Udta Punjab posters
Shahid Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor-starrer PR Handout

Shahid Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Diljit Dosanjh-starrer "Udta Punjab," which became a controversial subject, has opened to good reviews. Critics from the Gulf, where the movie got released on Thursday, praised "Udta Punjab" in their reviews.

Talking about the storyline, the critics have said that "Udta Punjab" is a must watch to educate ourselves about the drug problems. Critics also praised the performances of the lead actors – Shahid, Alia, Kareena and Diljit.

Directed by Abhishek Chaubey, the film was in the news after the censor board demanded over 90 cuts in the film. However, the Bombay High Court in its judgement cleared the film with only one cut.

Check out "Udta Punjab" movie review live update here. 

Read below what critics have said about the controversial film "Udta Punjab."

Namrata Joshi of the Hindu said: "It's about relentless exposure to a gut-wrenching reality for 148 minutes (a shorter version may have been even stronger) that I am still trying to process. It's about the many innocent, helpless Ballis being born to drugs everyday. I came out of the screening with Balli's cries ringing harsh in my ears."

Bollywood Hungama critic said: " UDTA PUNJAB is a dark and serious film that does not offer the traditional entertainment that audiences seek from Bollywood movies. At same time, it is bold and brave in parts with strong performances by all actors."

Vickey Lalwani of Spotboye said: "Thank you Bombay High Court for allowing this labour of love to reach us. Dekho, not the leaked copy, and revolt against those who wanted to snatch your freedom to see it. Take a bow, Anurag Kashyap, Ekta Kapoor, and of course, Chaubey."

Manjusha Radhakrishnan of Gulf News said: "Credit is due to Chaubey for taking a grim subject and making it interesting. There are a few dull moments in the second half, but the climax packs a punch. Be sure to give Udta Punjab a shot."

Lokesh Dharmani of Masala.com said: "The ending of the film also feels a bit abrupt. But how else could a film end when the battle against drugs is still on? Imagine a state with its first line of control has one third of its youth population addicted to substances. That's more dangerous than terrorism.

"I think we all must watch Udta Punjab and educate ourselves."

Sneha May Francis of Emirates 24/7 said: "Despite the minor flaws, 'Udta Punjab' is a movie deserving your time. It explores the highs and the lows with equal flourish."

Suprateek Chatterjee of the Huffington Post said: "Rough patches notwithstanding, Udta Punjab is an undeniably exhilarating watch, a trip truly worth taking (downer included)."

Surabhi Redkar of Koimoi.com said: "After all the hue and cry over its release, Udta Punjab comes off as disappointing. The film fails to give you a high, this 'maal' seems too 'milavati'!"

Kamaal R Khan in his review gave half star to the film and said that the film is filled with abusive language.

Watch his review below: