Udta Punjab
Udta Punjab

Movie spotlight

Udta Punjab

2016
Movie
148 min
Hindi

Drug abuse and the darker side of Punjab rear their heads in the intense, interwoven tales of a policeman, a doctor, a migrant worker, and a rockstar.

Insights

IMDb6.9/10
Google Users88%
Director: Abhishek ChaubeyGenres: Crime, Drama

Plot Summary

The film follows the story of drug abuse in the Indian state of Punjab. It interweaves the lives of four seemingly unconnected individuals: a migrant Bihari labourer, a high-spirited young woman from a rural Punjabi family, a rock star, and a police officer, all of whom become entangled in the drug trade.

Critical Reception

Udta Punjab received widespread critical acclaim, particularly for its bold subject matter, performances, and direction. While it faced significant pre-release censorship battles, its release was celebrated for its unflinching portrayal of a serious social issue.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its powerful and raw depiction of drug addiction's devastating impact.

  • Lauded for the stellar performances, especially from Shahid Kapoor and Alia Bhatt.

  • Noted for its ambitious narrative structure that connects disparate storylines.

Google audience: Audience reviews generally commend the film for its courageous exploration of a sensitive topic and the exceptional acting. Viewers appreciated the realistic portrayal and the emotional depth of the characters, although some found the subject matter heavy.

Awards & Accolades

Won 2 Filmfare Awards (Best Actor for Shahid Kapoor, Best Actress for Alia Bhatt) and several other accolades at various Indian film festivals.

Fun Fact

The film faced significant controversy and legal battles with the Censor Board of India, which initially demanded 89 cuts. It was eventually released after the Bombay High Court ruled in favor of the filmmakers, allowing its exhibition with just one cut.

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