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Rosshan Andrrews' 'Deva,' a Hindi remake of his own Malayalam film 'Mumbai Police,' offers a unique viewing experience within the landscape of contemporary Indian cinema. The film eschews the typical Bollywood fanfare, opening with a subdued introduction of its protagonist, Dev (Shahid Kapoor), immediately establishing a departure from the conventional formulaic introductions common in mainstream Indian films. This unconventional opening sets the tone for a film that, while adhering to certain thriller tropes, manages to maintain a distinct atmosphere, blending elements of procedural drama with moments of intense action and emotional depth. The film's success lies in its ability to create a compelling narrative despite altering certain key plot points from the original. The shift from the original film's focus on a gay relationship to a more generalized secret maintains the mystery without alienating a potentially wider audience, although this change does lessen the film’s overall memorability compared to its source material.
The narrative structure of 'Deva' is cleverly constructed, utilizing flashbacks to reveal the past actions of Dev, a renegade Mumbai police officer. This narrative approach effectively builds suspense and allows the audience to understand Dev's motivations and the events that lead to his amnesia. The contrast between the pre-accident Dev, portrayed with Kapoor's characteristic energetic intensity, and the post-accident Dev, subdued and struggling with memory loss, adds another layer of intrigue. This dual portrayal allows Kapoor to demonstrate his range, showcasing both his ability to convey high-energy action sequences and his capacity for nuanced emotional performances as he grapples with his fragmented identity. The film's pacing effectively balances these contrasting aspects, ensuring the audience remains engaged throughout the shifting narrative focus.
The film is not without its shortcomings. While the surprising twist near the climax delivers a satisfying emotional payoff, it might feel somewhat illogical in its execution. The central relationship between Dev and his colleague Roshan (Pavail Gulati), a reflection of the classic clash between privilege and hardship, is well-developed, and it's arguably the emotional core of the narrative. The scenes exploring this relationship create depth and resonate with the themes of justice, duty, and the societal inequalities embedded within the film's context. However, other characters, particularly Pooja Hegde's crime reporter, feel somewhat underutilized and could have been excised without significantly impacting the central plot. The inclusion of Upendra Limaye in a brief but impactful cameo adds some welcome comedic relief, creating a pleasant contrast against the film's overall serious tone. The cinematography by Amit Roy contributes significantly to the film's visual appeal, with impactful shots capturing the energy of Mumbai and highlighting the film's more action-packed sequences.
Andrrews' directorial style, clearly influenced by his experience in Malayalam cinema, is evident in 'Deva's' methodical approach to action and its restrained use of stylistic flourishes. The fight sequences are quick, brutal, and efficient, avoiding the excessive slow-motion often seen in Bollywood action films. The film's visual aesthetic effectively captures the vibrancy and gritty realism of Mumbai, with its diverse communities and urban landscapes serving as both a backdrop and a key thematic element. By employing a more measured and procedural approach, Andrrews differentiates his work from typical Bollywood thrillers, creating a distinct viewing experience. This subtle yet significant deviation from the norms of mainstream Hindi cinema is commendable and adds to the film's overall impact. In conclusion, 'Deva' is not merely a remake; it's an adaptation that successfully leverages the strengths of both its source material and the distinctive style of its director to create a unique and compelling thriller.
The film’s overall success hinges on the balance between its stylistic choices and its narrative strengths. While the changed climax, compared to the original film, may be less unique, it still provides a satisfying resolution. The emphasis on the male bonds within the film creates compelling dynamics that resonate deeply, especially the examination of the disparities between characters from different socio-economic backgrounds. This thoughtful exploration of class dynamics is woven seamlessly into the film's thrilling narrative, making 'Deva' a worthwhile watch for those seeking a departure from the typical Bollywood formula. While not reinventing the wheel, the film nonetheless offers a compelling exploration of themes of memory, justice, and the complexities of human relationships within the context of a gripping thriller.
Source: ‘Deva’ review: Sobersided thriller offers a few surprises