"Jodhaa Akbar" is one of the prettiest Indian films I've ever seen. Not only are the sets and location shots in various castles in India gorgeous and overwhelming to the senses, the two stars, Hrithik Roshan (Akbar) and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan (Jodhaa), are about the prettiest couple in film history! This is perfect for a romantic drama.

The story centers on part of the life of perhaps the greatest Mughal leader of India, Akbar the Great. It shows him from his teen years to his marriage to the Hindu woman, Empress Jodhaa. This marriage was pretty amazing, as the Mughals were Muslims and marriage of the emperor to a non-Muslim surely would have caused a lot of concern! But, it was also a pragmatic thing...helping to unify the various kingdoms and religions in India. The story goes from her sadness at learning she's betrothed to him to her falling in love with him and vice-versa.

All in all, this is quite the spectacle....with HUGE battle scenes, gorgeous dance scenes (among the best in any Bollywood film I've seen) and some very nice acting. My only complaints are VERY minor. The film never mentioning that despite this being painted as a great romance, Akbar actually was married to at least 11 different women...such was the expected life of an emperor in those days. Additionally, I found the film occasionally confusing. Trying to figure out who is who isn't always easy....and it's a film that might benefit from watching it twice.