‘Deva’ movie review: Shahid Kapoor nearly succeeds in delivering this intense take on ‘Mumbai Police’

‘Deva’ Movie Review: Shahid Kapoor Shines in This Gripping Yet Flawed Adaptation of ‘Mumbai Police’

Shahid Kapoor’s latest offering, Deva, has hit the screens, promising a gritty and intense narrative inspired by the critically acclaimed Malayalam film Mumbai Police. While the Bollywood adaptation delivers a powerful performance from its lead actor, it struggles to fully capture the depth and nuance of the original, leaving audiences with a mixed bag of emotions.  

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Rajesh Mapuskar, Deva follows the story of a troubled police officer, played by Shahid Kapoor, who is tasked with solving a high-profile murder case while battling his own demons. The film delves into themes of identity, redemption, and the complexities of human relationships, set against the backdrop of Mumbai’s bustling streets.  

Shahid Kapoor, known for his versatility, delivers a compelling performance as the brooding and enigmatic officer. His portrayal of a man grappling with memory loss and moral dilemmas is both intense and heartfelt, earning praise from critics and audiences alike. “Shahid carries the film on his shoulders with a performance that is raw and emotionally charged,” noted film critic Ananya Roy. “He nearly succeeds in making Deva a memorable cinematic experience.”  

However, the film’s screenplay, penned by debutant writer Rhea Mehta, has drawn mixed reactions. While the first half is gripping and tightly woven, the second half falters under the weight of its own ambitions. “The narrative loses steam midway, with unnecessary subplots and a rushed climax that fails to do justice to the original’s brilliance,” observed film analyst Karan Malhotra.  

The supporting cast, including Pooja Hegde as the female lead and Vijay Raaz as a seasoned cop, deliver decent performances but are underutilized. The film’s music, composed by Amit Trivedi, adds depth to the storytelling, with the haunting background score standing out as a highlight.  

Comparisons to the original Mumbai Police are inevitable, and while Deva pays homage to its source material, it falls short of replicating the emotional impact and layered storytelling of the Malayalam classic. “The original was a masterclass in subtlety and suspense. Deva tries hard but doesn’t quite reach the same heights,” said film enthusiast Ravi Verma.  

Despite its flaws, Deva is a bold attempt at bringing a complex story to mainstream Bollywood. Shahid Kapoor’s performance alone makes it worth a watch, even if the film doesn’t fully live up to its potential. For fans of intense dramas and crime thrillers, Deva offers a decent, if not entirely satisfying, cinematic experience.