Shakuntala Devi

Shakuntala Devi is a 2020 biographical drama that chronicles the life of the titular Indian mathematician, often hailed as the 'Human Computer' for her extraordinary arithmetic skills. Starring Vidya Balan in the lead role, the film explores Shakuntala's journey from a young prodigy to a global icon, highlighting her vibrant personality, mathematical genius, and complex relationship with her daughter. The narrative delves into her personal and professional challenges, showcasing her determination to break societal norms and prove her unmatched talents on the world stage. The film combines elements of family dynamics, inspiring achievements, and the human behind the legend, offering viewers an engaging and heartfelt story.

Shakuntala Devi received a mix of positive and moderate reviews from critics and audiences alike. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 6.2/10, indicating generally favorable opinions. Critics praised Vidya Balan's compelling performance, often noting her charismatic portrayal as the film's standout aspect. The Times of India rated the movie 3.5 out of 5 stars, highlighting its engaging narrative and emotional depth. Rotten Tomatoes, while lacking a large number of critic reviews, generally pointed to audience appreciation for the inspirational story, though some viewers felt the film could have delved deeper into Shakuntala's personal struggles. The Indian Express commended the film for offering a fresh biopic that balances factual storytelling with entertainment, but mentioned pacing issues in the second half. Metacritic scores were moderate, reflecting appreciation for performances but some criticism toward screenplay predictability. Overall, Shakuntala Devi is celebrated as an inspiring biographical film with a strong central performance, though some critiques suggest it plays safe in exploring the complexities of its subject.