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Boy Friend is a Bollywood romantic musical film directed by Naresh Saigal and produced by Sashadhar Mukherjee. The movie features the evergreen duo of Shammi Kapoor and Madhubala in lead roles, accompanied by Nishi Kohli and Lalita Pawar in pivotal roles. The film was released in 1961 and provided an unforgettable cinematic experience for audiences across the country.

The movie begins with Mala (Madhubala) and Kamal (Shammi Kapoor) falling in love in college. Kamal, a notorious prankster, continuously tries to woo Mala with his charming ways. Mala, however, sees through his facade and vows to change him, making him her perfect 'boyfriend'. Kamal becomes enamoured with her and tries to become the perfect partner while keeping up his mischievous ways. Mala's father, a retired army officer, disapproves of Kamal and constantly tries to intervene in their relationship.

Meanwhile, Mala's best friend Kamini (Nishi Kohli) falls head over heels in love with Kamal's prankster ways, which he demonstrates through various musical numbers. As their romances blossom, everyone finds themselves caught up in a web of misunderstandings, separations, and reconciliations. The storyline is a classic romantic tale woven into a colourful musical that left audiences captivated.

The movie's music, composed by Shankar-Jaikishan, is one of its most memorable aspects. With hits such as 'Neend Naa Mujhko Aaye', 'Ye Shiama To Jala Raha Tha', and 'Bulle Shah Mere Yaar', the soundtrack is widely regarded as one of the most evergreen Hindi movie soundtracks. Madhubala's beauty and grace in the musical numbers added to its charm.

The film's direction and screenplay are noteworthy because of the director's careful attention to detail. The graceful movements of the camera in the film's musical sequences, combined with the actors' performances and melodious music, effectively transport audiences to a world of carefree romance.

Shammi Kapoor's performance as a mischievous yet charming young man is one of his most unforgettable. He managed to capture the hearts of the audience with his energetic dance moves and lively nature. Madhubala, on the other hand, played the role of Mala with effortless grace and elegance. Her performance conveyed the depth of emotion inherent in the plot.

Nishi Kohli's character, Kamini, played the role of the vivacious friend who provided support and comic relief to the plot. Lalita Pawar, one of Bollywood's iconic villainesses, played the role of Mala's disapproving father, adding tension to the plot.

One of the movie's key strengths is its ability to provide a visual representation of young love. The mesmerising musical sequences and natural chemistry between Shammi Kapoor and Madhubala's characters demonstrate the purity of young love despite the difficulties that arise.

In a nutshell, Boy Friend is an evergreen romantic musical film that remains a classic forty years after its release. The film's energetic performances, heartfelt plot and melodious music are unforgettable. With exemplary direction, editing, and cinematography, it is a true testament to the beauty of Indian cinema in the 60s. The song and dance numbers have remained as popular today, as they were then, proving that Boy Friend will continue to charm audiences for years to come.

Boy Friend is a 1961 art house & international movie. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.