I saw this movie in Toronto International Film Festival 2015. The story is based on real life event and is a tough one to make as most of the facts already are known to audience. Irrfan Khan was marvelous with lot of calmness and patience. The story revolves around him and he make sure that the pace of the movie and rhythm is intact. People who have followed the news may find this story incomplete but Vishal Bhardwaj made sure that the message of the movie is complete. The best part of the movie was that is was very gripping as well as entertaining. I do not want to go more in the detail of the story as that could contain spoilers. For people who have not followed news will find the movie lot more thrilling. The direction is good by Meghna Gulzar and it is good to have her back.
114 Reviews
Thoroughly researched, well executed
b_mallinson16 September 2015
The 2008 murder of Aarushi Talwar and Hemraj Banjade and the subsequent investigations, of which Guilty/Talvar is the fictionalized account, are complex, with multiple official points of view, compromised evidence, and of course breathless media accounts with unnamed sources, rumours and innuendo. The views on this case are polarized and often hardened, so how to make a movie about it? Vishal Bhardwaj and Meghna Guzzal took the time to scrupulously research the case, and present a Rashomon-like telling of the story with multiple viewpoints, allowing the viewer to conclude which case is most compelling.
The acting is superb, and despite the many details, the editing it tight so that the movie is gripping from start to finish. Highly recommended.
For those who want to go deeper into the case, and into the trial that followed (which isn't covered in the movie), Avirook Sen's 2015 book "Aarushi" is detailed deconstruction of the case.
The acting is superb, and despite the many details, the editing it tight so that the movie is gripping from start to finish. Highly recommended.
For those who want to go deeper into the case, and into the trial that followed (which isn't covered in the movie), Avirook Sen's 2015 book "Aarushi" is detailed deconstruction of the case.
Scariest Hindi movie..
ThePunatic16 September 2020
Apart from the storyline, the performances of the director, scriptwriter and actors, what stayed with me was how scary this entire matter was. The incompetence of government officials is not something that we are unaware of, but when it results in incorrect convictions of innocent individuals that are already suffering from the horrifying manner of the death of their only child, it generates a disturbed feeling that stays with you longer than any silly movie that calls itself horror.
Move aside, Conjuring and Insidious and Ring and Fridays and slashers and zombies. *This* is genuinely terrifying, in the "it could so easly happen to me" mould. Congratulations to everyone involved in the making of this gem.
Move aside, Conjuring and Insidious and Ring and Fridays and slashers and zombies. *This* is genuinely terrifying, in the "it could so easly happen to me" mould. Congratulations to everyone involved in the making of this gem.
A true film, and Excellent is a very small word!
maulin57 October 2015
Based on Arushi Talwar's murder case. Written by Vishal Bhardwaj. Directed by Meghna Gulzar. Starring Irrfan Khan, Konkana Sen Sharma & Niraj Kabi. I was not aware of what was happened to Arushi. I only knew that her parents have been proved guilty and they are still in jail. But this film describes something else. And after watching the movie, I can't imagine the life of her parents. Pannel Discussion scene is one of the best scene I've seen this year. Serious topic with a light humor, is Vishal's cup of tea. Irrfan can do everything. Neeraj Kabi is growing faster and faster. What should I say about Kankana! Tabu has a cameo too. Music by Vishal and Lyrics by Gulzar. Insaaf is the perfect song. No background music makes the movie real. Just a one superb background score, during the scene of murder. I have never seen any movie, in which the audience is sitting so quietly and enjoying, as this is not for single screen type audience. People are changing, so it's a good hope for the better Indian cinema. I've read in some of reviews that the movie is very disturbing. I found it too. Questions and questions are there in my mind. With an addition of sorrow. One poor mistake of policeman leads the case to nowhere. Just watch it and it will come in your thoughts for some days for sure. Not writing much, as I've to come out from the film.
Rusty Sword
shishir92111 October 2015
Talvar led by Irrfan Khan is a must watch movie. Got a chance to watch the paid preview of the movie. I wanted to wait for critic's response to the film, but somehow decided to attend the preview.
Meghna Gulzar's direction is gripping and thrilling. I am watching her work for the first time and will surely be eager to watch her future works. The film's narration is perfect and grasping, which result in an edge of the seat story. The background music is soothing and Gulzar made sure to give best for his daughter. There is not a single dull or bad moment in the film.
Talking about the stellar cast in the movie, I have to say 'mind blowing'. Irrfan Khan does it again. He leads the charge like a boss. It's so much fun to watch him on screen. He is serious, funny, humorous, sarcastic, unapologetic, rude..everything he plays with an ease. I don't know the names of many actors, even though I know them by face, everyone did a fantastic job.
