Like Stars on Earth (Two Disc DVD + CD)

I say that as a fan of all the Khans except Salman! As anyone whose read even one of my reviews here I make no bones of the fact that I'm a huge fan of Hrithik Roshan and Amitabh Bachchan, and Mr. A. Khan is right up there with them. He might not be as tall as both, or have the dancing skills of one, but when it comes to movies his talent, and his intellect, are lethal. In fact, if you read anything about the man at all you will notice the phrase "Mr. Perfectionist" in place of his name in at least two places. But lots of people are talented and intelligent, what sets Mr. A. Khan a part from his most of his fellow Khans is that he'll take on things that a 'typical Bollywood Star' just doesn't do. Whether it's a Revolution against the British using Cricket in  Lagaan, Anniversary Edition  with a potential romance with an English woman, a man who ruthlessly hunts down the gangsters who killed his girlfriend and destroyed his short term memory in  Ghajini , the man takes risks. He melts into the skins of his characters flawed or heroic with no thought to his 'brand' because his brand is passion and perfection. From  Dil chahta hai  to the upcoming Dhoom 3 there isn't anything he won't take on if he has a passion for it. Fortunately for all lovers of great films, he is first a foremost a lover of movies and decided acting in them just wasn't enough."Like Stars On Earth, Every Child Is Special" is a directorial debut and it combines the two great passions of Mr. A. Khan, movie making, and social issues. The modern world of today is fiercely competitive and nowhere is that more inculcated into a society than in the schoolroom, by the time a child is out of the second grade these days college is already being pounded into their minds. Don't get me wrong, I wish I could've finished college. But what happens when a child doesn't live up to the "standards" set by our modern ways of thinking? What happens when the child is misunderstood, and what is thought of as laziness or naughtiness, is actually a cry for help? What happens when expectations are so high and failure is the ultimate disgrace. What truly defines success? These are all questions that are put forth in this film and handled with a truly elegant and refined manner. It's not an original story, but The Bard himself never had an original story in his entire life.Ishaan Awasthi, is an eight year old boy from a middleclass family in Mumbai, and he is a "Problem Child" with a capital P-C. His highest scores on tests are two's and three's out of twenty. He's belligerent, defiant, inattentive, and wherever he goes chaos seems to follow. His teachers are fed up not wanting to have him in the third grade for the third time. His father, goes around roaring like a lion convinced that his youngest son is destined to be a failure in life. His mother wavers between acute frustration, despair, and worry for her beloved child. At her wits end, she cannot understand why all her love, teaching, and effort, seem to do nothing to improve Ishaan's grades, or his behavior. His older brother Yohan, is a top student and athlete, everything Ishaan is not. Yohan is the only person in Ishaan's life that isn't angry with him. To make matters worse, Ishaan doesn't know why he is the way he is and the few times he tries to express his problem he's greeted with anger and ridicule.Our cast of characters may not know what the problem is, but we the audience are hit in the face with it in the first frame. Disney did an incredible job with the animations here, the colors and the chaos of flipping and floating letters, numbers, and sentences in the images builds frustration in we the viewers as we're immersed into to the clamor of Ishaan's mind. It's overwhelming, and combining that with the pressures from the outside world, we're thrown into the deep end of Ishaan's suffering. But we're also thrown into his genius.I won't tell anymore about the story because you can figure out where it's going. But, I will say that the performances and direction in this movie are superlative. Darsheel Safary, is... wow I can't think of an adjective to describe just how good he is. For a *then* nine year old to match the intensity, and naturalness of his costars in his film debut is astounding! This young man (now around 15) has got the ability to use his eyes to let you deep into his soul, and I personally was struck by the depth of his sensitivity and understanding, and the fact that he could be downright unlikable in one scene where he deliberately troubles his mother. His naturalness never wanes even for a moment. Now that he's a young man, I hope that he has amazing success no matter where life takes him. I also hope that he's proud of this film until his last breath, it's a bigger accomplishment than most people will have in their whole lives.A super protagonist needs an equally good antagonist to truly shine and