Movie Review: Spiderman: Into the Spider-verse..a refreshing new dimension

Despite being an ardent Spiderman fan, this one originally did set the spidey sense tingling. After 3 different origin stories for 3 different Spidermen - I felt like the multi-verse is already established. On top of it, this one's animated and not even based on Peter Parker. Some guy called Miles Moran who I have no clue about. And yet, I wandered into the halls, that too into IMAX. Having seen it though, its a lesson that pre-conceived notions can be real dangerous. Had I listened to them, I might've swung past and missed out on a thrilling, original and refreshing treat.

Into the Spider-verse defines breaking new boundaries. It feels less like a movie and more like a comic book brought to life. In a sense, it redefines animation. Sometimes, its not even easy on the eyes and yet it doesn't feel out of place. The comic panel styling is simply too cool. The story itself, doesn't feel like a wearied re-hash of the known origin story. In fact, the movie is pretty conscious of its protagonist's elaborate history and makes quick work of its own re-telling. Rather, it lingers on some of the more interesting and fresh moments. The writing is great and the story runs (literally) at a frenetic pace. Much like the superhero himself, there is no time to catch a breath - this even when Miles hasn't discovered his spidey powers yet.

The plot is set amongst the most complex constructs yet. However, it doesn't harp on convincing you that this stuff is possible or even how it is achieved. A lot of peripheral stuff is simply assumed. The second half gets a little more goofy with too many 'Spider-men' from too many dimensions and the movie loses some of its steam. It does pick up quickly thereafter though and moves to a thrilling climax. The writing is classy and some of the lines are really witty. Its one of the few movies, where I actually wished there were subtitles, because am sure with its pace, I've still missed stuff.

I would however, recommend that you don't watch this one in IMAX. The 3D is less busting out of the screen and more on showing depth beyond the window screen. To put it simply, its hardly there and the giant screen that it is, magnifies every pixel of the artwork. Especially given the animation styling given to this movie, it can be too much magnification and I could often see entire rows of pixels bunched together, which was distracting. A lesser screen might actually give a fuller experience.

I would highly recommend you watch it though. If for nothing else, the audacity and boldness of vision and the kind of animation that translates on screen. I am actually hoping this starts off a new trend with more content being developed in this comic panel like format. Spiderman - Into the Spider-verse, breaks new ground with its new dimensions and singular animation style and is a hearty welcome back to a new, refreshing version of the webslinger. Don't miss it.

Movie Review: Badhaai Ho..calls for all manner of celebration

While the central premise in and of itself is funny, there is little else that Badhaai Ho could have offered from a plot perspective. However, the way the movie is packaged and presented, coupled with wonderful performances from the entire cast (especially the older folks), elevate what would've been an ordinary movie to a celebration that stays with you long after its final moments.

You may be familiar with the central premise after watching (or at least hearing about) the movie's trailer. What you won't get from that though, is the extent to which that premise is milked at various points in the movie - each time bringing laughs and at no point outstaying their welcome. That and the most apt use of background score to convey its more comic moments, Badhaai Ho holds your interest through the movie and never feels forced or stretched. Never taking itself too seriously, the movie slowly makes its way into your heart and firmly rests there.

You constantly get the feeling that post this the movie will run out of content, but surprisingly it makes enough for its 2 hour runtime to feel a breeze and also give that warm, fuzzy feeling - most movies can only hope for. To add to the joy, there are virtually no songs and while the 'badhaaiyan bibi tenu' strain plays off in the background every now and then, its just that line and there isn't a pause in proceedings.

There are moments in this movie that lift it to new levels - the wonderful bond of eternal love  between a husband and wife even after they are technically now labelled as parents, Indian family values that every kid should aspire for and also the very Indian family squabbles and chatter that I am sure most would relate to. There are other subtle moments that happen in the background or in conversations - again portraying a message but not quite spelling it out.