It was great to watch a movie like Talvar on Gandhi Jayanti. The faults in the system, the non-interested investigating officers and the society..are properly represented in the movie. Thoroughly researched made the movie haunting and compelling.
A MUST WATCH MOVIE. FINEST MOVIE THIS YEAR.
Meghna Gulzar's direction is gripping and thrilling. I am watching her work for the first time and will surely be eager to watch her future works. The film's narration is perfect and grasping, which result in an edge of the seat story. The background music is soothing and Gulzar made sure to give best for his daughter. There is not a single dull or bad moment in the film.
Talking about the stellar cast in the movie, I have to say 'mind blowing'. Irrfan Khan does it again. He leads the charge like a boss. It's so much fun to watch him on screen. He is serious, funny, humorous, sarcastic, unapologetic, rude..everything he plays with an ease. I don't know the names of many actors, even though I know them by face, everyone did a fantastic job.
It was great to watch a movie like Talvar on Gandhi Jayanti. The faults in the system, the non-interested investigating officers and the society..are properly represented in the movie. Thoroughly researched made the movie haunting and compelling.
A MUST WATCH MOVIE. FINEST MOVIE THIS YEAR.
Outstanding!!! just give it a try.
harishchityala-3967822 July 2018
I have never watched a movie like this. The direction of the movie was superb all credits to Meghna gulzar for giving us such a wonderful film and irrfan khan was as always giving gossebumps with his acting and my favourite Neeraj kabi just stunning.
A Lot Of Insights On What Was Untold And Unknown
jaideepkhanduja29 September 2015
A movie stands on four pillars in my understanding - Storyline Cast Direction Performance
The storyline of Talvar is woven excellently. It portrays the Aarushi Murder Case and related facts in such an impacting manner that every bit of the movie is engrossing and intense. You need to pay attention to every stream of the reel. The intensity that is built quite early in the story stays intact after interval too. The ending is not at all abrupt. It goes with a number of intriguing questions that keep floating in mind even after leaving the theater. The story gets absorbed in your mind and heart and unknowingly or even if unwillingly it travels with you, stays with you and keeps haunting you and probing you with many questions. What if? Why that? How could it be? are the few questions that keep floating in your mind. It has been well written by Vishal Bhardwaj and the similar credit for screenplay too goes to Vishal. The movie runs for a little less than 2 hours and 15 minutes.
The cast has been well chosen and what I feel is that these days there is some scientific mechanism behind the cast selection. Irrfan Khan as Ashwin - a CBI investigating officer. Tabu as Reema is Ashwin's wife and this time I would give her full credit for playing her role well. Ayesha Praveen playing the role of Shruti (based on Aarushi) had little to do but still in her short stint she impressed well. Neeraj Kabi as Shruti's father (based on Rajesh Talwar in the real incident of 2008 Aarushi Talwar's murder) resembled Rajesh Talwar and justified his role by playing it quite perfectly. Konkona Sen Sharma has played the role of Shruti's mother and she too did well. Some new faces like Sohum Shah, Gajraj Rao, and Atul Kumar were able to put substantial impact in the story through their role. It is Irrfan who must get full scores for outperforming so magnificently. But that is his foray and he has mastered to outperform whatever role he is given in any kind of story. He fits well in intense stories.
The direction is by Meghna Gulzar and she must get full marks for creating such a great impact through her directorial skills.
Performance by each individual has been fantastic. It will be difficult to find out who has done less as even the bad roles have been played in such a good way and with perfection.
Overall the movie reflects how politics, media and judiciary can change directions of the justice. Finally, the blind justice symbol's unnoticed weapon has been highlighted but did justice finally win? You watch the movie and decide.
It is a must watch movie, quite serious, intense and intriguing with no excessive and non-digestible masala; and/or item numbers. Good to watch with friends and family.
The storyline of Talvar is woven excellently. It portrays the Aarushi Murder Case and related facts in such an impacting manner that every bit of the movie is engrossing and intense. You need to pay attention to every stream of the reel. The intensity that is built quite early in the story stays intact after interval too. The ending is not at all abrupt. It goes with a number of intriguing questions that keep floating in mind even after leaving the theater. The story gets absorbed in your mind and heart and unknowingly or even if unwillingly it travels with you, stays with you and keeps haunting you and probing you with many questions. What if? Why that? How could it be? are the few questions that keep floating in your mind. It has been well written by Vishal Bhardwaj and the similar credit for screenplay too goes to Vishal. The movie runs for a little less than 2 hours and 15 minutes.
