Movie Review: TRON: Legacy…there’s no legacy

Welcome to the world of TRON – or rather, ‘the Grid’..where there are only two neon lights to guide your path – blue and orange. Surprised? Confused? Well dats TRON for you.

Now I haven’t seen the original (for the uninitiated, this movie is a sequel, the original released in 1982) but the creators of TRON Legacy thankfully realized that there would be many more like me and provide every explanation during the course of the movie. The only issue is that the explanation comes at a painfully slow rate and there is nothing exciting or mysterious about the TRON Universe itself.

Interestingly, the movie starts in 2D (so don’t shouting at the hall attendents if you can’t use your glasses right away) because that’s the real world. Its only once you enter the TRON Universe do the glasses come in handy and then there’s an instant transformation; one is almost reminiscent of the stalwart, Avatar.

Reminiscent I say, because any real comparison to that movie, is a farce. It doesn’t even come close. In Avatar, Pandora itself was a wonder. The millions of colours, beauty of nature and imaginative creatures brought it to life. TRON in comparison looks desolate, dark and dreary

I can’t even blame the creators of TRON because all they had at their disposal was a criss cross of lines and circles, (circuit diagrams if I may) and like I said, only two colours – blue and orange, to paint an entire picture. Given those constraints, they seem to have done a pretty decent job.

The action sequences are racy and neatly done but again perhaps a little too quick for the eye to catch. The movie has too much of a video-game feel to it and in a game you want to be the one in control. Not helplessly watching proceedings with no inkling what can happen next.

The background score is quite good but one gets the feeling once too often that it creates much ado about nothing. There would be a resounding rhythm, increasing with every beat to a loud crescendo but all the screen will show is a train crossing by, or some doors closing. Hardly the right effect.

Unfortunately, I can’t criticize the movie too much because I doubt if there’s any other way to show what they wanted to. And you have to marvel at the idea. Creating a digital universe, a perfect world of sorts, and basing a storyline on the same takes a good amount of imagination.

However, TRON Legacy gets too convoluted for its own good. Its only when the movie is drawing towards its closing scenes that all the pieces begin to fall in place and one understands what this movie is about. Kinda like the Matrix (though that took a few repeat viewings to get the hang of) but the difference was that while in Matrix you were intrigued and excited to understand the world of the Matrix better, with TRON you are just waiting for it all to end and your world to be restored to Technicolour again

All in all, the movie looks more like a brilliantly displayed laser show with thumping sounds and beats to go with, rather than a fully fleshed out movie with characters and a plotline. Legacy or no, if they are making a third edition to this there’s a lot of that needs to be added to the current offering to qualify it as a worthy watch

Movie Review: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Can’t wait for Part 2!!

I know this is a review for Part 1 of this Mega Franchise but I can’t help myself. The movie so wonderfully sets the stage for Part 2 that July 2011 is just too far away yet (that’s when the next and final edition releases).

However, Part I itself offers you quite the cinematic experience to justify a movie hall ticket. With no Dumbledore to guide him and several Horcruxes to destroy, Harry has his task cut out for him. Meanwhile, the Dark Lord has taken over completely and Death Eaters appear to be everywhere. I wish I could explain scenario by scenario how wonderfully the book has been adapted in the movie but alas! I shall be giving too much away. Not that it is a really faithful adaptation, though. In fact, the way the movie starts you almost wonder if they came up with their own version to this masterpiece, but then the familiar scenes set in and you start connecting with the book a lot better

What you get at the end of it all is a visually stunning treat, with breath taking effects and brilliant set pieces. Of course, the grand storyline created by the genius herself, is undoubtedly the real hero in this movie. Still, it is heartening to see that justice has been done to what is probably the finest book in the series. Superlative performances by the entire cast with Emma Watson (who’s gotten prettier with every installment of the series) delivering a particularly noteworthy performance. Ralph Fiennes as Voldermort, looks sinister as ever and you’ll probably hate Bellatrix Lestrange even more, a testament to the performance of Helena Bonham Carter. The director David Yates has clearly dug deeper to the essence of the storyline and some sequences have that touch of class about them. This installment is probably the darkest of the lot and the director faithfully re-creates the same – with great success

On the flipside though, since the book is split across two parts and the first edition clocks around 2 hours 30 minutes, the movie seems to have been stretched a tad bit longer especially the scenes nearing the end of first half. However, the movie more than makes up for it with exemplary action sequences that follow up just after that.

The much talked about kiss between Radcliffe and Watson was completely uncalled for and almost strikes a jarring note to that particular scene

Other than that, there aren’t too many hiccups in this breath-taking adventure and it probably ends at the best possible note – giving the audience a chilling realization and having them just raring for more.

