2 States (2014) User Reviews

Predictable Conclusion, Effervescent Journey

[ayanpal1 · 8/10 · 20 April 2014]

2 States had me in two states of mind. While it's mostly simple and light hearted first half made me look forward to the rest of the movie, the darker and grittier, though somewhat predictable 2nd half made me sit up and take notice of the proceedings.

This tale is essentially that of two much in love IIM Graduates from two corners of India wishing to have their culturally clashing and hard to woo families completely accept their alluring alliance. Based on the bestselling novel of the same name by Chetan Bhagat, the film for me gets full marks in the screenplay adaptation department. Alas, sometimes the editing, tying up of lose ends from a storytelling perspective (what happens to the psychiatry sessions? When does it end), and staple Bollywood melodrama (or the lack thereof in the tame ending) makes for wishful film viewing.

What worked for me was the terrific chemistry and naturally effortless performances of the lead actors. Alia gets full marks for her terrific portrayal of Tamilian Ananya (despite her being a thorough North Indian girl - this being her third film, this is one girl to watch out for over and over again). Arjun inches close for his gritty and multi layered portrayal of Krish (I wish there was a bit more body language/voice modulation/effort to portray the 7 years younger character, or the slightly older father of two kids).

The supporting cast is tremendous too! Be it Ronit Roy in the stupendous special appearance as the father fighting his inner demons, or Amrita Singh with her loud mouthed yet large hearted portrayal of Krish's mother. Revathi and Shivkumar as Ananya's parents are subtle and nuanced and add the required pathos to the story at just the right time. I especially loved Revathi's rendition of 'Kaho Na Pyaar Hai' and Shiv's almost childlike reactions to the same. The direction is naturally delightful (a great debut by Abhishek Varman), the screenplay superb, the music by Shankar Ehsaan Loy hummable (especially the excellently filmed 'Locha E Ulfat'), and the cinematography by Binod Pradhan just right, making this perfect as far as the technical requirements are concerned. Some loose ends could have been tied better, had the editor - Namrata Rao been allowed some more screen time (was it the over expectations from her post Kahaani?). But this is a glitch that can be safely ignored in an otherwise effective film.

Though some scenes of intimacy could have been done without, this is indeed a great family watch that strangely will teach you a thing or two about why, how, and when family matters. Watch it for a fluffy slice of life. Don't expect the stars, and you might just moon over this not so typical Bollywood Romance. Go for it!

The Politics & Apolitics Of Marriage. ♦ 88%

[nairtejas · 8/10 · 18 April 2014]

The book was splendid. I didn't have much expectations for none of the cast is in my favorites list. However, 20 minutes into the non-linear screenplay, I was dumbstruck at the very charming adaptation.

Starting with a tuneful version of Georges Bizet's wildly famous Carmen Habañera Suite, the titles start with Krish, played perfectly by Arjun Kapoor, speaking to a therapist. The story is told from his point of view till the end. The college life romance is amazingly captured with magnificent photography. Alia Bhatt's Ananya character is perhaps the most important in her career; she's all glimmering throughout. She is hot, lovely & faultless. Only the direction by Abhishek Varman seemed a tad amateurish.

All love happens in the first half and before the climax, you are treated with Chennai's atmosphere. Coupled with mild humor and humongous romance, it is a sure treat for hungry eyes; it has a lesson or two in courtship. Then, the second half highlights the period after love: how the families have to like each other and how the lovebirds cajole them with undivided attention. Now this phase is heavily melodramatic but you won't feel bored because Amrita Singh, Shiv Kumar Subramaniam, Revathi & Ronit Roy are so imbibed with their portrayals, you will definitely fall in love with them. The latter two just up the ante that the film just moves 2-3 notches higher.

Whoever did the costume work deserves long rounds of applause for that is the factor that pushes the wagon to the star. Art department is equally fantastic, mostly the sequences towards the climax and that of weddings/parties/festivals. Good dialogs & brilliant music & score intensifies the experience.

Although, the reality quotient drops 2-3 notches down as the characters only seem to do what would advance the movie. No references are made of their work, let only anyone's work or life other than the specific point it is trying to make. Maybe the writers failed to gather the characters together with their nuances with respect to how they are in real life. But that is not a concern here.

Running for about 150 minutes, it speaks about romance, marriage - its politics & apolitical elements, relationships & the stereotypes of inter- regional marriage. It was a pleasant experience.

BOTTOM LINE: If you are looking for a universal melodrama, coupled with mild humor & romance, 2 States is the staple movie to go for this weekend. 9/10.

Can be watched with a typical Indian family? Not really, but you can give it a try. See the irony?

Entertainer - Beautifully done.

[hem-available-89 · 8/10 · 24 April 2014]

