Judging by the ratings and having heard the opinions of many people, 'Zamaana Deewana' seems to be one of Shahrukh and Raveena's most disliked films. I wonder why because for me it's total entertainment. Why would anyone expect a movie with such a title to be anything else? Not only does it stay true to its title, it brings together all the Bollywood clichés and molds into a fun movie. It doesn't take itself too seriously and that's where it scores.
Speaking of clichés, you'll pretty much see everything to be witnessed in a pre-2000s typical Bollywood film and that's why 'Zamaana Deewana' in a way works as a spoof. Here are some examples: The ongoing feud between the two families caused by a misunderstanding which is followed by parents disapproving their kids relationship, the guy running away with the girl, the over the top action sequences (Shahrukh on his motorbike fighting the goons), 'dishum dishum', the unsuitable boyfriend who drinks, gambles and visits prostitutes, the helpless mom, the evil maternal uncle etc etc. What's notable is that all the sequences are presented with humour. The entire first two hours are hilarious.
The songs (and entire soundtrack) deserves special mention. The soundtrack pretty much has all kinds of songs present in a typical Bollywood film and they are filmed quite well. There's a title song, a semi-item number (those weren't so big then), a dream sequence, a parody number, a song in the rain, a song in a car, a song with two desperate lovers, a gypsy song where the two lovers finally realize their love for each other. One particular song 'Soch Liya Maine' is executed that way with several dream sequences that include themes like lovers singing in the snow, in the rain, in the car and even in a tropical jungle. 'Neend Kise Chain Kahan' is one of the most sensual looking songs. The songs themselves are quite pleasant to the ears.
'Zamaana Deewana' isn't entirely spoofy. There are some genuine humour like Anupam Kher as the common love interest of the fathers, some very funny one-liners and the moments between Shahrukh and Raveena. It very much works as a multi-genre film as, in addition to the comedy, it's got romance, action, suspense and lots of spice. The last hour could have used more humour as it becomes a tad too dramatic (still using the clichés).
Shahrukh Khan and Raveena Tandon totally rock as a pair. Tandon's already well recognized for her comedic abilities and I wish Shahrukh was offered more comedy movies as the actor clearly shows a knack. They are sizzling on screen. Also Raveena's Priya is not the typical Bollywood lover-girl bimbo. She's quite headstrong and smart. Unfortunately, she and Khan have never done a movie since. Anupam Kher is at his funniest and kudos to him for the dance number where he's seducing Shatrughan Sinha and Jeetendra. Jeetendra and Shatrughan Sinha do a good job as the typical disapproving parents who hate each other's guts. The scenes where they cuss at each other is another LOL moment. Tinnu Anand and Asif Sheikh are alright as the caricature villains.
So, for me the only flaw is that the last hour is a tad too dramatic and could have used more comedic balance but otherwise this is a typical Bollywood film. I have revisited it after 10 years and still managed to laugh throughout most of the three hours. Why take this film seriously if it doesn't take itself that way?