Vipin Sharma is the perfect foil here; as the success obsessed, driven, father. There are times in this movie when he arouses the very deepest hatred. My mom literally said "This man is evil" something that shocked me because she raised two kids with special needs, and if anyone knows the strain and helplessness that goes with that it's her. I replied, "Ammi, he's not capable of understanding what Ishaan is going through anymore than Ishaan can understand his letters right now." Now, don't get me wrong, that doesn't absolve his cruelty but who wants to sit through a three hour movie where you have a father of a young boy that you hate from beginning to end? The script, Mr. A. Khan's direction, and Mr. Sharma's performance is layered with moments where you feel compassion and you grieve for the fact that the man is so limited in his mindset, and how painful it is as he slowly comes to terms with the fact that his entire belief system is damaging his child. A truly great role that enhances Darsheel Safary's performance.Tisca Chopra, is an actress I'm totally unfamiliar with thus far. Her performance as Ishaan's mother I felt was pretty flawless, she inhabited the role of a middleclass housewife and a devoted but frazzled mother in a natural and unaffected way. The bond between mother and son, felt genuine and warm which is the perfect counterbalance to the relationship between father and son.Special shout out to Sachet Engineer as Yohan. The perfect son, who wishes he wasn't quite so perfect. It's such a minor role, but it's vital, because in the first half of the film he's the positive voice, the cheerleader for Ishaan. Without it, the first half would be far too heavy and heart-wrenching.Tanay Chheda, is another boy who befriends Ishaan and struggles physically. I have to say, that kid deserves lots of applause for wearing the leg brace even though he's healthy in real life. I had to wear the same brace at that age for real and they hurt. So I want his performance appreciated despite it's brevity.Mr. A. Khan's performance is of course, up to his reputation. So, let's talk about his Direction... He's a part of the school of directors in Hindi cinema that blends the wonderful traditions of the past, and the more polished narrative style of the modern day. And why not, he's produced movies by the great Ashutosh Gowariker, and worked under the direction of Farhan Akhtar? Add to that, a venerable Bollywood pedigree, and his complete dedication and it's a home run; or perhaps I should say he's hit a sixer! He put together a fantastic team and each frame is carefully thought out and a true labor of love. If there is one area Mr. A. Khan doesn't not quite excel it's in dance but that works here. And to give the man serious kudos he's honest and doesn't take credit for his dance number when he didn't direct it.Music: The dynamic trio of Shankar, Loy, and Ehsaan craft a truly perfect complimentary score to the movie. The songs are beautiful, the melodies that fit every part of the narrative. But make no mistake, the songs do not carry this movie as they do in other Bollywood films. "Bum Bum Bole" is my mom's favorite and I don't blame her, it's a joyful celebration of carefree innocence. But my personal favorite is "Maa" so perfect for the bond in childhood, but if one is blessed, then it becomes even more true in adulthood.I can't recommend this movie enough and my three disc set comes with some exceptional goodies...1. Disc 1 the movie with a Hindi Track but also dubbed in English. I first saw this movie on Netflix with the Hindi Track and used the subtitles which you can also choose. But I also watched the English dubbed version. It was extremely well done, but truthfully I prefer the Hindi.2.Disc 2 special features with full subtitles available. Deleted scenes, a making of documentary which you should watch, and a panel with Aamir Khan and prominent teachers, neurologists, and experts on dyslexia and other learning and behavioral problems that effect children such as ADD ADHAD Downs Syndrome, and even Cerebral Palsy. It's mainly meant to reach out to people who hesitate to act when their children have difficulties, and a not-too-subtle nudge to the educators of India to look beyond the typical "the child is naughty or lazy" attitude when they see a child struggling in their class. Still, it's worth a look. Aamir Khan is one of India's most visible and prominent humanitarians of this decade even making the cover of Time Magazine and it's list of 100 most influential people. There's also trailers, still shots, to look through.3. Disc 3 is the entire soundtrack in it's glory. To be extra sweet they also include mini-prints of the paintings in the film.Everything is exceptional in quality and the price extremely reasonable so do not skimp. I can't recommend this film enough and after the last two Bollywood movies I reviewed this has re-ignited my passion and my obsession.

