Another adaptation of Sarat Chandra's classic Parineeta. There are many things common among Parineeta and Devdas. Since they both come from the same author. Childhood lovers, weak hero, dominant father, and pretty poor girl. But Sarkar tells the story beautifully. He makes you empathize for the lovers which I think Bhansali failed in Devdas. The setting of Kolkatta is beautiful. I think its great that instead of setting the movie in either early 1900s or the modern day, they chose to set it in the 60s. This way they can bring the opulence of a period film with giving it a modern touch.

Its the story of Shekar (Saif Ali Khan) and Lolita (Vidya Balan). Lolita comes to live with her uncle after the death of her parents. Shekar and lolita are neighbors. The transition from childhood friends to lovers is effortless. Then comes deceit, greed and misunderstandings. The movie explores whether their love is strong enough to weather it or do they end up like Devdas and Paro? Among the actors, Vidya is a revelation. Her simplicity brings a refreshing change. Sanjay Dutt as Girish fits his role to the T. It suits him to play an older man with a big heart. It is Saif who steals the show though. This is the first time he has excelled where he is not playing the playboy or the funny guy. He essays his role of the rich spoilt brat with a natural ease.