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Laapataa Ladies (2023)
Geographically laapata ladies ❌ Socially lost ✅
"EVERY WOMAN, TOO, HAS AN ARTIST IN THEM"
It takes just a single cinematic masterpiece at a time to open the eyes of many. However, laapata ladies, a typical low-budget blockbuster delves into multiple societal issues with genuine laughs.
Every woman harbors a unique talent within regardless of her background. The film advocates female independence, sheds light on their challenges. Yet, it portrays women who lack courage - women seeking hefty dowries, bribing for their son - the actual laapata ladies. Those, geographically lost, display remarkable courage. The transformatiob of a flower-like Phool to the adaptability of independence tells us a lot. Jaya, exploring, the talents of other women to their potential is incredible.
However, the film has multiple flaws. As the saying goes, experience enriches ones writing. Similarly, I feel, the writers here, haven't traveled much on the trains, rather just by airplanes. The story set in 2001, portrays the trains which were re-built in 2018. Strange. Phool sits on the bus with no ghunghat, then why on the train? For more drama, the groom doesn't even see her face all the way until his home.
Overall, it is truly heartwarming with comedy. Almost all the characters are loveable. Manju Maayi did a great job. Ravi Kishan, as usual, FANTASTIC! Phool's character development warmed my heart. There were beautiful shots of buses along the ghats, villages, trains along the dams, could have shot some more beautiful ones of the village itself.
Resident Alien (2021)
Starts off incredibly well, only to disappoint at the back end
The plot of Resident Alien immediately grabbed my attention. Without any second thoughts, I started watching it. The early episodes give off a Stranger Things vibe, featuring an ensemble of characters from kids to cops, each with their own compelling storylines.
The highlight of the series is the protagonist, whose outstanding performance stands out. Asta, too, shines brightly. All the other actors, including the mayor who doesn't look like one at all, deliver poor performances, leading to some terrible casting choices.
The show begins with a promising mix of fast-paced humor, personal conflicts, and crime, making the initial episodes engaging and entertaining. As the season progresses, though, the storyline becomes somewhat predictable, although it retains its comedic charm.
It does get a little foolish as all the major characters in the series come from the same batch of the same school. Literally too much fiction. Furthermore, it gets way too much when there's a foolish episode of encounters with aliens. Special mention to the so-called MIB Team, who come across as absurdly wayward, resembling a group of disorganized college nerds. Resident Alien still manages to offer enough humor and interesting moments to keep viewers entertained. However, the season's climax doesn't quite live up to the excitement of its beginning, ending on a slightly disappointing note.
It begins strong, however, struggles to maintain its initial promise. The show's blend of humor and supernatural elements initially works well but eventually feels overstretched. Fans of sci-fi and comedy might find it worth watching for its moments of brilliance, but others may find the series loses its charm as it unfolds.
Bade Miyan Chote Miyan (2024)
Dishoom meets AI & Mission Impossible, failing miserably at Physics
BMCM is one of Bollywood's rare fast-paced action comedies. I enjoyed the action, thrills, and humor it offered. The film is packed with non-stop action and humor, although its focus on entertainment over realism is evident. The background score resembles that of a Rohit Shetty film.
Despite the abundance of gunshots and bombs, the protagonists emerge harmless. The protagonists walk around heroically amid gunshots, and the bullets do not even touch them as if they are on another planet.
However, I still found enjoyment in parts due to its fast-paced action and humor. Some dialogues are nonsensical, some genuinely funny. While the dialogue isn't groundbreaking, it's still enjoyable. It feels they are not written by classical writers, but some new ones interested only in watching latest films and memes rather than some classical movies, which is a drawback.
Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff deliver impressive performances, espacially the latter. Bolder dialogue delivery could have added greater impact. Alaya F and Manushi Chillar did well. However, they were not needed. They were in the script just to have female leads in the film for attention.
