422 reviews
Rosshan Andrrews' Deva, starring Shahid Kapoor, is a rework of the director's own 2013 Malayalam film Mumbai Police, with some plot changes while retaining the core narrative. The film is a police investigation thriller, somewhat weighed down by a dragged-out and incohesive screenplay to make it looks more massy. Amit Roy's cinematography effectively captures the streets of Mumbai, with real-location shoots adding authenticity. The editing feels somewhat choppy, affecting the film's pacing. Jakes Bejoy delivers a solid massy score, but it feels underutilized during key suspense moments. The action set pieces are executed well integrating mass moments. However the balance between massyness and thrill does feel off.
Shahid Kapoor delivers yet another brilliant performance as Dev Ambre. His body language and rowdiness are well-balanced by his ability to portray deep emotions. Pavail Gulati gives a commendable performance, while Pravesh Rana provide good support, along with Girish Kulkarni and Upendra Limaye. Although Pooja Hegde does an okay job but her character doesn't have much to do in the film. Deva also suffers from few loose ends and felt that it doesn't answer certain plot points. Overall, despite an average screenplay, good direction, and an amazing Shahid Kapoor, Deva results in a decent thriller.
OVERALL -6/10.
Shahid Kapoor delivers yet another brilliant performance as Dev Ambre. His body language and rowdiness are well-balanced by his ability to portray deep emotions. Pavail Gulati gives a commendable performance, while Pravesh Rana provide good support, along with Girish Kulkarni and Upendra Limaye. Although Pooja Hegde does an okay job but her character doesn't have much to do in the film. Deva also suffers from few loose ends and felt that it doesn't answer certain plot points. Overall, despite an average screenplay, good direction, and an amazing Shahid Kapoor, Deva results in a decent thriller.
OVERALL -6/10.
Rating - 3.5/5
A good investigation thriller that did justice to the premier Malayalam outing with some variations in the story plot.
The plot of the story revolves around a daring cop involved in the investigation of his friends murder mets with an accident and how he solves the murder mystery despite his medical situation forms the crux of the story.
Rosshan Andrews has made a fair execution of his former Malayalam directorial to the Bollywood diaspora by infusing action sequences,masala flavours for appealing the mass crowd. The emotions portrayed through the film could be easily connected by the audience through the performances and by setting the film in Mumbai backdrop added more life to the story.
Incredible performance by Shahid Kapoor through the film and the way he carried the character deserves appreciation. Good performances by Pooja Hegde,Pravesh Rana,Kubbra Sait & Pavali Gulati.
Splendid capture and lighting by the DOP Amit Roy especially the action sequences and the crowded Mumbai streets and ambience with Jakes Bejoy's eerie BGM's gave a thrilling experience to the viewers. Hats off to the editor genius Sreekar Prasad for the effortless slicing of the footage giving an absolute banger for a Mallu viewer.👍🏻Kudos to Stunt Choreography team for the action sequences.
A good theatre watch to check out some impressive action sequences and effortless narration in it's varied avatar.
A good investigation thriller that did justice to the premier Malayalam outing with some variations in the story plot.
The plot of the story revolves around a daring cop involved in the investigation of his friends murder mets with an accident and how he solves the murder mystery despite his medical situation forms the crux of the story.
Rosshan Andrews has made a fair execution of his former Malayalam directorial to the Bollywood diaspora by infusing action sequences,masala flavours for appealing the mass crowd. The emotions portrayed through the film could be easily connected by the audience through the performances and by setting the film in Mumbai backdrop added more life to the story.
Incredible performance by Shahid Kapoor through the film and the way he carried the character deserves appreciation. Good performances by Pooja Hegde,Pravesh Rana,Kubbra Sait & Pavali Gulati.
Splendid capture and lighting by the DOP Amit Roy especially the action sequences and the crowded Mumbai streets and ambience with Jakes Bejoy's eerie BGM's gave a thrilling experience to the viewers. Hats off to the editor genius Sreekar Prasad for the effortless slicing of the footage giving an absolute banger for a Mallu viewer.👍🏻Kudos to Stunt Choreography team for the action sequences.
A good theatre watch to check out some impressive action sequences and effortless narration in it's varied avatar.
- moviemonkreviews
- Jan 31, 2025
- Permalink
A Police Officer in search of a criminal who killed his Friend.
Will he be able to find him ?
How will he find him ?
