Lately, many Indian film makers aimed at making grand periodicals but only few could get through with laurels (e.g. Lagaan and The Legend of Bhagath Singh). Set in Calcutta (now Kolkata) of the 1960s the movie is based on Sarath's famous masterpiece novel. The most impressive trait of this novel, carefully retained in the movie, is the earthly portrayal of the characters, an endangered (or extinct?) and sane way of capturing our lives on the film reel. Though there are good and bad characters in the movie, as in any normal movie, this one will be remembered as an outstanding one as it leaves an impression on the viewer that situation often is more consequential than one's own disposition.

The movie makers have also succeeded in rich (not gaudy as in Devdas) portrayal of affluent Indians' lives in those days- Elvis, Moulin Rouge, cars, parties, etc. The music is very pleasing, if not melodious, and works in tandem with the story, which is a very rare case in Indian movies!

In all, it's a must see for anyone- Indian or American. For an Indian, the movie would give hope that there still is some sanity and talent left in Bollywood. For an American it'll be an exotic movie with loads of Indian stuff. Go watch it!