Like any Salman Khan movie, it was an Akshay Kumar-Tiger Shroff Centric film. Only, they have done more damage to physics than Salman Khan himself and Varun Dhawan.
1. Not believable
2. Thrilling Action Sequences
3. Some good comedy, some silly
4. Good Acting, Poor Writing
5. Fails at Physics
6. Fast-paced
Couldn't mention about story since I wasn't able to find one.
Crew (2024)
Thrills, Twists and Laughter
Crew is a captivating Bollywood film that weaves together ambition, suspense, and humor, leaving us on the edge of our seats. Throughout. Performances of Kareena Kapoor, Tabu, and Kriti Sanon effortlessly bring depth and authenticity to their characters.
Its gripping storyline follows three ambitious women on a quest for wealth, only to find themselves ensnared in a perilous game providingus laughters and thrills. As the narrative unfolds, we are submerged into a thrilling journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeping us guessing until the very end.
Almost every scene is brimming with tension and intrigue.
Moreover, the film's soundtrack adds another layer of depth to the narrative, perfectly complementing the emotional highs and lows of the characters.
Crew is the new age cinematic masterpiece that not only entertains but also leaves a lasting impact. The new gen comedy suspense somewhat drawing parallels to a similar genre classic - Jackie Brown, also a female centric film. This film is a testament to the talent and creativity of Indian cinema. With its stellar performances, gripping storyline, and impeccable direction, Crew is undoubtedly a must-watch for everyone.
12th Fail (2023)
Unveiling Brilliance :: Epic Emotions, Tears :: Restart
I'm overwhelmed with emotions witnessing the cinematic masterpiece, 12th Fail. This film not only made me shed tears of joy and made me proud that the entire world is watching this profound narrative.
The cast, led by the remarkable Vikrant Massey, delivered an impeccable performance. Massey's commitment to authenticity and flawless execution brought the character to life in an extraordinary way. The movie's pivotal moments were skillfully portrayed.
It's a cinematic gem that deserves global attention. I confidently rate it a solid 9/10. Although it is near-flawless the reason for withholding a perfect 10 is - As a theater actor with a background in filmmaking, script writing, and screenplay, I recognize the immense complexity of the role and the depth it demands.
Vikrant Massey's portrayal was nothing short of sensational, marking a pinnacle in his career. His ability to navigate the character's highs and lows with intensity showcased his true talent. However, some nuances, like the dialogue delivery from a microphone, slightly detracted from the overall immersive experience. In theater too, we deliver dialogues before our stage performance over the mic. However, we have to have that intensity and feel the characters within. It felt missing in a couple of intense scenes although the acting was top-notch. Secondly, the interview scene could have been much better, instead was enhanced with a touch more drama.
Despite these minor points, my love for 12th Fail, Vikrant Massey and the real couple remains resolute. Vikas Divyakirti's presence, a legend in his own, added an extra layer of brilliance to this captivating story.
12th Fail is a profound journey that should resonate with audiences worldwide and stands as ONE OF THE GREATEST FILMS EVER MADE.
Ballerina (2023)
Dark, Vengeance; More Action than Substance
Ballerina attempts to carve its niche in the revenge-action genre offering a departure from the typical over-the-top fight scenes we've grown accustomed to. The film takes a realistic approach, presenting a grittier and emotionally charged narrative.
The pace of the movie is one of its strengths, swiftly moving from one scene to another. You'll find yourself towards the climax before you know it. Despite the simplicity of the plot, Ballerina touches on dark subjects that evoke genuine emotions. The soundtrack, too, adds to its strength. Despite feeling rushed at times, the fast-paced nature keeps you on your toes.
Jeon Jong-seo, known for her stellar performance in The Call (one of my recent favorites), once again impresses as the female lead. Despite limited dialogue, her ability to convey emotions through body language and expressions is commendable.
The action and fighting sequences are good, however, the gun violence surpasses the fight choreography. The nuanced and sweet relationship between the Ballerina and the protagonist forms the emotional core of the film.
