Movie Review: Deva (2025)
Language: Hindi
Genre: Action Thriller
Director: Rosshan Andrrews
Producers: Siddharth Roy Kapur, Shariq Patel
Actors: Shahid Kapoor, Pooja Hegde, Pavail Gulati, Pravessh Rana, Kubbra Sait
Rating: 6.8/10
Deva marks the Hindi directorial debut of acclaimed Malayalam filmmaker Rosshan Andrrews. A remake of his own 2013 film Mumbai Police, this action thriller stars Shahid Kapoor as a hot-headed Mumbai cop entangled in a complex murder investigation. Released on January 31, 2025, the film attempts to blend intense action sequences with psychological drama, offering a narrative that delves into memory loss and hidden truths.
Plot Summary
ACP Dev Ambre (Shahid Kapoor) is a rebellious and abrasive police officer in Mumbai. While investigating the murder of his close friend, ACP Rohan D’Silva (Pavail Gulati), Dev suffers a major accident leading to partial memory loss. As he retraces his steps to solve the case, relying solely on his muscle memory, he uncovers unsettling truths about his department and himself. The narrative unfolds as a gripping whodunit, with Dev’s journey revealing layers of camaraderie, betrayal, and self-discovery.
Direction and Screenplay
Rosshan Andrrews sets the stage for a compelling thriller, maintaining suspense throughout the film. The screenplay, penned by a team including Bobby–Sanjay, Abbas Dalal, Hussain Dalal, Arshad Syed, and Sumit Arora, endeavors to preserve the essence of the original while adapting it for a Hindi-speaking audience. However, certain elements, such as the pacing and depth of character exploration, could have been more finely tuned to enhance the overall impact.
Performances
Shahid Kapoor delivers a nuanced performance as Dev Ambre, effectively portraying the character’s internal conflict and transformation. His depiction of both the aggressive pre-accident Dev and the introspective post-accident version showcases his versatility. Pooja Hegde, as journalist Diya Sathaye, provides a steady presence, though her character lacks substantial development. Pavail Gulati and Pravessh Rana offer solid support, adding depth to the narrative. Kubbra Sait’s brief appearance as a cop leaves a lasting impression, despite limited screen time.
Technical Aspects
Amit Roy’s cinematography captures the gritty atmosphere of Mumbai, complementing the film’s intense tone. The action sequences, choreographed by a team including Anal Arasu and Parvez Shaikh, are executed with precision, adding to the film’s dynamic energy. Jakes Bejoy’s background score enhances the suspense, while the songs composed by Vishal Mishra and Bejoy, such as “Bhasad Macha” and “Marji Cha Maalik,” align well with the film’s mood. However, certain visual effects appear gimmicky, slightly detracting from the overall experience.
Strengths
- Shahid Kapoor’s compelling portrayal of a complex protagonist
- Engaging action sequences and well-executed stunts
- Effective background score that heightens suspense
- Cinematography that captures the film’s gritty aesthetic
Weaknesses
- Pacing issues, particularly in the first half
- Underdeveloped supporting characters
- Certain plot points and visual effects feel unconvincing
- Missed opportunities to delve deeper into the protagonist’s psyche
These shortcomings, while noticeable, do not significantly detract from the film’s overall impact.
Final Verdict
Deva offers a gripping narrative bolstered by Shahid Kapoor’s strong performance and well-executed action sequences. While it may not fully capture the depth of its source material, the film succeeds in delivering an engaging thriller that keeps the audience invested. Despite its flaws, Deva stands as a commendable addition to the action thriller genre in Hindi cinema.
Recommended for
Fans of action-packed thrillers and those who appreciate character-driven narratives will find Deva worth watching. Viewers interested in stories exploring memory loss and psychological complexity may also find the film engaging.