet investigative journalists to learn the pressures of their job after he had finished shooting the film. Why? No one cares, not even him we guess. He's being so secretive about the film's plot that he's not even promoted the film with as much vigour.
 
Our assessment
The last film he starred in - 3 Idiots (2009) - went on to become one of the highest grossers in Bollywood. Aamir's loyal audience watches his films just because he has chosen to act in them. No reason for this one to be any different.

- Compiled by Serena Menon

For the final verdict, look out for Anupama Chopra's review tomorrow in the Watch & Listen page of  Hindustan Times