Ballerina delves into dark themes of assault and grooming, with a focus on a woman's quest for justice and discovering the extent of her friend's suffering. While some scenes bring laughter due to their absurdity, the overall tone remains dark and uncomfortable, accompanied by fighting scenes.
Unfortunately, it relies heavily on its impressive visuals than the substance. It seems to lack depth. Despite great action sequences, dark theme, it does not fully impress you although the climax was good enough.
In the realm of South Korean movies, Ballerina might not reach the heights of some of its counterparts. Its cool visuals, impressive action, and a standout lead performance make it a decent Friday night movie, offering a different take on the revenge-action genre. However, its flaws, including a lackluster plot and more action than substance might leave some viewers wanting more from the overall experience.
Did You Hear About the Morgans? (2009)
Lost Laughter, Missed Opportunities - The Cons and Cons of the Morgans
I recently took a chance on Did You Hear About the Morgans? A Comedy Genre film that had been on my watchlist despite its less-than-impressive ratings. I approached it with minimal expectations.
The film took an unexpected turn by shying away from its anticipated context. While attempting to inject humor, elements like a bear and a comical antagonist were introduced, but unfortunately, they failed to elicit the intended laughs. The narrative stumbled as the antagonist's motivations remained a perplexing puzzle, leaving the audience in the dark about his pursuit of the protagonists, who were already grappling with their own separation issues. The antagonist was more comical than the protagonist themselves and weaker - which itself is a huge drawback in the film.
Despite these shortcomings, the film had a redeeming quality - the commendable performances of its lead actors.
While the film boasted picturesque locations, the flaws in editing and visual effects were glaringly apparent, detracting from the overall viewing pleasure. Ultimately the film fell short of delivering the laughter and suspense.
This cinematic venture proved to be a mixed bag of missed opportunities and commendable performances. For those seeking a light-hearted watch, Did You Hear About the Morgans? Might offer a brief escape, but it's highly unlikely to leave a lasting impression in the realm of memorable cinematic experiences.
Lomad (2023)
Exploring Depths of Humanity in a Redifyining Storytelling :: Impactful, Artistic Rollercoaster
Being a filmmaker myself, I couldn't help but applaud Hemwant Tiwari's audacious approach to connecting with the audience. His courage in bringing forth a one-shot, 1-hour 40-minute black and white masterpiece is truly commendable leaving me inspired.
Although I've stepped away from Instagram, I've urged my team to share any content Hemwant posts about the film. I regret not having as much courage.
Hemwant's relentless promotion of Lomad left no stone unturned. As someone with a keen eye for art works in films, like 1917 with its selective scenes, Lomad's continuous single-shot format for its entire duration is a delightful surprise.
Anticipating it would potentially lack adventure, I was eager to watch at what cost. Lomad began like a drama, seamlessly transitioned into a crime thriller. The use of remarkable tent poles throughout the narrative was sometimes hard to believe, showcasing the profound transformation people can undergo.
Lomad skillfully portrayed the concept that everyone harbors a stranger within themselves. People may present an admirable facade to the world and to their loved ones, but the film compellingly suggests that true understanding requires delving into the unknown - becoming Lomad.
With a plot filled with twists and turns, Lomad captivated and engaged me. The meticulous cinematography, coupled with a wonderful plot, delivered a message alongside a genuine work of art. While the script had its merits, there was a slight margin for improvement.
Lomad left me thoroughly entertained, offering both a powerful message and a visually stunning work of art. Looking forward to meet the man himself one day.
You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah (2023)
Light, Bittersweet Teen Turmoil
The movie steps into the realm of teenage comedy, attempting to blend heartwarming moments with the chaos of preparing for a significant event. While the film brings a certain charm to the screen, it struggles to break free from the confines of its predictable storyline.
The protagonist's journey is meant to be a comedic rollercoaster, but it sometimes feels more like a leisurely stroll. The film toys with the concept of a teenage coming-of-age story, yet the execution often falls into familiar territory, failing to fully explore the potential of its premise.
