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Jolly LLB backdrop

Jolly LLB

15 March 2013Hindi2h 15mPart 1 of the Jolly LLB series
Comedy
out of 10
Mixedlukewarm or divided
Monk Score · 9 critic reviews

Sharp satire on courtroom corruption, let down by preachy writing and an uneven first half

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

  • Praised: satirical heart and social message
  • Criticised: uneven writing and preachiness

Audience

User score 6.4 out of 10 from 7 ratings, Mixed
Read 2 audience reviews ↓

Not streaming in India

Top cast

Full cast & crew

Critic consensus

What 9 critics are saying

Critical reception for Jolly LLB was moderately positive, with most reviewers appreciating its satirical take on corruption within India's judicial system and its championing of the common man's pursuit of justice. Saurabh Shukla's performance drew particular attention, with at least one critic noting it as the film's strongest element. Common criticisms included an uneven or weaker first half, overly preachy storytelling, broad characterization, and a musical score seen as out of place with the film's naturalistic tone. The consensus is that the film's sincerity and social commentary carry it past its structural flaws.

How the 9 scores spread

Positive / mixed / negative reviews

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

AI-generated summary of 9 critic reviews · may contain errors

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From the papers

Critic reviews (9)

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

  1. Top critic

    NDTV

    Film review ·

    Barring the off-kilter musical score, which is completely out of sync with the predominantly naturalistic drift of the film, Jolly LLB is a jolly good film.

  3. Top critic

    IBNLive

    Film review ·

    Its heart unquestionably in the right place, 'Jolly LLB' is very watchable, even if it does paint in broad strokes. I'm going with two-and-a-half out of five. Not a bad way to spend an evening.

  4. Top critic

    Indian Express

    Film review ·

    The only one who lifts the film and makes it worth our while is Shukla, who has got himself a role worthy of his talent after a long time.

  5. Top critic

    Rediff

    Film review ·

    Jolly LLB is funny in parts but preachiness and the need to flaunt the film's sincerity and heart get in the way

  6. Glamsham

    Film review ·

    JOLLY LLB for Oscars may seem far-fetched within the industry big-wigs who prefer big names with far poorer content (EKLAVYA, BARFI!). But if this movie is favored, believe me; our judicial system will be fast-tracked and feared like in the west.

  7. Bollywood Hungama

    Film review ·

    On the whole, JOLLY LLB is a power-packed courtroom drama. But, most importantly, it celebrates the spirit of the common man seeking justice and impartiality most effectively. Just don't miss this jolly good film!

  8. Times Of India

    Film review ·

    Jolly LLB works because of its bigger point - decency is for all and worth fighting for. Using bittersweet satire and plot twirls, the film shows corruption even used against the corrupt. Despite that weaker first half, this truly becomes a Jolly good show.

  9. KoiMoi

    Film review ·

    Jolly LLB is a witty satire on the corruptible legal space of India. Craftily made, the film makes for a good humorous, thought evoking watch!

From our readers

Audience reviews (2)

7 ratings · user score 6.4

  1. Sandeep GuptaMay 2013
    7/10

    An imperfect sattire but has its heart in right place for most of the time. There are lot of outstanding moments that makes it a winner. You can't complain anyways about the acting abilities of Arshad Warsi and Boman Irani but here show-stealer is Saurabh Shukla who never misses a beat as judge whom people misunderstand for fool. Songs and heroine were not required at all. Over-all Subhash Kapoor's second outing after Phas Gaye Re Obama is a hot little cracker.

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  2. Saheb AbdullahMay 2016
    7/10

    Some Hiccups & Unnecessary Songs Aside This Is A Very Good Court Drama...A Good Story, Well Directed And Acted By Actors Like Arshad Boman & Shukla.

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