Is he someone he already knows ?
DEVA an adaptation of Malyalam film "MUMBAI POLICE" is a great remake. The story, bgm and action everything is killer in this one.
Shahid Kapoor in and as Deva is just amazing. It makes you go back to his Kabir Singh and Haider character. The way he pulls off such badaas roles is really amazing. The way he potrays Deva in 2 different way is phenomenal.
Pooja Hegde as Diya was just there in the film. Neither her character had much screen presence nor any character depth at such. Cutting off her character wouldn't have affected the movie at all.
The other supporting actors did preety good at their job.
The storyline of the film is amazing. The story keeps you engaged throughout and won't bore you much if you haven't watched the original one. The storytelling is also fantastic.
The music of the film is also great. The background score and beats are good. The film also don't have many songs. Keeping the pace and interest in the film. The film includes just one song which is energy packed.
Overall the film is worth a watch for one time. If you are a shahid fan and haven't watched the original you will definitely like this one. If at all you have watched the original you can give this one a try when it comes on OTT.
Will he be able to find him ?
How will he find him ?
Is he someone he already knows ?
DEVA an adaptation of Malyalam film "MUMBAI POLICE" is a great remake. The story, bgm and action everything is killer in this one.
Shahid Kapoor in and as Deva is just amazing. It makes you go back to his Kabir Singh and Haider character. The way he pulls off such badaas roles is really amazing. The way he potrays Deva in 2 different way is phenomenal.
Pooja Hegde as Diya was just there in the film. Neither her character had much screen presence nor any character depth at such. Cutting off her character wouldn't have affected the movie at all.
The other supporting actors did preety good at their job.
The storyline of the film is amazing. The story keeps you engaged throughout and won't bore you much if you haven't watched the original one. The storytelling is also fantastic.
The music of the film is also great. The background score and beats are good. The film also don't have many songs. Keeping the pace and interest in the film. The film includes just one song which is energy packed.
Overall the film is worth a watch for one time. If you are a shahid fan and haven't watched the original you will definitely like this one. If at all you have watched the original you can give this one a try when it comes on OTT.
- ishwarideshpande-54919
- Feb 18, 2025
- Permalink
Wached the movie and u can't ignore but notice from the very first scene that Shahid Kapoor in every scene is trying to impress with his screen presence. Irritating after a point. The screenplay was jumping all over the place in a non-linear confusing way. Yet, director was able to hold it together somehow as the story is interesting. Unlike most hindi movies, it had a story, making one curious, what is in store, what will be the twist. And behold, it had a twist that is very interesting and u admire it for originality. But wait, bollywood movie and originality? So you start wondering is it a lift-off from a Korean movie ! So you search in google and there it is. Original is a Malayalam movie. Even the director is the same.
Now you have to watch the original as the Bollywood version is left with a promise, lot of missed opportunities to make a good movie, kind of spoiling a good story and made into a "hero" Shahid movie. And behold, the original has a great screenplay, wonderful acting by prithviraj and u watch it like a all new gripping movie.
So when you watch the original, all you feel is pity for Bollywood. Just that it is bollywood and its hero culture, style without substance (similar to many telegu movies) formula, overall lack of talent in the mainstream that a good story like this from a malayalam movie by the same director is spoiled into a mediocre one.
Morale of Deva, you give a good movie to bollywood and they will ensure it is made it in to an average one. Drishyam may be the only two movies made reasonably well by copying scene to scene. That's the only way.
Now you have to watch the original as the Bollywood version is left with a promise, lot of missed opportunities to make a good movie, kind of spoiling a good story and made into a "hero" Shahid movie. And behold, the original has a great screenplay, wonderful acting by prithviraj and u watch it like a all new gripping movie.
So when you watch the original, all you feel is pity for Bollywood. Just that it is bollywood and its hero culture, style without substance (similar to many telegu movies) formula, overall lack of talent in the mainstream that a good story like this from a malayalam movie by the same director is spoiled into a mediocre one.
Morale of Deva, you give a good movie to bollywood and they will ensure it is made it in to an average one. Drishyam may be the only two movies made reasonably well by copying scene to scene. That's the only way.