However, as the credits roll in one does feel like giving a tribute to that great artist, the creator of this wonderful saga who has single-handedly given us one of the greatest series of all time

Movie Review: The Social Network – Go Get Connected!!

The drought of sad, disappointing films has finally ended. While I have been frequently accused of not showing enough concern for my fellow followers @ anitalks. I knew I had to wait for the right moment, the right movie to deliver a review that actually raised hopes and expectations

One look at the trailer of The Social Network and I knew that moment had arrived. My only regret is that this review comes 3 days after the movie released

The Social Network is all about Mark Zuckerberg (the founder of Facebook, or was it The Facebook ;)) his fortunes and misfortunes after he created this phenomenon that captured the imagination of millions across the globe and that’s really all there is to it. However, the beauty of the film lies in the way it is presented.

Packed with smart dialogues and witty humor, The Social Network is a tribute to the Genius. It isn’t apologetic about the arrogance or pompous attitude of its protagonist, Mark. Rather, it celebrates his sheer brilliance and intelligence at every opportunity.

What is probably the hallmark of this movie is that none of its characters are stereotypes. There isn’t a single character you can completely love/ hate. There are shades of grey in each and every one of them and that is how they are presented. So a word of advice, don’t be judgemental of any of the characters while watching the movie. The sheer believability of the characters are the real treat in this movie

Jesse Eisenberg does complete justice to Mark Zuckerberg, portraying him as a stuck up yet brilliant nerd who thinks the rest of the population to be inferior. His dismissive remarks and smart aleck replies provide the lighter moments in this otherwise gripping drama. The other side characters too do a remarkable job, noticeably Andrew Garfield (who portrays Eduardo Saveron, co-founder of Facebook).

The director, David Fincher, does a brilliant job with some scenes being absolute masterpieces and never does the movie get dull or boring. Considering its an almost factual account of a couple of nerds, writing code and making millions, this movie could have easily become dull and dreary but thankfully, its not. The ending (don’t worry, am not giving anything away) may be regarded as tame by some but I thought it was quite apt given the way the movie progresses.

Final verdict, the movies haven’t added too many ‘friends’ to their network (neither Hollywood nor Bollywood) off late but I think one finally has reason to spend that money, buy that ticket and ‘Get Connected’!!

Movie Review: Anjaana Anjaani….ajab prem ki ‘not so gazab’ kahani

Its wild…its whacky..its fresh..these were the adjectives in one’s mind while watching this movie…but that was before one reached the interval stage..and after having completed the movie..dismay, dejection and disappointment loomed

Its too uncanny to be a coincidence. Of the last few Bollywood outings I have gone for, each of them has had the same problem..a promising premise but poorly dealt with. Alas, Anjaana Anjaani too suffers the same fate.

The movie starts off almost Hollywoodish..running at a brisk pace with the story of both leads being unfolded bit by bit. Though, rather depressing due to the premise its built on, especially in the first half, the only complaint one can make is the lack of laughter/ funny situations/ humor that is an essential element of such movies. Its the second half of the movie though that’s the real dampener. Apart from one hilarious sequence (which again takes you to the land of ‘what could have been’), the movie drags unnecessarily beyond limits and gets tedious and irritating. The message the movie tries to portray is also blatant and in-your-face whereas it ought to have been implied and subtle.

The only reason why Anjaana Anjaani works to some degree is due to its two leads. Easily the hottest property in B-Town today, both Ranbir and Priyanka do justice to their roles and while there’s not too much to emote or portray..the pair look so good on screen that it makes the movie seem almost worthwhile

The music is good but far too many songs are packed into the movie, especially in the second half. Had it been half an hour shorter and with a few more funny sequences thrown in and a little less melodrama, this flick would’ve been a blast, but as it stands, I wouldn’t bet my money on it if I were you. Play it safe and catch the DVD when it comes out..it would be time and money well saved.

Movie Review: Robot….Nooooo!!!!

The Robot in the movie ‘Robot’ is named ‘Chitty’. (Don’t ask me why they couldn’t come up with a better name). During the interval one of my friends cried out in sheer frustration: ‘Chitty nahi yaar yeh toh cheating ho gayee….’. One couldn’t have summed it up better.

Over the past few weeks, I am beginning to realize the true meaning of the term ‘occupational hazard’ having to review movies like these.If Robot is what director Shankar could come up with spending an insane amount of money, I think that money would have been much better spent in charity instead. Meaningless, frustrating, irritating, agonizing would be the popular adjectives in the movie hall if you make the mistake of watching it there.

