Lajja

I must admit I expected more from Raj Kumar Santoshi. While this film is being praised in some circles, I found it tedious and sermonizing. The acting is over-the-top, barring some fine work by Ajay Devgun. The actresses are all good woman oppressed by an unjust society. Almost all the male figures (barring our three heroes) are vicious caricatures. The scenes at Mahima's wedding are almost too much to bear. I understand the social value of such films, but surely they shouldn't be THIS black and white. Madhuri shines in a brief appearance and makes the proceedings partially palatable.

Overall 3/10

From the best movies I've ever seen, showing reality in some communities, or at least a fraction of reality, and how women everywhere are oppressed.

The Hindi directors are brilliant in depicting gory authenticity that an ordinary viewer is horrified to see on the screen, when even the thought of the same is difficult to fathom. The rape scene of the character of Rekha is something that will haunt any one with a conscience, not only her true portrayal but the ugliness and heinout extent of the crime. The movie has several parts to it each with its own pathetic ending. Madhuri Dixit, Urmila Matondkar have done a formidable job. But the ace is Rekha, whose perf. is truly to the core of the character. She is shown her true potential here. If you have a long day and looking for pure entertainment in the nature of Song&Dance number, this is a movie to avoid, since the brute violence is baffling and lingers and lasts long after the movie.

Santoshi is one of the few Indian directors who can touch the reality to its core. The story of the character played by Rekha is based on true story, but all the other stories are also very much based on true stories to some extent. Technically the film is great. Scenes to watch out for: Mahima kicking the 'baratis' @$$. Madhuri's (one of her best performances to date) well, her complete part is gripping right from where she's introduced dancing to Madhubala's 'Jab pyaar kiya to darna kya' to where she cries out her heart for loosing her child. Rekha pleading for help while the villains try to rape her (specially whn she mentions that one of the guy was like his son). There are many many scenes in the film worth an applause. all the actors (including character actors) are amazing. Anil Kapoor is worth mentioning. His character gave a little comic relief in this tragic story along with Jonny Lever.

This film about the plight of women in india is indeed deeply disturbing and angry.Shock value and ultra realism have been used to the max. The world needs to wake up and understand the plight of women in more conservative societies, and in general.The film has been well shot and the acting is of a high standard, though right from the scene where Madhuri dixit is shunned by all through to Rekhas brutal rape the film seems to leave a bad taste that sort of leaves you feeling very shaken up indeed. this film is not for the faint hearted or those who want as a close a look as they can at the plight of women in india.This movie wasn't enjoyable and I don't think it was meant to entertain even though there are some lighter moments in the film. I would give this a 7 out of 10. not bad not entirely brilliant either.