17 reviews
- silvan-desouza
- Jul 5, 2012
- Permalink
Just like the title suggests, the film has two sides, 1942, a historic period and a love story. 1942, represents the time period when the Indians revolutionized against the British rulers for the freedom of the country, popularly know as "Quit India" movement. Many patriots sacrificed their lives during the freedom fight of the '40s. Under this backdrop, a beautiful love story has been weaved under a fabulous music of music maestro RD Burman. It was his last movie for which he won the coveted Filmfare awards for the best music director.
The film remains commendable for three strong reasons. The first is obviously RD Burman's memorable music, which was unfortunately his last masterpiece. The songs like "Ek Ladki Ko Dekha To" or "Kuch Na Kaho.." remains the modern day classics. The songs get blended well with the beauty perpetuated through the superb cinematography. The lights and colors of the sets and the costumes all have a right touch for depicting the period. And the third nice aspect of the film remains the performances. Vidhu Vinod Chopra recasts Anil Kapoor and Jackie Shroff from his "Parinda" and they look good enough in their roles. Manisha Koirala adds beauty to the film and looks innocent. In the small roles, Raghuvir Yadav, Anupam Kher, Pran, Danny, Sushma Seth all play their roles perfect. Although the film saw some criticism and wasn't a very big success in the box office, the film is an iconic love story from '90s which has been made with an optimum care for which the film appears technically flawless.
Rating: 3 stars out of 4
The film remains commendable for three strong reasons. The first is obviously RD Burman's memorable music, which was unfortunately his last masterpiece. The songs like "Ek Ladki Ko Dekha To" or "Kuch Na Kaho.." remains the modern day classics. The songs get blended well with the beauty perpetuated through the superb cinematography. The lights and colors of the sets and the costumes all have a right touch for depicting the period. And the third nice aspect of the film remains the performances. Vidhu Vinod Chopra recasts Anil Kapoor and Jackie Shroff from his "Parinda" and they look good enough in their roles. Manisha Koirala adds beauty to the film and looks innocent. In the small roles, Raghuvir Yadav, Anupam Kher, Pran, Danny, Sushma Seth all play their roles perfect. Although the film saw some criticism and wasn't a very big success in the box office, the film is an iconic love story from '90s which has been made with an optimum care for which the film appears technically flawless.
Rating: 3 stars out of 4
- SumanShakya
- Oct 5, 2016
- Permalink
Directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, "1942: A Love Story" is a period drama set against the backdrop of India's struggle for independence from British colonial rule. Released in 1994, the film offers a captivating blend of romance, patriotism, and political intrigue, making it a memorable cinematic experience.
"1942: A Love Story" weaves together the personal journey of its characters with the larger narrative of India's fight for freedom, creating a compelling and emotionally resonant narrative.
The film boasts breathtaking visuals, showcasing the beauty of India's landscapes and capturing the essence of the 1940s era with meticulous attention to detail.
The soundtrack composed by R. D. Burman is a standout feature of the film, with soulful melodies and stirring patriotic songs that enhance the emotional impact of key scenes.
The ensemble cast delivers stellar performances, with standout portrayals by Anil Kapoor, Manisha Koirala, and Jackie Shroff, who bring depth and authenticity to their respective roles.
The film effectively recreates the period of pre-independence India, offering viewers a glimpse into the socio-political milieu of the time and highlighting the sacrifices made by freedom fighters.
At times, the film's pacing feels uneven, with certain scenes dragging on longer than necessary, which may test the patience of some viewers.
While the overarching storyline is engaging, some plot twists and character developments may feel predictable or formulaic, detracting slightly from the overall impact of the narrative.
Vidhu Vinod Chopra's direction imbues the film with a sense of grandeur and authenticity, effectively balancing the intimate love story with the larger historical canvas.
The cinematography by Binod Pradhan is visually stunning, capturing the mood and atmosphere of the period with finesse.
R. D. Burman's musical score is a standout aspect of the film, complementing the narrative and enhancing the emotional resonance of key moments.
Anil Kapoor shines in the role of Naren, portraying the character's transformation from a carefree young man to a committed revolutionary with conviction and depth.
