| This beautifully narrated movie revolves around three close-knit characters and their complex relationships, which slowly arise with time. Lolita (Vidya Balan) is an orphan living with her aunt, uncle and cousin, Koel (Raima Sen). She is the neighbour and close friend of Shekhar (Saif Ali Khan) with whom she has grown up. While his father, Navin Rai, is a sharp businessman, Shekhar is fully absorbed composing music. Navin has recently employed Lolita to work for him as a favour to her family. He has also lent Lolita's uncle a large sum of money by accepting their house as a guarantee for repayment. Soon, life changes in Lolita's household when Girish, who is from London, comes into their lives. He is the brother of Lolita's aunt. But Girish's arrival gives rise to jealousy in Shekhar as Lolita and her family start spending more time with this calm-natured Londoner. It is not long before Lolita catches wind of Navin's devious scheme. So the heavy burden of the loan is quickly lifted by Girish who bails the family out from their financial crisis. When Shekhar hears about this, he is overcome by bitterness towards his close friend Lolita. By now Girish is secretly in love with Lolita and intends to marry her. It is on the day of Shekhar's wedding to the rich aristocratic spoilt Gayatri Tantia, that he discovers the truth. He challenges his father to reclaim his true love. But is it not too late? Director Pradeep Sarkar's idea of shifting Sarat Chandra Chattopadhayay's 1913 original classic to the Kolkata of the 1960s has really paid off. The film has reflections of Sarat's previous classic - Devdas - which also deals with a similar story of two neighbours and the intense love for two individuals. Lavish sets, costumes and lighting splendidly recreate the Kolkata of the 1960s. Coupled with melodic songs and blending flawlessly with the narration (Vidhu Vinod Chopra's trademark), the story unfolds slowly until it reaches its surprising climax. Vidya Balan as Lolita does full justice to her role. She portrays her emotions through her eyes with ease. Saif Ali Khan is superb in every frame - a natural in every way. Sanjay Dutt is equally good in his brief role as Girish who acts as the light at the end of the tunnel for Lolita's family. Parineeta, is a must see. It is a classic and rare example of Bollywood at its best! Currently at number 8 in the UK charts, this film will be in cinemas for long time to come. Go and watch it! Reviewed by Manish Gajjar
BBC Bollywood | 
