Bajirao Mastani

wogma rating: Add to 'must watch' list (?)

quick review:

One mesmerizing experience, visually. The film is good too.

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Running time: 150 minutes
Genres: Action, Romance, War
More Movie Info

Bajirao Mastani - Preview

As I watched this Bajirao Mastani trailer and then this song I am just stumped by what I see. What I hear, feel, think all come a while later. The color tone of that song took my breath away. Whether or not I like the film, the trailer assures me that I am going to love what I see.

But hey, that is hardly ever a doubt with Sanjay Leela Bhansali films. Each frame is worth putting up on your walls. The question arises as the story progresses. Is it a war film or a love story? From the trailer looks like, it is both. Does it then do justice or does one story line distract from the other? Or like Jodhaa Akbar, is the trailer deceptive? Only love, no war – which was fine till the love got boring.

What about historically accuracy, you ask? Didn't I just point you to Jodhaa Akbar? Not good enough? How about Asoka? No? Mughal-e-azam, any one?

Isn't history as per the story-teller anyway? If you think I am a skeptic, here's some more- I take any controversy that comes at the heels of a release with a pinch of salt. I don't have any qualms thinking of it as a marketing ploy and moving on. Any publicity is good publicity, bad publicity is better publicity – ya di da da da da.

Of course, I would love reality, but I don't mind fantasy and the Bond films too. Isn't it ultimately all about the story-telling? Am I engaged with the characters? Are the performances in line with the characters? Or is the film banking on keeping me arrested through just the visuals?

Music Reviews:
Bollyspice - "4/5"
Bollywood Hungama – "3.5/5"
Firstpost - "melodiously connects the past with present"
glamsham - "4/5"
koimoi - "3/5"
Movie Talkies - “4.5/5” Milliblog – A rare 200-worder which says, "In his third film as solo composer, Sanjay finally gets it wonderfully right."
Music Aloud – "8.5/10"

- meeta, a part of the audience

“One person can be in love with two people at the same time.” “Women are empowered and can hold their own.” “Religion shouldn't be the basis for love or war.” - Each one of these is a bold theme for one film to take on by itself. Bajirao Mastani takes it all on together and does justice to all of them.

Film aside, I am in awe that these themes were picked up in real life, a few centuries ago. I hope this is how it all happened. I hope this is how Bajirao Peshwa was – not only a valiant leader, but also stood up for his women and when necessary stood up against them too; fought his wars but was absolutely clear about why he was fighting them – not for religion. I wonder when we regressed. I wonder what problem anyone would have in believing that the man and the women were as they were portrayed here. aso (so be it.)

Such strong personalities - each one of them. Once you get over the each-frame-a-beautiful-canvas visuals that are typical of Bhansali films, you are taken over by the characters. The frames stay beautiful, of course, just that the three main leads weave an interesting web. Mastani (Deepika Padukone), the strong-willed woman consumed by love – yes some women are like that, then and now. Bajirao (Ranveer Singh), known as India's greatest warrior also fell in love and not just once, his vulnerability exposed ever-so slightly. And Kashibai (Priyanka Chopra) – wow! What a lady! Hurting yet holding her pride.

Priyanka Chopra is an easy winner in this one. Maybe she is relegated to the background for most of the film. But in a couple of “her” scenes – she makes you forget it is her and holds you in awe of Kashibai where you feel her pain too. Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh come across as just pretty people when held against her. They do well, but you begin to notice how after a point they have to hold just one expression. Ranveer Singh overacts a tad bit and has an inconsistent accent. Not that these lapses are intolerable but they make you wonder how much better the performance would have been without.

There were other things that took away from the film. Like the songs, especially the one with the Peshwa celebrating. No, whether or not they happened all those years ago, whether or not it offends anyone - at least one or two of them should've been cut out – they should've stayed out because they just made the film longer. There were times when the film came across as a saas-bahu1 soap opera, but I guess this was a family drama of its own kind.

The time lapses were distracting too. Too many times, the narrative moved from one character to another without a smooth flow. Looks like Mr. Bhansali had a lot more shot and had to be cruel on the editing table. Another distraction came with the Marathi words thrown in, isn't it just fine that they are speaking in Hindi in a Hindi film? Then there was the preachy closing – why-o-why?

Of course, even when put together these aberrations are not huge enough to take away from what's good about the film. Magnificent visuals apart, Bajirao Mastani might be a version of history that I wish is true.

~ ~ ~

1 TV soap operas revolving around petty family politics.

- meeta, a part of the audience

31 reviewers(?) - 22 yays 9 so-so 0 nays

Warning: clicking on "full review" will take you to an external website that could contain spoilers.

Thumbs up, by Anna MM Vetticad, annavetticadgoes2themovies : ...Despite its shortcomings then, this is a brave and beautiful film – beautiful to look at, beautiful in its position on religion, brave in its take on history, brave in its unwillingness to paint religious groups or its primary characters as black or white. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Taran Adarsh, Bollywood Hungama : ...On the whole, BAJIRAO MASTANI is a cinematic gem that you just cannot miss. Tremendous performances, deft direction, power-packed screenwriting and dialogue, melodious soundtrack and of course, the lavish mounting -- this film has it all. Strongly recommended! ... full review

Thumbs up, by Preetii Kulkarni, Bollywood Life : ...Ranveer Singh take a bow! You have ended the year with a BANG. Do not miss this cinematic brilliance at any cost. Book your tickets today. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Kusumita Das, Deccan Chronicle : ...A melodramatic climax aside, the film is undoubtedly a quality product, Bhansali always ensures that. But what makes it fall just short of excellence is the lack of the journey within. We never get inside the characters, especially Bajirao’s, a man who is caught in the fierce dilemma between the heart and the state. We only see the events unfold on screen one after another. It is Bhansali tipping his jewel-encrusted hat off to an epic love story in Maratha folklore. But a glimpse of the mind would have made the picture complete. ... full review

Thumbs up, by shefali Saxena, Desi Martini : ...Verdict - SLB ne audience se mohabbat ki hai, aiyyashi nahi! ... full review

Thumbs up, by Smita Vyas Kumarh, Desi Martini : ...Verdict - A moving love story with breathtaking visuals. A superb watch ... full review

Thumbs up, by Sethumadhavan Napan, Desi Martini : ...Verdict - Powerful drama,intense romance&period look captured well.If not for a way too dramatic & filmy culmination this is otherwise quite good ... full review

Thumbs up, by Prerna Singh, Desi Martini : ...Verdict - If you're not looking for History lessons, this film is the perfect choice for you. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Dïctåtor Øf Unîverse, Desi Martini : ...dilwale works on box office just because of srk... bajirao mastani's story and plot is faaaar better than it..if you are a srk fan, shit on ur face coz he gets movies and offers easily.. priyanka and deepika have worked out blood and sweat for practising those moves!! ranveer always tries to give his best in all his tries and srk just does on pose in a whole song overall, nice setup, great beginning, gorgeous deepika, fabulous priyanka, energetic ranveer, and blockbuster movie!!!... full review

Thumbs up, by Farheen Nq , Desi Martini : ...Mind blowing movie... loved it... was much more bettr than devdas.. Ranveer.. cnt b a bttr actor than him in tis generation.. Priyanka.. lovely and strong asusual Deepika.. loved her boldness her eyes her grace and her performance.. she ate aishwarya rai..... full review

Thumbs up, by Rachit Gupta, Filmfare : ...Bajirao Mastani will also be remembered for its production design and costumes. The level of detailing in the film’s visuals is awe-inspiring. The camerawork and SLB’s vision for grandeur create a mirage of excellence on screen. SLB’s music is not only influential it’s emotional and touching. Rarely do Hindi movies look like they belong on a world stage. Bajirao Mastani is definitely a strong contender for that spot. It’s definitely one of the year’s best. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Tanul Thakur, FirstPost : ...Bajirao Mastani, a regular love story devoid of a convincing, rounded antagonist, is neither particularly ambitious nor audacious. And although the film sets its targets straight and low, it pursues them with unflinching doggedness and sincerity, and achieves them satisfyingly. Most films remain clueless about their faults and merits (if they have any), but this one does, and is smart enough to pick its battles — exhibiting a kind of singular clear sightedness that should be a hallmark of more mainstream movies. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Johnson Thomas, Free Press Journal : ...Ranveer lives his role with great craft, Deepika showcases her strengths to great effect while Priyanka lends credibility to her role. The numerous songs that litter the narrative take away much of the enjoyment. The visual artistry on display and the tempered dramatics are what make this visit worthwhile. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Martin D'Souza, Glamsham.com : ...Bajirao Mastani celebrates love, life, the longing of a man torn between three women (including his mother), his loyalty and his helplessness when faced with religious diktats! Bajirao Mastani also celebrates the mood of the moment!... full review

Thumbs up, by Ananya Bhattacharya, india today : ...The music of the film is haunting. The background score, Deewani Mastani and Aayat are among the songs that stay with one long after the film ends. In all, Bajirao Mastani is an experience. And one that needs to be savoured in a theatre.... full review

Thumbs up, by Surabhi Redkar, koimoi : ...Not Deepika, Ranveer Singh and Priyanka Chopra lace this film with their brilliant performances. Watch the film for Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s artistic vision and definitely Ranveer’s career-best act. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Shubha Shetty-Saha, MiD DAY : ...Sanjay Leela Bhansali has cleverly picked up some native Marathi speaking actors as supporting cast, which includes Tanvi Azmi (brilliant as Bajirao's mother), Mahesh Manjrekar as King Shahu, Milind Soman as Bajirao's friend and Vaibbhav Tatwawdi as his brother, Chimaji. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Jaidev Hemmady, Movie Talkies : ...Indeed, Bhansali has ensured that the names Bajirao and Mastani deserve a place in the list of doomed lovers like Laila-Majnu, Heer-Ranjha and Shirin-Farhad. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Saibal Chatterjee, NDTV : ...Bajirao Mastani is for those that think history is boring. There isn't a dull moment in this colourful and dramatic film that embraces excess with unabashed abandon. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Jyothi Venkatesh, Star Blockbuster : ...Last Word: The film sets out to drive home the poignant message that you can fight against entire world and win but you can’t win against your family. The film will find it tough to combat with Dilwale at the box office.... full review

Thumbs up, by Srijana Mitra Das, Times of India : ...Bajirao-Mastani resembles Jodhaa-Akbar with teeth that bite, Mughal-e-Azam with shades of philosophical grey. It rediscovers roots to Maratha pride - and bravely confronts one of India's most crucial questions now. ... full review

Thumbs up, by Dhriti Sharma, Zee News : ...Without any boundaries and stepping back, SLB has worked his best entirely, in presenting to his audiences, the best of cinematic experience. The movie has a firm ground holding and has therefore risen to sky heights with its message and creativity.... full review