Manisha Koirala delivers a nuanced performance as Rajeshwari, capturing the character's strength, vulnerability, and resilience with grace and poise.
Jackie Shroff brings gravitas to the role of Shubhankar, infusing the character with a quiet dignity and resolve that commands attention.
"1942: A Love Story" is a poignant and visually stunning film that seamlessly blends romance, patriotism, and historical drama. While it may suffer from occasional pacing issues and predictable plot elements, its strong performances, breathtaking visuals, and melodious soundtrack make it a must-watch for fans of Indian cinema. Overall, it stands as a timeless tribute to the spirit of love and sacrifice during one of the most tumultuous periods in India's history.
"1942: A Love Story" weaves together the personal journey of its characters with the larger narrative of India's fight for freedom, creating a compelling and emotionally resonant narrative.
The film boasts breathtaking visuals, showcasing the beauty of India's landscapes and capturing the essence of the 1940s era with meticulous attention to detail.
The soundtrack composed by R. D. Burman is a standout feature of the film, with soulful melodies and stirring patriotic songs that enhance the emotional impact of key scenes.
The ensemble cast delivers stellar performances, with standout portrayals by Anil Kapoor, Manisha Koirala, and Jackie Shroff, who bring depth and authenticity to their respective roles.
The film effectively recreates the period of pre-independence India, offering viewers a glimpse into the socio-political milieu of the time and highlighting the sacrifices made by freedom fighters.
At times, the film's pacing feels uneven, with certain scenes dragging on longer than necessary, which may test the patience of some viewers.
While the overarching storyline is engaging, some plot twists and character developments may feel predictable or formulaic, detracting slightly from the overall impact of the narrative.
Vidhu Vinod Chopra's direction imbues the film with a sense of grandeur and authenticity, effectively balancing the intimate love story with the larger historical canvas.
The cinematography by Binod Pradhan is visually stunning, capturing the mood and atmosphere of the period with finesse.
R. D. Burman's musical score is a standout aspect of the film, complementing the narrative and enhancing the emotional resonance of key moments.
Anil Kapoor shines in the role of Naren, portraying the character's transformation from a carefree young man to a committed revolutionary with conviction and depth.
Manisha Koirala delivers a nuanced performance as Rajeshwari, capturing the character's strength, vulnerability, and resilience with grace and poise.
Jackie Shroff brings gravitas to the role of Shubhankar, infusing the character with a quiet dignity and resolve that commands attention.
"1942: A Love Story" is a poignant and visually stunning film that seamlessly blends romance, patriotism, and historical drama. While it may suffer from occasional pacing issues and predictable plot elements, its strong performances, breathtaking visuals, and melodious soundtrack make it a must-watch for fans of Indian cinema. Overall, it stands as a timeless tribute to the spirit of love and sacrifice during one of the most tumultuous periods in India's history.
- SonGoku540
- Feb 10, 2024
- Permalink
Blending musical poetry with epic spectacle, "1942: A Love Story" stands as a definitive work of Indian filmmaking. As the film follows a pair of lovers through the Indian uprising against imperialist Britain, traditional Indian song is used to juxtapose the harsh realities of an oppressed people. Though the film is grand in size, the fact that a small core of characters inhabits the plot makes for an easily understood picture, even while reading subtitles as I did.
"1942" celebrates the people of India and their struggle for independence. When compared to traditional American films dealing with political revolt, this film wins over in heart. When compared to traditional American musicals of the 1950s and 60s, "1942" displays a deeper social conscience and a more solid grasp on narrative storytelling. Above all, "1942" provides entertainment with a rich cultural tapestry.
"1942" celebrates the people of India and their struggle for independence. When compared to traditional American films dealing with political revolt, this film wins over in heart. When compared to traditional American musicals of the 1950s and 60s, "1942" displays a deeper social conscience and a more solid grasp on narrative storytelling. Above all, "1942" provides entertainment with a rich cultural tapestry.