To be fair, Robot starts with a lot of promise. There seems to be a decent build up and the story seems to be in place. I thought it was a brilliant ploy- knowing that Rajni movies are supposed to have that larger than life feel about them, what better than to portray him as a Robot. It would make every feat seem plausible…every impossible stunt or action, doable. Come to think of it, isn’t that what the Wachowski Brothers did in the Matrix? – create the world of the matrix where all these gravity defying stunts are justified. (Sorry, I shouldn’t insult a masterpiece like the matrix by comparing it here).

Anyway, the second half proved me wrong…and way off the mark. Forget gravity defying…completely idiotic scenes put together with God knows what purpose. Silly action scenes which become just plain irritating as the film progresses. I heard some people called the last hour as the most ‘entertaining’ part of the movie. Suffice it to say that it is heart breaking what some of our film-makers get away with these days..in the name of entertainment.

In terms of the acting, don’t bother your head over why an actress like Ash agreed to sign up for such a movie especially given the role she played. She doesn’t have much to do other than play a glam doll which I don’t think is her forte anyway, though she does look gorgeous all throughout. Superstar Rajni on the other hand, does justice to his role, though he tends to go over the top at times.

Don’t even get me started on the song and dance routine. By the time the last song comes, you’ll be ready to tear your hair out. Though the music has been directed by the Maestro A R Rahman, its a rare ever disappointing offering by him.

There is pretty much nothing that is unmissable in this movie so I can’t think of any reason why I should push you to waste your cash. Unless, of course, you are part of the Rajni fan following, in which case no amount of convincing will keep you away from the silver screen.

In any case, I’ve lost a few precious hours and got a headache in the process..if you want to suffer the same fate be my guest and go ahead and watch it.

Movie Review: Dabangg…exercise caution

India is a wondrous country… If a movie like Dabangg can break the record for opening weekend of a movie like 3 Idiots..that’s the only conclusion I can come to. I know you already know better, but just for record..don’t even for a moment believe that Dabangg can be compared to a stalwart like 3 Idiots.

Should you then be Dabangg (which means ‘fearless, for the uninitiated) about spending your precious bucks and catching this flick in the hall? Well, I would recommend you exercise some caution. Unless you are a hopeless Salman fan, absolutely loved his last offering, ‘Wanted’, absolutely adore insanely mindless action and have no regard for plot, script etc in which case it qualifies as a ‘must-watch’ for you. To be fair though, Dabangg isn’t as bad as Wanted (now there’s a comparison one can make)…in fact, in the second half one actually begins to take interest in the movie. The first half is quite a bummer though, with another 4-5 songs (I lost count..) and a handful of cheesy dialogues, most of which you would’ve already seen in the promos.

What makes Dabangg mildly interesting is its lead character Chulbul Pandey. He’s not Mr. Good Cop, not by a long shot..but he’s got facets that make him quite intriguing. In fact, most of the movie spends time on exploring various aspects of Chulbul’s character. A lot has been said about Salman’s acting and that its his best ever etc…I would say that it is certainly one of his better performances but wouldn’t go ga-ga over it. Sonakshi Sinha makes a quiet debut because the poor girl has hardly any dialogues in the movie. The other noteworthy performance is that of Sonu Sood (who plays the character of Chhedi Singh). He pulls of a convincing villain and thankfully, doesn’t go over the top while delivering his dialogues. Another noteworthy appearance is that of Malaika who delivers the scorcher ‘Munni Badnam Hui’ and lights up the screen for a few brief moments.

The good thing about Dabangg and which is the only explanation I have of its recent success is that the movie doesn’t take itself too seriously. There are no scenes meant to particular stir you or move you..the director believes that you have just come to have fun so the heavier moments in the movie are also glossed over. Even when Salman is beating villains to a pulp he delivers the odd cheesy dialogue to remind the audience that none of this should be taken too seriously.

So final verdict? If you are going, go with a gang of friends with absolutely no expectations and the intention of having a good time.. otherwise give the silver screen a miss for this flick.