Adam Sandler's presence lends the film a sense of familiarity and saves the movie big time. His natural comedic prowess shines through even in a supporting role. The young cast, including Sandler's daughters, adds a touch of authenticity to the teenage interactions, occasionally delivering moments of genuine humor and relatability. The chemistry among the younger actors, Idina, Jackie, Samantha is evident and carries the movie through its lighter moments.
Although the film falls short in truly engaging the audience, the background score kept entertaining. The attempts at humor sometimes land flat, and the character development often remains surface-level. What it majorly lacks is stronger character arcs. Even though the writing is quite so-so, the execution looks weaker.
On the brighter side it manages to present relatable teenage dynamics and familial interactions with a certain warmth. The themes of growing up, friendship, and family love are visible threads woven into the narrative adding to it a humorous chick-flick. Yet, the film occasionally stumbles in balancing these elements, resulting in a movie that can't quite decide whether it wants to be a heartfelt family story or a zany teen comedy.
With its mix of endearing moments and missed opportunities, it manages to evoke a few smiles but leaves room for improvement. For those seeking a lighthearted diversion, the film may have its moments, but it won't be taking center stage among the classics of the teen comedy genre.
Heart of Stone (2023)
Web of Betrayal
Heart of Stone endeavors to weave a tale of espionage and intrigue. While the concept holds promise, the execution stumbles along the way, leaving us with a film that struggles to rise above mediocrity.
Gal Gadot's presence is a highlight. Her portrayal of Rachel Stone is a reminder of her talent although not the best of her work. The narrative fails to offer her character the depth it deserves, leaving her journey feeling somewhat hollow.
The supporting cast, including Jamie Dornan as Parker, lends credibility to the espionage world, but their potential remains untapped due to a lackluster script. Alia Bhatt's Keya Dhawan, unfortunately, falls flat, failing to convince as a character integral to the plot's twists and turns.
It attempts to inject adrenaline through its action sequences, yet they often fall short of delivering the desired impact. These sequences are marred by predictability and a lack of innovation, leaving us craving more visceral thrills. The film leans heavily on familiar tropes, making it challenging to ignore the sense of déjà vu.
The plot's potential to explore the complexities of global peacekeeping agencies and high-stakes hacking is overshadowed by its generic execution. The narrative meanders, and its attempts at suspense feel forced rather than organic. This is evident in the various missteps and inconsistencies that punctuate the story, pulling the viewer out of their engagement with the film.
While the film's pacing isn't entirely sluggish, it struggles to maintain a consistent rhythm. Moments that should be rife with tension and intrigue fall flat due to lackluster direction and pacing choices. The movie's resolution, while attempting to tie loose ends, feels rushed and unsatisfying.
It finds itself lost in the labyrinth of its own ambitions. It aspires to be a thrilling espionage escapade, yet it ends up as a forgettable entry in the genre. Given the wealth of similar offerings available, from Atomic Blonde to Salt, this film falls short of leaving a lasting impact.
In the grand scheme of cinematic experiences, Heart of Stone lands as a middle-of-the-road endeavor. With its mix of competent performances and lackluster execution, it's likely to leave viewers with a sense of missed potential and a longing for a more gripping tale of espionage.
Panic Room (2002)
"You're gonna be okay"
Panic Room stands as a classic horror film that expertly blends elements of thrill and crime. Curiously, despite its clear horror attributes, it doesn't find its home in the horror genre on IMDb. As a fan of well-crafted horror movies that encompass compelling character arcs and character development, this film left a mark considering its impeccable writing which ticked all the boxes.
What sets Panic Room apart is its unique narrative approach. The writer's choice to conclude the movie in a similar fashion to how it commenced is a rarity within the horror genre. Both the protagonist and antagonist are intricately developed characters, brought to life with equally outstanding performances that mirror their well-structured designs and deep character arcs.
