What they say The buzz on Devdas.

Most expensive, but not the best

The Guardian states that though Sanjay Leela Bhansali's magnum opus is one of the most expensive Hindi films ever made (Rs 500 million), it is not the best.

Who could ask for anything more

Canada's The National Post reviewer Katrina Onstad writes, "The older generation of duelling mothers get some great, scenery-chewing monologues, especially the marvellous Kiron Kher as Paro's fiery mom; she's like a big Jewish mama with more jewellery."

"It's best to approach the jewel-encrusted sets and weeping, emoting excesses of Devdas as opera," she continues.

'Those willing to surrender themselves to the drama are in for a real treat'

"The film is colourful, to say the least, with some stunning photography and beautifully choreographed song and dance pieces. This is definitely not your usual multiplex fare, which is precisely why Devdas deserves your attention," writes Laura Bushell on bbc.co.uk

Devdas lacks the power to mesmerise, captivate and enthral the viewer

Taran Adarsh of Indiafm.com writes, "Devdas belies the expectations that one has from a film of this magnitude. Expectedly, the much-hyped film has taken a historic start all over, but it lacks in merits and most importantly, repeat value, which is so very vital to recover the colossal investment that has gone into its making."

Devdas a sheer visual treat

'Sanjay Leela Bhansali's exquisite adaptation of the classic romantic tragedy leaves one with a feeling of elation and satiation.' The reivew on timesofindia.com.

Unforgivable

"Bhansali’s Devdas leaves the viewer cold and unmoved," writes Deepa Gahlot on tatanova.com. "Bhansali buries the sensitivity and soul under tons of blinding glitter. Sure the lavishness and beauty of the sets and costumes can be appreciated, but their opulence is as out of place as a bridal costume at a funeral," she continues.

This is cinematic spectacle to the power of ten.

Alan Morrison on empireonline.co.uk says, "Possibly the best crossover movie yet for an intrigued Western audience, Devdas lacks the broader comic touches of commercial Bollywood and so might seem a little serious to die-hard fans. But in its field, it’s the event movie of the year."

Poetry on celluloid

"Bhansali has made a classic. The film is poetry on celluloid. Visually very rich, it is also emotionally very strong. Sanjay's narration is splendid, his understanding of the cinema medium is masterly and his treatment of a legendary love tale is fresh as ever. In one word, the man is a genius," writes Komal Nahta for radiosargam.com.

Industry hopes pins on Devdas

The first mainstream Hindi film to have been screened in Cannes, it's also a remake of one of the most popular Indian movies ever made. Read on to find out what The Daily Telegraph has to say about the film.

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