DEVA is good nail biting murder mystery with Shahid doing an excellent job while the others were average at best. The direction,screenplay &editing were equally good. Luckily there was only 1 song which although not out of place was inserted only to show Shahid's great talent as a dancer. Although this mothion picture carrying a length of 2.hrs 36 minutes was definitely too long,I did not find any unnecessary scenes which needed to be deleted. The movie totally centered around Shahid Kappor so the others just had to fade very much in the background. All in all a good film which should not be missed
7/10.
- sunildaswaney-63642
- Jan 30, 2025
- Permalink
Deva (2025) is a gripping action thriller starring Shahid Kapoor as a rebellious cop investigating a high-profile case. Directed by Rosshan Andrrews, the film blends intense action, suspense, and emotional depth.
Shahid Kapoor's performance has been widely praised, with critics calling it one of his most challenging roles. His rugged, tough persona adds authenticity to the character, and his transformation throughout the film keeps audiences engaged. The movie features well-executed action sequences, tight screenplay, and strong supporting performances, particularly from Pooja Hegde, who brings emotional depth despite limited screen time
With a mix of high-stakes drama and stylish cinematography, Deva delivers an engaging experience for action-thriller fans.
Shahid Kapoor's performance has been widely praised, with critics calling it one of his most challenging roles. His rugged, tough persona adds authenticity to the character, and his transformation throughout the film keeps audiences engaged. The movie features well-executed action sequences, tight screenplay, and strong supporting performances, particularly from Pooja Hegde, who brings emotional depth despite limited screen time
With a mix of high-stakes drama and stylish cinematography, Deva delivers an engaging experience for action-thriller fans.
- moditejashree
- Feb 2, 2025
- Permalink
Memory Loss Never Looked So Forgettable.
One might reasonably expect director Rosshan Andrrews to remember why his 2013 Malayalam cracker "Mumbai Police" worked so bloody well. Sadly, this Hindi remake suggests the chap's suffered his own bout of amnesia. What we get is a rather peculiar beast that swaps psychological sophistication for Bollywood bombast.
Shahid Kapoor throws himself into this with the sort of commitment last seen in Kabir Singh...all brooding intensity and swagger. The lad's genuinely rather good as Dev, the memory-addled copper piecing together his own investigation. There's proper conviction here, even when the script goes wobbly on him.
The premise remains rather clever, policeman with amnesia reinvestigating his own case, but Andrrews has gone and bollocked it up with commercial nonsense. Where Mumbai Police was a cracking character study, Deva feels like hero-worship masquerading as a thriller. The tacked-on action sequences, particularly that ghastly prison punch-up finale, reek of focus group interference.
Pooja Hegde does what she can with limited material, whilst Pavail Gulati proves surprisingly solid in the supporting cast.
Visually, it's slick enough, though it lacks the atmospheric bite of the original.
The real tragedy here isn't incompetence... it's creative bottle-job. Andrrews has taken his own sophisticated thriller and transformed it into standard-issue Bollywood fare. It's rather like watching someone deliberately forget their own masterpiece.
Disappointing doesn't begin to cover it.
One might reasonably expect director Rosshan Andrrews to remember why his 2013 Malayalam cracker "Mumbai Police" worked so bloody well. Sadly, this Hindi remake suggests the chap's suffered his own bout of amnesia. What we get is a rather peculiar beast that swaps psychological sophistication for Bollywood bombast.
Shahid Kapoor throws himself into this with the sort of commitment last seen in Kabir Singh...all brooding intensity and swagger. The lad's genuinely rather good as Dev, the memory-addled copper piecing together his own investigation. There's proper conviction here, even when the script goes wobbly on him.
The premise remains rather clever, policeman with amnesia reinvestigating his own case, but Andrrews has gone and bollocked it up with commercial nonsense. Where Mumbai Police was a cracking character study, Deva feels like hero-worship masquerading as a thriller. The tacked-on action sequences, particularly that ghastly prison punch-up finale, reek of focus group interference.
Pooja Hegde does what she can with limited material, whilst Pavail Gulati proves surprisingly solid in the supporting cast.
Visually, it's slick enough, though it lacks the atmospheric bite of the original.
The real tragedy here isn't incompetence... it's creative bottle-job. Andrrews has taken his own sophisticated thriller and transformed it into standard-issue Bollywood fare. It's rather like watching someone deliberately forget their own masterpiece.
Disappointing doesn't begin to cover it.
