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Swatantrya Veer Savarkar (2024)
A well-crafted war of ideologies! Must-watch!
The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
Of Swatantra Veer Savarkar (2024)
Good -
What truly stands out in this deeply polarising biopic is the sheer brilliance of the lead, Randeep Hooda, and the excellent supporting cast that brings life to the unsung chapters of many freedom heroes that contributed immensely to the struggle. Another praiseworthy aspect is the cinematography with toned down colors and attention to detail in costumes and accents that elevates the plot. Not only it truly captures the horrors of the cellular jail, but also the passion of those heroes who devoted themselves in the service of struggle. More than a biopic, the film uses ideology as its pedestal and somewhat succeeds in it, constantly showing the disagreements Savarkar had with the INC. For those who doubted, the film showed the documented Mercy petitions verbatim, critiqued Gandhi instead of insulting, and avoided unnecessary glorification.
Bad -
Editing choices. The film tries to paint a nuanced take on one of the most controversial figures of Indian history, yet in some scenes fails to take its own content seriously. Some cuts were extremely bad, only there to prove a point and not to provide a deeper insight into the psyche of the character. Then, there are some not so good CGI sequences that take away the authenticity. The worst part was the final rap that made no sense. A silent credits sequence would have allowed the audience to register the ideas presented in the film, but that rap kinda forced me to move out of the theatre which I rarely do.
Ugly -
Exposition problems. The film suffers greatly here, where characters come and scream out their thoughts instead of becoming a part of the plot. It's an easy approach that Hooda takes. In one sequence, where the titular character in a dark background talks about his ideology, is shot in a way that intends to make the most impact but is among the weakest. The second half shows important events in a hurried manner, almost disclosing the confusion of the makers about where they wanted the film to head.
Final word - 7.5/10
Randeep Hooda's directorial debut is undoubtedly impressive and a well made film that tries to uncover many stories and layers that require broader discussion. It's surely among the finest biopics of recent times, but falls short of becoming a masterpiece. If you can put politics and ideologies aside, you will surely see the immense dedication and craft put by the entire team that should be applauded. However, those efforts aren't visible when it comes to certain nuances the film needed, especially in dealing with many figures that the film tries to critique.
Kaagaz Ke Phool (1959)
Ambitious, breathtaking, and a tragic masterpiece!
Much has been said about Dutt's Kaagaz Ke Phool that it's impossible to add something new to its tower of glory. Yet, it can be said that Dutt intended this film to be an exercise on self-reflection and morality about a filmmaker or an artist as much as it hinted towards the viewer's own life lenses.
The film opens with some of the most gorgeous shots I've seen in hindi film industry and it's the first ten minutes that compelled me to watch it in one go. Not only it made me explore the dingy lanes of early hindi film industry, but also exposed the vulnerabilities and social sensibilities that might have prevailed in that era. It's so well shot that I quickly forgot I was watching a film, that has been created by a bunch of artists, playing around a camera, and rather felt like a slow walk in the troublesome past of India and her socio-political nuances.
We don't make such films anymore. We don't dare to and even if someone dares, the audience will see to it that it meets the same fate as Kaagaz ke phool. This was probably Dutt's bravest attempt to expose us to our own selves and what art truly means to us. His constant bickering about perfection and the producers insistence on keeping the film entertaining for masses tells a lot about what we wish to consume. It reflects the vast pit between the commerce and the art of the film. Was art or cinema in particular really meant to entertain us? To put us in some kind of illusion where we could forget the miseries and tragedies of our own lives and spend a few moments in oblivion? Away from reality? Or was it destined to make us more aware about our surroundings and subconsciously develop our understanding of the world?
It's hard to answer and probably impossible to choose for others. That's why this film is not a film of masses but individuals. Masses ensured it bombs at the box office and individuals ensured it reaches to a spectacular glory.
10/10.
Dil Dhadakne Do (2015)
Riveting, Fresh and Brilliant Film with Honest Performances
Zoya Akhtar's Dil Dhadkane Do is a beautiful film, with amazing performances and very good direction.