So-So, by Githa Vanan, Bolly Spice : ...So how does the latest magnum opus from the SLB camp fair up? Well, short (or long if you look at the duration) from the mark and off from the historical accuracy. But just like ‘Deewani Mastani’ is a bow of respect to Mughal-E-Azam’s ‘Pyaar Kiya Toh Darna Kya,’ you can appreciate without getting too obsessed. ... full review

So-So, by krish Sripada, Desi Martini : ...Verdict - If only Bhansali could indulge himself less and let the story narrate itself, if only! ... full review

So-So, by Josh, fullhyd.com : ...Positives notwithstanding, the film does suffer from many ineffective scenes. For one, there is the matter-of-fact exposition of historicals that can't be done away with nor can be shown interestingly. And like with Tamasha again, the primary conceit of the film fails to register. Tamasha was about passion in storyland but none of the passion nor the story-telling impressed. Likewise, Bajirao Mastani bases its drama on the deep love of the titular couple. Except, we don't see why they are in so much love. ... full review

So-So, by Sweta Kaushal, Hindustan Times : ...Though the story ends on a sad note and the ending is a bit too stretched, the entire sequence is one of few high points of Bajirao Mastani. Ranveer’s character is hallucinating under high fever and sees forces charging at him in a calm Narmada river. He rages his own battle, swinging his sword like a maniac. When Priyanka asks him about his opponent, he says: “Bhagwan ... kismet”. This signifies his lost battle with his own family and custodians of religion. From Ranveer’s loss to Priyanka watching him go crazy, you can feel everyone’s pain, angst and grief. ... full review

So-So, by RAJEEV MASAND, IBN Live : ...Ultimately you can’t help being overwhelmed by Sudeep Chatterjee’s eye-watering frames, and the elegant production design. Bhansali delivers a film that’s artistic but exhausting. I’m going with three out of five. ... full review

So-So, by Suhani Singh, india today : ...Nonetheless, there is a lot to swoon over in Bajirao Mastani. Technically the film is a marvel, even more so if you choose to watch Dilwale right after it. Bhansali's female characters have always looked like they have stepped out of a painting but here even Singh gets to strut about in some wonderful anarkalis. Collaborating with Bhansali for the second time, cinematographer Sudeep Chatterjee creates some wonderful imageries, a few of them in the fountain.... full review

So-So, by Sukanya Verma, Rediff : ...One can say volumes about her shimmering beauty as the surreal but sketchy Mastani (the script can't decide if it wants to highlight her as a warrior, lover, courtesan or mother). Sadly, it's also Deepika Padukone's most affected performance in a long time. But, praise the lord, she's so full of this "noor" Bajirao keeps complimenting her for, I almost pretend I didn't hear her awful Urdu dialogue delivery. ... full review

So-So, by Namrata Joshi, The Hindu : ...Lastly, it’s interesting how Bhansali is the closest ally women have in Bollywood when it comes to the female gaze. It’s not the coy, bashful one of the Charulata kind but that of the blatant voyeur. Be it the towel-wrapped Ranbir Kapoor in Saawariya or the glisteningly-oiled Ranveer Singh, all rippling muscles as he bathes away in a scene here, it’s the male body that is stared at and celebrated through the heroine, and, in turn, the filmmaker’s eye view. We are certainly not complaining. ... full review

So-So, by Saumil Gandhi, Upper Stall : ...This scene has so many small and big things done well. But it emblematic of everything that is right and wrong with Bajirao Mastani. It was great to look at but like most things in a film, it was a scene that did what it had to, and had no bearing on the remaining storyline. ... full review

107 tweeters(?) - 94 yays 6 so-so 7 nays

zulaikhask: Watched bajirao mastani last night. It aaa the best #BajiraoMastani @RanveerOfficial @priyankachopra @deep

Yuvraj_Sehgal: Bajirao mastani, what a brilliant piece of art. Great acting by ranveer singh and Deepika padukone.

wpblogsch: Bajirao Mastani: Bhansali’s portrait of the Greatest Peshwa Ruler is Painted all over with Brilliance https://t.co/1efFfwwOjY

vyas_vidhi: Just came from treater #bajirao mastani rock @RanveerOfficial @priyankachopra @deepikapadukone love u all...well done.

Vishank_: Ranveer Blew my mind in Bajirao Mastani. From Ranveer's critic I have become his fan.Priyanka touched my heart once again.Whatta performer!

VirajNilakh: Watch bajirao mastani instead.. It's an treat to the eyes.. Story of a great warrior and tragic love story #DilwaleWorldWideHit

vijaychouuhan: Nice acting in bajirao mastani great

UmeshYa27588: Bajirao Mastani is great movie, I like its very much.

ud_chopra: Bajirao Mastani an epic movie : must watch ....

tsid9: Bajirao Mastani - Terrific . Brilliant performances and great presentation

tiara_gopal: saw #Bajirao Mastani @RanveerOfficial is d best actor in Bollywood..acting is just perfect & mesmerizing....

tanisha_soji: bajirao mastani is a hit movie..woohoooooooooooo.......dilwale is a flop

swatibalodi99: bajirao mastani rocks!!!