- FiftyTwoReviews
- Jul 8, 2025
- Permalink
Shahid Kapoor's Deva is a high-energy action film that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The movie combines stunning fight choreography, a gripping narrative, and emotional depth that's rarely seen in action thrillers. Kapoor's portrayal of his character is both fierce and compelling, making him the perfect fit for this role. The action sequences are intense and well-executed, while the direction ensures the film never loses its pacing. With breathtaking cinematography and an electrifying score, Deva is a must-see for every action movie fan! Shahid Kapoor energetic performance in this movie.
- mohnishjain
- Feb 1, 2025
- Permalink
I've decided to go for another Shahid Kapoor movie with same charisma like Kabir Singh, but in Police jersey. No doubt Shahid is portraying such Alpha Male Character here as well so those people who like to watch him with such roles will definitely gonna love it. But I had little bit mixed feelings about this movie especially in the 2nd half.
Anyway, the 1st half of the movie is extremely good and damn engaging for sure. The moments, chasing sequences, romance, music everything was good But in the 2nd half the characters got slow a bit. The screenplay got slower in side as well. And there is a huge plot twist in the climax but that was also not that impactful. I mean the Director could have reveal it more efficiently and should definitely took more time to showcase the consequences with the twist...
The Acting of Shahid Kapoor is top notch. He have the SWAG in which he will definitely gonna steal the Hearts of the audiences. Pooja Hegde played a little cameo role which was decent and other characters also played their parts nicely. Music was good to listen but the most amazing thing was Background Scores. WoW! Those BGMs were definitely praiseworthy.
Apart from 2 Kissing and Smooching scenes nothing was offensive there. So I will go with 6 Out of 10 Stars for it.. Not a must watch but you can try it at least once especially if you liked Kabir Singh type of movies...
Anyway, the 1st half of the movie is extremely good and damn engaging for sure. The moments, chasing sequences, romance, music everything was good But in the 2nd half the characters got slow a bit. The screenplay got slower in side as well. And there is a huge plot twist in the climax but that was also not that impactful. I mean the Director could have reveal it more efficiently and should definitely took more time to showcase the consequences with the twist...
The Acting of Shahid Kapoor is top notch. He have the SWAG in which he will definitely gonna steal the Hearts of the audiences. Pooja Hegde played a little cameo role which was decent and other characters also played their parts nicely. Music was good to listen but the most amazing thing was Background Scores. WoW! Those BGMs were definitely praiseworthy.
Apart from 2 Kissing and Smooching scenes nothing was offensive there. So I will go with 6 Out of 10 Stars for it.. Not a must watch but you can try it at least once especially if you liked Kabir Singh type of movies...
- nitishkumarmohanta
- Apr 21, 2025
- Permalink
Deva is a masterclass in action filmmaking, with Shahid Kapoor delivering one of his best performances yet. The film excels in creating an immersive atmosphere, where every action sequence feels fresh and intense. The storytelling is sharp, keeping you hooked with unexpected twists and turns. The cinematography and direction bring every high-stakes moment to life, while the background score amps up the tension. With a gripping narrative and stellar performances, Deva is a cinematic experience you don't want to miss! Shahid Kapoor did fantastic performance. His best acting till date. Must watch everyone.
- arhaankhank
- Feb 1, 2025
- Permalink
- Hrishikeish
- Feb 2, 2025
- Permalink
It seems like someone saw a gripping corrupt cop drama, whilst being drunk, and wrote screenplay from memory. That screenplay was then sold to a producer who wants to make "modern" masala Hindi movies, pandering to big city youth, based on coolness and the biggest shock anti-hero, hero. A concept 50 years old.
The movie is in Hindi, yet, half of dialogues (entire sentences) are in English. Has anyone that written this movie, ever talked to cops? Speaking english doesn't turn cookie cutter dialogues into gem.
Action sequences wouldn't be considered unique or special, even in 1990s.
Acting is ok. I guess we should be thankful for that.
The movie is in Hindi, yet, half of dialogues (entire sentences) are in English. Has anyone that written this movie, ever talked to cops? Speaking english doesn't turn cookie cutter dialogues into gem.
Action sequences wouldn't be considered unique or special, even in 1990s.
Acting is ok. I guess we should be thankful for that.
I saw DEVA yesterday.
For me I feel those who have already watched Mumbai Police will not like this movie as it is frame to frame copy of Mumbai Police with the same killer but with a change in murder motive.
