Deva Movie Review: A Gripping Thriller with Slow Burns and Complex Characters
Rating: 3.5/5
If you’re a fan of crime thrillers that dive into the complexity of human emotions, memory loss, and a tense investigation, then Deva is a film you shouldn’t miss. Directed by Rosshan Andrrews, the movie is a slow burn that gradually unravels a world of intense drama and suspense. While it may not be flawless, it brings together gripping moments, well-executed action, and a standout performance from Shahid Kapoor. Let’s dive into the intricate details of the movie.
Plot Overview:
Deva follows the story of Dev Ambre (Shahid Kapoor), a rebellious cop whose tough exterior hides a deeply troubled past. Dev is investigating a murder case, seemingly on the verge of uncovering the killer’s identity when a major accident leaves him with amnesia. The film’s plot revolves around Dev’s journey of retracing his past and piecing together his memories—only to uncover unsettling truths about his own department and himself.
As the story unfolds, Dev’s struggles with his memory loss form the core of the narrative. The film gradually transitions from an intense murder investigation to a more personal exploration of its protagonist, with suspense lingering in every frame. With a runtime of 156 minutes, the movie delves deep into its layers, giving us an experience that, although slow, will keep you hooked.
The Director’s Vision:
Rosshan Andrrews, known for his nuanced storytelling, sets the stage for a gripping whodunnit right from the opening scene. The tension begins building immediately when Dev calls his superior, DCP Farhan Khan (Pravessh Rana), to announce that he has solved a murder case and knows the identity of the killer. Just when the audience settles in for a typical crime mystery, the narrative takes a twist—the protagonist loses his memory in a dramatic accident.
The first half of the film focuses primarily on building the world and its characters. The pace is slow, yet the film keeps you engaged by introducing Dev’s past and his quest to uncover the mystery surrounding his accident and the murder case. The dynamics between Dev and his friend, Roshan D’Silva (Pavail Gulati), provide some light-hearted moments, though at times their interactions feel overstretched. However, their collective pursuit of powerful mafia dons keeps the momentum alive, maintaining a solid grip on the viewer’s attention.
Performance:
The heart and soul of Deva lie in Shahid Kapoor’s remarkable performance. As Dev Ambre, he delivers a performance that showcases his versatility. His portrayal of a man who is both menacing and vulnerable is commendable. Shahid does a remarkable job differentiating between Dev before the memory loss (Dev A) and after (Dev B), with his rugged persona intermittently surfacing within his milder, confused self. There are moments when his performance may seem slightly over-the-top, but he effectively conveys the turmoil his character experiences, making it an engaging watch.
Pooja Hegde plays Dev’s girlfriend, Diya, a journalist who seems to be an important part of his world. However, her character is frustratingly underdeveloped, and despite being the first to hint at a potential mole in the police department, her role feels more like a plot device than a fully fleshed-out character.
Kubbra Sait, though appearing briefly, delivers a strong performance as Deepti, a cop who adds an unexpected twist to the narrative. Her character is powerful but feels underutilized, and her sudden appearance seems a bit jarring. Nonetheless, Sait makes the most of her limited screen time. Pavail Gulati and Pravessh Rana lend solid support to the narrative, providing the necessary backup to Shahid’s central role.
The Story’s Pacing and Tension:
One of the most defining elements of Deva is its pacing. While the first half sets up the characters and their backstories, it may feel slow to some. The film’s slow burn is effective in building suspense, as each layer of the mystery is slowly peeled back. However, there are moments when the plot stretches a bit too thin, especially when it comes to the dynamics between Dev and his friend Roshan.
Once the second half kicks in, the tension rises as Dev navigates his world of uncertainty, struggling to make sense of his memories while grappling with dangerous enemies. The tonal shift from action sequences to more intense, dark emotional moments is handled well. Still, the slow pacing and some narrative gaps may leave some viewers wanting more.
Cinematography and Visuals:
Amit Roy’s cinematography captures the essence of the story beautifully, presenting the film’s dark and gritty atmosphere. The visuals perfectly complement the intense tone of the film, with several scenes offering breathtaking shots. The action sequences, choreographed by Anal Arasu, Supreme Sundar, Vikram Dahiya, Parvez Shaikh, and Abbas Ali Moghul, are thrilling, adding excitement to the otherwise slower-paced narrative.
However, some of the visual effects used in the movie feel gimmicky, detracting from the raw intensity that the story aims to achieve. The background score by Jakes Bejoy adds a great deal to the mood of the film, especially during action sequences. The music complements the high-stakes moments, heightening the tension. Songs like Bhasad Macha and Marji Cha Maalik are well-composed and help in elevating the emotional tone.
Flaws and Criticisms:
While Deva is undeniably an entertaining watch, it’s not without its flaws. The film has several narrative loopholes, particularly in the way some action sequences unfold. For instance, a sniper shot feels overly far-fetched, stretching the limits of believability. There are also several loose ends that remain unexplained, which may leave some viewers dissatisfied. Moreover, the references to Dev’s childhood hardships and his motivation to become a cop to arrest his abusive father are made throughout the movie, but they are never fully explored.
The film’s pacing can be a challenge, particularly for those who are used to fast-paced thrillers. The slow buildup may deter some, but the underlying suspense ensures that the audience remains engaged.
Conclusion:
Despite its flaws, Deva is a gripping thriller that succeeds in keeping the audience invested in its narrative. Shahid Kapoor’s performance is undoubtedly the film’s biggest strength, and the tension-filled sequences make it worth watching. The film does not shy away from exploring complex emotions and the intricacies of the human mind, especially with regard to memory loss and the search for truth. However, the slow pace and occasional narrative inconsistencies may not appeal to all viewers.
Ultimately, Deva stands out as an engaging and intense thriller that, while slow at times, delivers a gripping story and memorable performances. If you’re in the mood for a crime thriller that delves into personal demons, a mystery, and a relentless search for answers, this one is definitely worth a watch.
Verdict: Worth watching for Shahid Kapoor’s performance and the suspenseful narrative, but be prepared for a slow burn.
Related posts:








