CityLights
Movie Info
Synopsis
CityLights is a remake of the BAFTA nominated British film Metro Manila. The film tells the story of Deepak Singh, a poor farmer from Rajasthan. He moves to Mumbai with his wife and young child, in the hopes of a brighter future. However, he soon realizes the challenges of living in a big city.Wikipedia
Starring Cast
CityLights Reviews
5
Where 'Citylights' succeeds is in telling the story of ordinary people living below the poverty line people we seldom cast a second glance at people who sometimes have to resort to desperate measures just so they can keep their children alive. It's a good film, but not without its flaws.
6
Mehta does well with generating dread and creating a couple of surprising curves, which almost overcomes some of the plot’s uneven arcs. The songs nearly ruined the film for me, but ‘Citylights’ gives us pause. And an actor who makes us believe, all the way.
6
Citylights is persuasive. It will work better for you if you haven’t seen the original.
-
Citylights is a story we have seen many times before. However, the execution of the film by the National Award-winning director Hansal Mehta makes the film intensely gripping and thought-provoking.The film is not meant for audience which wants usual Bollywood fare. Its climax, for example, may disappoint many but is likely to gain its own niche audience.
8
Citylights follows the graph of impoverishment, exploitation and the eventual rebellion. The film is as breathless as its protagonists, but there is a certain poetry in its treatment that leaves a mark. Given its premise, some might say it’s old wine in a new bottle. But this bottle’s certainly a keeper.
8
A hard, unrelenting film that doesn’t give in to over sentimentality, Citylights is just like the city of Mumbai. It beats you down and when you are broken, takes you in its arms and loves you.
8
CityLights isn’t a feel-good entertainer. It is a film that shocks, provokes and seeks to prick our collective complacency and apathy. That obviously adds up to infinitely more value than the price of a multiplex ticket.
7
So, Citylights is based on Sean Ellis' acclaimed Metro Manila, but it also unlocks the doors to other movies in your mind. This is both a strength and drawback for this remarkable film.
5
CityLights is a very important film, it gives us a reality check. Mumbai is known to be the city of dreams but it does have a big share of shattered dreams too.It's a good one but from the team of Shahid and with Mahesh Bhatt backing the project, we expected more.
7
Citylights might have its flaws but is overall a film that must be watched. A befitting commentary on social exploitation, the film’s humane touch and the expressive treatment catapults it to a different league. But mostly I find it hard to not sing praises of Raj Kumar Rao whose superlative work gives the film it’s mettle. I ordinarily was going to go with a 3 but for Raj Kumar’s brilliance I am giving this one a 3.5/5. Industry has found an heir to Irrfan Khan and when it comes from a fan, understand that he is a keeper.
7
CITYLIGHTS is one of the most captivating movie experiences of late. An expertly-crafted heartbreaker, this tragic tale has a riveting plot, power-packed narrative, soulful music and arresting performances to haunt you much after the screening has concluded. A must watch!
7
The cast plays an important role in City Lights – newcomer Patralekha puts up a good show, she conveys her vulnerability in the right measure and pulls through in the emotional scenes as well. Manav Kaul as the friend is first rate but ultimately the film belongs to Rajkummar Rao who is simply terrific. The film is yet another feather in his cap which is collecting them at a rapid pace. For his performance itself and as a film that has something to say, City Lights is worth a watch.
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It’s a barren canvas of Mumbai’s underbelly and poverty and corruption. Things we’ve seen a thousand times before. Only this time they’re show in softer focus, more artful lighting. That’s the thing about lights. They can create a wonderful optical illusion. But it only lasts till you get up close and realise there’s nothing there.
5
CITYLIGHTS shows promise but is let down by an inconsistent script. At best, you can watch it for Rajkummar Rao and Patralekha's outstanding performances.
8
Do watch this film as it narrates the sensitive-yet-disturbing story of how human greed and selfishness can wreck lives. It also shows how unfortunately survival in a big city more often than not comes at the cost of moral values.
8
Citylights would remain with me for a long time. Gripping glorious and unforgettable, it is a shattering life-changing experience.
Audience Reviews for CityLights
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Hansal Mehta's Citylights is definitely a film which rises above the templates of one time watches. Starring Rajkummar Rao with the newcomer Patralekha Paul, the narrative-driven film doesn't objectify poverty and gives you a fresh romance- two poverty-affected people in a married relationship- the theme of many stories by modern Hindi authors. The film may be a little inspired, but that doesn't stop your from embracing the film along its every flaw (and every detail). I'm going with 3 stars and recommending you to watch it.
0September 26, 19 -
The grating songs aside, its a pretty compelling watch!
0February 21, 16