As I haven't seen the original movie, this movie had a potential to be the best murder mystery movie. However, the screenplay was really bad as well as it's not a commercial movie. This will work only in OTT.
Even the best acting couldn't save this movie as it had a really weak climax (although the build-up was really great) you'll keep on guessing who is the real killer?
It had some dull moments but having said that it's worth a one time watch only for those who haven't seen the original version.
Two biggest problem with this movie is the dull screenplay and lack of chartbuster songs (although there's no scope of songs in this movie). But atleast it should have some bangers. If it was a T-series production, I guarantee it would had atleast 3-4 bangers which would have definitely helped the movie to create the much needed pre-release buzz.
P. S- People who like crime mysteries (such as crime patrol) will absolutely love this movie.
For me I feel those who have already watched Mumbai Police will not like this movie as it is frame to frame copy of Mumbai Police with the same killer but with a change in murder motive.
As I haven't seen the original movie, this movie had a potential to be the best murder mystery movie. However, the screenplay was really bad as well as it's not a commercial movie. This will work only in OTT.
Even the best acting couldn't save this movie as it had a really weak climax (although the build-up was really great) you'll keep on guessing who is the real killer?
It had some dull moments but having said that it's worth a one time watch only for those who haven't seen the original version.
Two biggest problem with this movie is the dull screenplay and lack of chartbuster songs (although there's no scope of songs in this movie). But atleast it should have some bangers. If it was a T-series production, I guarantee it would had atleast 3-4 bangers which would have definitely helped the movie to create the much needed pre-release buzz.
P. S- People who like crime mysteries (such as crime patrol) will absolutely love this movie.
- shubhampradeep
- Feb 1, 2025
- Permalink
"Deva" showcases Shahid Kapoor's undeniable talent and charisma, but unfortunately, the film's flat storyline and lack of compelling plot developments ultimately hinder its overall impact. While Kapoor delivers a stunning performance, the film struggles to engage viewers with a narrative that fails to captivate.
Shahid Kapoor commands the screen, delivering a powerful and nuanced portrayal of the titular character. His dedication to the role is evident, and he elevates the film with his intense presence and emotional depth.
However, the film's narrative is its weakest point. The storyline feels predictable and lacks originality, offering little in the way of surprises or unexpected twists. The pacing is uneven, with some scenes dragging while others feel rushed, creating a disjointed viewing experience.
The supporting cast, while competent, is given little to work with, as their characters are underdeveloped and lack depth. The film's attempts at creating suspense or intrigue often fall flat, failing to generate genuine excitement or emotional investment.
The film's technical aspects are adequate, with decent cinematography and a fitting soundtrack. However, these elements are not enough to compensate for the film's narrative shortcomings.
Despite Shahid Kapoor's stunning performance, "Deva" is a disappointing cinematic experience. Its flat storyline and lack of engaging plot developments prevent it from being a truly memorable or impactful film.
Shahid Kapoor commands the screen, delivering a powerful and nuanced portrayal of the titular character. His dedication to the role is evident, and he elevates the film with his intense presence and emotional depth.
However, the film's narrative is its weakest point. The storyline feels predictable and lacks originality, offering little in the way of surprises or unexpected twists. The pacing is uneven, with some scenes dragging while others feel rushed, creating a disjointed viewing experience.
The supporting cast, while competent, is given little to work with, as their characters are underdeveloped and lack depth. The film's attempts at creating suspense or intrigue often fall flat, failing to generate genuine excitement or emotional investment.
The film's technical aspects are adequate, with decent cinematography and a fitting soundtrack. However, these elements are not enough to compensate for the film's narrative shortcomings.
Despite Shahid Kapoor's stunning performance, "Deva" is a disappointing cinematic experience. Its flat storyline and lack of engaging plot developments prevent it from being a truly memorable or impactful film.
A gripping, high-energy action thriller, Deva showcases Shahid Kapoor in a role that pushes him to new heights. His performance is a perfect blend of intensity, emotion, and sheer charisma. The action sequences are heart-pounding, choreographed with a keen eye for detail. The cinematography is stunning, capturing every punch, chase, and explosion with precision. The background music keeps the tension alive, adding to the film's immersive experience. The screenplay is razor-sharp, ensuring that there's never a dull moment. If you love films that combine strong storytelling with breathtaking action, Deva is the perfect watch.
