I can probably say I am one of the foremost expert of this film in the world. When I was a kid I used to watch this over at my grandparents and eventually they gave it to my parents and so I had convenience of watching it at home. I can say with absolute certainty I have watched this film well over 50 times so far and possibly over 100 times. And without subtitles! (I don't speak, read or understand Hindi, but I know this film like back of my hand magnified!) The film deals with a period of the life of Lord Krishna. It doesn't go into detail of every little thing he did, but it does cover the important milestones up until he encounters and defeats of his uncle, Kamsa. There are of course the mandatory song & dance breaks in it and while the soundtrack is limited and repetitious, but it works well in how the film roll out. Effects are only up to par as to what you would expect of an Indian film from the 70's. Overall a good film I believe.
2 Reviews
Gopal Krishna, excellent introduction for young viewers into Krishna-saga
Ambalika22 April 2007
Warning: Spoilers
Gopal Krishna, unlike many of the other mythological Hindu movies, doesn't heavily focus on the conflict-side of the story, but rather chooses to see the lila's (playfull displays of Krishna's godlike powers) as the main and important part of his avatar.
This makes the movie especially appropriate for young viewers and/or viewers who aren't interested in who slew who with what. The main events take place in Nand-gaon/Bradj-forest, where Krishna grows up between his friends, performing his miracles and meanwhile playing as much mischief as possible to get it out of his system.
Viewers used to Bollywood productions won't be surprised to find at least 8 spontaneous bursts into song, other viewers might find these a bit tiresome, although the songs are quite mild, compared to some of the other movies in this genre.
Special-effects wise there isn't much to say, it's clear they are special effects to enhance the story, ranging from simple lighting and fire effects to fake bulls that deliver blows, otherwise, the movie isn't high on spectacular scenes except in the finale (Kansa confronts Krishna in an enchanted palace with a lot of magical attacks).
Still the death-scenes aren't focused upon heavily, there aren't any limbs flying around etc. it's all very gentle and after having performed the killing the focus immediately changes to again more positive aspects.
All in all a recommended movie for audiences with either younger viewers or people who have become tired of grand battle-scenes and other violence. The story of the message of love and being kind to one's peers, environment and subjects is one that leaves the viewers with a feeling of wellness afterward.
This makes the movie especially appropriate for young viewers and/or viewers who aren't interested in who slew who with what. The main events take place in Nand-gaon/Bradj-forest, where Krishna grows up between his friends, performing his miracles and meanwhile playing as much mischief as possible to get it out of his system.
Viewers used to Bollywood productions won't be surprised to find at least 8 spontaneous bursts into song, other viewers might find these a bit tiresome, although the songs are quite mild, compared to some of the other movies in this genre.
Special-effects wise there isn't much to say, it's clear they are special effects to enhance the story, ranging from simple lighting and fire effects to fake bulls that deliver blows, otherwise, the movie isn't high on spectacular scenes except in the finale (Kansa confronts Krishna in an enchanted palace with a lot of magical attacks).
Still the death-scenes aren't focused upon heavily, there aren't any limbs flying around etc. it's all very gentle and after having performed the killing the focus immediately changes to again more positive aspects.
All in all a recommended movie for audiences with either younger viewers or people who have become tired of grand battle-scenes and other violence. The story of the message of love and being kind to one's peers, environment and subjects is one that leaves the viewers with a feeling of wellness afterward.
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