Movie Review: Lafangey Parindey….stay away

Have you seen the trailer of Lafangey Parindey? (She was born to fly..etc)..Well, if you have, that’s the movie for you..Walk into the movie hall and though it clocks an annoying 2 and a half hours, I doubt you would have seen anything more, other than perhaps the biggest advertisement for the TV show, ‘India’s Got Talent’

YRF has clearly lost the plot. There was a time that a YRF production, though not always spectacular, could at least be counted upon as dependable movie fare..Well, the times have certainly changed

The ‘Tashan’ of making the big bucks have clearly made YRF a ‘Badmaash Company’ and they are now using advertising and endorsements to rake in the moolah rather than the audience’s ticket fare. What else would explain taking a promising script that may have had potential and presenting it in such a flat manner. The character of Pinky Palkar, could have been such a strong force so as to blow the audience away with her resolve and commitment (read movies like Iqbal) but despite Deepika Padukone’s best efforts, Pinky fails to move you. In fact, there is precisely one scene that would really stir some emotion and is quite beautifully presented but that’s where the joy ends

Neil Nitin Mukesh, in his trademark style, remains blank and expressionless throughout the movie and One Shot Nandu ends up being a one-dimensional character (even though that wouldn’t have been the intention). The only one who deserves mention is probably Deepika, who has definitely raised her own performance bar. Not only does she look beautiful (which she does in all her movies) but she quite literally, puts her best foot forward and tries to breathe life into the character of Pinky

Unfortunately, since the plot is woefully predictable (especially after the elaborate trailers) and there is little else to save the script, her performance is not enough to make this a hall-worthy experience. One would think that the ‘ringa ringa’ score that would have many humming away during the trailers, would be well exploited, but since that too comes only at the beginning of the movie, by the time you come out of the hall, you have no recollection of that either.

To sum it up, I have absolutely no reason whatsoever to recommend that you waste money and go to the halls for this flick…Just watch the trailer and you can tick Lafangey Parindey off your list…

Movie Review: Peepli LIVE – Live the experience

A few years ago, there was a satire by the name of ‘Welcome to Sajjanpur’ that seeked to tackle a host of issues and was set in a distinctly village focused scenario. That movie failed to evoke my emotions as I thought it was perhaps a little too subtle in its approach and the main plot itself wasn’t very engrossing. Peepli LIVE, though, set in a similar setting, doesn’t have any of those flaws

Hats off to Anusha Rizwi to be able to present such a grim and serious issue, as farmer suicide in such a fresh and convincing manner. While the movie starts off with the lives of the two main characters, Natha and his brother, it soon snowballs to such epic levels wherein they are reduced to mere pawns in a larger and murkier game involving media, politicians and what nots. Irony is practically engraved into every frame of this movie and each scene gives you the opportunity to dig deeper and realize what the director truly wants you to see

However, before I continue praising Peepli LIVE, its important to understand and accept one fact. The movie isn’t commercial by any standards. Its not an out n out entertainer and there isn’t one scene that can be regarded as slapstick. Realism is at the very core of this flick and all the subtle humor is generated from stuff that is very much believable and practical. So if you are looking for a brainless comedy, go watch some of the other offerings this week. What you need to keep in mind while watching Peepli Live is the message the director attempts to portray and the way she manages to bring across contemporary issues with both a touch of humor and loads of irony.

Another interesting trick is the use or rather the lack of use of background score and sound effects during dialogue delivery. Rather, the focus is on the actual sounds - the chatter amongst the media, the clanging of utensils which only adds to the realism of the frames

To add to the experience, the movie is supported by a stellar performance by the entire star cast - each doing complete justice to the character they portray.

There is so much to this movie that one would want to discuss and ponder over but I guess that’ll have to wait as it would mean giving away too much of the plot of this wonderful satire. Suffice it to say that you shouldn’t miss it. While there isn’t too much ‘hall-worthy’ in this flick in the conventional sense (no mindblowing action, no special effects, no exotic locales etc), I don’t think you would get the appropriate effect of what the movie tries to convey, unless you watch the drama that unfolds at Peepli - 'LIVE' ,in the theater, so go book your show right away..

Movie Review: Despicable Me – Nothing despicable about it…

Now this is what happens when you enter the theater with huge expectations. Having missed this movie at the beginning of the week, I heard rave reviews of Despicable Me and entered the hall with sky-hihg expectations. Did it meet those expectations? Not entirely

To clear the air – no it isn’t as good as Monsters Inc. or Finding Nemo. Its a normal, decent animation flick.

Should you then spend money and watch it in the hall? – Most definitely yes..why? Because of the 3D experience that will be completely lost on you otherwise

Yes, we finally have an animation flick which gives 3D the respect it deserves. Despicable Me is the best I’ve seen from a 3D animation point of view. Sure there are scenes that are just meant to give the 3D experience, like the ride in the amusement park or the trip to the moon but you surely get your money’s worth.

