Pyaasa (1957)

Good concept, poorly executed.

Excellent, Without a doubt!!

a film so unique, intoxicating and bizarre that it not only demands another viewing, but is also forgivable as a satirical comedy where the jokes eventually take the back seat.

Excellent and certainly provocative... If nothing else, the film is a real conversation starter.

One one the greatest movie ever made in bollywood.Great story,superb acting,Beautiful songs..Way ahead of its time.

I have a harder time evaluating "Pyaasa" than someone watching it in India. That's because here in the States, we are pretty much stuck with whatever DVD copies we get of Indian films. Some have wonderful translations and some are horrible and unwatchable. While "Pyaasa" is not horrible, it's not particularly good and I would love to know if there is a better company making this disc in English. Eros Video's copy does what some annoying DVD producers do--they provide no translations of the songs--so you only can guess as to what they are saying. While it's easier with Indian films to fill in these blanks than with films from most other countries (since the songs are about the action taking place immediately before and after the songs), it still is wrong not to translate them--and does an injustice to the filmmakers. Additionally, a few times the translations are a bit scrambled. It's a shame--but STILL I recommend you see the film because it's very, very good.Vijay is an educated man. However, despite his ability to make money and live the life of a middle-class man, he is a poet by trade and in his heart. Though he'll starve, he'd rather create art and sees life through very romantic eyes. Through most of the film, he's an undiscovered genius. He also has two problematic relationships---one, his ex-girlfriend who has chosen to marry for money and security (and who has broken his heart) and another who is a prostitute who ADORES him and his art.About halfway through the film, however, the film makes a HUGE change in direction. I loved this, as the first half of the film was only mildly interesting. After the twist, the film REALLY came to life. You see, through some odd circumstances, people think Vijay has died. And, like some great artists, after his 'death' he's discovered and adored by the masses! What's next is completely unpredictable and clever--and well worth seeing. I'd say more but I really don't want to spoil the film. It's a classic and well worth seeing. A truly unique and enjoyable plot about love, success and art.

I'm not very fond of old movies, although I love the music from SD Burman. I actually saw this movie just because it appeared in the Times Top 100 movie list. I was taken aback to see this name in the list and hence decided to watch it. But to my surprise, it was an awesome movie. It deals with numerous social issues through the central character. And you don't even realize it till the end of the movie. Music is an integral part of the movie and lyrics are absolutely fantastic.All the issues raised are relevant even in today's' times. I was very much touched by the maturity/deep thought given by Guru Dutt. I plan to watch 'Kaagaz Ke Phool' as well.

This is one of the master piece of Guru Dutt. Its his own life story. In real life he fell in love with Wahida Rehman, but love was unsuccessful. This movie is based on his love story. Hero (Vijay) is a great poet, but people do not recognise him when he is live. But when he dies, people admire his work. Same thing happened to Guru Dutt in real life. His contribution to Hindi movie industry was not recognised by people, as his movies were not conventional, but revolutionary. After he died, people studied his work and he is now known as legend in Hindi cinema.This is a must watch movie for Hindi movie livers. But please do not expect a typical third class Hindi movie story and songs.You have to watch it if you want to admire it.