Yet another movie which surpasses the mother book in terms of quality. The direction of the movie is mind blowing and Chetan Bhagat is once again blessed with a movie which can thunder the Box Office. You will wonder at one stage if the story of the movie you watch is the same of the book you read few years ago- the book is very entertaining of course. Alia Bhatt and Arjun Kapoor have done exceptionally well in the screen. I never knew Alia was this beautiful. Arjun Kapoor has done the role of a lethargic Punjabi perfectly. The movie, from the start, gives the spectator good entertainment and a smiling face. The Script is very gentle. In the final parts of the movie, at variance with the feelings that the book creates for a reader, a spectator gets very much emotional. The emotions, portrayed in the movie, between the hero and his dad, have been so picturesquely put into screen that it can wet your eyes. Ronit Roy who plays the role of the hero's father has contributed a major share by giving a new aura to the movie's story-line. His outstanding acting and attitude would be the main things that you will be talking about after getting out of the theater. The cast for the movie is very beautifully selected. It need not be mentioned here about the class of acting that Revathi and Amritha Singh can deliver. They are all always at their best; be it for any role. As we all know from the book itself, the story line isn't that classy or touching. Maybe none of the jokes or scenes will linger in your heart after you get out of the theater; only the entertainment and happiness that the movie provided will be thought about. And by prudence, the director has omitted certain parts of the book from the movie; only a few scenes, such as the scene where 'Ananya' screws the 'Duke' are a bit boring and unoriginal. Apart from that, there is nothing to be seriously criticized in the movie, or to exclaim and shout, 'Highly impossible things'. Words by the hero, that he wishes to write normal and simple stories which have the ability to become the 'HERO' in people's heart will ring in your mind like a chant, and will give hope to all the authors who are striving hard to come up; for we all know how successful Chetan Bhagat is. He is the man who made India read. I will say that it's a good movie to watch and I can assure that none will be disappointed. The spectators would very surely be coming out of the theater with happy and smiling faces.

MY REVIEW: Worth Watching Once!!

[saytosandeep · 7/10 · 22 April 2014]

2 States. Based on the book of Chetan Bhagat where he touches the details of cross cultural marriage in a humorous way, 2 States remains faithful to the idea and as a movie experience also it does not disappoint. Arjun and Alia showcase easy chemistry. Alia looks charming and does better than Arjun in emotional scenes. As their parents, Amrita Singh, Ronit Roy, Revathy and Shivkumar do quite well. I felt southern India flavor of movie was captured more effectively than northern flavor. The rough father-son relationship between Arjun and Ronit is done upright. First half breezes through while second half drags a bit although nice music and quirky dialogues helps you keep going through melodramatic scenes. Abhishek Varman as writer of adapted screenplay and director impresses in his first outing. Movie does not quite dazzle you but makes your two and half hours worth spending in the theater. I am going with good 7 out of 10 for 2 States. Last year it was Kai Po Che, this year it is 2 States, Chetan Bhagat is having quite a good time at celluloid along with books.

Sweet and cute love story

[dineshprakash · 7/10 · 18 April 2014]

Director Mr. Abhishek Varman has done apt work. He has completely justified the one of my favorite book ,2 STATES in its cinematic adaption. There are very few shots of fix block. Otherwise most of the scenes are captured with perfect movement. It gives nice feeling while watching. Director of photography Mr. Vinod Pradhan work is impressive. Complete film carries a vibrant look. Dialogues by Hussain Dalal gel completely with the character and at places tickle the funny bones in smart way. Movie is nice but due to based on the famous book, sometimes it slows down, because they had to justify the book also. I wish length of movie should have been little less. Performance wise Arjun Kapoor is very good. Alia Bhatt looks pretty and performed very well. Amrita Singh, Ronit Roy, Revathy, Shivkumar Subramaniam as Ananya's father has performed very nicely. Music by Shankar Ehsaan Loy is OK.

A true adaptation to the novel and a brilliant edition in today's mainstream cinema!

[rahuljonathan-nair · 10/10 · 26 April 2014]

We all are quite familiar with movies which are based on novels, real- life stories, autobiographies etc. but few films exist which strikes the right chord! Many movies (in Bollywood) like 3 Idiots (2009), Kai Po Che (2013) have been adapted from novels of one masterpiece: Chetan Bhagat! He is the main reason behind the success of these movies and many others and again for the latest release of his novel "2 States" adaptation in Bollywood!! This movie is so wonderful and doesn't require any action scenes, over-the-top dialogues, old-typical themes etc. but the makers have given a remarkable effort with some minor changes as compared to the book!! So here we go:

Story: The story is beautifully crafted!! 2 people of different culture, different states fall in love with each other. But whether they know the consequences they would face when they would face the discomfort and the pressures when people talk of inter-caste liaison, the unyielding love and the resolve to win the parents' trust, each and every aspect with the emotions included! Will they succeed in convincing their parents to get married or will their relationship would get over is the main plot of this film.

Cast: Arjun Kapoor as Krish Malhotra is delightful!! After films like Ishaqzaade (2012) and Gunday (2014) where he has a goofy character, he truly succeeds in playing a sweet, simple kind of a guy who gives importance to his relationships! He charms and gives a meticulous performance! One of his finest performance till date!

Alia Bhatt as Ananya Subramanium is first-rate!! She is beautiful yet witty and gives a delightful performance as a Tamil-Brahmin girl!! Her chemistry with Arjun is electrifying! We can say that Alia has now became an evolved actress and she knows when to capture emotions at the right time!!

Amrita Singh as Krish's Mother is a revelation! She truly is fantastic as the typical Punjabi mother-in-law who justifies her role!! She steals the show in most of the scenes!!

Ronit Roy as Krish's Father is extraordinary!! He develops an antagonistic relationship with his son but he is remarkable!! Watch out for the twist that he would get in the 2nd half!

Shiv Subramanium and Revathy as Ananya's Father and Mother gives decent performances!! They are quite efficient!!

Direction: Director Abhishek Varman should deserve the Best Debut Director in next year's film awards! He truly strikes the right chord!! He gives an remarkable effort but capturing sweet melodramatic scenes and wonderful emotions which come during the course of the film!! Both he and Karan Johar (Producer) have wonderfully executed a delightful film!!

