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Global Baba backdrop

Global Baba

11 March 2016Hindi2h 10m
out of 10
Mixedlukewarm or divided
Monk Score · 5 scored reviews · 2 not rated

Earnest on fake godmen, but the muddled screenplay blunts its own message.

Verdict tier Mixed, lukewarm or divided, on a scale of Unfavorable, Mixed, Recommended, Exceptional.

  • Praised: Earnest handling of subject matter
  • Criticised: Weak unfocused narrative execution

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Critic consensus

What 7 critics are saying

Critical reception for Global Baba is mixed, with most reviewers acknowledging the film's willingness to tackle the serious subject of fake godmen and the nexus between religion and politics, but faulting its execution. Critics commonly note that the film takes a commendable stand on a significant issue and delivers its message sincerely, with some praising the performances despite the absence of star power. However, a recurring criticism is that the film fails to move beyond surface-level observation, with reviewers pointing to overly busy plotting, a looping narrative, and an inability to deliver the sharp satirical punch of comparable films like Oh My God or PK. The consensus is that the intent is sound but the screenplay does not match the ambition.

How the 5 scores spread

2 not-rated reviews aren't plotted

Positive / mixed / negative reviews

Positive = 6.5/10 and up · negative = below 5/10

AI-generated summary of 7 critic reviews · may contain errors

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From the papers

Critic reviews (7)

Top critics first, then by score · not-rated last · updated

  1. Deccan Chronicle

    Film review ·

    If you are religious and want to know its hidden harsh realities, then go watch 'Global Baba' this weekend. But if you are expecting a fancy film like 'PK' or 'Oh My God', then it may disappoint you. Though the film doesn't have 'stars', but the performances by the actors in the film will blow you away.
  2. Mid-Day

    Film review ·

    The film with its tongue firmly in its cheek content, gives a timely, strong message of how blind faith and mob mentality can be easily manipulated by anybody in this country. No business like god business, says Dhamroo in a matter-of-fact manner. Even though this business will continue thriving in this country, kudos to Tiwari for saying it as it is through this film.
  3. Times Of India

    Film review ·

    Global Baba is subversive but doesn't have an inventive streak. It points out problems without delving deeper or providing a solution. This one is just old wine in an old bottle!
  4. NowRunning

    Film review ·

    This is not Oh My God, neither is it PK, but this is a clever little gem that may slip through the cracks simply because the film does not have A-listers. Global Baba is a clever satire, written well but it fails to deliver the punch against fake godmen that Oh My God did. Even though directed well, the story feels like it is looping without moving an inch. But the heart is in the right place.
  5. Mumbai Mirror

    Film review ·

    The nexus between politics and religion is one of the great manipulative enterprises of 21st century India, and to take the stand that Global Baba does on godmen and religious organisations in general is commendable. But a stand is all this is. As they say, there's many a slip between an idea and a script.
  6. Scroll.in

    Film review ·

    The clarity with which director Manoj Tiwari approaches his subject isn't always reflected in the overly busy plotting and the choppy narrative. Yet, the filmmaker makes his points adequately. People are willing to be herded like sheep. Politicians use trickster godmen for electoral gains. And all it takes to be a successful holy man is a wardrobe full of saffron and a talent for manipulation. Blind faith and cynicism take care of the rest.
  7. The Hindu

    Film review ·

    Despite the shrillness and breathlessness of action it deals with a significant issue in all seriousness. A film that might be loud but does talk sense.

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