Fri Jan 31 23:06:38 UTC 2025: ## Shahid Kapoor’s Swagger Saves the Day in “Deva,” a Remake That Falls Short
**Mumbai, India** – Shahid Kapoor shines in “Deva,” a Hindi remake of Rosshan Andrrews’ 2013 Malayalam thriller “Mumbai Police.” While the film boasts Kapoor’s undeniable charisma and screen presence, it ultimately fails to recapture the magic of the original, sacrificing its most impactful twist for a more predictable narrative.
Director Andrrews’ decision to remake his own film a decade later raises eyebrows. While the original’s progressive storyline and shocking climax captivated audiences, “Deva” noticeably lacks that same punch. Instead, it relies heavily on Kapoor’s performance as a rebellious, mafia-style police officer, reminiscent of his role in “Kabir Singh.” His swagger, action sequences, and dance numbers are undoubtedly highlights.
The supporting cast, including Pooja Hegde, Pavail Gulati, and Pravessh Rana, are overshadowed by Kapoor’s dominant performance, with limited opportunities to showcase their talents. Furthermore, the film suffers from uneven pacing, a problem that likely could have been addressed during editing.
While the murder mystery plotline keeps the audience engaged, the relatively straightforward path to identifying the culprit diminishes the suspense. Although the journey is entertaining, the lack of a significant twist, a key element from the original, leaves “Deva” feeling somewhat hollow.
Critics note that the film’s success hinges entirely on Kapoor’s star power, making it a watchable, but ultimately forgettable, one-time viewing experience for those unfamiliar with the original “Mumbai Police.” For fans of the original, the remake is unlikely to satisfy.
First Piper 