Indeed, a Yash Chopra classic with style and substance. Scripted by Salim-Javed, who tasted great success that year with another classic, Sholay. Deewar is more meaningful than Sholay, but less entertaining, although both films are very good. Yash Chopra is the director of this film, and what can one expect from a director at the top of his game. Deewar is actually not very original, and in general it's a remake of Ganga Jamuna starring Dilip Kumar. That said, Chopra infuses it with a certain energy which makes for a film that tugs at the heartstrings and remains credible despite being derivative. The dialogue is very strong (obviously some of it is trademark today), the development is very good, and technically the film is better than the usual fare with some excellent camera work, and better handling of the action scenes although it's not perfect.
Where Chopra scores the most is in the portrayal of the relationships which is done in a most realistic and matter-of-fact way even within the limitations of commercial film. The relationship between Bachchan and Parveen Babi is amazingly authentic and believable, and so is Shashi Kapoor's with Neetu Singh. The ideological differences between the brothers is given utmost importance obviously, and it's done well. Needless to say, Bachchan gets a role he became most associated with, and he is remarkably real. He creates a stylish, restrained persona but adds a great deal of depth and layering to it. Shashi Kapoor supports exceedingly well, with their scenes together highlighted well, and Nirupa Roy is a good driving force. The ladies, Babi and Singh, are natural, and Babi in particular presents a moving act. Deewar is an interesting moral commentary.