The whole story is narrated by a dog, Pluto Mehra, and is about a troubled urban family and their problems. Anil Kapoor in his role as a strict father is very good, supported by Shefali Shah. Ranveer SIngh and Priyanka Chopra steals the show, Farhan Akhtar and Anushka Sharma also did their parts very well.
The story and screenplay are good and the film is perfectly paced. Yes it is 3 hour long but I don't remember any scene which I felt inappropriate except those terrible dance sequences.
I particularly liked the cinematography and editing of the film, which are very exceptional and praiseworthy.
However, the film fails to make an overall impact. Yes the ending is apt but it is not satisfying. I just expected a suitable, meaningful ending if not philosophical but they just ended in the same clichéd bollywood style which I think killed the soul of the film.
Special mention : The narration and the dialogue are exceptionally good. Superb Writing.
La danza de la realidad (2013)
Speechless
Actually, "Dance Of Reality" is the first Jodorowsky film that i watched and i am speechless or i should say absorbed completely by his mesmerizing cinema. I don't know why but i was teary during some scenes even though they had no resemblance to my life. The metaphors he used, the symbolism or allegoric substances he portrayed throughout his film are phenomenal and top notch. This director is insane but amazing, every scene sings a new song and has multiple interpretations. Its not a film that i would recommend to anyone but for those who have a taste for good but weird cinema, give it a try you will not be disappointed. Direction is perfect, background score is superb. Performances are breathtaking. However some video effects were not that good but since it's a art film, one could neglect that aspect.
Watch it, understand it, feel it. After all its Jodorowsky's Cinema. Brutal, surreal, funny and satirical. 10 out of 10
Her (2013)
Beautiful, Wonderful and a sad film about love!!!!
Spike Jonze's her is extremely beautiful and exceptionally shot. Cinematography is breathtaking. The idea is completely original and very very impressive, it really explores the depths of love and human emotions. Some of the scenes are extremely emotional and touching.
The story by Spike Jonze is well written and the direction is satisfactory and visually outstanding. Joaquin Phoenix is phenomenal in his role, he intelligently adopts the role as it was meant for him only. Such an award winning performance and emotionally charged acting (very rare!!). Supporting cast is equally good especially Amy Adams.
I loved everything in the film except its length, i felt bored at many places but i watched it with all my heart and the result was satisfactory. I am not complaining anything but still if this film could have edited properly, it would be a masterpiece. Overall, i enjoyed HER and its beauty. It should not be missed. It's an extraordinary work from a genius director of our generation.
9 / 10
Ankhon Dekhi (2013)
Brilliant and Artistic in every sense!!!
Bauji, a man in his fifties decides to only believe the facts which he sees by his own eyes or feels them and then starts a beautiful yet surprising journey to discover the real meaning of life or to discover himself. There are so many scenes where you literally feel the art of cinema. Without showing any unnecessary dance sequences and cheap dialogues, the film quickly dissolves you in its cinematic mood. It's a gem which will attain cult status after so many years. Rajat Kapoor, the man behind this masterpiece should be appreciated for his devotion towards cinema. Every scene has its details and a meaning which is too deep. Every dialogue is witty as well as thought provoking. Music sets the real mood and cinematography is mind-blowing. "Sab Kuch Yahi Hai, Aankhe Khol Kar Dekho"
Never seen such a perfect and accurate cinematography in any Indian film. The humorous instances during the movie give us an open chance to think what we are doing and what we should do. They play with our thoughts and beliefs. Sanjay Mishra has given a performance which can not be explained in words, along with Rajat Kapoor and the rest of the cast.
For me, this film scores in every field of cinema. Direction, art design, music, cinematography, screenplay and performances and i know i can watch it a million times. It will leave you stunned and surprised in the ending. I clapped for about two minutes as the ending credits rolled. A cinematic achievement and should not be missed. Beautiful and intelligent drama.
A brilliant watch.
10 out of 10, UNDOUBTEDLY.