SubhashGhai1: People who love big screen cinema must experience -Bajirao Mastani-Kudos 2 ranveer Deepika Priyanka n SANJAY one man show by @Bhansali_Prod

stevie_g132: Watched Bajirao Mastani with my cousins...Awesome movie,amazing dialogues and brilliant performances by @RanveerOfficial @deepikapadukone

sristee44: Personally I loved Bajirao Mastani more than Dilwale. Dilwale is like the typical Rohit Shetty film. Nothing too special.

sonii_4sure: There are so many memorable scenes from Bajirao Mastani which feels so good to remember!

sofialuina: Bajirao Mastani Movie Review | Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, Priyanka Chopra... #wow...best movie of the year https://t.co/vZJoj8esPo

singh1659: Bajirao mastani - A true love story of a great leader & warrior,,nice movie love it.. Nice option To see instead of dilwale

singer_shaan: Absolutely Loved Bajirao Mastani!!! Still heavily hungover from the Magic!!# SLB @priyankachopra @deepikapadukone @RanveerOfficial

sib_sibby: Bajirao Mastani is such a beautiful experience. I'm still thinking about how majestic it all was. It just refuses to leave my mind

shreemiverma: Liked Bajirao Mastani even more in my second viewing. Ranveer se shaadi karado meri please.

Shivramsharma16: Good acting in bajirao mastani

sexorciiism: BAJIRAO MASTANI WAS SOOOO GOOD

sensandipan: Loved SLB's dream Bajirao Mastani.Ranveer shines like a diamond.Amazing portrayal Deepika,Priyanka shine too.SLB even makes Milind Soman act

sawantganesh331: "BAJIRAO MASTANI" THE OSM MOVIE,LOVED ONE

sanjayg150786: #Must watch# Bajirao mastani

samsharma45: Bajirao mastani is a osm movie nd vat a acting by all lead actors

Sajid71409191: Ranveer in Bajirao Mastani was magic . Performance of the year :)

sagarcasm: Awed by @RanveerOfficial's performance in Bajirao Mastani. What a great work on his accent, expressions and dance.

s_navroop: Irrespective of Historical Perspective; one must go & watch Bajirao Mastani for the shere Direction, Cinematography & Acting.

ruhtyt: Bajirao Mastani Movie Review: Bhansali's grand, dramatic love saga is worth a ... https://t.co/2ByeLHhoN6

rohit_nakhwa: Honestly saying, for the first time liked @RanveerOfficial movie Hattss Off to all

ranveercafe69: It's a big achievement for Bajirao Mastani that it is doing such business despite the clash with Shahrukh Khan’s masala entertainer film- BA

ranjitag: Enjoyed comparing Ranveer Singh to an Akhal Teke stallion here. Bajirao Mastani is worth adding to weekend plans. https://t.co/eMadLjMgeS

RahulKo81752678: Bajirao mastani outstanding movie incredible

PuranPolli: Watched bajirao mastani. Its just good.

ProudRanveerian: I think Bajirao Mastani is one of those movies that needs to be watched multiple times in order to be really understood/appreciated

priyranjan2: #Cheeteh ki chaal, baaz ki nazar aur Bajirao ki talvar par sandeh nahi karte .. kabhi bhi maat de sakti hai Bajirao Mastani make my Sunday.

Priya732809791: Bajirao Mastani winning hearts..

preetsolicious: Bajirao Mastani with @nurafiqahmalek simply simply breathtakingly amazing! ❤️

Pooja04388: Just watched Bajirao Mastani @RanveerOfficial rockssss....

philipv1992: Bajirao Mastani! One word..AMAZING! "Bajirao ne Mastani se mohabbat ki hai...ayyashi nahi!"@RanveerOfficial @deepikapadukone @priyankachopra

OpsRevs: The movie moves from frame to frame and keeps one revelling in the beauty of emotions. #MovieReview #BajiraoMastani https://t.co/gcU8KFMpcL

Nitinkesarkar1: Watched Bajirao Mastani... SLB sir great job

nikita_928: BajiRao Mastani was soo hella good

nikgoonerette7: Though the Movie is named Bajirao Mastani, Kashibai's character is what overshadows the title itself. Beautiful acting by @priyankachopra

navinwin7: today, i watched bajirao-mastani it's has nice costume,set location more far than nice music and story so plz one time u shld watch this

navinbhatialax: Bajirao Mastani actually makes you appreciate religion as the greatest evil ever experienced by mankind in life.

nafisaaliindia: I wish both Film super success & happy that my week is full of amazing cinema 'Dilwale ' & 'Bajirao Mastani '

MohitVe93009187: God bless to Bajirao Mastani....... its really an awesome film..!!!!!!

mohitbisht8: #DilwaleWorldWideHit best dialouge of bajirao mastani ऐ मूर्खः लगाम दिखती नहीं पर जबान पे होनी चाहिए ..समझला : बाजीराव awesome movie

mharo_rajasthan: RT sagarcasm: Awed by RanveerOfficial's performance in Bajirao Mastani. What a great work on his accent, expressions and dance.

