Lootera (2013) – Movie Review

Director: Vikramaditya Motwane
Cast: Ranveer Singh, Sonakshi Sinha, Barun Chanda, Vikrant Massey
Genre: Romantic Drama
Runtime: 2h 16m

Story & Screenplay





Inspired by O. Henry’s short story The Last Leaf, Lootera is a poignant tale of love, betrayal, and redemption. Set in the early 1950s, the film follows Pakhi (Sonakshi Sinha), the daughter of a wealthy zamindar, who falls in love with Varun (Ranveer Singh), an archaeologist working on an excavation near her home. However, Varun is not who he claims to be, and their love story takes a heartbreaking turn when his secrets come to light.

The second half of the film shifts to a melancholic, snow-covered Dalhousie, where Pakhi struggles with illness and memories of Varun. The story is slow-paced but deeply emotional, drawing the audience into its vintage world.

Performances

  • Ranveer Singh delivers a restrained and mature performance, a stark contrast to his usual high-energy roles. His portrayal of Varun is layered, making him both mysterious and vulnerable.
  • Sonakshi Sinha is the heart of the film, delivering her best performance to date. She brings depth to Pakhi’s pain, love, and resilience, making the audience empathize with her journey.
  • The supporting cast, including Vikrant Massey and Barun Chanda, adds to the film’s authenticity.

Cinematography & Direction

Vikramaditya Motwane creates a visually stunning film with rich period detailing. Cinematographer Mahendra J. Shetty captures the essence of 1950s Bengal with breathtaking landscapes, warm tones, and artistic frames. The slow, poetic narrative might not appeal to everyone, but for those who appreciate artistic cinema, Lootera is a masterpiece.

Music & Background Score

Amit Trivedi’s music blends seamlessly with the film’s mood. Songs like Sawaar Loon and Zinda enhance the storytelling, while Amitabh Bhattacharya’s lyrics add depth to the emotions. The background score subtly elevates the film’s melancholic yet hopeful tone.

What Works

✔ Brilliant performances by Ranveer Singh and Sonakshi Sinha
✔ Stunning cinematography capturing vintage India beautifully
✔ Soulful music that enhances the emotional depth
✔ A poetic and emotionally touching narrative

What Could Be Better