The cast has been well chosen and what I feel is that these days there is some scientific mechanism behind the cast selection. Irrfan Khan as Ashwin - a CBI investigating officer. Tabu as Reema is Ashwin's wife and this time I would give her full credit for playing her role well. Ayesha Praveen playing the role of Shruti (based on Aarushi) had little to do but still in her short stint she impressed well. Neeraj Kabi as Shruti's father (based on Rajesh Talwar in the real incident of 2008 Aarushi Talwar's murder) resembled Rajesh Talwar and justified his role by playing it quite perfectly. Konkona Sen Sharma has played the role of Shruti's mother and she too did well. Some new faces like Sohum Shah, Gajraj Rao, and Atul Kumar were able to put substantial impact in the story through their role. It is Irrfan who must get full scores for outperforming so magnificently. But that is his foray and he has mastered to outperform whatever role he is given in any kind of story. He fits well in intense stories.
The direction is by Meghna Gulzar and she must get full marks for creating such a great impact through her directorial skills.
Performance by each individual has been fantastic. It will be difficult to find out who has done less as even the bad roles have been played in such a good way and with perfection.
Overall the movie reflects how politics, media and judiciary can change directions of the justice. Finally, the blind justice symbol's unnoticed weapon has been highlighted but did justice finally win? You watch the movie and decide.
It is a must watch movie, quite serious, intense and intriguing with no excessive and non-digestible masala; and/or item numbers. Good to watch with friends and family.
India is full of Injustice & Overly Judgemental People
chandnisethhi2 October 2015
Warning: Spoilers
Like Most Indians I had heard of the Aarushi Murder Case on the news channels & had believed that The Talwars were guilty But A few days back I read the Book Aarushi by Avirook Sen which left me extremely shocked because the book tells the exact facts related to the case which provides a completely different angle to the case.
The Movie Talvar is based upon these exact facts and brings out the case in such a manner that every person watching the movie would feel like entering the movie screens & slapping the policemen and C.B.I officers.
The acting of Irrfan Khan and all other actors is brilliant & in the last 15-20 minutes which is a face off between the two cbi teams, you just feel like clapping for each and every dialogue of Irrfan Khan.
This movie is a slap on the face of the Indian Legal System. The Talwars are in Dasna Jail for almost 2 years now. All we can hope is that this movie contribute in some way to bring them to justice because as Irrfan Khan said it is better to let 10 criminals go rather than convicting one innocent person .
A Must Watch Movie for Every Indian.
The Movie Talvar is based upon these exact facts and brings out the case in such a manner that every person watching the movie would feel like entering the movie screens & slapping the policemen and C.B.I officers.
The acting of Irrfan Khan and all other actors is brilliant & in the last 15-20 minutes which is a face off between the two cbi teams, you just feel like clapping for each and every dialogue of Irrfan Khan.
This movie is a slap on the face of the Indian Legal System. The Talwars are in Dasna Jail for almost 2 years now. All we can hope is that this movie contribute in some way to bring them to justice because as Irrfan Khan said it is better to let 10 criminals go rather than convicting one innocent person .
A Must Watch Movie for Every Indian.
Must watch of the year.
sharduliyer5 October 2015
Before going to watch this movie, everyone might have speculations, preconceptions, and many thoughts as to what the real thing happened. This is a true story which took place and was the talk of the country for years. Some have anticipation of what might be the truth, some have pre-decided views of what happened and some who didn't know what happened.
Coming back to the movie, it consists of all the ingredients to make it a blockbuster. A murder, many suspects and absurd local police work results into special police to take up the case. Enter Irrfan and the whole case takes a new angle. Newer thoughts are given to the case as to what might have happened with help of logic.
The major thing about this movie is its logic as to what might have truly happened. Some dialogues are comical and really make you see the funny side of some situations. As the movie ended I wondered whether what might have happened because of the twist shown in the movie. But nonetheless this movie has been made with precision and sticks to its main topic.
The only disappointing thing, perhaps, was Tabu not getting much of a role. For a powerful actor like Tabu she should have got a much better role than she got. Irrfan is spot on and is wonderful in every scene and so is Konkona.
Verdict: A must watch even if you know or not know what happened in reality.
Coming back to the movie, it consists of all the ingredients to make it a blockbuster. A murder, many suspects and absurd local police work results into special police to take up the case. Enter Irrfan and the whole case takes a new angle. Newer thoughts are given to the case as to what might have happened with help of logic.
