Heaven on Earth

I don't agree with the earlier review about this being a terrible film. The story is interesting and you are curious throughout where the storyline is gonna go. However, the best thing about this film is the acting---wonderful WONDERFUL acting by ~PREITY ZINTA~. Well done Preity! Vishal is also good. And also the high ratings are not given by the Indian audience in fact it is given by non-Indian viewers. The movie still hasn't released in India...just so you know. If you are in the mood for something ~REALISTIC~, go out and watch this mind-blowing movie.I absolutely loved this movie and I am sure you will love it too is you liked movies such as Monsoon Wedding ,Provoked, etc.

The main complaint about 'Heaven on Earth' seems to be in regard with its slow pace. I was quite engaged by the film and the pacing did not bother me at all. It only made it better that Mehta took her time to unfold Chand's character more. Many have stated that Chand lacked development and this I disagree with. The film centers around Chand's struggle with her new life and her character is excellently written. The mother-in-law was portrayed as one-dimensional.

Speaking of writing, I think Mehta did a very good job with the story and I loved the Chand's beautiful monologues. Her use of symbolism and mythology is effective. The film is delicately shot mostly with hand-held camera. I like how Mehta distinguishes the private moments of the characters with black and white. The washed out colours only stress on the tense atmosphere. In terms of execution, 'Heaven on Earth' is on par with 'Water' (which was also stunningly filmed) but I think the former ranks as her best.

Preity Zinta delivers one of the finest performances of her career. She is like one has never seen before. Her portrayal of Chand is subtle, nuanced, heartbreaking and strong. I used to admire Zinta a lot during her pre-'Kal Ho Na Ho' days and saw a very promising actress in her. However, I almost gave up on her when she limited herself on doing movies with the Khans and Yashraj. Now I am glad to see her back on track and hope she keeps doing great work. In my humble opinion, Mehta's 'Heaven on Earth' is a winner and definitely miles better than the not-even-good-enough-for-TV types like 'Provoked'.

A subtle exploration of the human mind that will be lost on the masses.

This is a film that confronts so many issues in a very muted and delicate manner. No, I am not talking about domestic abuse. This is an explosive issue, and is dealt with as such. It leaves marks in peoples life, and we see those marks, repeatedly. The issues of expectations…of survival…of denial, these are the ones to watch out for. The occasional black and white shots serve as understated milestones documenting the journey. Many are criticising this film for its lack of three-dimensionality. To those I say: LOOK CLOSER! An intelligent audience doesn't need to see all out, emotional, crying scene to justify actions. A man sitting in a car, lost in though, is more than enough. Rocky isn't shown as a monster, he is shown as a very flawed man who doesn't understand how to deal with his problems, taking his anger out on those weaker than him. Chand is who she is. A girl in a new land. A girl lost in her imagination. A girl with expectations. A girl with wishes. A girl who, in her own way, creates the world she desires. We, as the viewers of this small snapshot in a girl's life, are forced to consider the definitions of mental health. Who is insane? The one that hallucinates? The one that is violent? The one that manipulates? The one that witnesses? Or even the one that helps? I will not even mention technical aspects such as cinematography, editing, sound, lighting etc. This is a Deepa Mehta film and as usual, the highest standard is shown. A special mention must be made of the poetry. And, of course, the acting of one Preity Zinta. Who would have thought her performance could have so much credibility? I for one am very pleasantly surprised, and expect great things from her. A must watch for those looking for a real film, no entertainment here, just vigorous thought provocation.

Theme of the movie is presented very well. Deepa mehta did a great job. Whole movie goes wonderfully until climax. Climax is totally unpredictable and little boring. All actors did fine work especially preity zinta. I never expected such a good movie from preity zinta. Cinematography is presented in a very good manner. Absolutely worth watching movie. You will find the characters close to someone you know. You will love the movie as it goes forward and probably won't want to left the chair you are sitting on.Language (punjabi) is quiet hard to understand as i am a pakistani myself. I never expected such a good movie from preity zinta.

Heaven on Earth is another excellent film by director Deepa Mehta, whose previous work, Water was also very good. This time, she tackles the subject of arranged marriages.

Vibrant travels from Punjab, India to Ontario, Canada, to meet her prospective husband, Rocky. At first she loves the Great North, with its snow and natural beauty. The optimism is short lived, however, as the reality of a household consisting of Rocky's interfering mother, disinterested father, and a sister married to a man without a job, bring many problems. The tension is palpable, as the financial burdens fall on Vibrant's husband.

The suffering bride works at a laundry cleaning factory, and is befriended by Rosa, a co- worker who gives her a magic root to place in her husband's drink to make him fall in love with her. Of course, the magic potion does not work, despite Vibrant's best efforts. The home situation worsens, and the young bride must make some difficult choices. Although not as good as Water, Chopra is a natural storyteller with a keen eye, and she makes Heaven on Earth a realistic and all to human drama.