MediaCooks: Bajirao Mastani must watch

mathubalan: Talk about ending the year with a bomb! Bajirao Mastani is the best movie of the year. @RanveerOfficial @deepikapadukone @priyankachopra

mara1y: Bajirao Mastani Review: Bhansali Brings Out the Best in Ranveer Singh, Deepika ... https://t.co/RvbudED4mb

MaqboolAziz: just saw Bajirao Mastani..simply superb movie loved it great performances by ( Ranveer Singh who was mindblowing... https://t.co/h6xedFiNOe

Manan54mania: Bajirao Mastani is epic

malanitalkies: Bajirao MASTani.... Bajirao MUST see...cinema. Wonderful performances by Trio Ranvir; Deepika & Priyanka. A true... https://t.co/TnAClcgeXk

KaranGhai10: Bajirao mastani was an awesome movie @RanveerOfficial @priyankachopra @deepikapadukone you guyz killed it Superb actors proud to have u❤

kamboj_namita: Awesome movie by Sanjay Leela Bhansali.. True love story of Bajirao Mastani nice acting by Ranveer Singh, lotz of Luv 2 Deepika n Priyanka

KainatSachdev: Still in Awe of #BajiraoMastani. Kudos to SlB for such perfection.

j3n11f: Bajirao Mastani Movie Review: Bhansali's grand, dramatic love saga is worth a ... https://t.co/nc0zD7omf5

IVivekPandey: Bajirao Mastani ~ Bhansali's best movie so far....

iistutii: Bajirao Mastani Winning Hearts

i_hkuna_matata: Stunning Kashi ... Brave mastani.... Bold energetic bajirao peshwa.... Fabulous Bajirao-Mastani. #RanveerOfficial

hahnrock: I am not a SRK hater but if we give unbiased views then obviously bajirao Mastani takes the edge bajirao mastani... https://t.co/2nhouBDk5v

gupta9199: " Bajirao mastani "awesome movies. Real love story ........nice role play by ......ranvir, deepika & priyanka.....

gulzarhossain7: bajirao mastani move supar hit hoga

GeniekiJasmine: Bajirao Mastani ! ❤ @RanveerOfficial No words, Sir !

gauravblog: BAJIRAO MASTANI: Another Masterpiece by the director of RAM LEELA... WHAT A DIRECTION. Amazing sets Amazing... https://t.co/0IyDgQ68HV

fatimatunio: I watched bajirao mastani today it's amazing!All the actors did very well superb story❤ @deepikapadukone @priyankachopra @RanveerOfficial

evem1l: Bajirao Mastani Review: Bhansali Brings Out the Best in Ranveer Singh, Deepika ... https://t.co/auJSa7zBqr

DPCRAZEN1001: SLB Vision Ranveer's Perfection Deepika's Beautiful & Priyanka's Mesmerizing act makes Bajirao Mastani a Wonderful Cinematic Experience

designer2cad: #DilwaleWorldWideHit wrong its publicity . truly bajirao mastani is hit .

CinemaBabu: BajiRao Mastani Review: Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Emotional Epic Love Drama https://t.co/VhvUoFaE2T

chandrika_ravi: Bajirao Mastani was amazing. Sanjay Leela Bansali is a genius. Cast, costume, music, script, sets.. Everything was just amazing. ❤️❤️❤️

BombayVintage_: Watched Bajirao Mastani yesterday. Mindblown.

BMmovieFC: Guys go and watch THE EPIC!!! Book your tickets for today or tomorrow :) #BajiraoMastani: https://t.co/Lz84gwxIYe https://t.co/dp9MKLPRUH

Bibhuti67922977: People should go for # bajirao mastani ..not for # dilwale...

Being_SAi143: Bajirao Mastani Wht a creative & wht a movie.. Hatts of you Sanjay Leela BansaLi..

AshishSantosh1: Watched yesterday Bajirao Mastani, congratulations! For your splendid performance, you lived the Bajirao character! You were awesome

ArvindsinghKus5: Watched Bajirao mastani, superb movie love you @deepikapadukone @RanveerOfficial

annebelle_123: Watched Bajirao Mastani yesterday. Honestly, one of the best movie experiences I've ever had.

anks816: Finally.... A nice Movie #Bajirao_Mastani

anishmohanty: My review of #BajiraoMastani A finely crafted period drama: 4/5 @priyankachopra @RanveerOfficial @deepikapadukone https://t.co/F1l54CAi1P

AmarJassal: Saw Bajirao Mastani... I have never seen a film like this ever...Its a BRILLIANT movie..

akshay_chhadi: amazing movie. bajirao mastani wining heart

akashshahi0071: Bajirao Mastani @5 Star movie https://t.co/hq1QtwGCOf

addatoday: #BajiraoMastani Movie Review. @priyankachopra is Magical as Kashibai. Surprise Package of the Film. Awards Awaited! https://t.co/71XKqcYeUi

abhinav1126: Take a bow! Bajirao Mastani is another fabulous gem in Cinema with fantastic performance. Kudos to Team

abhijith_sai: Saw Bajirao Mastani ... Epic movie... It is Jodha Akbar for Hrthik Roshan then Bajirao Mastani for Ranveer Singh.

aakashparmar_: Hate story jevi bakwash movie jovase Pn bajirao mastani jevi superb movie na jovay stupid peoples #Bajirao11CrFirstDay @BMmovieFC

a20nitin: How #BajiraoMastani fails to take us back to the 18th century but still leaves a colourful mark on our memories https://t.co/EpEJGmwsEM

WiillyWanka: Truly magnificent sets in Bajirao Mastani,Deepika looks like a million suvarna mudra. Alright acting,forgettable music, and a fuckall script

radiokarishma: Bajirao mastani anything but love story .... No passion ... History is handled well....sets beautiful...two most... https://t.co/hb2Saluz9E

Medusachurail: Bajirao mastani isn't that bad

kalamkarshrini: Bajirao-Mastani,Its ok to see as a drama

gauravindoriya: Watched Bajirao mastani..Bit Disappointed..decent Movie..neither too Good Nor vry Bad...Slow pace is biggest drawback of Movie..