This movie reminds me that what indians were suffering yesterday, is paid Innocent Kashmiris, i hope one day Bollywood would make a neutral movie on Maqbooza Kashmir
- ajabgul_swagger
- Mar 4, 2020
- Permalink
"1942 A Love story" is a portray of a beautiful love story with the backdrop of the Indian struggle for freedom.The plot is still the same of a love story but unlike other Bollywood movies the villains are not the parents but the political turmoil of 1942.
Vidhu Vinod who was just three movie old when he made this movie teams up with the genius Sanjay Leela Bhansali ( screenplay) to deliver a movie which is definitely the best of 93.With an impressive star cast of Anil Kapoor, Prem , Jackie Shroff,Danny, Ashish Vidyarthi and Anupam Kher this one could have never gone wrong.
The story runs on two parallel lines one is the love story between Rajjo(Manisha Koirala) and Narender(Anil Kapoor). The other story is about the assassination of general Douglas.
THe music of the movie is absolutely amazing R.D.Burman delivers yet another masterpiece which was unfortunately his last. Manisha Koirala fits so well in the role of an innocent and beautiful young girl.THe introductory scene of Manisha Koirala is absolutely amazing."Ek Ladki KO " and Kuch Na Kaho are one of the best pasteurized songs. Kuch Na Kaho gets you into the moment so well.THe on screen kiss if definitely one of the best on the Indian screen.
Javed Akhtar wrote the songs that are just a brilliant example of superb poetry.THe songs are a part of the story and since they are so good you don't get irritated when they pop up unlike other Hindi movies.
The story takes a sharp turn just before the interval after the death of Anupam Kher when Manisha Koirala is rescued by Jackie Shroff and the conditions forces Anil Kapoor to jump into the struggle of Indian independence.
performance wise Jackie steals the show delivering the role of a young and self driven freedom fighter he is able to portray the emotions and feelings to picture perfect.BUt that does not undermines the performances of other actors.
I give this movie a 9 out of 10 a must watch for people who believe that Indian cinema is not dead yet and there are great film- makers who will deliver the best when ever they could
Vidhu Vinod who was just three movie old when he made this movie teams up with the genius Sanjay Leela Bhansali ( screenplay) to deliver a movie which is definitely the best of 93.With an impressive star cast of Anil Kapoor, Prem , Jackie Shroff,Danny, Ashish Vidyarthi and Anupam Kher this one could have never gone wrong.
The story runs on two parallel lines one is the love story between Rajjo(Manisha Koirala) and Narender(Anil Kapoor). The other story is about the assassination of general Douglas.
THe music of the movie is absolutely amazing R.D.Burman delivers yet another masterpiece which was unfortunately his last. Manisha Koirala fits so well in the role of an innocent and beautiful young girl.THe introductory scene of Manisha Koirala is absolutely amazing."Ek Ladki KO " and Kuch Na Kaho are one of the best pasteurized songs. Kuch Na Kaho gets you into the moment so well.THe on screen kiss if definitely one of the best on the Indian screen.
Javed Akhtar wrote the songs that are just a brilliant example of superb poetry.THe songs are a part of the story and since they are so good you don't get irritated when they pop up unlike other Hindi movies.
The story takes a sharp turn just before the interval after the death of Anupam Kher when Manisha Koirala is rescued by Jackie Shroff and the conditions forces Anil Kapoor to jump into the struggle of Indian independence.
performance wise Jackie steals the show delivering the role of a young and self driven freedom fighter he is able to portray the emotions and feelings to picture perfect.BUt that does not undermines the performances of other actors.
I give this movie a 9 out of 10 a must watch for people who believe that Indian cinema is not dead yet and there are great film- makers who will deliver the best when ever they could
- ank_jabberwocky1
- Jun 3, 2005
- Permalink
Whatever the historical exaggerations, this remains a hugely romantic film with wonderful music.
I only have one wo this movie: lush
This is a movie where you just need to switch off the critical side of the brain.
Enjoy it for what it is.
I only have one wo this movie: lush
This is a movie where you just need to switch off the critical side of the brain.
Enjoy it for what it is.