Although the trapped-in-a-house subgenre can sometimes be predictable due to its reliance on intense horror and survival, Panic Room is as an exception. The tense atmosphere adds to the film's overall impact. I was engrossed by its gripping combination of thrills, well-crafted writing, and stellar performances thanks to Jodie Foster & Forest Whitaker's stand-out performance.
I felt the iconic dialogue of the classic, Shawshank Redemption (So was Red) was recreated - You're gonna be okay.
1917 (2019)
One Shot Cinematography?
Watching 1917, the audience might discern its apparent single-shot presentation, a testament to director Sam Mendes' remarkable craftsmanship. Is it filmed in one shot? A minimum of 34 discreet edits were subtly introduced to create the illusion of a continuous shot. This prompts speculation about the extent of the set, given the limited number of cuts, particularly within a wartime backdrop.
Transitioning to the narrative and cast evaluation, the film embarks on a riveting journey. The ensemble, including delivers a commendable performance. The artistic nuances employed to bolster the script, characters, pivotal moments, and conflicts resonate as an exquisite touch.
The film doesn't merely captivate with its story but also portrays a natural splendor, subtly showcasing its essence. I couldn't recall watching any movie with only 2 female characters including a baby girl.
My experience was satisfying although it doesn't rely heavily on suspense or thrills. It is a delightful watch!
Panchayat (2020)
Exploring Village Serenity, Simplicity: Light Comedy at its best
Amidst the busy urban life, characterized by chaos and stress, there exists an innate desire for the tranquility of rural existence, considering the peaceful life in the villages and their rich culture. Although I'm yet to embark on such a journey, my quest of village life led me to Panchayat, nestled in the heart of India.
This series gracefully unfolds introducing the protagonist's transition from the city life to the charm of village living. Panchayat adeptly captures the essence of village life, portraying the struggles of its warm-hearted inhabitants through a comedic lens. Each episode introduces new challenges and struggles, accompanied by endearing characters that wonderfully won my affection. Themes ranging from politics, hardships and career aspirations, the show beautifully illustrates the villagers' affable demeanor.
Panchayat undeniably stands out, securing a spot among my top 11 Indian web series. The second season elevates the narrative, delving deeper into emotions, friendships, and love. The cast's performance is commendable, with Jitendra Kumar's portrayal as the protagonist exuding perfection. Equally praiseworthy is Raghubir Yadav's supportive contribution.
Vada Chennai (2018)
Dubbing Disaster: Hindi Version of Vada Chennai
Enthralled by its grandiose Hindi title, "Chennai Central," and the ratings, I eagerly added this movie to my watchlist. I have South Indian friends who suggest me some best South Indian movies to watch and I love those, however, this was an exception. Watching it with my friends and relatives, I was the one who sat till the end.
Right from the beginning, it appeared awful, leaving us devoid of any expectations. Despite watching it till the end, the experience proved joyless although the script made sense.
The movie's worst aspect was its Hindi dubbing, which proved to be extremely poor and grating to the ears. There was narration in the background throughout the film which was painful and disgusting.
Deeply disillusioned, I decided to watch the trailer, hoping to find redemption in its impressive ratings. To my astonishment, the trailer showcased seamless narration, devoid of the vexing background noise that plagued the actual film. The hindi-dubbed movie failed to live up to its trailer's promise.
Apocalypto (2006)
Unearthing the realities of Mayan Culture with Adventure, Fiction, Sacrifice, Redemption
On a delightful Sunday evening, I craved an adventure-filled movie brimming with wildlife and thrills. I googled, Keyword Jungle top IMDb movies. My search led me to Apocalypto, available on Prime Video in Spanish. Despite a slightly comedic start, Mel Gibson's creation gradually unfolds into a mesmerizing film, with no major stars and devoid of mass-centric elements.
