Malgudi Days (1987) Review in 2025
Malgudi Days is a 1987 Indian anthology film based on the works of R.K. Narayan. The film is a collection of 13 short stories that explore the lives of people living in the fictional town of Malgudi.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Malgudi Days is suitable for family viewing, but some stories may be too complex for younger children.
CineReview Recommendation
Malgudi Days is a must-watch for fans of Indian cinema and anthology films. It's a thought-provoking and engaging film that explores the human condition in all its complexity.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film features a diverse cast of characters, including the enigmatic Swami, the wise and witty Raman, and the eccentric Mr. Iyer. Each story is a self-contained unit, but they are all connected by the thread of Malgudi and its inhabitants.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The stories in Malgudi Days are engaging and well-crafted, with each one exploring a different aspect of human nature. The film's anthology format allows for a wide range of themes and styles, but some stories may feel disconnected from the others.
acting9.00/10
The acting in Malgudi Days is superb, with each cast member delivering a strong performance. The chemistry between the actors is palpable, making the film's ensemble cast feel like a cohesive unit.
characters8.50/10
The characters in Malgudi Days are well-developed and complex, with each one bringing their own unique perspective to the table. The cast delivers strong performances, with standout roles from Aruna Irani and Rajinikanth.
direction8.00/10
Bhaskar's direction is solid, with a clear vision for the film's tone and style. The cinematography is also noteworthy, capturing the beauty of Malgudi and its inhabitants.
cinematography8.50/10
The cinematography in Malgudi Days is stunning, with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the film's themes. The use of lighting and color is particularly noteworthy, adding depth and texture to each scene.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Malgudi Days is a beautifully shot film with a talented cast and a wide range of engaging stories. The film's themes of love, loss, and self-discovery are timeless and universal, making it a must-watch for audiences of all ages.
Cons
Some stories may feel disconnected from the others, and the film's pacing can be slow at times. However, these minor flaws are easily overlooked in favor of the film's many strengths.
Notable Quotes
"The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."
"The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing."
"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page."