- Brit_in_Malaysia
- Feb 28, 2020
- Permalink
I give 5 out of 5 stars to this film. It was an iconic film of 90s. I loved it too much. The performances of the casts of the film, especially that of Manisha Koirala were very beautiful, charming and vivacious. Mostly the main attraction of this movie is its iconic songs. The songs are inexplicably and melodious, incomparable, soothing and intoxicating as well. The poetries by Javed Akhtar, Music by legendary RD Barman, and super melodious voices of Kumar Shanu, Kavita Krishnamurti and Lata Mangeshkar made the songs and this film an evergreen creation and a classic one. I don't get any point why the box office verdict was flop. Actually box office verdict doesn't decide the fate of any film and it doesn't have much value. Basically very few people possess the capability of understanding a quality film.
- souvik-63665
- Jan 21, 2022
- Permalink
Anil kapoor always looking all rounder actor in his movies but in 1942 movie he is excellent high quality romantic actor, in this movie songs and story superb excellent
Anil and Manisha both looking superb excellent
- rajputshri
- Sep 10, 2020
- Permalink
1942: A Love Story, stays unfaithful to its name. Its neither a love story, nor does it contain the factual underpinnings surrounding the events of 1942. But I digress. If those were the only two shortcomings (albeit major) of the movie, it would be bearable. Reality, however, sets in. After watching this sensationalist and inane film, I must confess: I've had more fun watching grass grow on my lawn. And my lawn is dead.
The film attempts to draw you in to its hero, Narendra Singh (played by Anil Kapoor), the son of a wealthy lord of the era, Diwan Hari Singh, who also happens to be an obtuse sycophant of the British Raj. True to fashion of Hindi cinema, there is (predictably) the anti-Raj, aka the freedom fighters. The daughter of one of these fighters, Rajeshwari (played by Manisha Koirala), catches the eye of Narendra, and he is smitten by her beauty. He immediately falls in love and begins his pursuit of her. Mind you, all of this happens in the first five minutes, and it only deteriorates from there.
The hero's propensity to bring calamities to those around him is befuddling (I affectionately started calling him Forrest Gump). In an attempt to portray the yearning and desire he has for his love, the film misses connecting with the audience. Instead, it portrays him as a bumbling idiot who, in a blind frenzied search for a girl he has met for only five minutes, has no hesitation in breaking promises (he states that he will not reveal the identity of the freedom fighters, yet immediately afterwords reveals their identities to his mother) and wreaking havoc (numerous times he foolishly pursues Narendra, only to further expose her identity) on those around him.
Furthermore, much like the hero, the other characters in the film lack dimension and also fail to connect with the audience. In a desperate attempt to draw the film together and make some coherent sense of the madness, sensationalism is thrown into the mixture. And not just any sensationalism, but "Jai Hind" at that. What better way to prey on the emotions of a stupefied audience than to bring in a revered chant of the freedom fighters of the era. The sum of its tattered pieces do not add up to a congruous and solid movie. The plot line is unbelievably predictable, and the acting sub par, sans for Manisha Koirala, who churns out a half-decent tear during the final scene. Sadly, the audience won't shed a drop when this waste of celluloid hits the can. In reality, this movie is more akin to the tripe you find at the butcher's block in Albertsons.
So, should you watch this film? If for some reason there is an extra three hours in your life that is expendable, by all means, go for it. But if you're looking for a movie that has coherency and can grip its audience, you'd be better off looking out your window and at the lawn.
The film attempts to draw you in to its hero, Narendra Singh (played by Anil Kapoor), the son of a wealthy lord of the era, Diwan Hari Singh, who also happens to be an obtuse sycophant of the British Raj. True to fashion of Hindi cinema, there is (predictably) the anti-Raj, aka the freedom fighters. The daughter of one of these fighters, Rajeshwari (played by Manisha Koirala), catches the eye of Narendra, and he is smitten by her beauty. He immediately falls in love and begins his pursuit of her. Mind you, all of this happens in the first five minutes, and it only deteriorates from there.