I can't stop watching this movie. I saw it on Netflix and bought this movie instantly. It's a story about an endearing little boy with problems. You're immediately drawn into his world and you see his problems through his eyes.I love Aamir Khan movies and he doesn't even show up in the movie for the first hour. He's the teacher who loves his students and he fights to help save this child who has now withdrawn from life and is simply existing.This story will really touch your heart and you'll never look at children with special needs the same way again.The DVD set I got had 3 disks. The first one was the movie, the second one was special features, and the third one had music from the movie on it. All of the disks were high quality. Fast shipping from the seller. I highly recommend this movie, and this is a great DVD set.

This is one of those "teacher helps struggling student/class/school" movies that we see all the time. Like Lean on Me, Stand and Deliver, and Dead Poets Society. The difference here is that the movie focuses on the student rather than the teacher. Aamir Khan is both the star and director, but he wisely allows young Darsheel Safary to be the focus of the film. In fact, the 2nd King of Bollywood doesn't even show up in the film for the first hour!This is not the typical masala romance film. There is no romantic plot, though by the end of the film everyone who isn't already in love with Aamir Khan will be. It's a serious movie about a serious affliction, told in a light, fun way that engages the audience and brings attention to a problem that people have without beating us over the head with it, like so many Hollywood movies do.Aamir Khan's directorial debut is fantastic. He created a whimsical but serious film that appeals to children and adults alike. I watched this movie on Netflix and then ordered the DVD the next day. This is a good movie even for people who do not like Bollywood films.

Simply amazing film!!!!!!

I think this is the perfect movie for all to see at-least one time. Not every individual is willing to accept others if they don't act so called normal. I am aware of conditions from birth others will laugh at them become agitated because they see differently it's not a wrong or right, smart or dumb, I remember classes that the teachers showed frustration teaching kids like these, I wonder had they known what these kids struggle with mental abuse feeling different, slow or stupid. In fact with the right person guiding them they will achieve more than the classmates that shared classes.

This movie was instrumental in helping me teach my son how to read who was suffering from dyslexia. I originally checked it out of the library almost 9 years ago, along with a stack of books on the subject, all of which were useful. However, it was this gem of a movie that broke my heart and put it back together again the right way. I would highly recommend it to anyone who is struggling to reach a child with special needs, as each child is a treasure! I would frequently check it out of the library whenever I needed reminding of this, and I eventually bought a copy to keep on hand to lend to anyone who may need to see this. I love this movie so much. My son is now a straight A student, and excels in all he touches. It is in no small part due to the inspiration and love which this film contains within. Thank you, Aamir Khan, for all you have done for the children!!!

Wir alle kennen welche: "Verhaltensauffällige" Kinder. Schnell werden sie mit ADHS oder Aspergersyndrom abgestempelt und stigmatisiert. "Nicht im Schulsystem führbar."Ein solches "auffälliges" Kind ist Ishaan. Der 8jährige fällt bereits in der Grundschule mehrmals durch, er hat offenbar kein Interesse an der Schule, gerät oft in Schwierigkeiten und seine Eltern und Lehrer haben ihn bereits als hoffnungslosen Fall abgeschrieben und stecken ihn als letzte Instanz in ein Internat wo seine "Sturheit" gebrochen werden soll.Doch Ishaan hat Glück. Ein einfühlsamer Lehrer (grandios: Aamir Khan) erkennt das wahre Problem des Jungen und setzt alles daran ihm zu helfen. Und Ishaans Leben verändert sich auf wundersame Weise.Ich selbst arbeite als Erzieher und habe täglich mit Kindern zu tun - vielleicht hat mich der Film deshalb auf so vielen Ebeben berührt. Eindrucksvoll stellt er dar, dass jedes Kind individuell und etwas ganz Besonderes ist. Wenn man sein besonderes Talent findet und fördert, anstatt es einem System, das darauf abzielt alle gleich zu machen, unterzuordnen, kann es wahrhaft Großes erreichen.Besonders beeindruckend ist für mich, dass es sich hier um einen Bollywood-Film handelt. Für Indien - wo das Schulsystem häufig noch um einiges strenger ist als bei uns und wo sicher noch viele Kinder "durch den Rost fallen" - ist dieser Film eine wahre Revolution. Aamir Khan spielt hier nicht nur die erwachsene Hauptrolle, er hat den Film auch produziert und (unglaublich einfühlsam) Regie geführt.Die Schauspielerischen Leistungen - vor allem die des jungen Hauptdarstellers sind unbeschreiblich gut.Ich kann hieb und stichfest behaupten, dass mich noch kein anderer Film auf so vielen Ebenen emotional berührt hat. Für mich ein absolutes MUSS für alle Menschen, die in irgendeiner Form mit Kindern zu tun haben - und sicher auch für alle anderen eine Bereicherung.