Apocalypto skillfully immerses us in the reality of Mayan culture adding a touch of fictional drama. The first half grips us with intense violence and disquieting scenes, testing our patience, resolve to watch. However, the second half presents an entirely different experience brimming with adventures that entertain and enchant. While the first half reveals the intricacies of Mayan rituals, costumes, and their way of life, the second half is engaging, enthralling with spice-filled climax.
Apocalypto stands as a captivating journey into the heart of Mayan culture, a powerful fusion of reality and fiction. An unforgettable cinematic gem that leaves a lasting impression.
Ted (2012)
A Predictable, Enjoyable, Light-hearted Delight
Ted has gained popularity in India due to its light and charming nature, earning a place on my watchlist for nearly a decade. Since it was leaving the OTT platform, I finally decided to indulge myself anticipating a great movie.
It began promisingly. Mark Wahlberg's remarkable acting skills were evident, although this might not be his finest work. Mila Kunis was also appreciated in her role.
The movie unfolds with a series of conflicts, but it becomes evident that these conflicts will arise between the protagonist and his relationship with his girlfriend considering there was a ted / the best friend. The predictable nature revolves around these conflicts with Ted eventually making up for them.
The film provides light-hearted comedy, and Ted's character, with his crazy antics, adds a sense of enjoyment. However, the movie failed to meet my expectations, feeling rather average.
In essence, Ted offers a fun and enjoyable experience, predominantly relying on comedy to entertain the audience. If you appreciate comedy, the film is likely to amuse you, but those seeking more substance may find it less engaging.
Mission: Impossible - Fallout (2018)
A Tale of high hopes and suspense
I regretted missing the theatrical experience of Mission: Impossible - Fallout (2018) having heard the resounding acclaim surrounding it. It stood atop my watchlist, and my expectations soared accordingly. My recent binge of the MI series (considering I didn't want to miss 7A: The Dead Reckoning in theatres), with Ghost Protocol and Rogue Nation impressing me to a great extent, amplified my expectations for Fallout, the part 6.
Fallout commenced admirably, yet the pacing felt sluggish compared to its predecessors. While the motorcycle stunts and visuals were impressive, I felt, they couldn't match the magnificence of Ghost Protocol. Despite the suspense building in the second half, it fell short of entirely meeting my heightened expectations.
Ethan Hunt, as always, astounded with his heroic persona, though Benji's charm appeared somewhat lackluster in comparison to the previous installments. The absence of Jeremy Renner was felt keenly.
Nonetheless, the climax redeemed the film, elevating it to exceptional heights, particularly with the awe-inspiring stunts and visuals in the final 15 minutes, including the remarkable heist in France.
Mission: Impossible - Fallout (2018) delivers moments of brilliance, but I felt it leaves some unfulfilled promises, making it a mixed bag of excitement and suspense.
PS: I have written the review for all the M:I movies. Thank you!
Peacemaker (2022)
Entertaining and Well-Crafted! Word of Caution: Profanity
Following the disappointing characters and flaws in Suicide Squad, its sequel, The Suicide Squad, introduces us to a brilliant cast, notably The Peacemaker. This well-written character seeks justice and peace through any means possible, enriched by a believable past with family issues.
The ensemble gathered for the missions in Peacemaker impresses with their performances. Peacemaker himself, Harcourt, Adebayo, Peacemaker's dad, the Police inspector were designed well and John Cena, Jennifer Holland, Danielle Brooks, Robert Patrick & Annie Chang portrayed it well. Personally, I found Vigilante and Economos to be the standout favorites!
The series excels in its compelling story, well-crafted plot, captivating antagonists, and lightning music keeping audiences entertained throughout. The DC Universe introduces us to their version of Iron Man, however, for few minutes (Dad).
However, I highly disliked the excessive profanity. While I understand that characters undergo diverse arcs and scenarios, they could still be a little gentler with their words instead of resorting to constant and gratuitous use of offensive language. This aspect requires moderation. Is using the F words and offensive languages a fashion now?
