Devdas

Aishwarya Rai

Devdas
2002
5/5 stars

In the early 1900's, Devdas (Shah Rukh Khan) returns from school in England, and wishes to marry his childhood sweetheart Paro (Aishwarya Rai), who has loved him devotedly all the time he's been away.  His family objects, and he leaves Paro to debauch in a brothel,  where he meets Chandramuki (Madhuri Dixit) who falls in love with him.  The two women bond over their shared love of Devdas, but are powerless to help him as he slips into drunkenness.

Madhuri Dixit

Based on a 1917 novel by Sharat Chandra Chattopadhyay, the plot is tight and engrossing.  All three main actors are near perfection in their roles.  The supporting cast (which includes Jackie Shroff) are also solid.  The music is good and the dances breath-taking.  The extravagant costumes and sets are a feast for the eyes.  This is a serious drama that will keep the viewer entranced to the very end.