egbertconrad: Watch Bajirao Mastani. I can't bear to sit through Bollywood films but i had no regrets about having wasted 3 hours of my life with this one

sumitsingh7787: Bajirao mastani ney mujhe 2hrs pura baànd kr rakha Dilwale key interval Mey bagna chahta PR dosto ke respect ke liye nahi gya

SonuKum07875095: Do not west your money on bajirao mastani movie its a bouring movie of 2015

rudraprahari: Watched bajirao mastani , ek yodha ko second half me keval laundiyabaaj bana k rakh diya

NishantRanjan4: bajirao mastani is a stinky piece of shit >_< :\

Horcruxy: But Bajirao mastani is too long n def not a light hearted ent.. Its way too serious n very heavy. (2/2)

DMehroz: Bajirao Mastani k dialogues hi nae smjh arhy bc.

anindya123: Dont go to bajirao mastani for a lesson in history. Its just a trajic love story not facts

2 readers - 1 yays 1 so-so 0 nays

Want to Watch, by TimELiebe : Sumptuous Epic - Eager to See

Yay! Thumbs Up, by Fan

So-So, by Anuj

This page has additional observations, other than the ones noted in the main review.

Parental Guidance:

  • Violence: Lots
  • Language: Clean
  • Nudity & Sexual content: Topless Ranveer Singh. One scene that implies that a sexual act is on its way.
  • Concept: Story of a warrior – his wars and his women.
  • General Look and Feel: Beautiful

Detailed Ratings (out of 5):

Direction:
Story:
Lead Actors:
Character Artists:
Dialogues:
Screenplay:
Music Director:
Lyrics:

Bajirao Mastani - Cast, crew, links

Choreography:
Running time:
150 minutes
Reviewer:
Language:
Country:
Genres:

Comments (44)

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Fan

Can't wait.

Neither can we, @Fan! Honestly, as sumptuous as it looks, it would have to really truly stink on ice for us not to watch it anyway....

Fan

Diwali 2007.

Royal clash. Sanjay Leela Bhansali v/s Shah Rukh Khan.

Result: Sanjay Leela Bhansali lost. Reason: product slickly packaged but the contents were mediocre.

Cut to 2015: Christmas.
Once again a royal clash is promised. This time around lots of hopes for Sanjay Leela Bhansali to redeem himself. Of course he is taking on a superstar once again, who attracts crowds to theatres without any real content. So the contest should be a good one. But this time I expect SLB to deliver a knock-out.

Tickets are booked - for both the films. Just waiting for the clock to tick by.

Sounds worth watching, Meetu!

Wonder if this will show up in the ONE Indian movie theatre still in our city, or ifs we'll end up streaming it off Eros Now...

Fan

Ufff 2 movies on the same evening. And that too films that are totally different from each other. I am feeling completely drained.

Dilwaale had already left me feeling sick (refer to my post on Dilwaale page) and i think that that feeling prevented me from enjoying Bajirao Mastani.

Visually the film is stunning like any other SLB film. I am sure that he is convinced that his films are poetry in motion. And sometimes I believe that too, although not for Bajirao Mastani.

I just didn't feel the pain of Bajirao or of Mastani as much as I had felt for RamLeela. And that means the film failed in that aspect. However with regards to Kashibai the effect on me was the exact opposite; I could fully empathise with her.

I am not a historical scholar but looking at the high number of seconds devoted to a disclaimer, and the sudden importance given to a book Rau and its Maharashtrian author makes me smell a rat. I do not support this kind of literary freedom just as I do not support Haider type literary freedom. Any attempt to change history is dishonest.

Overall verdict : better than Dilwaale but inferior to RamLeela. Nevertheless a good one time watch for the sheer opulence.

ehinome okojie

This Babalawo Mastizaade film is below Dilwale on IMDB, so its run at the counter is propelled by those who are feeling sick of the Dilwale promos. 11.5cr day one is a good number for this film. This makes me want HRo to clash with Aamir next Christmas, it should be fun.

Anuj

Ram-Leela was pathetic and an unbearable watch. However, Bajirao seems like a lot of flair and opulence from its promos. This one's gonna be my pick this weekend. Due to huge production cost and the clash with Dilwale (unfortunately that pile of trash would have a higher viewership due to stammer worshippers) Bajirao has almost zero chance of being a box office success. Yet I do hope that the word of mouth would be positive and this one at least challenges the "heart attack" in week 2.

Fan

@Anuj : having watched both Dil(check kar)waale and Bajirao Mastani I have no two doubts that week 2 onwards BM will take the lead. So just waiting patiently for Ehinome Okojie to honour his word. :-)

Anuj

@Fan : Frankly, I got received enough feedbacks from plenty of viewers who have watched Dilwale (some including SRK-Kajol fans) and now I am convinced that given a choice between the two, I would be spending my 400 bucks on Bajirao this weekend.