Music: The music of the film is exceedingly well!! The songs truly move you and will put a smile in your face!! Songs like "Locha-e-Ulfat" and "Offo" are best numbers which will make you groove along with it! "Mann Mast Magan" is a wonderful and top-notch song that steals your heart!!

On the whole, 2 States is one of those rare Hindi films which have came in a long time and had explored us the diverse cultures, melodramatic scenes, problems of inter-caste marriages but one thing knocks all of it: "Love"! It really empowers on all of the dizzy situations!! Strongly recommended to people of all age-groups and also to those who fantasize about diverse people!!

An unconvincing love story, but the parents steal the show

[Peter_Young · 6/10 · 10 October 2015]

Based on a novel by Chetan Bhagat, 2 States aims to present a young love story marred by cultural differences, and the film is just about how two young students struggle to convince their clashing families to accept their relationship. The film is modern, pleasant and fun, and the premise could not be more interesting, but it's never genuine enough to be really taken notice of, mainly because everything is handled with a constant touch of corny sentimentality and an evident lack of conviction. Having said that, the film is quite enjoyable in spite of many of its flaws and despite the fact that one of its primary false notes is the relationship between the two main leads, which is totally unconvincing and lacking in depth. Then again, I think the film hardly manages to ever break away from what is essentially a stereotypical and outdated story, and not because of the story as much as the weak portrayal of the families. Something is missing there, everything is just very banal and superficial, and very rarely throughout the film do you really experience the beauty of the Punjabi or Tamil cultures, as conservative as they may be.

That said, it is there actually where the film is saved, simply because the supporting cast of senior actors gives great experience to their parts and does the most of what they are given. Well it goes without saying that Amrita Singh is the film's biggest asset since hers is both the funniest and most moving performance. She is the typical Punjabi mom at some instances, and the compassionate, dedicated person at others, doing everything with her strong screen presence. Ronit Roy is good albeit this is practically the same role he played in Udaan, which is not a good thing not only because of typecasting but also because this is not a very good film and here his character is lacking in development and has a change of heart which is too good to be true. Revathi delivers a fine, understated performance, and so does Shiv Kumar Subramaniam. Then we have the main lead, and they are just lost with so-so roles and have zero chemistry. Arjun Kapoor is expressionless, and while this might be the character, it just doesn't work and he comes across far too wooden for his own good. Alia Bhatt is bubbly and cute but is nothing to write home about.

2 States is not a very good film, but it is good entertainment. The music by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy is not too memorable for me this time, but it is very pleasant to the ears and nicely carries the narrative forward. While I expected more from the young leads, the supporting cast more than makes up for that. All of them are let down by the predictably sugarcoated end, but let it be. This is just for fun, and it does provide it here and there and is a good watch for the family.

A great movie with a great story

[prashantgupta2002 · 9/10 · 22 April 2014]

This movie was surprise for me I assure you it is in positive way. I am very much fond of books but don't know why I never liked Chetan Bhagat. But this story was superb and I know books are much well narrated than movie. so I will read another books of the writer.

Alia Bhatt looked beautiful. in Student of the year she was like loaded with cosmetic and over shown with fancy cloths. But in this movie her role is superb in normal cloths and in the role of a normal girl, she proved that she is going to be a challenge for all actress.

in all previous movies, Arjun Kapoor was doing Gunda type roles. but in this movie he looked cute. I knew the story and before going to movie I was thinking that he will be a mistake for this role. But he was surprisingly cute in this role.

Abhishek Verman did a great job. full movie is in continuous process. you can't be bored in a single scene. hats off for the direction.

Ronit Roy got a small role in this movie but he did full work with that. his small role was fully noticed and it is like he is in every scene in the movie.

Songs are also in hit list of bollywood. really listen-able and every mood songs are life of this movie. if you take my advice, you must listen the songs you will be more than happy.

only one thing which I want to add some kisses were unnecessary. with family you can feel some odd. but they were quite simple so you can't cut many points for that.

I give 9 out of 10. you must watch this movie.

www.caprashant.wordpress.com

Maddeningly inconsistent, but not too bad

[sesht · 23 April 2014]

I have not read the book this is adapted from. However, that didn't stop me from enjoying this one, and this adaptation was much better than the (brickbats out) adaptation of 'Five-point-someone', in spite of the fact that this plot's all beenthere- donethat from the perspective of a typical willthey-won'tthey Shaadi movie.

Having said that, the plot does ensure that the focus is maintained throughout on the mission undertaken by both protagonists, though it narrated totally from the male perspective, and also seems biased thus.

People are calling it regressive, but IMO, they're the ones viewing their world with an idealistic lens, OR the ones who wield the censor scissors. The racist comments depicted in the movie are nothing compared to the ones bandied about in the real world, or by nasty satirists, a la 'Family guy' or 'Simpsons'. Thankfully, I had my expectations synchronized with Bollywood reality, and thus was not disappointed much.

The technical aspects are all slick, and follow today's trend on having just-about perfect frames. The score is effective and doesn't call attention to itself, with the first track standing out, and the other ones going the instantly-forgotten route - some of them do slow the overall pacing though.

Performance-wise, Alia Bhatt has to be the most natural actress working today (I really dug her performance in 'Highway'). Arjon Kapoor redeems himself after the travesty that was 'Gunday'. From among the supporting cast, Ronit Roy stands out. I thought he was being typecast, but he does troubled so well, that one doesn't mind that he re-does what he did in 'Udaan' in a different milieu. Amrita Singh does well too, and Revathy and Shiv Subramaniam are wasted, but are good.