The 3D isn’t all the movie has to offer though. There are some scenes where you are guaranteed to burst out laughing, though those are few and far between. What makes movies like Finding Nemo and Ice Age absolute rib ticklers are characters like Dory and Scrat, which is an element sadly missing from this movie. While the main character Gru (voice by Steve Carell) stirs a variety of emotions in you at different stages of the movie, it does miss a few funny scenes/ dialogues, overall. The other issue with Despicable Me is that it has an ‘all too familiar’ look to it…Gru reminds of you of Grinch and Agnes is sure to remind you of Boo (from Monsters Inc.). While they have not been featured in any animation movie so far, the bots that are a part of Gru’s lab would bear a distinct resemblance to zoozoos (Vodafone)

Other than that, the movie doesn’t have too many flaws. The animation is perfect (but then that is now a standard expected off Hollywood and no longer deserves separate mention). Steve Carell is in great form and pulls of a convincing ‘Gru’.

The movie has a weird plotline that’ll keep you interested till the end. The ending credits are perhaps the icing on the cake as far as the 3D experience goes so make sure to keep your glasses on, long after the movie is over. All in all, I’d say its one of the better offerings this week. If you made the mistake of picking Aisha as first choice, Despicable Me offers a good chance to make amends

Movie Review: Aisha…aaaaa!!!!

That was a cry in agony, by the way….
Its one of the rare occasions where I’ve gotta admit a guy’s perspective may not do justice to give a full opinion on the kinda movie ‘Aisha’ is. Trouble is, dis movie is completely ‘gal centric’, and there alas, lies the dilemma. I would tell you not to even consider watching this flick in da hall but den a gal might tell u different..Here’s my take anyway…
Welcome to the world of Aisha and it quite literally is about her all throughout the length of the movie. Sure, there are a couple of side characters thrown in but the movie really belongs to the character of Aisha..or at least it was supposed to as per the script…up till the point that they decided to cast Sonam Kapoor as her (Aisha)
Let’s be fair…Sonam Kapoor isn’t the prettiest of damsels of B-Town (not by a long yardstick) and the few scenes where she’s managed to look decent are ones where she’s wearing traditional attire with minimal make up. Instead to cast her as a glam doll and a fashion-obsessed, rich & spoilt gal is clearly a mistake. The other issue is that ‘Aisha’ has a lot of dialogues to deliver and dialogue delivery isn’t one of Sonam’s strong points either
Oh by the way, the other lead in this movie is Abhay Deol and I doubt if he has been more under-utilized and given so little room to perform in any other flick, so I am sure you’ll understand if I don’t give him too much importance in this review
Resultingly the movie depends heavily on its side characters who thankfully do not disappoint. The biggest revelation is Amrita Puri who plays the character of Shefali, who I think emerges as the true heroine of the film. While the camera focuses firmly on Sonam Kapoor for majority of the movie, she still manages to steal the show in the little moments she gets – whether its about her complaining while she’s taking a long walk with Randhir (Cyrus) or the power packed scenes in which she confronts Aisha..she is in prime form
The other ‘sidies’ also more than justify their presence in the movie with Cyrus Sahukar (Randhir) and Ira Dubey (Pinky) coming up with noteworthy performances
If you are looking for stuff like a great plot, fast paced scenes, oodles of laughter..well, you’re clearly sitting in the wrong theater. What Aisha offers you is a very typical chick flick (I always struggled with a definition for that; now I have my answer) an extremely predictable plot that unfolds at an excruciating pace, with little nuggets of subtle humor thrown in. Add the fact that there are one too many songs and none too melodious and you know exactly what you are headed for…
Guys, I am warning you – this is a movie that I am sure you won’t enjoy. However, I am equally sure that your ‘better halves’ are sure to drag you to the halls to watch this flick..so if you can manage to convince them and catch it on DVD instead…consider it a job well done

Movie Review: Once upon a time....once is enough

Genre: Crime/ Action
Starring: Ajay Devgn, Emraan Hashmi, Kangna Ranaut, Prachi Desai and Randeep Hooda

Now, I know the title I've given to this review makes this movie look really bad...that was not the intention. Once upon a time..is a decent attempt at a movie with smart dialogues intermingled with some really cheesy ones and a predictable, yet watchable performance overall. If there was ever a movie which got screwed due to the over-emphasis on dialogues and smart one liners..Once upon a time..would definitely be a part of that list.

Set in the 70s the movie focuses on the dark underbelly of Mumbai at its most nascent stages wherein smuggling was the route to overnight fortune and easy money. The movie starts with a narration from Ranbir Hooda (as per the credits he's supposed to have a guest appearance, though he seems to have as many dialogues and visibility as the other mainstream actors.) as a police officer who is repentent over a gross error in judgement he made and is willing to take his own life for it. After this, the movie gets into flashback mode as he recounts the lives of the two main characters, Sultan Mirza (Devgn) and Shuaib (Hashmi) and the paths they are willing to choose to realize their dreams.