The major thing about this movie is its logic as to what might have truly happened. Some dialogues are comical and really make you see the funny side of some situations. As the movie ended I wondered whether what might have happened because of the twist shown in the movie. But nonetheless this movie has been made with precision and sticks to its main topic.
The only disappointing thing, perhaps, was Tabu not getting much of a role. For a powerful actor like Tabu she should have got a much better role than she got. Irrfan is spot on and is wonderful in every scene and so is Konkona.
Verdict: A must watch even if you know or not know what happened in reality.
Flawed but above average police procedural .....
PimpinAinttEasy9 October 2015
Full disclosure : I would have rated this film very highly if I knew absolutely nothing about the Aarushi murder case. So this is a subjective review.
Talvar focuses mostly on three real life investigations into the murder of a teenage girl that shocked India - the first investigation by the police force and two subsequent ones by the CBI (name changed to CDI in this film).
The police officers come across as total caricatures - they could have been Kader Khan and Shakti Kapoor from some 90s movie for all we know. Though it is possible that this is how the police officers conducted investigations in real life. It is quite obvious that the makers wanted the audience to look down upon the police officers. They are portrayed as a bunch of callous morons not worthy of our respect.
I was a bit disappointed by Talvar. The makers had a very intriguing and widely covered and discussed murder case as material but they made the film without any sort of ambiguity. The film almost entirely absolves the husband-wife duo of any wrong doing.
Konkona and the actor who played her husband are unremarkable. But they weren't the focus of this movie. Their story is in the background. This is one of the major drawbacks of the film. The tense film that focuses on the bumbling police officers and the efficient but cruel CBI officials fails to lend any voice to the victims. The horror of their situation does not really come through. I guess this is because the script almost takes for granted the inefficiency and callousness of the investigators.
Irfan Khan is very good. This is one of his best performances, up there with Pan Singh Tomar. Though the flashbacks about his failed marriage were completely unnecessary. That space could have been used to expand on the horrors faced by the husband-wife duo.
I would have made the film differently. Vishal Bharadwaj and Meghna Gulzar had gold in their hands. They could have done so much with the material. There were so many interesting themes in the background - the clash between urban and rural India, middle class impotence, media fueled voyeurism, the callous Indian police force and judiciary that mirrors Indian society itself etc. A longer film where these themes are foregrounded would have made the film so much more than it is.
Instead, Meghna Gulzar and Vishal Bharadwaj gives us a routine and somewhat predictable police procedural.
(6/10)
Talvar focuses mostly on three real life investigations into the murder of a teenage girl that shocked India - the first investigation by the police force and two subsequent ones by the CBI (name changed to CDI in this film).
The police officers come across as total caricatures - they could have been Kader Khan and Shakti Kapoor from some 90s movie for all we know. Though it is possible that this is how the police officers conducted investigations in real life. It is quite obvious that the makers wanted the audience to look down upon the police officers. They are portrayed as a bunch of callous morons not worthy of our respect.
I was a bit disappointed by Talvar. The makers had a very intriguing and widely covered and discussed murder case as material but they made the film without any sort of ambiguity. The film almost entirely absolves the husband-wife duo of any wrong doing.
Konkona and the actor who played her husband are unremarkable. But they weren't the focus of this movie. Their story is in the background. This is one of the major drawbacks of the film. The tense film that focuses on the bumbling police officers and the efficient but cruel CBI officials fails to lend any voice to the victims. The horror of their situation does not really come through. I guess this is because the script almost takes for granted the inefficiency and callousness of the investigators.
Irfan Khan is very good. This is one of his best performances, up there with Pan Singh Tomar. Though the flashbacks about his failed marriage were completely unnecessary. That space could have been used to expand on the horrors faced by the husband-wife duo.
I would have made the film differently. Vishal Bharadwaj and Meghna Gulzar had gold in their hands. They could have done so much with the material. There were so many interesting themes in the background - the clash between urban and rural India, middle class impotence, media fueled voyeurism, the callous Indian police force and judiciary that mirrors Indian society itself etc. A longer film where these themes are foregrounded would have made the film so much more than it is.
Instead, Meghna Gulzar and Vishal Bharadwaj gives us a routine and somewhat predictable police procedural.
(6/10)
A story may have many versions, but this story has only one.
kheterpalayush16 April 2017
Warning: Spoilers
This movie is based on true story of what happened in Aarushi Talvar's murder case. It is a beautifully orchestrated movie which shows the deep realities of functioning of police administration in India.