If you are a detail-oriented person and want Bollywood to improve in terms of dotting the t and crossing the i (gei ii?), then this one's not (much) for you. However, if (like me) you can forgive the odd transgression and enjoy the overall ride, remembering the good parts and the effort, then be prepped to have a nice time at the cinema watching this one.

As a non reader of book its quite entertaining without setting anything new,,,,but same can't be said for those who have read it.....

[anupapu8 · 7/10 · 18 April 2014]

2 STATES- I haven't read the novel,,,,so this is a review as non reader of the book because many reviewers have said that the movie is not as entertaining as the book...... But the non reader could chill,,,,,because for us its quiet entertaining but not totally satisfactory..... So for a start its boy meet girl in the collage,,,,there relationship grows something like FRIENDS WITH BENEFITS and in between all Kisses and Sex they realize that they love each other and decided to marriage but they have to convince there parents now that's the whole movie is about.........

The love between Krish and Ananya was very quick,,,,doesn't take much time to root to the audience which is great otherwise already long movie could have been much longer...... The movie is genuine in most of the parts,,,,,u can relate to it,,,,humours is always there,,,,infect there are some serious scene where punches have been passed....But in second half the pace of the movie starts to juggle,,,,,somewhere it was good and somewhere it becomes slow due to melodrama........ As the story have a basic story there is less excitement,,,,i can say the story of Hassi To Fassi was little more exciting then this,,,,but its the actors who carry the movie on there soldier......We will come to performance later...... I got some problem with Amrita's character,,,,,,she is loud which is good as Punjabi mother(Sometimes makes you to remember Kiron Kher),,,,,but she was irritating more,,,,,she thing his Ladla son is the best boy in the whole world,,,,and insult the parents of Ananya who are actually trying too hard to behave good......Movie hasn't been shown of old time,,,,it has been set in present days,,,,and i don't think a Delhi based punjabi mother has such bad mentality about south Indian people......That's where its hard to connect,,,,,It would have been good if movie have been set in 90s or 80s,,,,,but i think director doesn't wanted to give his extra touch to the story and make it simple as the novel........ Interestingly movie explores more of the relationship of Krish with his parents as compared to the love relationship.....Which makes it more meaning full..... Ronit Roy was the best among all the actors,,,,he as a drunk violent father who always being angry on his son from outside but love him from inside(yes in a different way which his son cant understand) is brilliant......Ronit has mastered this character as he was doing this for the third time after UDAAN and BOSS.........The father son relationship is the best thing about the movie..... On the other hand Ananya doesn't have any back story and her relationship and family problems are kept unexplored........ Revathy as Ananya ' s mother was good,,,,she was subtle,,,,doesn't get over excited to anything,,,,and has too much of manner and thinks Punjabis doesn't have any manners..... Shivkumar as Ananya's father get some good comic situation and does them really well...... Alia Bhatt is too convincing,,,,,although the character of her doesn't have any specialty like in case of highway but she has done it superbly,,,,she looks beautiful,,,,smiles great,,,,doesn't have a typical south Indian tone like Deepika has in Chennai Express,,,,but is a modern girl,,,,who is forward enough to sleep with his boyfriend everyday in girls hostel and well cultured too to look after her parent's happy ness..... But Arjun has carry forward his carrier a way forward with his Krish .... He never tried to act larger then life but acts like a simple boy next door.....U can feel his character developing with each minutes passing....A boy who was shy to sit close to a hot girl in canteen after some year was trying so hard to convince his parents for accepting that same hot girl.......He was simply delight...... one marriage song could have been deleted,,,,as the movie is little lengthy to keep your interest always.....Some strong editing was required.....But camera work has been done greatly,,,,there has been some extra effort in it.... The movie gives a good message too....It says that to run away and marry without your parent's being agreed is not a solution....U should stop,,,,talk to them,,,,,try too hard to convince them,,,,is your parents loves u they will definitely get convinced just for there children's happy ness.... m going for 3.5 out of 5 .... Its a definite watch for those who haven't read the book,,,,cant say same for those who have read it...... By ANuP APu KuMaR.....

Exaggerated stereotypes of culture differences

[soodabhi7 · 1/10 · 19 April 2014]

As a person brought up in a family with 2 states culture IRL this is just a cheap mockery of exaggerated stereotypes in a loud nonsensical lengthy Bollywood movie. Could not even get through the book but was hopeful at least the movie would do justice to the best kind of love stories in India. The real life issues of reactions of different family members, difference in opinions, some compromises in traditional value, concerns of extended family and how they come about to achieve a middle ground none of which was depicted in a proper way. It was borderline racist sometimes without being apologetic even when there was absolutely no requirement for scenes like that. And no, that never increased the humor quotient of the movie which was already as low as their standards. To summarize, it was as if a Hollywood romcom was made about interracial marriages where the family of the whites gifts fired chicken to the blacks and the blacks would get them all some guns as gifts because they are from Texas.

A Winner!

[namashi_1 · 9/10 · 21 April 2014]

Based on the 2009 novel of the same name written by Chetan Bhagat, '2 States' is an entertaining, engaging & cute film, that doesn't' fail to deliver. Its A Winner!

'2 States' Synopsis: A young couple's plan to get hitched, gets crushed when their racial parents disapprove of their marriage.

'2 States' has an amazing first-hour & the lead-stars, Arjun & Alia, share an infectious chemistry on-screen. The Tamil-Punjabi conflict does get a bit boring, especially in the middle of the second-hour, but a heart-warming culmination, does the trick. Its not a perfect film, but its most certainly, enjoyable!