Anuj

@Fan : Need not wait for week 2. On day 2 itself Bajirao has shown fantastic growth of upto 25% in multiplex dominated circuits of Mumbai, Bangalore and NCR. Dilwale on the other hand has fallen flat and the Saturday collection is even lower than Friday's. Its the devil of Karma playing out for SRK as Eros has done to him, what he did to Devgan film back in 2012. Eros International has made sure that Dilwale does not find a release in many of the prime single screen theaters of Central India and Maharashtra, thereby nullifying its impact. Although Bajirao too has flopped in single screens, the fact that Dilwale has not found a release has dented the movie's prospects hugely. Both films have an investment of 120 cr approx and going by the day 2 trends, both movies would just about hit recovery with lifetime collections of 120-140 cr range. Bajirao has taken Mumbai and Bangalore multiplexes by storm while Dilwale has been rejected by both A and B center audiences. Bajirao would make huge gains for the multiplex exhibitors and come Monday, it is set to outnumber Dilwale across most circuits, especially the multiplexes. This is a huge moral and psychological victory for Bhansali/Eros and gang.

Fan

@Anuj : true Bajirao is made for multiplex audiences. It would not make money in smaller centres. Dilwaale was made for pan north and west india, but the product being so bad that it will lose big time. Only die hard SRK fans will rever it and outside India only the UK market will show positive results for Dilwaale.

Fan

Of course the 2 giants sharing the same weekend didn't help. They both are eating into each other's potential revenues.

Anuj

Day 3 has started well for both films so that does give hope to Dilwale and its ambition of crossing 150 cr nett. Weekdays would be crucial going forward.

Anuj

@Fan : Frankly, these popular actors and corporate productions along with the falsely reporting media have created this illusion among the general public's head that the higher the collection, the bigger the hit. Its no big deal for a big budgeted solo release to open to huge occupancy and record big numbers during festival weekends with multiple screenings and hiked up ticket prices. What is however not reported is the huge prices at which these films are bought by the individual distributors and exhibitors of different territories. Factually, the so-called blockbusters like Kick are just ordinary Hits in terms of all India ROI while the "record breaking" Happy New Year is an Above Average affair. The likes of Ra.1, Bang Bang, Talaash and Jai Ho are outright flops. In fact, every SRK film this decade barring CE and JTHJ is a box office loser/coverage affair. Even last month's PRDP whose collections were blown out of proportion is factually just an Average fare as it has an investment of over 180 cr.

Anuj

Its official now. BM collections have crossed Dilwale on Monday. Week 1 would witness Dilwale @ 95 cr and BM @ 81 cr. This gap would be reduced and marginalized over the next 2 weeks. As proved earlier with the Hindi version of Baahubali and now with BM, no star power can match up to the power of content and word of mouth.

Anuj

Finally watched it. Its fabulous but too flawed with too many cinematic liberties for my liking. Here's my review :

http://thesimplemoviereviewer.blogspot.in/2015/12/bajirao-mastani-review-fabulous-but.html

Anuj

@Meeta : U really feel Bajirao treated his women well in spite of the way he reciprocated Kashibai's honest and devoted feelings with nothing but disdain? The climax sequence and the entire portrayal of Bajirao is that of an irresponsible and emotionally weak human being who does not know where his priorities lie. Ditto goes for Mastani turning from a warrior princess to a weak love struck damsel despite knowing the fact that she was destroying the personal relationship of Bajirao. Gives me the impression of 2 highly irresponsible individuals!

Fan

Well, 2015 coming to an end. Barring some Tamacha and other irrelevant film that I have not yet seen, the rest has been seen and done with.

So time for the predictions of the award seasons. Here's my take, provided judges are only influenced by quality of the films and nothing else.

Best film: Drishyam
Best director: Nishikant Kamat (Drishyam)
Best actor female: Deepika Padukone (Piku)
Best actor male: Amitabh Bachhan (Piku)
Best actor in a supporting role female: Shefali (Dil Dhadakne Do)
Best actor in a supporting role male: Irfan Khan (Piku)

Technical awards to be shared between Bajirao Mastani and Baahubali.

Sorry nothing for the Khans, or Bajrangi.

Anuj

@Fan : Best film Drishyam? A frame by frame remake of a much more superiorly directed and enacted original. wow!

Anuj

My favorite film : Baby, Piku, Badlapur, Tanu Weds Manu 2 & Bajrangi Bhaijaan.

Favorite Actor : Amitabh in Piku, Akshay in Baby, Nawaz in Badlapur.

Actress : Harshali Malhotra in Bajrangi Bhaijaan.

Director : Neeraj Pandey/Shoojit Sircar

Anuj

Actress : Kangana in TWMR as well.

Anuj

Best supporting actor : Irfan in Piku, Nawaz in Bajrangi Bhaijaan and Anupam Kher in Baby.

PS : Baahubali is not a Bollywood film and hence cannot be taken into consideration.

Anuj

Aah! How can I forget Deepak Dobriyal in TWMR.

Fan

@Anuj : award can go to only 1 person per category, so your names are more like potential contenders.

As regards Drishyam - yes it is not an original story/screenplay. That doesn't mean it is disqualified. And even frame by frame remake is not a child's play especially to create and sustain the high tensions.

Anuj

@Fan : Picking up 1 winner among a gallery of awesome performers in genres as different as chalk and cheese is a pointless exercise. And that is the precise reason I do not believe in awards, most of which are chosen by a handful of individuals who call themselves the 'jury' which mainly consists of pseudo intellectuals and failed film-makers. Imo, choosing between Neeraj Pandey for Baby & Shoojit Sircar for Piku is an impossible task as both film-makers have excelled equally in their own department of making the genre of films that they wanted to. Same goes for a Kangana vs Deepika comparison for TWMR vs Piku. Each of the above performers have excelled equally in their own way and it would be unfair to choose one over the other.