Chittagong (2012)
Chittagong- A Brilliant And Artistic Tale
Watching Chittagong was a wonderful, intense and provoking experience. Surely, it's one of the rare Indian films which portrays realism in a very artistic and brilliant way. Bedabrata Pain's outstanding debut tells the story of rebels of Chittagong- an unseen chapter of Indian Independence struggle.
With a brilliant cast including Nawazuddin, Manoj Bajpai, Raj Kumar Yadav and many more, the film shines in every department of cinema. The music throughout the film is well composed and have beautiful lyrics. Cinematography is perfect and the performances are excellent.
This film will remain in my heart for a very long time, i am sure about that.
A Brilliant and satisfying Cinema.
10out of 10!!!
Earth (1998)
Artistic, Emotional, Magnificent and Brilliant Cinema!!!!!!
Watching Earth was not easy but i have to admit what i watched in those 100 minutes was sheer magic of true cinema. Each and every dialogue had a very deep meaning, every scene was excellent. Probably it's one of the best cinematic experiences, credit goes to Deepa Mehta. What a class direction-truly artistic!
Music score was equally good and the lyrics were awesome. Performances of the lead actors as well as supporting cast was very good, especially Nandita Das. Some people may complain about the movie as it is not showing the partition as they wanted it, in actual Deepa Mehta moves this film onto a very different level where the emotions continue the story. Weather it's jealousy or love or betrayal, every time you feel these emotions. True Magic of cinema.
I am very much confident to say Earth is one of the most powerful movie ever made in India and it will remain in my heart for a very long time.
10 out of 10- Magnificent and Artistic Cinema!!!
Kaminey (2009)
Kaminey : One of the best movies ever made!!
Kaminey is a stunning piece of art! Vishal Bhardwaj made a film which is absolutely entertaining as well as perfect in every sense. Great cast, great plot, great music and brilliant cinematography! Probably Shahid Kapoor's best performance yet!
What makes Kaminey more beautiful is it's music! Meri aarzoo kamini and Raat k dhai baze are excellent. Character development is also very apt and convincing. It is stylish and beautiful, the dark atmosphere adds to the beauty!
The story is fresh and twisted and you have to put yours brains to understand it however it's so engaging from the very first scene that you can not move your eyes anywhere in between.
For me it was great and a very stylish masterpiece from the most creative director of India. It is surely one of the finest movies ever made in India.
Sincerely, 9/10! A must watch!
Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-leela (2013)
Goliyon Ki Rasleela-RamLeela
RamLeela have everything that a normal moviegoer seeks! It's complete entertainer! It have jokes-sometimes vulgar but enjoyable! Breathtaking visuals and superb cinematography! But it is not perfect! It has flaws! Sanjay Leela Bhansali has introduced violence in his project which was supposed to be an epic romance tale, thus mixing two different genre which I guess minimized the cinematic excellence of a genius's masterpiece! But still it's a must watch who love cinema and passionate performances which Ranveer fulfills soulfully by putting all his efforts. He was just above awesome however Deepika also managed to give a decent performance; Ranveer is a showstopper! Overall, RamLeela is not a promising or brilliant piece of art but it's a watchable movie and should be remembered for its choreography, music, dance sequence and dialogues!
Lootera (2013)
Brilliant film!!!
Lootera is an exceptional film. It is pure cinema full of drama, romance and poetry. The most amazing thing about the film is its storytelling, director Vikramaditya Motwane offers us a beautiful world of his immortal characters Varun and Pakhi. He manages to deliver the exact emotions from his characters. The story is based on a short story by O Henry entitles 'The Last Leaf' and it is beautifully portrayed. I would like to mention the music which was one of the best of our times, it was phenomenal. Amit Trivedi is a genius. Now the performances, Sonakshi Sinha did a class act. I was amazed to see her in such a typical character, she looks beautiful in Lootera. On the other hand, Ranvir Singh performed so well that it's very hard to explain in words. Kudos to the supporting cast especially Adil Hussain. Overall Lootera is a superb film and perhaps one of the best movie ever made in Indian cinema. Must watch. 10 out of 10