CityLights

CityLights is not a commercial film at all. It's not a film which you would like to watch with your family to lighten up your mood. CityLights will make you think, cry and will stay with you even after the climax. Indian audience has so far maintained a distance from this genre of cinema. CityLights might change the trend.

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.

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.

To write about CityLights is difficult. It is one film that brings up so many thoughts that I rather shut up that write anything that does not do justice to the film. That's the impact Hansal Mehta's direction left on me. This film soaks you in, and refuses to leave you much after you have left the theater. The songs continue to haunt. Recommended must watch!

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.

Citylights would remain with me for a long time. Gripping glorious and unforgettable, it is a shattering life-changing experience.

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!

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.

Citylights' frighteningly carnivorous undertow singularly restores Mumbai's reputation as India's most absolute cinematic city.

Hansal Mehta's Citylights starring Rajkumar Rao and Patralekha is a delight to watch and even though it might make you saddened by virtue of it's tragic tale, Citylights will surely leave you with the words in your mind, "Great movie yaar...!"

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.

Purely as a film that explores the connection between immigration and crime – and for its ability to come together beautifully as a collaborative effort – City Lights is a fascinating watch.

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.

An honest attempt at showing the search of a better life in the city of dreams. More than the performances that the film boasts of, it's the smart use of the camera that captures emotions to the tee. Kudos to Hansal Mehta and to the entire crew for bringing this awe-inspiring work to the forefront.