Sultan Mirza, perfectly portrayed by Ajay Devgn is perhaps the most complex character in the plot and the director spends a good amount of time familiarizing us with the various facets of the character. He is a gangster, a smuggler yet there are some endearing qualities that put him into that grey zone, where one is not so sure what to think. His courtship of Rehanna (Ranaut) provide the lighter and more enjoyable moments of the film.

Shuaib, the other character, is easier to understand and he is your proverbial black sheep who is bent on becoming the biggest and greatest in the shortest time possible. While I've never been a fan of Hashmi, he has put in a decent performance, though in some scenes you wish there had been a more competent actor.

The song and dance routine is present but thankfully, only in patches and doesn't slow the movie down. With a plot line like this, too many songs would have completely ruined it but thankfully, that isn't the case

What the movie misses desperately is the underlying menace, the invisible tension of movies like Sarkar, Khakee or the more recent, Rajneeti, which had you watching each and every frame with rapt attention. While the background score does complete justice to the theme and pulse of the movie, the movie fails to be really gripping, even while attempting to be so.

All in all, its decent movie fare for this weekend. Ideally would like to watch this flick at home on a DVD but a visit to the cinemas wouldn't be a complete waste of your money.

Movie Review: The 'Inception' of Genius..

Genre: Sci-Fi/ Action
Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Joseoh Gordon-Levitt, Ellen Page, Marion Cottilard, Ken Watanabe and Tom Hardy

Mr. Nolan has done it again...Many years ago, when he was just starting out, he came out with the wonderfully convoluted, yet completely logical masterpiece 'Memento', that had people watching runs and reruns of the movie to try and make sense of what happens...Then, many years later, the Wachowski Brothers staked their claim with the revolutionary Matrix movie series (still won't like to refer to it as a trilogy, the third installment was a disaster) which had people having to revisit the theaters, if only to figure out what 'The Matrix' really was..Now, Mr. Nolan has reclaimed his throne of mind-boggling, complex and multi-layered genius with his latest offering - Inception

A wonderfully fascinating concept that uses our most creative figments of imagination - Inception uses our dreams to weave a plot that is sure to intrigue you, at the very least. Nolan builds multiple 'levels' (quite literally) into a plot that forces you to listen and think over each and every dialogue uttered by every character to maintain pace with the drama that unfolds over 140 minutes. 'Your mind is the scene of the crime' and 'The dream is real' - the taglines that this movie has been publicized with, are really apt for this movie and give away a lot more than one would think they do; it would be grave injustice if I were to reveal anything further of the plot.

I know this movie would be compared to the Dark Knight and some might even suggest that Nolan outdoes himself with Inception, but that would perhaps be over-stating the case. In my opinion, the movie tends to get too complicated for its own good and leaves some very pertinent questions unanswered. Some of the action too, is unwarranted and one wonders why it was really necessary to insert those set pieces, when a much different setting was a distinct and much more enticing possibility. However, my suggestion is don't compare this to anything you have seen before - because its the novelty, sheer creative imagination and complexity of the plot that are the charm of this flick

Fantastic performance by the entire cast, specially Di Capricio and Ellen Page further add to the quality of the movie but the movie really belongs to the director himself. Nolan asserts himself in all his glory, using a multi-layered, convoluted, plot to keep you interested all throughout. Imagine the kind of attention that he forces you to pay to something as insignificant as a single spinning top and you will know exactly what I mean. If all this were not enough, he ends the movie with an absolute masterstroke that practically carves his signature touch on to it.

Not at all a movie for the masses, so for those who like to watch movies with their brains left at home - steer clear of this one. On the other hand, for the enthusiasts looking for a challenge, march right away to the theater, if nothing else, only to marvel at the genius who could conceive, develop and transition to motion pictures such creative brilliance

Movie Review: Toy Story 3 delivers...To infinity and beyond!!!

Genre: Animation/ Comedy
Starring: Tom Hanks, Tim Allen and Joan Cusack

This signature line from Buzz Lightyear, alone is enough to bring a smile and perhaps a nostalgic flash of the preceding two installments of this heartwarming saga but Toy Story 3 delivers a lot more than just that. From the first frame itself, the movie sets into sublime motion with one scene simply flowing into the other. The audience gets introduced to all the old familiar faces - the Potato Heads, Rex the Dinosaur, Hamm the Piggy bank, the aliens, Slinky the dog, Jesse and of course, Woody and Buzz Lightyear.

