Deva Review: Great Performance by Shahid Kapoor, But the Movie Drags.Filmygod

In his much-anticipated entry scene in “Deva,” Shahid Kapoor bursts onto the screen with an energetic performance, sporting a buzz cut and stubble as he dances to the classic track “Are Diwano Mujhe Pehchano” from the iconic film “Don” (1978). In the background, a mural of Amitabh Bachchan’s character Vijay, a legendary anti-hero, serves as a reminder of the powerful legacy of the angry young man in Hindi cinema. This moment encapsulates the film’s attempt to connect with the audience by referencing the past. However, it also highlights a trend in contemporary films where characters are often painted as rebellious figures without truly understanding the depth of their anger or pain.

In recent releases like “Jigra” (2024) and “Animal,” we see a similar pattern. Alia Bhatt prepares for her role by stuffing her mouth, while Agneepath (1990) plays on the TV, and Ranbir Kapoor’s character is named Rann ‘Vijay’. It seems that filmmakers are eager to present their characters as modern-day angry young men and women, yet they often miss the essence of what made those characters resonate with audiences in the past. As Javed Akhtar pointed out in an interview, the angry young man was not just a figure of rage; he was someone deeply hurt by the world around him. This raises important questions about today’s on-screen rebels: What are they truly angry about? Who are they rebelling against? What pain drives their actions?

Directed by Rosshan Andrrews, “Deva” attempts to revamp his 2013 neo-noir psychological thriller “Mumbai Police.” Given the film’s background and the marketing that positioned “Deva” as a mass entertainer, viewers had high expectations for a gripping thriller. Unfortunately, the film falls short. Shahid, with his ever-present cigarette, cool shades, and rugged attire, embodies a stylish character, but the film’s focus on aesthetics comes at the expense of substance. While it tries to immerse the audience in a gritty atmosphere, the thrills that should anchor the story quickly become hollow and unconvincing.

The plot of “Deva” revolves around a complex web of intrigue and deception, but the execution leaves much to be desired. The narrative is convoluted, making it difficult for viewers to fully engage with the story or its characters. Despite Shahid Kapoor’s commendable performance, the film struggles to maintain a coherent flow. Instead of building tension and excitement, it often feels like a chore to follow the plot, which is a significant letdown for a thriller.

One of the film’s main issues is its pacing. The story drags in several places, leading to moments where the audience’s interest wanes. The film’s attempt to create suspense feels forced, and the twists that should keep viewers on the edge of their seats often come across as predictable. This lack of effective storytelling undermines the potential impact of the film, leaving audiences feeling unsatisfied.

Moreover, the supporting cast, including Pavail Gulati and others, fails to make a significant impression. While they contribute to the overall atmosphere of the film, their characters lack depth and development. This absence of well-rounded characters further detracts from the film’s ability to resonate with the audience. In a genre that thrives on strong character arcs and emotional stakes, “Deva” misses the mark.

The cinematography and visual style of “Deva” do have their moments, with some striking visuals that capture the essence of the urban landscape. However, these elements alone cannot compensate for the weaknesses in the script and direction. The film’s reliance on style over substance becomes evident, and as a result, it struggles to leave a lasting impact.

In conclusion, “Deva” is a film that had the potential to be a thrilling exploration of its characters’ inner turmoil and societal struggles. Shahid Kapoor delivers a commendable performance, but it is not enough to salvage a film that feels disjointed and lacking in depth. The attempt to revive the angry young man archetype in a modern context is commendable, but without a solid foundation and understanding of what drives these characters, the effort falls flat. As viewers, we are left wondering what truly motivates today’s rebels and why their stories fail to resonate as powerfully as those of their predecessors. “Deva” ultimately serves as a reminder that while style can attract an audience, it is the substance that keeps them engaged and invested in the story.