Shahid Kapoor's action thriller Deva, which had a theatrical run that began on January 31, 2025, is now available for streaming on Netflix. The film, directed by Rosshan Andrrews, stars Kapoor alongside Pooja Hegde, Kubbra Sait, and Pavail Gulati in pivotal roles. After a lukewarm response at the box office, the film has transitioned to the OTT platform, where it is expected to find a new audience.
Netflix India announced the release on March 28, 2025, sharing the film's poster along with an enthusiastic caption: "Bhasad macha 🥁🥁🥁 Trigger chala 🚨🚨🚨 Deva aa raha hai 🔥." This marks a significant moment for the film as it seeks to gain traction after its underwhelming theatrical performance.
In Deva, Shahid Kapoor portrays ACP Dev Ambre, a police officer who grapples with memory loss while investigating the murder of his best friend. Pooja Hegde plays his love interest, Diya Sathaye, who is also a journalist. The narrative is a remake of the 2013 Malayalam film Mumbai Police, with modifications to the climax and enhancements in the screenplay.
Shahid Kapoor, reflecting on his role, stated, "A performance in a film like that makes every actor feel humble. Talking about Amit ji, we have all grown up watching him, we have idolized him as a star. The film had a strong story, very good interpersonal dynamics, great dialogues, and stellar performances. It's a great memory for all of us." His performance has been noted for its intensity, although critics have pointed out that the film suffers from pacing issues.
According to Shubhra Gupta from SCREEN, who rated the film 1.5 stars, "Shahid Kapoor's film is dragged down by loose threads and long slack stretches. There are at least a couple of instances when Shahid Kapoor does come alive, reminding us of the actor that he can be. Both are scenes in which he allows his character to be vulnerable." This sentiment reflects the mixed reviews the film has garnered since its release.
Despite its challenges, Deva showcases a gripping storyline filled with twists and turns. The film delves into themes of guilt and redemption, offering viewers a psychological edge that sets it apart from typical action flicks. As the plot unfolds, audiences are treated to stylish action sequences and a complex character arc that keeps them engaged.
The film is produced by Siddharth Roy Kapur and Umesh Bansal, with music composed by Jakes Bejoy and Vishal Mishra. The cinematography and editing have also received praise, contributing to the film's overall aesthetic appeal.
In the wake of Deva, Shahid Kapoor is set to collaborate once again with acclaimed director Vishal Bhardwaj on an upcoming project. This new film, described as a love story set against the backdrop of the Mumbai underworld in the 1990s, promises to be another thrilling addition to Kapoor's filmography.
As the streaming of Deva begins, it remains to be seen how digital audiences will respond to the film's mix of action, drama, and psychological intrigue. For those who missed it in theaters, the OTT release offers a chance to experience the film from the comfort of home, potentially uncovering new layers and details that may have been overlooked during its initial run.
With its blend of star power, action, and a compelling narrative, Deva is now positioned to reach a broader audience through Netflix, and fans of Shahid Kapoor and Pooja Hegde are eagerly awaiting to see how this film fares in the competitive landscape of online streaming.
In conclusion, Deva serves as a testament to the dynamic nature of film distribution in today's digital age, where even a film with a rocky start can find new life through streaming platforms. As viewers tune in, they will not only witness the performances of Kapoor and Hegde but also engage with a story that explores the depths of memory and morality.
