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Deva Movie Review: Shahid Kapoor shines in Rosshan Andrrews’ gripping action thriller, providing a blend of excitement and depth that has been long awaited in Bollywood’s masala genre. This film manages to balance exhilarating sequences with a storyline that avoids excessive indulgence, blending high-octane action with a complex character arc.
Deva
Rating: 3.5/5
Release Date: January 31, 2025 | Language: Hindi | Duration: 14 hrs 36 mins | Genre: Action Thriller
Cast: Shahid Kapoor, Pooja Hegde, Pavail Gulati, Pravessh Rana, Girish Kulkarni, Kubbra Sait, Aditi Sandhya Sharma
Director: Rosshan Andrrews | Music by: Jakes Bejoy, Vishal Mishra
The narrative opens in the bustling streets of Mumbai, introducing us to Dev (Shahid Kapoor), a charismatic and reckless cop ride through a looming tunnel, radiating confidence as he connects with his superior, Farhan (Pravessh Rana). However, a sudden accident leaves Dev with a severe head injury, resulting in memory loss that sets the stage for a profound exploration of identity and past sins.
As the story unfolds, flashbacks reveal a vibrant and rebellious past, showcasing Dev’s close-knit family ties and his dynamic relationship with Farhan, who is also his brother-in-law. This layer adds emotional gravity to the tale, offering insight into Dev’s motivations and the pressures he faces.
Simultaneously, we are introduced to Rohan D’Silva (Pavail Gulati), an upright officer whose routine is disrupted by a corrupt politician, illustrating the pervasive influence of power within the system. Dev’s confrontational approach contrasts with Rohan’s adherence to protocol, setting the stage for their collaboration amidst chaos. The tensions between these characters epitomize the film’s central theme of justice vs. corruption.
Dev’s journey is marked by impulsive decisions and reckless behavior, painting him as a flawed yet relatable protagonist. Despite his vices, his unwavering commitment to justice, particularly against the malevolent Prabhat Jadhav, showcases the complexity that elevates him beyond a typical hero archetype.
Tragedy strikes as a disastrous operation leads to death and devastation, with one victim deeply connected to Dev’s personal life. This juncture pushes him to confront internal and external demons, including the reality that a traitor lurks within the police force, complicating the pursuit of justice.
Diya (Pooja Hegde), a journalist, adds another dimension to the narrative. Her character raises critical questions about police brutality and systemic corruption, providing an intellectual foil to Dev’s methods. However, her narrative potential remains somewhat untapped, as her role is largely defined by her relationship with Dev, lacking the agency a more robust character might offer.
The film’s climax intensifies as Dev and his team corner Prabhat, but unforeseen events lead to a heart-stopping conclusion that reinvigorates the film’s stakes. The emotional weight of the story is magnificently portrayed as Dev navigates grief and loss, showing growth beyond his initially reckless disposition.
While the first half of Deva might conform to conventional storytelling, the second half reshapes the film into a riveting character study. Kapoor’s transformation into a more introspective figure is expertly handled by Andrrews, showcasing the actor’s versatility and depth. The tension escalates as unanticipated revelations emerge, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.
Aesthetically, the film captures the essence of a neo-noir thriller. The cinematography by Amit Roy highlights Mumbai’s darker sides, presenting a layered visual experience that complements the atmosphere of suspense. The film’s production design, alongside a well-crafted score by Jakes Bejoy, further elevates the narrative’s tension.
All in all, Deva transcends typical action thrills, evolving into a memorable commentary on morality, justice, and rediscovery. While it has its narrative flaws, the film offers enough intrigue and emotional depth, ensuring a potent viewing experience. For those willing to engage with its familiar tropes, the film’s latter half promises an enriching journey of redemption and revelation.
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