Other than the story part of this movie, which is at focus here, Direction is great. Vishal and Gulzar have done a tremendous job to get the best out of all the actors in this movie. Acting is simple and superb. Irfan Khan has time and again showed us how powerful an simple act can be.
Now to the story part, All that is needed to know what actually happened in this case is common man's logic and official statements from court, police etc.
You know Who is a caged parrot? CBI That's who. And these are not my words, these are words of Supreme Court of India. The law regulating CBI is structurally flawed and it is deliberately so. We need separation of CBI from Parliament and politicians like in U.S., if we want any positive change.
India needs more movies like these.
Other than the story part of this movie, which is at focus here, Direction is great. Vishal and Gulzar have done a tremendous job to get the best out of all the actors in this movie. Acting is simple and superb. Irfan Khan has time and again showed us how powerful an simple act can be.
Now to the story part, All that is needed to know what actually happened in this case is common man's logic and official statements from court, police etc.
You know Who is a caged parrot? CBI That's who. And these are not my words, these are words of Supreme Court of India. The law regulating CBI is structurally flawed and it is deliberately so. We need separation of CBI from Parliament and politicians like in U.S., if we want any positive change.
India needs more movies like these.
Consistently enjoyable but could have been better
Peter_Young12 March 2022
Meghna Gulzar's film is a bumpy ride but it's consistently watchable and enjoyable. The film's first portions are a bit messy and require patience and attention, but once it picks up there's no looking back. Interestingly, the film is not written as a taut thriller but rather an absorbing suspense. The Rashomon effect works in its favour, but sometimes something is missing, and above all, the ending will leave most viewers dissatisfied and quite disturbed given the direction the story adapts throughout the film and its development.
Technically the film is quite impressive - the cinematography is effective and the sets are most real, helping the director achieve the film's authentic feel and almost documentary-like delivery. The acting is very good especially among the minor players, like the maids and the staff. Irrfan leads the cast with a fantastic performance, as usual, achieving everything with great minimalism. Konkona is given a thankless role and she's almost a prop. Tabu must have been just a favour to a friend. But Talvar works, despite its misgivings.
Technically the film is quite impressive - the cinematography is effective and the sets are most real, helping the director achieve the film's authentic feel and almost documentary-like delivery. The acting is very good especially among the minor players, like the maids and the staff. Irrfan leads the cast with a fantastic performance, as usual, achieving everything with great minimalism. Konkona is given a thankless role and she's almost a prop. Tabu must have been just a favour to a friend. But Talvar works, despite its misgivings.
10 Flaws in Talvar Movie
karnatakacetstudents24 February 2016
Warning: Spoilers
Here are the 10 flaws in Talvar Movie
1. Narco analysis as on YouTube shows that Krishna says that He did not murder
2. Irfaan Khan thinks you need to be superman to move a fridge
3. No scene to show why mother left the key on Aarushis door
4. Irfaan Khan doesn't bother to check mobile tower data
5. Shows 2 plus 5 people in house. Even watchman enters but parents unaware due to AC. But they can hear the door bell from the maid !!
6. Krishna rather drinks after murder and goes to Aarushis room again to slit her throat ..
7. Parents never seek revenge or justice or look for any reason or evidence for death of their only daughter
8. Hemraj is allowed to entertain guests after 12 midnight and also he is allowed to steal liquor from owner !
9. 5 doors open and close at least 2 times .. Main Door, Grill, Terrace door, Aarushi's door, Hemraj's door.. Mother dint hear.. Father also dint hear..
10. Thick Khurki can make surgical precision cut on some important nerve
Conclusion - Parents may not have murdered.. but they know more
1. Narco analysis as on YouTube shows that Krishna says that He did not murder
2. Irfaan Khan thinks you need to be superman to move a fridge
3. No scene to show why mother left the key on Aarushis door
4. Irfaan Khan doesn't bother to check mobile tower data
5. Shows 2 plus 5 people in house. Even watchman enters but parents unaware due to AC. But they can hear the door bell from the maid !!
6. Krishna rather drinks after murder and goes to Aarushis room again to slit her throat ..
7. Parents never seek revenge or justice or look for any reason or evidence for death of their only daughter
8. Hemraj is allowed to entertain guests after 12 midnight and also he is allowed to steal liquor from owner !
9. 5 doors open and close at least 2 times .. Main Door, Grill, Terrace door, Aarushi's door, Hemraj's door.. Mother dint hear.. Father also dint hear..