The Screenplay hits the right notes, at most parts. Barring a few dull sequences post-interval, the film is consistently engaging & smooth. Abhishek Varman makes a terrific debut as a Director. He has handled the entire film, remarkably. Cinematography is perfect. Editing is well-done. Art & Costume Design, are fair. Music by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy is fantastic.

Performance-Wise: Arjun & Alia are the life of the show. They enact the love-struck protagonists with pure charm. Their on-screen chemistry, as mentioned before, is infectious. Amrita Singh is delightfully rude, while Shiv Kumar Subramaniam & Revathy are wonderfully restrained. Ronit Roy stands out. He's excellent, yet again! Achint Kaur is lovely in a brief role.

On the whole, '2 States' clicks big time. Strongly Reccomeded!

If u have read the books then avoid it

[mohantybitan94 · 6/10 · 19 April 2014]

Chetan Bhagat's nearly all books have been made into films, 3 idiots and Kai Po chew are so much more than books ....one is heart warming and inspiring other is visceral and real.But 2 states comes off as contrived and bland in those comparison.I always measure a film by the inquisitiveness on my part to watch it again.This film is a one time watch at the most .It stretches too long and by the end when the 2 protagonists meet i didn't even care. Alia is brilliant, she has shun her role as dumb pretty girl from the SOTY and is very fresh here.(not as good as highway though)...Arjun Kapoor struggles in his role though he remains OK.OK. Amrita singh does preety good job.Ronit Roy is flawless.....best in the movie by far...i wish his role was longer. in all i sum up as its not an enthralling watch...its average ..watch it if u want skip if u want.

STEREOTYPE all the way through!!

[jalaj-khanna · 1/10 · 23 April 2014]

how on earth is this rated above 7 it is one of the most boring movies I have ever seen come on your son is marrying a girl and you insult her parents and indulge in racism? Please show me one place where that happens The actors are so bad . Its time start child like Alia Bhat stop getting fame. this movie has no story whatsoever. and on top of that it this movie also encourages misbehaviour towards your own parents. if someone in your family is expelled from his job you taunt him or you support him. Worst movie ever . totally illogical and stupid. please avoid watching this at all costs. it is not even funny which I thought would be.

skip it, read the book

[achyutaghosh · 6/10 · 19 April 2014]

If you take away the underlying humor in Chetan Bhagat's 2 States: The Story of My Marriage, it becomes an undeniably generic tale of a couple from two distinctly different states trying to convince their parents to approve of their union. Despite the backing of behemoths of the Bollywood industry such as Sajid Nadiadwala and Karan Johar, the film adaptation of the book does exactly that, turning an intentionally funny story into a soapy melodrama.

Punjabi munda Krish Malhotra ( Arjun Kapoor) and gori Tam Brahm Ananya Swaminathan (Alia Bhatt) meet at IIM A and fall in love. She is outgoing, vivacious, and a non vegetarian- in effect more Punjabi than him. He of estranged parents, is restrained, and compromising. So he works in a bank dreaming of becoming a writer. Their parents though are every bit the stereotype that a Northerner has about themselves and those south of the Narmada. So Ananya's parents are Carnatic music loving conservative, simple and strict. Krish's mom, played by Amrita Singh is loving but obnoxious and melodramatic, and his father Ronit Roy is an alcoholic with serious anger management issues. Winning over families as different as chalk and cheese is probably the hardest project the lovebirds will face in their life.

The good- Alia Bhatt. She oozes confidence, charm and presence, reaffirming her position as one of the most natural among all young actresses plying their craft today in Bollywood. She may not look like an authentic Tamilian but effortlessly gets into the character of the sorted out Ananya. Manish Malhotra's costumes keeps Ananya delightfully chic, in her colorful cotton kurtas and south Indian silks. Everything else in the movie though is a drag, the first half frothy, the second sadistically melodramatic. I read the book a long time back but do remember enjoying it, but the movie is humorless, the much talked about chemistry is barely there, and Arjun's portrayal of Krish is goofy, subdued to the point of a being a wuss. Excellent actors like Revathi and Ronit Roy do not get to do much, while the musical score by Shankar Ehsaan Loy has to be one of their most mediocre fare. There are a couple of moments in the movie that inadvertently make you smile- like the marriage proposal in the midst of an interview, but these are but few.

Do not run from parents, convince them. Well then, what Raj and Simran set out to do in DDLJ is still a message that resonates with today's audience, even more so now that a socially connected world makes running away impossible (how many of us turn off the location function while posting facebook status updates. An adaptation of a book by an intelligent director, such as Vishal Bharadwaj makes for good viewing, because he puts in something new, something that is not there in the book. In the hands of an average director like Abhishek Varman, the movie does not even provide the impact that a mediocre book did- 6/10

The over length kills an otherwise fine film but you can still watch it for the fresh first hour & many good supporting performances

[bobbysing · 6/10 · 17 June 2014]

No doubt, 2 STATES biggest drawback remains the same old love-story between two diverse regional characters as earlier seen in NEW DELHI (1956), EK DUJE KE LIYE, BOMBAY and the recent VICKY DONOR too, along with a pinching length unnecessarily stretching to 150+ minutes. Yet the film offers a fresh first hour which remains truly enjoyable with the adorable Alia Bhatt surprising you yet again, well supported by some fabulous small performances from the entire cast. And thus it cannot be pulled down just for the sake of writing a critical review with a negative approach to say the truth. Moreover, the progressive take on the subject certainly puts the movie much ahead than all the previous ones both in terms of love, understanding and sex too, portraying it very realistically as per the new-age casual norms.

