Parineeta

Pradeep Sarcar's Parineeta is a brilliant adaptation of Sarat Chandra Bongopadhyaya's classic novel of the same name. The movie is set in Kolkatta of the 1960, which makes it Calcutta, actually. The story revolves around the trials and tribulations in the life of Lolita (newcomer Vidya Balan) and the many older men in her life. From the first scene itself, the movie succeeds in capturing our attention and we sit back and watch as the labyrinthine plot unfolds amids the byzantine setting. Far from being a dirty, commie-infested city, Calcutta of the 1960s would have given London a run for its money. Also, Chicago.

Vidya Balan has been the real find for Bollywood. She, as we all know by now, is a Tam Brahm, which gives her an obvious edge over lesser mortals. Also she's named Lolita in the movie. Then there's Soyf Oli Khon. Can we get enough of this wonderfully underrated actor? With his chiselled looks and designer wear, he looks the part of a tormented Bong genius. Also, if you watch carefully, you can catch him looking at Vidya Balan's parts. Sunjuy Dutt does a reprise of his Saajan role. There are quite a few delightful cameos in the movie, most of them by out-of-work or obscure artistes. See how many you can spot. And when you have quite finished, you can consider watching See Spot Run.

Rating 8.5 (would have been 9, but for mild profanity)