10. Thick Khurki can make surgical precision cut on some important nerve
Conclusion - Parents may not have murdered.. but they know more
Talvar- an intriguing and gripping tale of horror, reality, emotion...
arnabcr4 October 2015
Recently watched the movie 'Talwars'. An intriguing and gripping tale of horror, reality, emotion immaculately stitched by Meghna Gulzar, the director of the film. Once again she proved that We, the common people follow news through newspapers, news channels but only what 'we are made to follow', that is how a perception is being made. Not sure we should call it cognizance or ignorance? It again reinstated the pathetic condition of our Indian judiciary system...! In law it says "Innocent before you are guilty", here the state of fact reinforces "Guilty before you are innocent". Don't miss it...please go and watch the movie, highly recommended!!!
Frightening & Powerful!
namashi_113 October 2015
Based on the 2008 Noida double murder case (the Arushi Talvar murder case), 'Talvar' is a Frightening, Disturbing & Unbelievably Powerful film. Director Meghna Gulzar delivers a tale so infamous & unsettling, that it hits you like a ton of bricks.
'Talvar' Synopsis: An experienced investigator confronts several conflicting theories about the perpetrators of a violent double homicide.
'Talvar' left me spellbound. The way this story unfolds (clearly inspired by Rashomon), through multiple point of views on what might have actually happened in the crime scene, is often hard to watch. Who did it? What led to the death of the victim? Who was at fault? And has the law done justice? There are several questions that cross your mind while this story flows & sadly, some questions remained unanswered.
Vishal Bhardwaj's Screenplay is top-notch. Its unforgivably unpleasant, but extremely interesting. He has adapted a real chapter of human-horror, into a brilliant, hard-hitting film. The Writing also finds humour at places, which I must say, is the scariest aspect of it. And yet, you laugh. That's how well-done this Screenplay is!
Meghna Gulzar's Direction is excellent. She has hit the nail! Cinematography is claustrophobic, complimenting the narrative's mood, perfectly. Editing is crisp. Bhardwaj's Score is moody, but haunting.
Performance-Wise: Irrfan Khan is unstoppable. The National-Award Winner is masterclass here, enacting the no-non-sense investigator, flawlessly. Neeraj Kabi & Konkona Sen Sharma are terrific as the parents under torment. Sohum Shah is superb as Irrfan's assistant. Gajraj Rao crawls your skin as the despicably unorthodox cop. Atul Kumar leaves a mark as a fellow investigator. And The Magnificent Tabu is ever-effective in her cameo as Irrfan's estranged wife.
On the whole, 'Talvar' needs to watched, because it makes you think. How rarely do films nowadays do that? Run to your nearest cinema now.
'Talvar' Synopsis: An experienced investigator confronts several conflicting theories about the perpetrators of a violent double homicide.
'Talvar' left me spellbound. The way this story unfolds (clearly inspired by Rashomon), through multiple point of views on what might have actually happened in the crime scene, is often hard to watch. Who did it? What led to the death of the victim? Who was at fault? And has the law done justice? There are several questions that cross your mind while this story flows & sadly, some questions remained unanswered.
Vishal Bhardwaj's Screenplay is top-notch. Its unforgivably unpleasant, but extremely interesting. He has adapted a real chapter of human-horror, into a brilliant, hard-hitting film. The Writing also finds humour at places, which I must say, is the scariest aspect of it. And yet, you laugh. That's how well-done this Screenplay is!
Meghna Gulzar's Direction is excellent. She has hit the nail! Cinematography is claustrophobic, complimenting the narrative's mood, perfectly. Editing is crisp. Bhardwaj's Score is moody, but haunting.
Performance-Wise: Irrfan Khan is unstoppable. The National-Award Winner is masterclass here, enacting the no-non-sense investigator, flawlessly. Neeraj Kabi & Konkona Sen Sharma are terrific as the parents under torment. Sohum Shah is superb as Irrfan's assistant. Gajraj Rao crawls your skin as the despicably unorthodox cop. Atul Kumar leaves a mark as a fellow investigator. And The Magnificent Tabu is ever-effective in her cameo as Irrfan's estranged wife.
On the whole, 'Talvar' needs to watched, because it makes you think. How rarely do films nowadays do that? Run to your nearest cinema now.
Brilliant!!!!!
kmathapati28 November 2015
Kudos to Vishal Bharadhwaj and team for bringing such a heart wrenching movie to celluloid. Appreciate the honest attempt of Meghna Gulzar and heart felt applause to the research team for their study on this particular murder mystery. Hope things change in our existing system and things become more clear and visible when it comes to justice. And even feel great to be born in the era of Mr. Irfan Khan the finest actor every bollywood has produced till now. Sir hoping to see more from you. What intrigues me in the whole time span during watching this movie is it gets more intense as i start comparing what we read in the newspaper and what exactly might have been happened is completely different. People in the power to fulfill their ego make some wrong moves and make the public suffer because of their ignorance. Anyways lets not get into this and wish the whole team congratulations.