For instance, following the western thought process, here too the couple jumps into the bed and gets over with the sex-part quickly in the first 30 minutes itself without any regret, fear or hesitation. In other words, they instantly check that whether there so called love, still remains intact after experiencing the lust & sex part too or not? And since the feeling is still there, the couple rightly decides to get married despite having their big cultural disparities of language and region. The impressive content around the 'College Campus' continues till the two families meet and its only after the intermission that too many stretched, avoidable and clichéd sequences regularly hamper the pace of the movie unfortunately. In fact the film keeps dropping and picking up repeatedly till its final scene, resulting in a mixed kind of feeling altogether.

Based on Chetan Bhagat's bestseller "2 States : The Story of My Marriage" its storyline was clearly revealed in the trailers itself. But as I felt the book/script intelligently followed the famous DDLJ plot too, exploiting it from both the possible perspectives, in its two halves. In more clear words, in the first half it's the boy winning the girl's family through his generous acts and post interval it's the girl winning the boy's family members with her intelligent gestures as required for their love marriage. Plus the kitchen scene also reminded me the one from Tinnu Anand's KAALIA featuring Parveen Babi, Asha Parekh and Amitabh Bachchan. So, if the book was really an autobiographical one (as it is said) then that certainly was a very amusing yet filmy time lived by the renowned writer in his young years (although I still doubt that the campus allows this kind of liberty ever for its students).

As an adaptation, director Abhishek Varman stays completely faithful to the book, portraying it well in a marginally entertaining style. Cleverly showing the two distinctive cultures mainly through visuals and regional dialogues, he doesn't add any comic gimmicks in the narration, as normally seen in such typical subjects. Still in the final hour it does look like as if you are watching (reading) a long sequence of a novel, instead of a crisp scene of a finely scripted film. Therefore a more cruel editing could have given the film a much better shape, making a more solid impact on the viewer undoubtedly.

Representing a Karan Johar production, the repetitive Punjabi wedding sequence is there in 2 STATES too showing Punjabi community in a bad light. Further a mediocre soundtrack can also be stated as another downer in this otherwise fine film based on a stale plot. To point out the bloopers, I would like to add that the phrase "Vai Vai" is not something used in Punjabi expressions and the word "Locha-E-Ulfat" was really awful, mixing the tapori slang with rich Urdu language, carelessly. In fact with each such new-age film having below average music, it seems we are fast losing on to the rich melodious music we were once known for in the past. The film gets a big support from an eye-pleasing cinematography, fine background score and few entertaining dialogues conveying the various emotions aptly. Whereas the director and his writers could have compiled it all in a much shorter format in only 120-125 minutes as required.

Coming to the acting part, its actually the performances which add a lot of freshness in its all seen before plot, saving it from becoming a boring love story clearly. Alia Bhatt remains at the top impressing everyone with another gem of a (light-hearted) performance post HIGHWAY and she is really a delight to watch, especially in the first half, even when she doesn't look like an authentic girl from the South. Arjun Kapoor certainly shows big signs of improvement and comes up with a bright, effortless performance after some over-the-top acts in his previous films. But I was really wondering why he was using a type- writer for his writing when he very well knew how to use computer and could even make a power-point presentation for his father-in-law to impress him.

Supported by many lovable acts by the rest of the cast, 2 STATES has a flawless Amrita Singh, a fantastic Revathy, a sincere Shiv Subramanyam, an entertaining Achint Kaur and a first rate Ronit Roy who truly shines in the final moments of the film as the caring father.

In all, despite having a seen before storyline, a predictable plot and a painfully lengthy duration, 2 STATES still remains partially enjoyable due to an extremely fresh first hour, a perfect casting and many wonderful small performances deserving to be seen at least once.

Must Watch

[oyontahmid · 10/10 · 30 April 2021]

Seriously I don't know the problem of reviewers. Review is low mayb because there is no item song and stuff like that.. It's a 10/10 movie. It's a wonderful story based movie & u won't feel bored for a moment. Just watch it and enjoy your moment. Thank me later.

Definitely a one time watch...!!

[savit-23-436911 · 7/10 · 9 June 2014]

My Rating: 7.5 on 10

What's Good:-

1. Arjun-Alia's chemistry

2. The movie is a feel good,romantic comedy.

3. Ronit Roy, Revathy, Amrita Singh & Shiv Subrahmanyam's Performances.

4. Good music.

What's Bad:-

1. Well nothing to specifically emphasize on...some minor faults may be, which can easily be ignored...or left unnoticed.

2. If you are a fan of this novel its up-to u how you perceive the movie adaption to be.

Final Words:- definitely a one time watch

College Life-Funny-Emotional Fully dedicated

[Adityas930 · 9/10 · 18 April 2014]

2 States as of till now we have only heard in Novels but this time its on screen by Abhishek Varman. A complete dose of Love Story and Entertainer Package. As The Novel '2 States' is all about the true life of the great writer Chetan Bhagat, The whole story in the novel is cast to a fantastic movie which gives a complete package to the viewers, and again this movie never let me bore or sit idol of minute each scene and dialog is perfectly matched with the situation, It has a starting with college life than comedy after that Romance than Problems with little Turns and Little Emotional with a Happy Ending which is completely family entertainment package and also a Reality. So go out watch 2 States and explore yourself.

Full Time Pass

[ansh456 · 6/10 · 17 April 2014]

I am watching this film on 17/04/2014 (in Muscat) a day prior to release date in India. After watching trailer my expectations were high. The dialogues are crisp and some of them pretty deep and well thought. The music and the songs stand apart.