So ein schöner bewegender Film über einen kleinen Jungen, der in der Schule und teilweise zu Hause extrem nieder gemacht wird, weil er eine Lernschwäche hat und Buchstaben und Zahlen nur ganz schwer erkennt und den Sinn dahinter nicht versteht. Als er in der tiefsten Not steckt, "rettet" ihn ein Kunst-Aushilfslehrer, der ihm und seiner Familie die richtige Sichtweise zu Kindern gibt, die die Welt anders erleben, erfühlen und begreifen.Ich weiss einiges über Legasthenie und LRS, da eines meiner beiden Jungs betroffen ist und der Film trifft das Thema aber sowas von den Nagel auf den Kopf! Das Unverständnis der Leute, das Nichtverstehen der Andersartigkeit und dass man Wirklichkeiten eben auch anders als die Masse erleben kann, auch das Dilemma der letzlich dann verstehenden Eltern: "Aber was soll bloss aus ihm werden? Ich kann ihn doch nicht sein Leben lang ernähren!" Gedanken, die betroffenen Eltern auch mal durch den Kopf gegangen sind, aus Angst um das sensible Kind in einer ach so rauen Welt da draussen.Gott sei Dank dann auch der Lichtblick, die Aufzählung der vielen, vielen Legastheniker, die dann doch so ein erfolgreiches und außergewöhnliches Leben geführt haben: Albert Einstein, Agatha Christie, Walt Disney, Leonardo Da Vinci und etliche mehr. Der Film ist ein Anstoß, auch mal die Welt aus den Augen jener Kinder zu sehen, die sie eben anders sehen, die unsere Sterne auf Erden sind. Ein Anstoß, diese Kinder die Welt so sehen zu lassen - und bei ihrem Anblick einfach Glück zu empfinden.

Ishaan (wunderbar gespielt von Darsheel Safary) ist anders. Der achtjährigeJunge lebt in seiner eigenen bunten Welt und träumt sich phantasievoll durchden Tag. Seine große Leidenschaft ist das Malen. Seine schulischen Leistungendagegen sind allerdings alles andere als überragend. Sowohl bei seinen Lehrernals auch bei seinem strengen Vater stößt er auf völliges Unverständnis. Und sokommt es, dass Ishaan auf ein strenges Internat geschickt wird. Durch die Trennungvon seiner geliebten Mutter verfällt der Junge in tiefe Depressionen, so dass ersogar das Malen aufgibt. Als Ram Shankar (Aamir Khan) seinen Dienst als Lehrer andem Internat antritt, merkt dieser gleich, dass etwas mit dem Jungen nicht stimmt undsetzt auf unkonventionelle Weise alles daran, die Mauer zu durchbrechen, die Ishaanum sich herum aufgebaut hat.Mit "Taare Zameen Par" zeigt Aamir Khan auf sensible und doch aufrüttelnde Weise, wiewichtig es ist, gerade Kinder nicht in eine Schublade zu stecken, nur weil sie vielleichtnicht in die Norm passen. Ohne erhobenen Zeigefinger aber mit ganz viel Feingefühlbeweist er, dass es sich lohnt, auch mal über den Tellerrand hinaus zu schauen.Fazit: Durch die wunderbar umgesetzten Szenen gelingt es Aamir Khan, den Zuschauer aufIshaans Reisen mitzunehmen und nicht nur das Thema des Films sondern auch die schauspielerischeLeistung aller Protagonisten gehen tief unter die Haut. Danke Aamir...

Ein erstaunlich ernsthafter Bollywood-Film, sehr realistisch, er bricht für alle Menschen, die anders sind, ein Lanze und fordert hierfür viel Verständnis ein. Es wird verhältnismässig wenig getanzt und gesungen, aber das ist auch nicht nötig, da es das Thema unnötig verharmlost hätte. Mich hat vor allem fasziniert, wie genau beobachtet wiedergegeben wird, wie der kleine Junge sich fühlt, was er sieht und denkt, wie er seine Umgebung und die Mitmenschen wahrnimmt (was andere Kinder und Erwachsene nicht können) und deshalb unkonzentriert erscheint. Die Botschaft ist, das jeder Mensch auf seine Weise einzigartig, besonders und liebenswert ist und das man nicht um jeden Preis Kinder regulieren, anpassen oder gar drillen muss, damit sie irgendwie in die Gesellschaft passen. Sehr schön und berührend!

Erstens möchte ich mal sagen, das dieser Film kein Typischer Bollywood Film ist!! Aber Trotzdem sehr schön. Meine Tochter ist genau so alt wie der Junge in dem Film, und sie hat eine Rechenschwäche. Deshalb (und auch weil wir beide Bollywoodfilme lieben)habe ich mir diesen Film mit ihr gemeinsam angesehen, und ich muss sagen wir waren beide sehr gerührt. Des öfteren haben wir uns beide wiedererkannt, und ich binn mir sicher das es mir hilft meine Tochter besser zu verstehen. Ich werde mir diesen Film sicher noch einmal mit meinem Mann ansehen, damit auch er sich besser in ihre Lage versetzen kann. Würde mir nur wünschen das es in wirklichkeit auch solche Lehrer wie Ram Shankar geben würde. Ich kann diesen Film nur jedem Weiterempfehlen. Aber Vorsicht, eine große Packung Taschentücher herrichten.