- abhithakur-31208
- Feb 1, 2025
- Permalink
Deva delivers a gripping narrative packed with suspense and a twist that genuinely took me by surprise - and that's saying something! The story builds steadily and pays off with a turn that flips the entire plot on its head in the best way possible. Just when you think you've figured it out, it hits you with something unexpected - brilliantly done.
The performances are solid across the board, and the direction keeps the pace tight and focused. I found myself completely hooked, always wondering what would happen next.
Now, let's talk CGI - it's probably the weakest link here. Some sequences that relied heavily on effects could've been cleaner and more immersive. It didn't ruin the experience, but it definitely stood out compared to how polished the rest of the film is.
Overall, Deva is a must-watch for fans of smart thrillers. Despite its visual flaws, the story and that killer twist earn it a strong 7 out of 10. Worth your time!
The performances are solid across the board, and the direction keeps the pace tight and focused. I found myself completely hooked, always wondering what would happen next.
Now, let's talk CGI - it's probably the weakest link here. Some sequences that relied heavily on effects could've been cleaner and more immersive. It didn't ruin the experience, but it definitely stood out compared to how polished the rest of the film is.
Overall, Deva is a must-watch for fans of smart thrillers. Despite its visual flaws, the story and that killer twist earn it a strong 7 out of 10. Worth your time!
- arsalanweb
- Apr 10, 2025
- Permalink
Deva is a cinematic explosion of action, emotion, and intrigue. Shahid Kapoor commands the screen with a performance that blends raw intensity and vulnerability, creating a character that you can't help but root for. The action scenes are brutal yet beautifully choreographed, with every punch and kick landing with weight. The visuals are stunning, with cinematography that captures the grit of the story while still showcasing its high style. The film's music and score work in harmony with the tension, making every scene feel even more intense. Deva is a thrilling ride that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll.
- rahuljainrj-78561
- Feb 1, 2025
- Permalink
Deva is a gripping masterpiece that blends action, emotion, and suspense in the most seamless way. Shahid Kapoor's stellar performance takes the film to another level, delivering a character that is powerful, complex, and deeply engaging. The action sequences are raw and intense, keeping your heart racing with every fight and chase. The cinematography is exquisite, capturing each moment with precision and making the audience feel like they're part of the story. With an emotionally charged plot and high-stakes drama, Deva offers an unforgettable cinematic experience that will leave you breathless. This one's a must-watch for thriller enthusiasts.
- dtrisha-19349
- Feb 1, 2025
- Permalink
- SAMTHEBESTEST
- Jan 30, 2025
- Permalink
Deva is a whirlwind of emotions and action that will leave you breathless. Shahid Kapoor's performance is nothing short of spectacular, portraying a character who is both vulnerable and unyielding. The action scenes are raw and intense, shot with such precision that they make every fight feel real. The visual effects and cinematography are impressive, capturing the essence of the high-stakes moments perfectly. The story is full of twists, and the emotional weight behind the action gives the film a deeper connection with its audience. With a strong narrative and stellar performances, Deva will keep you at the edge of your seat from start to finish.
- abhayaj-62564
- Feb 1, 2025
- Permalink
A solid Hindi action movie and most importantly, Shahid Kapoor shines on screen superbly. Thankfully, the film is action packed but avoids the clichés of these days ridiculous Indian cinema mindless, over the top, one-man-against the world sequences.
The movie maintains strong suspense and keeps you glued to the screen until the very end. As mentioned above, Shahid Kapoor delivers an outstanding performance and the film revolves around him, offering great entertainment and a fantastic ending.
A word of advice, avoid reading any reviews that reveal even a little about the plot and you'll enjoy it even more!
The movie maintains strong suspense and keeps you glued to the screen until the very end. As mentioned above, Shahid Kapoor delivers an outstanding performance and the film revolves around him, offering great entertainment and a fantastic ending.
A word of advice, avoid reading any reviews that reveal even a little about the plot and you'll enjoy it even more!
- rehmankhilji
- Mar 28, 2025
- Permalink
- elangoamugam
- Jan 30, 2025
- Permalink
A Bollywood thriller that follows different approaches - that sounded very promising! You don't get to see Indian films in German cinemas (outside of the big cities) every week. But first things first!