The hero's propensity to bring calamities to those around him is befuddling (I affectionately started calling him Forrest Gump). In an attempt to portray the yearning and desire he has for his love, the film misses connecting with the audience. Instead, it portrays him as a bumbling idiot who, in a blind frenzied search for a girl he has met for only five minutes, has no hesitation in breaking promises (he states that he will not reveal the identity of the freedom fighters, yet immediately afterwords reveals their identities to his mother) and wreaking havoc (numerous times he foolishly pursues Narendra, only to further expose her identity) on those around him.
Furthermore, much like the hero, the other characters in the film lack dimension and also fail to connect with the audience. In a desperate attempt to draw the film together and make some coherent sense of the madness, sensationalism is thrown into the mixture. And not just any sensationalism, but "Jai Hind" at that. What better way to prey on the emotions of a stupefied audience than to bring in a revered chant of the freedom fighters of the era. The sum of its tattered pieces do not add up to a congruous and solid movie. The plot line is unbelievably predictable, and the acting sub par, sans for Manisha Koirala, who churns out a half-decent tear during the final scene. Sadly, the audience won't shed a drop when this waste of celluloid hits the can. In reality, this movie is more akin to the tripe you find at the butcher's block in Albertsons.
So, should you watch this film? If for some reason there is an extra three hours in your life that is expendable, by all means, go for it. But if you're looking for a movie that has coherency and can grip its audience, you'd be better off looking out your window and at the lawn.
As an ABCD (An American Born Confused Desi) I wanted to make my first Bollywood hit a memorable one...and that this movie was!
While keeping to a simple plot and common theme of love in a war-torn country, the struggles are just and portrayed more seriously than other "love during war" films...
I won't give away the terrific ending, but I will tell you that it is a happy one, and though it is common for Hindi films to have a happy ending, a love story with a happy ending never gets old, does it not?
The only thing non ABCD'ers will find odd/curious is the fact that the movie frequently took a "break" for the characters to lip-sync a song about how they felt. I liked it, but for the first five seconds I was like, "Why are we having a music video in the middle of the movie??"
Overall I give this movie 5 stars out of 4. Is it because I love any Bollywood film? Is it because I'm an ABCD? Is it because I'm a hopeless romantic? I don't know, but I highly recommend you see 1942: A Love Story!
While keeping to a simple plot and common theme of love in a war-torn country, the struggles are just and portrayed more seriously than other "love during war" films...
I won't give away the terrific ending, but I will tell you that it is a happy one, and though it is common for Hindi films to have a happy ending, a love story with a happy ending never gets old, does it not?
The only thing non ABCD'ers will find odd/curious is the fact that the movie frequently took a "break" for the characters to lip-sync a song about how they felt. I liked it, but for the first five seconds I was like, "Why are we having a music video in the middle of the movie??"
Overall I give this movie 5 stars out of 4. Is it because I love any Bollywood film? Is it because I'm an ABCD? Is it because I'm a hopeless romantic? I don't know, but I highly recommend you see 1942: A Love Story!
- chickof80s
- Mar 13, 2002
- Permalink
After reading so many positive things about the film, I sat to watch 1942 : A Love Story for the first time. But, while watching the 1st half, I was thinking how can this be a great film. But, when the 1st half ended and the 2nd half had begun, it totally surprised me and from then I couldn't move from my seat.
Both halves are completely different. The 1st half is a beautiful, musical episode. In the other hand, the 2nd half is so strong and emotional that even I couldn't control my tears in some scenes. Also I was feeling goosebumps in many moments. Besides, we all know, this film features one of the greatest soundtracks of Indian Cinema. I think many have already seen this film, for those who have not seen it yet, I'll say watch it.
Available on Amazon Prime Video & Netflix.
© MandalBros.
Both halves are completely different. The 1st half is a beautiful, musical episode. In the other hand, the 2nd half is so strong and emotional that even I couldn't control my tears in some scenes. Also I was feeling goosebumps in many moments. Besides, we all know, this film features one of the greatest soundtracks of Indian Cinema. I think many have already seen this film, for those who have not seen it yet, I'll say watch it.
Available on Amazon Prime Video & Netflix.
© MandalBros.