In conclusion, Peacemaker remains an exceptional series overall. I enjoyed it.
The Town (2010)
Dark, Gloomy, Violent, Predictable
The Town initiates with a captivating plot, drawing viewers into yet another engaging heist genre movie. Embracing the trademark darkness of a DC film, the movie's overall tone remains consistently dark and gloomy, resonating with its violent and gritty setting.
The film manages to hold its audience's attention through strong performances. Ben Affleck delivers well as the protagonist, while Jeremy Renner shines with his exceptional portrayal, and Josh Hamm also impresses with a fine performance.
As the storyline unfolds, predictability arises, especially when a lady enters the picture, sparking conflicts and making life difficult for the protagonist and his best friend. While the film offered thrills through numerous conflicts, it mostly followed a predictable path.
There were some unmet expectations. The anticipation of heist scenes and adventurous chases went unfulfilled. I hoped to watch some good adventure, car chase and impeccable heist scenes, however, didn't get any. The focus remained fixed on the dark and gloomy town and the relationships between its characters.
In summary, The Town delivers a thrilling experience, buoyed by exceptional performances, yet leaving room for some disappointment. Although conflicts abound, they often follow predictable patterns.
Bandit (2022)
Smart Performances
Bandit stands out with its unique and engaging storyline, supported by a well-crafted plot. Exceptional performances, direction elevates its impact leaving audiences engaged.
In a refreshing departure from unnecessary drama, Bandit follows a serious and believable storyline, resonating with viewers seeking substance in the satisfying Heist genre. Robbing banks can be cinematographed into a light, decent and believable movie with great acting.
Andrea's (Elisha Cuthbert) remarkable portrayal shines, adding to the movie's allure, despite her limited screen time compared to the protagonist. Robert (Josh Duhamel) himself is sensational and takes the center stage exceptionally well.
While the film does have some dull moments, they are justifiable, adding depth to the narrative. Overall, Bandit impresses with its catchy and engaging plot, making it a good cinematic experience.
Paddington 2 (2017)
Not Believable : Spoilers only towards the end
Paddington I was a treat to watch, skillfully bringing to life a sweet and charming protagonist, the lovable bear. While I enjoyed the movie and rated it a solid 7/10, I wasn't entirely sure if I'd be eager to watch its sequel. Nevertheless, upon discovering its promising ratings on IMDb, I decided to add it to my watchlist without hesitation.
The movie commenced on a positive note, introducing an endearing character that instantly won hearts once again. Soon, conflicts unfolded, although they proved to be rather predictable. The adventure aspect was reminiscent of the first part, delivering some enjoyable moments. However, the highlight for me was the marmalade! The bear can make you fall in love with it although it contains excessive sugar.
Allow me to discuss two specific aspects of the film: The Prison Escape in the first half and the train scene.
In the United Kingdom, we witness an adorable, harmless bear easily escaping from prison, while policemen either sleep or nonchalantly loiter around. This implausibility may not resonate well, and indeed, it felt quite foolish and unworthy of a major movie.
During the train scene, Hugh (Henry Brown) navigates between fast-moving trains with astonishing ease. Now, can one realistically expect such agility from an elderly man? Meanwhile, everyone seems to miraculously escape danger, and even little kids find themselves driving the train. The sheer incredulity of these events made it challenging for me to suspend disbelief.
7 Khoon Maaf (2011)
Dark Humor meets Bollywood: A haunting tale of Female Protagonist
Based on Ruskin Bond's short story "Susanna's Seven Husbands," 7 Khoon Maaf stands out as a brilliantly crafted Bollywood movie, setting itself apart from the typical light-hearted rom-coms that often grace the industry. It ventures into the realms of a dark crime-thriller, weaving in dark humor and featuring a formidable female protagonist.
Priyanka Chopra's portrayal of Susana is exceptional, as she undoubtedly takes center stage with her powerful performance. The well-executed cameos by John Abraham, Neil Nitin Mukesh, and Annu Kapoor further enhance the film's appeal.