At the beginning of DEVA you see extremely dark corners of Mumbai where crime can clearly flourish. Such a realistic and socially critical approach is extremely unusual for Bollywood thrillers. But it is standard for films of this kind that we see Dev Ambre (Shahid KAPOOR), a kind of super-cop who has worked his way up from the lower layers of Indian society. But such a rabid cop from the common people sometimes goes too far. Even friends from a good family like Rohan (Pavail GULATI) and a benevolent superior like Farhan (Pravesh RANA) don't always help. During the investigation into a notorious criminal who is making the whole of Mumbai unsafe, it turns out that there must be a mole within the police who is passing on explosive information to the criminals. Corruption at the highest level! At some point, the super criminal falls into the net of the police officers who are investigating at full speed. Now everything should really be cleared up, but the plot of the film is far from over.
Turbulent action scenes, a narrative style nested in flashbacks and a very skilful misleading of the audience! A lot is said that can only be put together afterwards. The star of the film is definitely Shahid KAPOOR, whose cheeky performance is reminiscent of Tomas MILIAN from the Italian EuroCrime classics of the 1970s. In terms of wiry sex appeal, KAPOOR can also hold his own against a EuroCrime veteran like Luc MERENDA. This seems to have been quite a daring move for Hindi cinema. Rosshan ANDRREWS' action blockbuster did not do particularly well at the box office.
If you like crime films based on classic Italian models that have been shot using absolutely contemporary means, you'll be well served here. Indian films are still unusual for western viewing habits, but that's exactly why they're so interesting. This is pure genre cinema that goes all out!
After just under three hours, a resolution is presented that you could have expected from the Black Series films of American cinema in the 1940s. Indian cinema knows how to transfer the models of film history to the Mumbai of the imagined present. It's not boring, but you shouldn't expect any great insights either. It remains exciting to see how Shahid KAPOOR's film career will develop. Will cheek win? Or will he be knocked out by box office poison?
At the beginning of DEVA you see extremely dark corners of Mumbai where crime can clearly flourish. Such a realistic and socially critical approach is extremely unusual for Bollywood thrillers. But it is standard for films of this kind that we see Dev Ambre (Shahid KAPOOR), a kind of super-cop who has worked his way up from the lower layers of Indian society. But such a rabid cop from the common people sometimes goes too far. Even friends from a good family like Rohan (Pavail GULATI) and a benevolent superior like Farhan (Pravesh RANA) don't always help. During the investigation into a notorious criminal who is making the whole of Mumbai unsafe, it turns out that there must be a mole within the police who is passing on explosive information to the criminals. Corruption at the highest level! At some point, the super criminal falls into the net of the police officers who are investigating at full speed. Now everything should really be cleared up, but the plot of the film is far from over.
Turbulent action scenes, a narrative style nested in flashbacks and a very skilful misleading of the audience! A lot is said that can only be put together afterwards. The star of the film is definitely Shahid KAPOOR, whose cheeky performance is reminiscent of Tomas MILIAN from the Italian EuroCrime classics of the 1970s. In terms of wiry sex appeal, KAPOOR can also hold his own against a EuroCrime veteran like Luc MERENDA. This seems to have been quite a daring move for Hindi cinema. Rosshan ANDRREWS' action blockbuster did not do particularly well at the box office.
If you like crime films based on classic Italian models that have been shot using absolutely contemporary means, you'll be well served here. Indian films are still unusual for western viewing habits, but that's exactly why they're so interesting. This is pure genre cinema that goes all out!
After just under three hours, a resolution is presented that you could have expected from the Black Series films of American cinema in the 1940s. Indian cinema knows how to transfer the models of film history to the Mumbai of the imagined present. It's not boring, but you shouldn't expect any great insights either. It remains exciting to see how Shahid KAPOOR's film career will develop. Will cheek win? Or will he be knocked out by box office poison?
- ZeddaZogenau
- Feb 24, 2025
- Permalink
"Deva" is a stylish thriller that offers solid action and a charismatic performance by Shahid Kapoor but lacks the gripping intensity of Mumbai Police, the Malayalam film it's based on. While the cinematography and action sequences shine, the storytelling feels predictable, with underdeveloped supporting characters and weak emotional depth. The suspense never fully builds, making the narrative feel hollow. Despite its slick presentation, Deva struggles to leave a lasting impact. It's a decent one-time watch for action lovers but not as compelling as it could have been. In Sandeep Vanga's words, 'Shahid Kapoor is such an original actor, he should stop doing remakes'.
- rigvedajoshi
- Apr 2, 2025
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