As for the remake, its no big deal to borrow a story, screenplay and dialogues from one brilliant film in one language and translate it to create another gem in another language. All you need is a set of good actors which Ajay and Tabu obviously are.

Fan

@Anuj: If borrowed screenplay from a blockbuster (Sholay) and presence of good actors (Mohanlal, Amitabh Bachhan, Ajay Devgn) were a guarantee to a good film then Ramgopal Varma ki Aag would not have been a yardstick to measure flop movies.

Anyways, all the films/personalities that you mention worthy of accolades in 2015 are well deserving ones.

Wishing a Merry Christmas to the entire wogma family.

ANuP

So many discussions of good movies and good actors , but no one has mentioned TALVAR . Which i think is a big contender and also Irfan as main lead..

Anuj

@Fan : There's an evident difference between "adapting" a 1970's classic which relied on heavy overdose of dialogues and character development and "remaking" a modern day classic from one language into another.

@Anup : Talvar is a biased and one sided take on a real life incident and hence does not merit a mention imo.

Anuj

Here are my top 5 favorite films of 2015

http://thesimplemoviereviewer.blogspot.in/2015/12/the-best-bollywood-films-of-2015-my-pick.html

Interestingly, each of these 5 films(along with Drishyam) is better than any Hindi commercial movie released in 2014. 2015 has indeed been a memorable year for Hindi movie buffs.

Anup

Anuj- let me tell u one thing , the team have not a single time said that they will show the exact events in a true manner , rather they have said that it will be only the vision of the Victims family on the murder case. And that what it was..
why to judge it on facts , judge it like a movie

Anuj

@Anup : Now let me tell u one thing. I did my best to watch Talvar only as a work of fiction and yet there were too many loopholes for it to be passed of as an edge of the seat thriller. The pace is slow, the screenplay is loose and the movie completely loses its direction in the second half. There is absolutely no explanation and reasoning given behind the conviction of the parents except a pointless monologue on the statue of justice. The only thing Talvar managed was some appreciation among the armchair critics and gold class audience courtesy the presence of fake intellectual audience darlings like Irfan and Konkana. Replace Irfan with Devgan while retaining the same plot, same screenplay and same climax and these worthless good for nothing critics would have given Talvar a mediocre rating (like many of them did with Drishyam). These [personal attack - comment partially deleted] critics who give ratings based on star cast need a whip on the place where it hurts the most.

Fan

Talvar is an ordinary film.

@Anuj : BTW it would seem that you gave your 2015 top and flop analysis without even watching Dil(check kar)waale. What will the SRK fans feel ;-)

Anuj

@Fan : Thanks but no thanks! :P Btw, i'm an optimist and hence do not give analysis for the flops or worst films. For the record, my most disliked movie of the year is Bombay Velvet although i'm sure Dilwale would come close had i watched it :P

Fan

:-)

ehinome okojie

Best Actor - Ranveer Singh (Bajirao Mastani)
Best Actress - Kangana Ranaut (TWMR)
Best Film - Bajrangi Bhaijaan
Best Director - Nishikant Kamat (Drishyam)

Anuj

2015 box office at a glance :

http://bollywoodboxofficedata.blogspot.in/

Anuj

The following Q&A on indicine.com perfectly specifies the manipulations and cheat that producers of big budgeted films indulge in these days :

http://www.indicine.com/movies/bollywood/box-office-verdict-of-dilwale/

Request everyone to read this piece for sure!

Fan

@Anuj : thanks for sharing.

An eye opener.

Fan

Watched the guild awards. Dilwaale was not even nominated for any award whereas Bajirao was nominated in several categories. Good, it means that SRK will skip most of the award functions this year.

Anuj

@Fan : u still believe in awards? I stopped watching them the day 'A Wedmesday' was not nominated in even a single category.

Fan

@Anuj : Bollywood awards have zero credibility for me. I watch them more from entertainment point of view.

Anuj

@Fan : Since this media created hype of the "100 cr club" began back in 2010, almost every single mainstream actor barring Akshay & Ajay has been fudging numbers and verdicts for his films. Even people with credibility like Hrithik Roshan has fallen prey to this and ended up manipulating figures for Krrish 3 (though that film is still a Super Hit) and Bang Bang (an outright flop). Sohail Khan productions made a "Semi Hit" out of a distribution disaster like Jai Ho while PRDP has been elevated to the level os a Super Hit in spite of being just a coverage film for the distributors. However, SRK can easily be called the king of all manipulations. Every movie of his this decade barring CE,JTHJ and HNY to an extent (thanks to its diwali release) has been an Average/Below Average affair with Ra.1 and Dilwale being distribution flops. However, the master manipulator that he is, even a dud like Ra.1 was termed a HIT by sites like boi.com while Average fares like Don 2 and MNIK was termed hits too. Ridiculous!

Fan

@Anuj : how much ever I hate SRK the actor, I do admire his business acumen. To stay at the top and to stay so politically powerful is no mean feat; and that despite a pathetic acting skill. Call it the manipulative tactics or call it survival skills - he is good at it.

Anuj

180 cr lifetime finish. Outstanding performance. Not only has this movie covered its unreasonably high costs, it has gone on to make handsome profits for most distributors especially in the Maharashtra/Gujarat/Goa belt. It is a marginally profitable to coverage affair in the rest of India. Theatrically, the performance has been a SUPER HIT. Final verdict, HIT (due to huge investment)

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