The script is skillfully written and masterfully directed, maintaining a dark and engaging tone throughout the narrative. Susana, one of Bollywood's darkest female protagonists, possesses a depth that captivates the audience. Her relentless pursuit of a good life and an ideal life partner gradually transforming into a dark and intriguing character is a sight to behold. Susana's complexity lies in her potential to embrace darkness, making her a mesmerizing presence on screen.
While the majority of the film shines brilliantly, the performance of Arun Kumar (Vivaan Shah) emerges as one of the few weak links. Nevertheless, the movie remains a rare gem in Bollywood, showcasing one of its darkest and most enigmatic female characters with commendable success.
Last Vegas (2013)
A Vegas Re-union : An Old-Aged Revelry, Buddy Comedy
The buddy comedy genre has entertained audiences for years, and "Last Vegas" adds a unique flavor by following the adventures of four childhood friends on a vacation. With a mix of humor and unexpected twists, the film takes a fresh approach, centering around four retired buddies throwing a bachelor party in the dazzling city of Las Vegas.
As anticipated, Las Vegas serves as a sensational backdrop, allowing the talented cast to shine. Morgan Freeman once again showcases his versatility and undeniable talent amidst the stellar ensemble. The charming chemistry between Diana (Mary Steenburgen) and Billy (Michael Douglas) adds an endearing touch to the story.
Last Vegas" is a satisfying watch. It offers plenty of laughs although it could have benefited from more significant conflicts. Surprisingly, there is absence of antagonists, and it is a loophole, there are very few conflicts.
I would rate it 7.5/10 for delivering an enjoyable experience. While a more substantial conflict beyond the issues between best friends could have added depth, it still stands as a commendable buddy comedy, though not the absolute best in its genre.
Dexter (2006)
Exploring Dexter: Dark Humor, Crime-solving, Charismatic
In the realm of cinematography and scriptwriting, it is advised to limit character narration allowing actions, conversations, and scenes to speak for themselves. However, if there exists an exception, and it goes by the name, Dexter!
From the start, I found myself captivated by Dexter's character - a dark, introverted individual. The strength of character development was evident, bolstered by impeccable casting and an engaging, crime-filled storyline.
Seasons 1 and 2 stood out exceptionally, earning a commendable rating of 9/10. However, the show's quality began to wane afterward. The introduction of new characters and excessive drama weighed down what was once a classic series. Despite my love for the character, I sensed a gradual decline in its charm, including that of Debra.
The writing and direction were solid, yet Dexter himself stood as the towering centerpiece as his portrayal of dark humor remained a standout aspect. His narration throughout the episodes was a unique perspective where we learnt how he perceived things, people, and crime; it was utterly captivating.
I recommend this series, but I urge viewers to approach it at their own pace and choose the number of seasons to indulge in. However, I must stress that the first two seasons are a must-watch and should not be missed.
The I-Land (2019)
Vanished Vision and Hopes
For around 6 years, TV Series "Lost" remained on my watchlist, but unfortunately, it was not available on any OTT platform, leaving me unable to watch it. While I had watched several good movies in the same genre during my quest for "Lost," such as "Welcome to the Jungle" and "Cast Away," both were good, the latter stood out as an absolute classic gem.
This time, I discovered an entire series that piqued my interest. The scenic locations portrayed in the series were truly spectacular and visually arresting. The name itself allured me, promising a great experience. Sometimes, we do watch contents based on the first-look and the name, however, they can be deceiving and could fool us.
Unfortunately, the writing in the series proved to be quite lackluster, greatly diminishing the potential of the entire script. The pace of the story's development was slow, and it failed to truly captivate me. Consequently, I couldn't help but feel disappointed.
Despite a few glorious moments and attractive scenes, including those featuring girls in bikinis, they couldn't salvage the overall justice of the series. Regrettably, I would have to rate it a mere 3.5/10.