Andy's all grown up now and headed to college and the Toys are left guessing as to their fate now that Andy won't be interested in playing with them anymore. Woody, always the loyal one, tries his best to convince them that Andy won't discard them, but the others don't believe him. What follows is another typical 'Toy Story' adventure with the toys experiencing the supposed thrills and chills of being toys to kids in a Day Care, imprisoned in what they believed to be their new wonderland and Woody, as always, is there to save the day. Toy Story 3 also brings to the fore a host of new characters including Barbie, Ken, Lotso and Big Baby to name a few.

On the downside, the 3D of the movie..well let's just say it isn't there. After the magic that Avatar has created, the benchmark is probably set so high now that one wonders if any other movie would even come close to creating that level of realism. To expect that from an animation movie, no less, would be harsh but the sad truth is Toy Story 3 doesn't even attempt to impress in that department. One may as well watch the movie in 2D because the true magic of the movie is in the story and characters rather than the effects. Another disappointing factor was the dearth of humor in the movie..though, a couple of scenes do make you chuckle and smile.

However, what really warms your heart towards Toy Story 3 is not the beginning, the action but really, the end. Knowing that Andy is now, indeed, too grown up to play with his old toys the movie ends on the best possible note, leaving perhaps a touch of sadness that this marks the end of a one-of-a-kind saga

For those who are still trying to make up their mind, I'd say if you found anything good about the previous two installments don't bother your heads on this one - just go watch it. If you loved toys when you were younger, I bet this movie will remind you of your favourite ones, the good times you had with them and possibly a touch of regret if they aren't in the best of shape any longer.

So go ahead, remember the good ol' days and bid farewell to one of the few trilogies that have lived up to the expectation...and beyond

Movie Review: Raavan - Kata Bechara Bakara

Genre: Action/ Romance
Starring: Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai, Vikram, Govinda, Priyamani 

It took two years to complete this movie. Am still reeling from the shock, disappointment, anger et al felt while viewing Raavan. Two years?? It takes two years to make drivel like dis? And I thought Bollywood was slowly but surely catching up with Hollywood...

For the tourists, you get treated to two hours of sheer visual delight with breath taking landscapes, amazing shots and excellent camera work. For the movie goers, looking for a decent script, plot etc, start watching the movie in the second half. The first half makes no sense watsoever. So you start off proceedings with an animal-like Beera character (played by Abhishek Bachan) who cackles and shouts at will and is seemingly enraged over something, that you need to wait till the second half to understand. Meanwhile, Aishwarya Rai as the kidnapped maiden and wife of the SP (who is hell bent on catching Beera) seems to have the easiest job in the world - she has to have both hands tied, make sure her eyes are red at all times (still not sure why that was required) and scream and shout at all and sundry. Just for the record, I just condensed 70 minutes of the first half of the movie in one paragraph. Meanwhile, the song and dance routine continues with 3 songs packed into the first half itself. The movie intervals with the song - kata kata bechara bakara..and one is only too consciously aware who the bakara is at this point.

Thankfully, the movie picks up its act in the second half where the story finally gets revealed. One begins to understand the character of Beera and why he acts the way he does, why he has kidnapped Aishwarya and the plot finally begins to fall in place. It is only the last 20 minutes that really deliver what the movie promised, the only time that the audience is left guessing as to what turn the movie would take, who Aishwarya would really end up with and whether this really is a tale of love. If only, the rest of the movie had been crafted so painstakingly with curious twists and turns, there was so much potential..

Alas, Raavan is far from the thrill-ride it promised to be. The plot is very predictable and twists and turns, few and far between. Even the leads, don't deliver a dynamite performance, though, to be fair, they both have very little room to. Abhishek, surprisingly, doesn't really fit the character of Beera and is loud and over-bearing. Aishwarya, though she looks pretty as ever, doesn't get to do more than scream and shout. Though I haven't actually timed it, I think Govinda's character possibly has the maximum air-time and dialogues. As the forest guard (playing a pseudo 'Hanuman' role) who accompanies the SP, he is in his element and provides much required comic relief in the film

So unless you are going for the scenery and landscapes, or are really eager to hear shrill screams & shouts in surround sound, I suggest you stay clear from this one...

Movie Review: Kites..Yikes!!!

Genre: Romance/ Drama/ Action

Starring: Hrithik Roshan, Barbara Mori, Nicholas Brown, Anand Tiwari, Kiran Bedi, Kangana Ranaut

At the outset I would like to thank Mr. Masand, Anuradha Chopra and the rest of the reputed film critic elitists, for having given such generous reviews to such a disastrous film - it gives me the opportunity to pen my few words and make this post worth much more of a read than if I were just agreeing to their take on it.

