Common Sense Media Review
By Sakhi Thirani
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Feel-good Bollywood comedy on friendship has serious themes.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Dil Chahta Hai
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
DIL CHAHTA HAI follows Akash (Aamir Khan), Sameer (Saif Ali Khan), and Siddharth (Akshaye Khanna), three friends who step into the world after graduation and navigate through life's turbulences, while experiencing love in their own unique ways.
Is It Any Good?
This tasteful comedy-drama, directed by Farhan Akhtar, is one of Bollywood's most beloved classics. Dil Chahta Hai brought a fresh perspective to Hindi cinema with its honest portrayal of modern friendship. Funny and sincere, witty and heart-wrenching, Akhtar's debut explores love and growing up. The stellar cast brings depth to characters who feel authentic as they navigate relationships and personal growth. Combined with timeless music and crisp cinematography that spans different cities, the film captivates viewers with its balance of entertainment and emotional resonance. While it deals with serious themes like alcoholism and loss, the film handles them thoughtfully. The movie remains among the best of mainstream Bollywood and will appeal to audiences interested in character-driven stories about friendship and self-discovery.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Dil Chahta Hai portrayed friendship. What did the film have to say about respecting others and accepting people's flaws? What makes a good friend?
Which characters displayed compassion, empathy, and communication? Why are they such important character strengths to have? Can you think of any times when you've shown these traits in your own life?
How did the movie address issues around alcoholism? Were they handled sensitively? Why does that matter?
Movie Details
- In theaters : August 10, 2001
- On DVD or streaming : October 10, 2001
- Cast : Aamir Khan , Saif Ali Khan , Akshaye Khanna
- Director : Farhan Akhtar
- Inclusion Information : Indian/South Asian Movie Director(s) , Indian/South Asian Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Yash Raj Films
- Genre : Comedy
- Topics : Arts ( Music and Sing-Along ) , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Communication , Compassion , Empathy , Teamwork
- Run time : 183 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : October 2, 2025
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