It isn’t as daring as Anurag Kashyap’s debut ‘Paanch’ whose themes it clearly mirrors, but it’s got many moments that’ll surprise you.

In the end, it’s all flash. This Shaitan is more SprayTan than Satan, staring us down and daring us to look away. Who blinks first? We do. Several times over.

Violence is comical, as kinky porn would be to an average adult. Gore is graphic, but pretty much for the shocking sake of it.

Shaitan loses steam, becomes repetitive and ends in a whimper. Which is a shame because Nambiar has talent to burn.

Shaitan may or may not be the best thing to happen to Hindi cinema, and reactions to the film will probably differ. But whether you hate, love or are left indifferent by it, give it a shot. Mainly because it’s made by a filmmaker with a unique voice. Most don’t have any.

On the whole, Shaitan is a well-made film with a rich background score, stylised cinematography and efficient performances as its high points. It may not have taken a good start but it has the merits to pick up in the good multiplexes of the cities on the strength of the youth audience. Considering its modest budget on the one hand and the dull start on the other, it would prove to be an average fare after collections pick up.

On the whole, SHAITAN is bound to raise eyebrows thanks to its contemporary, thrilling, hard-hitting and forceful content. One of the most ingenious and entertaining thrillers I’ve seen in a long time. Also, it’s one of the most stimulating and intense films to come out of the Hindi film industry. I am sure everyone would be able to connect with SHAITAN. Try not to miss this one!

SHAITAN is a spellbinding thriller with ‘awesomeness’ written all over it. Splendid shaitaniyat!