The Mahabharata (1989) Review in 2025
The Mahabharata is a 1989 Indian epic film directed by Chetan Anand, based on the ancient Indian epic of the same name. The film stars Amitabh Bachchan, Shashi Kapoor, and Dilip Kumar in lead roles.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is not suitable for young children due to its complex storyline and violent scenes.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for its epic scope and memorable performances. However, it may not be suitable for everyone due to its complex storyline and violent scenes. It's best enjoyed in theaters or on a large screen.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film tells the story of the Pandavas and the Kauravas, two groups of cousins who engage in a fierce battle for the throne of Hastinapura. The film explores themes of duty, loyalty, and the consequences of war.
Review Details
story7.00/10
The story is epic in scale, but it feels disjointed and hard to follow at times. The pacing is slow, and the film could have benefited from a more streamlined narrative.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with each actor bringing their A-game to their respective roles. Amitabh Bachchan, Shashi Kapoor, and Dilip Kumar deliver standout performances, and their chemistry on screen is undeniable.
characters8.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with each one bringing their own unique perspective to the story. However, some characters feel underutilized, and their storylines are not fully explored.
direction6.00/10
The direction is competent, but it lacks a clear vision. The film could have benefited from a more nuanced approach to storytelling, and the pacing is often uneven.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with breathtaking landscapes and impressive battle scenes. However, the camera work can be shaky at times, and the lighting is not always consistent.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The Mahabharata is a visually stunning film with impressive battle scenes and breathtaking landscapes. The acting is superb, and the chemistry between the leads is undeniable.
Cons
The story is disjointed and hard to follow at times, and the pacing is slow. The direction lacks a clear vision, and the film could have benefited from a more nuanced approach to storytelling.
Notable Quotes
"Dharma is not just a word, it is a way of life."
"The truth is not just a fact, it is a feeling."
"War is not just a means to an end, it is an end in itself."