About the movie, I can tell you plain and simple - don't watch it!! Not in the hall and if you have really nothing better to do when the DVD arrives, you can catch a peek but you won't miss much even if you miss it. I say this with quite a heavy heart though, since I myself had much expectations from what was touted to be the successor to 3 idiots (even the thought causes anguish). All this talk of the movie being a brave attempt to extend the boundaries of a typical Bollywood movie is pure balderdash and I can't for the life of me understand why the established film critics are so desparate to give this movie a chance.

Sure the Hritik-Barbara pair sizzle on the screen and the chemistry is quite obvious in each frame but the movie needs to be supported by a plot line which simply isn't there. While you sit and watch one disjointed scene follow another, random car chases and action sequences, you can't help but wonder of what could have been!! Two strangers, neither speaks the others language share an invisible bond that attracts them towards each other despite the risks and dangers of doing so. Top it up with the fact that they are both otherwise, street-smart hustlers who are only looking for a way to get rich overnight and not your reflective and emotional couple who would otherwise believe that love is beyond boundaries. The possibilities were simply endless...the constant conflict that each found themselves in, could have been so wonderfully captured, wherein the audience gets to see each, slowly but reluctantly follow their heart to unite despite the dangers fraught with doing so. No, instead you get to see, a mish mash of sequences roughly put together..random bank robberies..car chases...constant bickering between Barbara and Hritik..yet somehow, somewhere there is supposed to undeniably, be love underneath it all. One moment they are worrying about survival while in the very next they manage to steal lots of money and are singing and dancing about it. The constant flashback mode (read Memento, I probably shouldn't bring up the name of such a masterpiece to this drivel) only succeeds in confusing the audience further and half the time wondering what sequence is actually supposed to be present-day!!

What saves this movie (at least attempts to do so) is the way it has been shot..breath taking landscapes and amazing camera work are probably the best takeaway from Kites.

It pains me to think that some director in Hollywood actually thought that this movie was worth making an English version of..Bollywood could easily have had a better advertisement than this farce.

If after all this, you still feel this movie is worth it..well, its your money..I'd ask for a refund if I could...

Movie Review: Not all that Bad - maash Company

Genre: Action/ Crime/ Comedy
Starring: Shahid Kapur, Anushka Sharma, Meiyang Chang and Vir Das

I know this review comes in late but for those of you who have avoided this movie, based on the blasting it got from the critics (read Masand, Anuradha and Co.), I do believe that the movie's not all that bad as they've made it sound.

What's really done this movie in, is the way it has been publicised. I think the teasers and trailers before the movie gave the wrong idea and expectations were sky high before people walked into the movie hall. When one reads the tagline say 'They did all the wrong things....the right way!!' the images the mind conjures up are those of an Ocean-like crew (read Oceans 11) who's got it all figured out and is able to pull off smart heists and get away with it all. On that count, the movie certainly doesn't deliver.Far from it...

Its your average movie with a simple plot line..a boy genius who comes up with an idea to make money by using loopholes in the system and is able to pull it off with the help of his close friends. Once the idea works they replicate the same idea over and over again to make a lot of money...until the success goes to the boy-genius's head and he starts considering himself better and bigger than his friends..its not a novel plot line but it has been executed stylishly and in a manner where u don't impatiently look at the watch and wonder how much of this you would need to endure further..the first half passes in quite a breeze and though the second half tends to drag a tad too long, the movie has its heart in the right place. The transformation of the boy-genius (played by Shahid Kapoor) from a sincere yet ambitious lad to an arrogant and rude guy is nicely done. Each of the characters in the story are well crafted and given adequate screen time to be understood by the audience. The heist itself though is not highly convincing and seems a little too easy to pull off. One disappointing factor is that there are no major twists and turns as the story develops which is characteristic of such heist movies. Another disappointment is the practical absence of humor (another critical ingredient of such movies) other than one scene in the beginning which is guaranteed to have you burst out laughing.

Decent performance by Shahid Kapoor who takes up most of the screen time and the supporting actors also play their part well. All in all a fairly watchable film but strictly a one-time watch

Reel-take

When I first start writing this blog I practically vowed that this would not be just another 'movie- review' blog. That it would have articles related to actual incidents/issues/thought provoking stuff that's happening in the world or rather, my take on it.
However, dismayed as I am by the quality of reviews of our 'so-called' movie critics that are meant to act as the beacon of light and potential soothsayers for the latest movies to hit the silver screen, I believe it would be a disservice to the general public if they were forced to run with the farce that these critics have come up with lately

I'll try, to the extent possible, not to give away too much of the story, especially for movies that I think are worth a watch, can't promise a lot in that respect. However, what I do assure you, is a sincere and honest opinion of the average cine-goer...not reviews based on technical perfection..amazing screenplay...great editing per se...but rather the overall movie going experience..so here goes