While this is a major factor that allows for a 100-minute watch of this short film, it is also performances, especially by Preity Zinta, that ensures smiles and an occasional laugh as well which helps sustain the momentum, especially during the first half. However when drama comes into play in the second half of the film, smiles disappear as proceedings take a more serious note.

(Above): Salman Khan in “Ishkq in Paris.”

No, it isn’t ultra depressing. Still, one wants moments to take a perky turn sooner than later, something that, in this film, takes it’s own sweet time. From that point on till the twist in the tale (involving Shekhar Kapoor) and then the climax, one does wish for the vivacity of the first half to return.

There are good reasons to hunt for such moments. After all, the whole idea around a dice doing the trick is well integrated into the film’s plot. First, the meeting of Preity and Rrehan in the train, then their visit to the Eiffel Tower, night club sequence (and the song It’s all about tonight), the scene at the bench in a park — just about everything works like a charm — as you have probably seen a thousand times in films over and over again.

(Above): Rrehan Malliek and Preity Zinta in “Ishkq in Paris.”

In fact especially impressive are the sequences where Preity and Rrehan explain all about the pickup lines and then the latter proposes to her in three different styles. Eventually, the interval featuring French actress Isabelle is interesting and raises hopes of an intriguing second half, especially with the voiceover promising that kahaani toh abhi shuru hui hai.

However, what one remembers most in this part of the film is the second meeting of Rrehan (at Preity’s place) and then the Salman Khan song (read for bragging rights). With a few more “memorable” moments in this part of the film, Ishkq In Paris could have possibly turned into a better film.

(Above): Preity Zinta in “Ishkq in Paris.”

Still one has to admit, this is Prem Raj’s much better attempt when compared to his debut flick Main Aurr Mrs. Khanna. He has an eye for visuals and that shows yet again in this film. Also, he extracts good performances out of his actors. So while Preity is quite good and makes one feel that she should be much more visible in films, Rrehan is okay too. He gives a good account of himself and stays consistent right through. He comes up with a controlled act and even in the humorous moments, doesn’t go overboard.

Eventually, if you have an appetite for a romantic tale that comes with some lighter moments, Ishkq In Paris may be an “eye pleasing” watch depending on what you are looking for.