- MandalBros-5
- Jun 4, 2022
- Permalink
I watched the movie for the songs - ek ladki ko dekha toh aisa laga, kuch na kaho, pyar hua chupke se. I have listened to them 100s of times before - great lyrics and so melodious.
The scenery of a small mountain town is idyllic. The first half of the movie is romance and the songs :) A 90s gem, I miss those dancing around the house and trees!
The second half advances the serious krantikari plot. The story line is average, patriotic and over dramatic. There are several likeable characters and a few outright villains - the age of simple black and white world! Characters were developed, such as that of the driver, the mother and others, making it an enjoyable watch too.
The scenery of a small mountain town is idyllic. The first half of the movie is romance and the songs :) A 90s gem, I miss those dancing around the house and trees!
The second half advances the serious krantikari plot. The story line is average, patriotic and over dramatic. There are several likeable characters and a few outright villains - the age of simple black and white world! Characters were developed, such as that of the driver, the mother and others, making it an enjoyable watch too.
- utsavullas33
- Jan 4, 2025
- Permalink
I enjoyed the movie. I watched first time a Binod Bidhu Chopra film. I think, it is a great musical - romance-patriotic film. Yeah, u heard right. In one side, all songs are made in a very masterly style which will make ur mind romantic. Likewise, romance between narendra Singh alias Naren n Rajashree Pathak alias Rajjo will get ur critical mind off n able to think u into the love world. On the other side, a plot to assassinate Goughlous creat a revolutionaries among freedom fighters even two lovers will put themselves in the process of gaining independence nation from the circa of British rule.
I give this film 8 out of 10. N yes I'll suggest u to watch this film which has been made on the backdrop of 42's 'quit India movement'.
I give this film 8 out of 10. N yes I'll suggest u to watch this film which has been made on the backdrop of 42's 'quit India movement'.
- dandapatsarajit
- Oct 21, 2021
- Permalink
- vickydeekonda
- Aug 20, 2020
- Permalink
- mkhandwani
- Jul 15, 2018
- Permalink
This is a good Indian film. The movie still holds up well even today, in 2025. There is a convincing and credible rendition of pre-independence India, with the clothing, architecture, and overall vibe. There's good acting by the leads and supporting cast. There's suspense, action, and romance. The songs in this movie are elite-tier. "Pyar Hua Chupke Se" is beautiful: the scene where Manisha encounters the group of men carrying torches is majestic. Some filming locations look so scenic too
A couple issues though: the film's first half is basically a romance; the second half focuses on patriotic freedom-fighting action. Therefore, Manisha Koirala is front and center in the first half, but she fades into the background and becomes forgettable in the second half. Likewise, Jackie Shroff is front and center in the second half, but he is barely there in the first half. The overall effect is that the film feels a little disjointed. Looking at what Jackie Shroff does at the end, I kinda feel that his character, not Anil Kapoor's, should have been the star
Typical to a lot of Bollywood movies of this era- the film overdoes it with sentimentality. The romance scenes between Anil Kapoor and Manisha Koirala are syrupy to the point where many viewers may get sick. Anil Kapoor's character gets annoying a few times with his excessively love-stricken lines.
Lastly - Jackie Shroff and Danny Denzongpa kinda looked alike to the point where I mistook them for one another at first.
8.0/10.
A couple issues though: the film's first half is basically a romance; the second half focuses on patriotic freedom-fighting action. Therefore, Manisha Koirala is front and center in the first half, but she fades into the background and becomes forgettable in the second half. Likewise, Jackie Shroff is front and center in the second half, but he is barely there in the first half. The overall effect is that the film feels a little disjointed. Looking at what Jackie Shroff does at the end, I kinda feel that his character, not Anil Kapoor's, should have been the star
Typical to a lot of Bollywood movies of this era- the film overdoes it with sentimentality. The romance scenes between Anil Kapoor and Manisha Koirala are syrupy to the point where many viewers may get sick. Anil Kapoor's character gets annoying a few times with his excessively love-stricken lines.
Lastly - Jackie Shroff and Danny Denzongpa kinda looked alike to the point where I mistook them for one another at first.
8.0/10.