But anyway the movie itself had nothing else to offer, nothing new and was quite predictable as to where it was all heading. I'm ashamed that such a movie is still applauded by people when there are movies that get half as much recognition. Arjun Kapoor acting is good. You will love Alia (If you are already fan of her). Still required acting skills.

No romance, full drama, full crispy dialogues, & little emotions not for love birds but for Krish (Arjun Kapoor) & his father Vikram (Ronit Roy).

Another massive plus point to the film Arijit music, specially 'Mast Magan'. It's soulful throughout and adds a lot to the film.

Also you will surely miss Omi Vaidya (3 Idiots) stage performance, when you see Revathi stage performance.

Overall film is OK. I am sure this film get good openings & good collection specially from youngster's. It may not win any awards this year, but it will certainly will be a film I'll remember.

The movie is a full time waste!!!!

[hack-king235 · 3/10 · 18 April 2014]

Firstly the basic thing to mention is that please tell Alia Bhatt that she can not act and she can never act. According to me the movie was a total time waste, guys they actually copied the dialog from the movie. Well they should learn something from the makers of Kai PO Che, they also made the movie on a book but at least they had their own dialogs The music of the movie was good as compared to the cast, i would rather say that the movie could have been better if they have concentrated on the screenplay of the movie rather on the promotions of the movie and wasting money on making the poster. I would say that the poster of the movie was eye catching but the cast and screenplay made the movie not than a time pass, well i would rather say it is not even a time pass especially for those who have read the novel, the novel is a masterpiece but the movie is a piece of S***. So guys who have not seen it, i would rather say to download it and watch it rather than going and wasting money in the multiplexes.

The tale of a great and a dead half!

[parryverysweet · 8/10 · 18 April 2014]

A super lame first half followed up with a rocking second half. One could sum this up in the following ways:

1. There are just certain literature which looks super entertaining while watching but make for very predictable and boring reading.

2. While Indians dish out romantic stories by the dozen the treatment is so shabby that you often wonder how the hell did the chemistry build up. On the other hand, you ask them to show conflicting relative and family issues and they dish out a sucker punch. Here it seemed that the director knew that the first half is just meh and the real strength lies in the second half of the movie. So quick was he to dismiss the chemistry that you could blink and miss it.

3. If there was a direct to movie concept in book writing , Chetan Bhagat should officially consider that instead of going the traditional publisher's way.

And last but not the least!

4. Seldom are movies so mainstream and yet celebrate its side actors and character artists so wonderfully. For every effervescent reaction by Alia, Amrita Singh showed why she is such a treat to watch. Ronit Roy turned up and put on all the right moves in reprising his role as the father fighting with his own demons. Revathy and Shivkumar were brilliant as Ananya's parents representing the other side of the spectrum. The struggles of coping with pushy relatives and their own demons at the altars of their sons and daughters done so tastefully and with such restraint. You could almost root for them and hope that they get more and more screen time and that, folks is a rare sight in mainstream Bollywood!

Not as convincing as the novel but still enjoyable

[ketgup83 · 7/10 · 21 April 2014]

India is a country consisting of 28 states and 7 union territories each having its own unique culture and heritage. Spark flies when people from different states meet which sometime leads to debate, humor and parental opposition especially during marriage.

2 States tells the story of simple, down-to-earth Krish( Arjun Kapoor) who falls in love with charming and bubbly Ananya( Alia Bhatt) in a college campus. As they want to take their relationship forward and decide to get married, they must convince each other parents.

Based on the novel of same name written by Chetan Bhagat, 2 States is directed by first-timer Abhishek Varman. The first half is pretty decent with boy-meet-girl romance and foot tapping songs. Things becomes interesting after the Punjabi family from boy's side meets the Tamil family from girl's side and the subsequent scenes in Chennai and Delhi makes it more catchy. Since I have read the book, I felt book was more hilarious as it was full of quick-witted humor and jokes which was clearly missing in the film. On the flip side, I loved the interaction between Arjun Kapoor and Ronit Roy. It was probably the highlight of the film. Screenplay could have been better. Editing needs further trimming. Art direction was adequate. Cinematography by Binod Pradan is mesmerizing. Arjun Kapoor was convincing in emotional scenes but still has long way to go in terms of acting as he had the same expression throughout the film. Alia Bhatt will steal your heart as refreshing Tamilian girl . She emotes expressively and is astounding in her role.Ronit Roy, Amrita Singh and Revathi were excellent in their part.

Overall, 2 States is not as convincing as the novel but still enjoyable. Good 3/5

https://www.facebook.com/FilmyChowk

Lost Opportunity-Shows weak characters

[rekhapardeshi · 2/10 · 28 April 2014]

Two States- The problem in the movie was not people from two states falling in love and trying to get married but in fact was alcoholism, domestic violence, and dowry. The movie made no attempt to educate the general masses about these social issues rampant in the society instead everyone acts as though they are part of a certain culture and acceptable norms in certain cultures.(especially north) Instead of reporting the dowry case to the police the heroine just negotiates with the bridegroom to accept what he is given. BS! Lost opportunity to show how an educated girl can be assertive and take action. No attempt is made by the hero to end the domestic violence in his house or to curb his greedy mom and her likes from trying to get the highest market value for the boy. Bollwood should make an attempt to be more responsible, as the masses in India are heavily influenced by what they project as acceptable norms. Personally, I was very disappointed with the movie. Come on people we are in the 21st century, just adding more bold kissing scenes is not enough.

