In a continuing tradition of pulsating racy thrillers, Abbas-Mustan have given us Khiladi, Baazigar, Soldier and Baadshah. Abbas-Mustan films are always awaited with bated breath, be it the elite or the masses. 'Ajnabee', their latest offering is also keenly awaited, more so because it is a different theme and treatment compared to their earlier genre.

Loosely inspired by the Hollywood flick 'Consenting Adults', Ajnabee is a suspense thriller which deals with the twists in the lives of two couples Raj (Bobby) and Priya (Kareena), and Vicky (Akshay Kumar) and Sonia (Bipasha Basu).

The movie started as early as 1998 and was expected to be finished in one continuous schedule. Surprisingly, the film still appears contemporary despite the unending delay in its completion.

Consenting Adults dealt with the theme of wife-swapping. But this being the land of 'Sita', Ajnabee has watered down this theme into a bland offering of platonic friendship. The couples meet and come really close to each other. But soon, Raj falls for Sonia angering her husband, Vicky. Sonia too has fallen in love with Raj and she returns his attentions. Their friendship is a consummation of jealousy and rage.

In midst of this turmoil, Sonia is murdered under circumstances, which apparently point to Raj as the culprit. Though pleading not guilty, Raj is not believed, even by his wife Priya or Sonia's husband, Vicky. His life falls into a chaos and he sets out on the trail of the real murderer.

The hunt for the murderer is superbly executed, keeping the viewers totally engrossed. 'Venus' has gone whole hog ensuring a glossy film, which of a class production quality. It has been shot extensively in foreign locations. Anu Malik has come up with somewhat original, but foot-taping music. Kareena, the next goddess of Indian Cinema will surely ensure a good opening.

Watch this space for more on Ajnabee.