Must Watch
ppimranpp1 October 2015
I saw this movie on 1st Oct. Its really very good movie which shows the activities and investigation status of Indian Police.We Need to improve the investigation level of our country police or CBI. I am surprised how CBI can ignore the convict if they are able to catch them. Our county top positioned law personalities has to show a active participation which helps to get the case resolved as soon as possible.
I don't know what is the reality but after seeing this movie I will pray to the God please help if someone getting punishment which them didn't.
Hope this movie will bring some change in the mind and working level of the laws.
I don't know what is the reality but after seeing this movie I will pray to the God please help if someone getting punishment which them didn't.
Hope this movie will bring some change in the mind and working level of the laws.
SUSPENSE GLORY.
andrewchristianjr18 August 2020
Top class acting by Irfan Khan. So thrilling and disturbing. Great investigative drama and conspiracy thriller. The pacing is intense, the treatment of plot with 3 different investigations makes for an interesting retelling. Most shocking part of the movie was hpw things ended.
Hypothetical Drama
Quirk4723 August 2020
Its just Ego factor that leads to utter failure. Two officers who r responsible for their actions gives us horrible fluctuations. This movie is more like a documentary. I wish it was solved. Gripping story with Non linear Screenplay makes it interesting. Climax is awful. Highly recommended. Must watch.
If you want to try a bollywood flick, this one is OK
jranta-9744829 November 2015
As an European I rarely watch any Bollywood flicks. This one was appraised by many as the best movie of the year (including only bollywood movies I guess). I found it to be average. I have seen a few Bollywood productions and this one had by far the most coherent plot and cultural differences did not make me feel like I was watching something from another planet which is the case most of the time with Indian pieces. If rated against other local productions Id give it 8.5 stars, if against western flicks I could be generous and score it 7. Looking something with a bollywood twist that is still watchable? Try this. Cultural differences can be amusing. Could not get over how the actors amusingly wiggle their heads around while talking. But if you are looking for an experience that compares to some of the top 250 on IMDb, that this is surely not.
Very good suspense detective crime movie
ventje-engel1 July 2017
Okay, it was difficult for me to watch Indian movie again. Last I watched Indian movie was like 8 years ago, 3 Idiots. I always have this prejudices toward Indian movies. Lately, I've been craving for suspense or thriller genre movies. I watched a lot in the last 2 years. Then my friend suggested me to watch Talvar, an Indian movie. I literally watched this movie because my friend swear on it. And damn, he was right.
Talvar is a very good investigation movie. The pace is medium enough, and we were showed how Indian police work and how CDI, the elites, work. The story is intriguing, the acting is superb, and the depiction of real life is so detail and moving.
I like this movie, because I felt like I'm in the middle of the investigation. I am surprised that the case is from real life. Wow.
Now, I have a plan to watch some others Indian movies such as Kahaani, A Wednesday, and Byomkesh. I think I will fall hard for Indian movies again.
Talvar is a very good investigation movie. The pace is medium enough, and we were showed how Indian police work and how CDI, the elites, work. The story is intriguing, the acting is superb, and the depiction of real life is so detail and moving.
I like this movie, because I felt like I'm in the middle of the investigation. I am surprised that the case is from real life. Wow.
Now, I have a plan to watch some others Indian movies such as Kahaani, A Wednesday, and Byomkesh. I think I will fall hard for Indian movies again.
Disturbing.... Yet Mind Blowing......
SumanShakya22 June 2016
Warning: Spoilers
"Talvar" is based on Noida Double Murder Case of 2008, in which a 14 year old girl (Arushi Talwar) and 45 year old servant Hemraj Banjade) were found murdered for which the parents of the girl were convicted for life time imprisonment. The murder case gathered a lot of light in the media and still the case remains unsolved. The makers of the film should be commended for the subject they have chosen. Indeed the film makers had the guts to tell a story which many won't dare to. The story has a lot of strengths such as it exposes how the police, the first ones to reach the crime scene, work carelessly and are unsuccessful to secure the evidences. Besides, it exposes different methods of interrogation by CBI, like narcotic interrogation. The film dramatizes the names of the incident and turns into a feature film instead of documentary. Despite the strong story, the film has its weaknesses. It hasn't freed itself from the regular image of a CBI officer played by Irfan Khan. Don't know why the second phase of investigation by CBI doesn't look very interesting or convincing as the first phase. Anyway, on the aspect of the story, the film still remains disturbing yet mind blowing.