'2 States' indeed reduces the gap between the two states. Enjoy this 

[binducherungath · 7/10 · 20 April 2014]

Cast: Arjun Kapoor (Krish Malhotra), Alia Bhatt (Ananya Swaminathan), Ronit Roy (Vikram Malhotra), Amrita Singh (Kavita Malhotra), Shiv Kumar Subramaniam (Shiv Swaminathan), Revathy (Radha Swaminathan), Sharang Natarajan (Manjuntah Swaminathan), Ankit Chitral, Achint Kaur Genre: Romance, Comedy, Drama Direction: Abhishek Varman Production: Karan Johar, Sajid Nadiadwala Studio: Dharma Productions, Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment Distribution: UTV Motion Pictures Written by: Chetan Bhagat (His novel '2 States: The Story of My Marriage') Cinematographer: Binod Pradhan Editor: Namrata Rao Music: Shankar Ehsaan Loy Lyricist: Amitabh Bhattacharya Release Date: 18th April, 2014 Language: Hindi Duration: 2 hours 29 minutes

The Plot: 2 States, a cross-cultural love story based on Chetan Bhagat's semi- autobiographical novel '2 States: The Story of My Marriage' (a bestseller), is light-hearted, maintains the core of the book, and presented in a very simple yet engaging manner. The movie begins with Krish Malhotra's (Arjun Kapoor) session with a psychiatrist where he expresses his depression, suicidal tendencies. The movie unfolds further with the IIM–Ahmedabad campus rendezvous of Krish, the Punjabi boy with Tamil Brahmin Ananya Swaminathan (Alia Bhatt) at mess. Instant connect between the two is shown. Ananya keeps on counting the score of IITians who proposed her. Krish does not obviously want to be one amongst them. Their campus life, evolution of their relationship from being 'just friends' to the love-birds (physically and mentally), combined studies, and off-campus eateries' hang-outs are all portrayed beautifully through songs – Offo and Locha-E-Ulfat. Krish and Ananya look good together with Krish being the quiet, reserved, yet assertive one and Ananya being the self-assured, expressive one. After two-years of courtship, both Krish and Ananya commit to each other. But then begins the real challenge of convincing their respective families. A typical face-off i.e. North Vs. South in between Ananya's parents (Shiv and Radha Swaminathan essayed by Shiv Kumar Subramaniam and Revathy) and Krish' mother Kavita Malhotra (Amrita Singh) during the convocation is portrayed realistically. Krish and Ananya chose the tough path to convince one another's parents rather than just eloping. We can see the efforts taken by both of them to win parents' approval for their marriage.

The plot projects the culture-clash, the discomfort and the pressures due to diverse culture, playful digs at one another's culture, turbulent relationship between Krish and his alcoholic / abusive father Vikram Malhotra (Ronit Roy), impact of parents' clash on krish' character, northern culture of dowry being a very regular thing, Krish' bonding with mother, Ananya requesting his father to be nice to krish, Krish' mother being possessive of him, perceptual differences etc. without any melodrama.

Does Krish and Ananya succeed in convincing their parents that they truly love each other in spite of the culture, community, religion, language differences ? If yes, how ? And, if yes, how long the efforts continue ? Do their love survive the conflicts in between their families? Does actually some love is left between them in midst of uncertainties and family conflicts? Official Trailer:

Director and Story Writer: Director Abhishek Varman has done justice to Chetan's book. Definitely the book is a delight to read, but the movie also showcases various aspects beautifully.

Cast and their Performance: Arjun as Krish is very good. It is great to see the way he handles his relationship with his mother. Even he projects his emotional vulnerability well as far as his relationship with father is concerned. I adored those moments when his eyes spoke his love towards Ananya.

Alia as Ananya has definitely given a very cute and wonderful performance. Though she doesn't look much of a south-Indian, but she has carried the character on her shoulders very well. She looks pretty, charming and sweet.

Amrita as Krish' mother Kavita is so effortless and natural. Ronit as Krish' father Vikram although has less frames, still, he is very very good. He brings lot of depth to the character.

Shiv and Revathy as Ananya's parents are very good. Sharang Natarajan as Ananya's brother Manjuntah Swaminathan is also noticeable.

Achint Kaur as Amrita's sister also gives a good performance.

Music: Music is composed by Shankar, Ahsaan, Loy. Lyrics are penned by Amitabh Bhattacharya.

Mast Magan (Arijit Singh, Chinmayi Sripada) is very good. Offo (Aditi Singh Sharma, Amitabh Bhattacharya) and Locha-E-Ulfat (Benny Dayal) are full of energy. Iski Uski (Akriti Kakkar, Shahid Mallaya, Shankar Mahadevan), Chaandaniya (K Mohan, Yashita Sharma) and Hullaa Re (Shankar Mahadevan, Siddharth Mahadevan, Rasika Shekhar) are also good.

Cinematographer: Binod Pradhan has covered Delhi, IIM-A campus, Chennai, Mumbai all very nicely.

Moments to watch out for: Krish while trying to ask for Ananya's hands with her parents proposes to the complete family: I want to marry all of you. He has actually brought rings for all of them. Krish hugging his father towards the end of the movie.

Thumbs up: Watch this movie, probably most of us would be able to relate with this simple movie. And for all those people who did inter-caste or cross- culture marriage are definitely going to relate with the story.

Thumbs down: As such no thumbs down moments. The movie has its own natural flow. Probably the dialogue by Krish (to express that it was natural to feel towards Ananya) was not required: "Punjabi hoon. Khoon garam hota hai humara."

One-Liner: 2 States indeed breaks the wall dividing two states. Enjoy this