Rating: 2 stars out of 4
Rating: 2 stars out of 4
An underwhelming experience!
murtaza_mma4 October 2015
All those who compared Talvar with Rashomon clearly don't have a clue what Akira Kurosawa tries to depict in his groundbreaking masterpiece. It must be understood that Kurosawa never makes an attempt to lead the viewer. He just shows us the same event from four different point of views. And he doesn't feed us with lies (Talvar, on the contrary, comes across as a propaganda film), only the different faces of truth. Talvar, on the other hand, is a different ball game. Not that it is bad but one finds it rather difficult to appreciate its desperation as a work of cinema. Everything about the movie looks somewhat forced, as if someone is knocking at the doors of creativity in a hope to conjure up a semblance of realism. A craving for realism in an attempted "Whodunit" is not exactly the best idea.
Neeraj Kabi seems to be missing his mojo (an actor of his caliber deserve meatier caricatures). Konkona Sen too looks a bit out of place. And while Irrfan Khan fails to bring his A-game to the table, his performance nonetheless is the movie's strongest point (his scenes with Tabu, who makes a guest appearance, are quite solid), especially thanks to his characteristic wry humour and wit that offer some comic relief at crucial moments. But even that is a bit forced. Don't believe me? Just consider him (and another character) referring to the Missionary Position as "Dharam Pracharak Aasan" and Pornography as "Ashleel Sahitya" in one of the sequences. Overall, Talvar, given its promise, proves to be an underwhelming experience.
For a detailed analysis of the film, please visit my film blog "A Potpourri of Vestiges".
Neeraj Kabi seems to be missing his mojo (an actor of his caliber deserve meatier caricatures). Konkona Sen too looks a bit out of place. And while Irrfan Khan fails to bring his A-game to the table, his performance nonetheless is the movie's strongest point (his scenes with Tabu, who makes a guest appearance, are quite solid), especially thanks to his characteristic wry humour and wit that offer some comic relief at crucial moments. But even that is a bit forced. Don't believe me? Just consider him (and another character) referring to the Missionary Position as "Dharam Pracharak Aasan" and Pornography as "Ashleel Sahitya" in one of the sequences. Overall, Talvar, given its promise, proves to be an underwhelming experience.
For a detailed analysis of the film, please visit my film blog "A Potpourri of Vestiges".
Engaging till the last scene
nkkhushi31 January 2016
Honestly I had high expectations from the movie as it casts genuine actors like Irfan Khan and Konkona Sen, that too directed by Meghna Gulzar. It exceeded by expectations in many ways. An intelligent, thoroughly researched piece that kept me engaged every moment of the film. It is unpredictable and not an overly 'tragic' looking film. The content overpowers the drama and human element. Irfan is effortlessly charming and witty, yet a hopeless character who comes an inch close to solving the case. It is one of those films that left me reading all wikipedia entries related o the real incident. Though otherwise humorless, Irfan's wry humor is a relief in few scenes.
Konkona doesn't come across as an overly grieving mother, just as the script demands - leaving us wondering what the case really was. Though initially I felt she'd be too young to play a teenager's mother - the portrayal was perfect. Talvar doesn't have music to really speak of - but any prop like music was not needed to make this a great film. Lastly, I have officially joined Meghna Gulzar's fan club.
Konkona doesn't come across as an overly grieving mother, just as the script demands - leaving us wondering what the case really was. Though initially I felt she'd be too young to play a teenager's mother - the portrayal was perfect. Talvar doesn't have music to really speak of - but any prop like music was not needed to make this a great film. Lastly, I have officially joined Meghna Gulzar's fan club.
Superb Movie Shows That Indian Law is Worst Law!!!
parampals4510 November 2015
Warning: Spoilers
Hi All!!! This movie was Brilliant. This is a real story and it was really shown well hats off to all actors and Ace director was brilliant. No Coming towards the end, the parents are simply sent to jail and criminals are left and are roaming here and there!!! This is not Law!! Indian Law is said to be one of the Worst LAW'S Ever Seen...!!!! This was Frustating as a Citizen of India I Want all of you to watch this movie And Kick Indian law on its ass and make changes in that law so that we can have cases Solved not Cases Closed in FILES!!!! Please all of this who are reading this Please do it!!! We need it!!! and Most Important that Girl Who Died, Their Parents Need it........
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