If the presentation is good, its starcast is what lifts the movie further. Its real leads are not Ayushmann Khurana and Sanya Malhotra but rather the older pair of Gajraj Rao and Neena Gupta. In fact, the movie's best moments are the (often subtle) exchanges between these two. So much so, that when the movie focuses on the younger love story it seems forced and even out-of-place. Neena Gupta in particular is in vintage touch as she perfectly pulls of a restrained yet impactful performance. She owns every scene she is in and is a delight to watch. Equally restrained, yet no less endearing is Gajraj Rao with his quiet mannerisms. Ayushmann too is going only from strength to strength and puts in another convincing performance with Badhai ho - not trying to steal the show but playing the perfect foil to the older couple. A surprise package is Surekha Sikri as the Dadi of the household, who has many more lines than you would typically expect and is explosive, playing the typical grumbling elder in the house, who is blunt to the hilt.

When I saw its trailers, Badhaai Ho was not a movie that I was all that enthusiastic about. It seemed too wound around its central premise and it seemed like all its funny moments were captured in the trailer itself. As it stands though, Badhaai Ho is a sweet bundle of joy that I am more than happy to announce the arrival of. Go catch its delivery in the theaters.

Movie Review: Andhadhun...a whole array of notes

Ever since I learnt of the movie's title being a play on its chief protagonist - a blind pianist, Andhadhun was on my hit-list of movies to watch out for. Add to it the fact that this one was directed by Sriram Raghavan, a director who excels in making things racy and pacy, it promised to be a lot of fun. For its first half, Andhadhun is actually a masterclass in film making, rarely striking a false note. Its the second half that has some jarring tones that take it from quirky to bloody dark yet manages to redeem itself by the end. All in all, Andhadhun is unlike anything you are likely to witness in a movie hall.

Its best to go 'blind' if you don't know anything about this movie yet. Saying anything gives something away so I'll be extra cautious here. The first half is pure bliss. A brief introduction to its characters gives way to seemingly slow proceedings but you can't help but feel something is about to give. There's a startling revelation early in the game, making you wonder what more the movie could have in store. However, there's plenty of thrills to be had. The setup and proceedings in the movie will have you glued with breathless anticipation, not quite sure what to expect next. Joyfully that's the entire first half. Within that you get the trademark Sriram Raghavan nod to old hindi cinema as well as to Beethoven. So much happens in the first half that you wonder if there's enough for the second act. There are moments here and there that would simply get lost if you aren't paying attention. The movie doesn't rely on blaring background score to make its impact - an offbeat piano note does that just fine. 

While the second half also has enough packed into it, the direction it takes, brings it down relatively, especially with the high standards the initial setup creates. There's still that sense of anticipation, of taking unexpected turns in a zig zag journey but the melody feels off. The piano doesn't play as much, the notes don't always feel right and while it gets much darker in tone, it moves farther away from the stuff that made the first half so perfect. Its the final flourish that ends the movie on a high note and you emerge from the hall still quite satisfied.

There are a handful of songs and for a movie with such beautiful piano melodies, they are a complete letdown. In terms of the act, Ayushmann Khurrana pretty much gets a dream role and he pulls it off really well - probably one of his best performances so far. Its only in the few scenes of high strung drama that his dialogue delivery suffers a bit. Tabu is in fine form and while she starts off subtle and barely visible, she makes the movie her own especially as her delectably complex character gets revealed. Radhika Apte does okay in her relatively smaller role.

However, this is totally a director's movie. All the actors are mere puppets, brought in and out to tell an engaging story. Despite the unexpectedly dark turns it takes and its less savoury second half, Andhadhun is a fine melody, that expresses itself well across the octave and gives us a memorable watch.

Movie Review: Manmarziyan..can't make up its bloody mind

If you sense frustration after reading the review title, it delivered the desired effect. Yes, frustration was exactly what I felt after 2.5 hours of a pedestrian storyline that simply can't make up its mind on which characters should be together, why they deserve to be so and what the characters want to do or be in the first place.

With Anurag Kashyap at the helm I was hoping that the age old love triangle would be given a fresh or unfamiliar twist. Forget unfamiliar, what I got was suspiciously close to old wine in a new, sex-fueled bottle from an early Bhansali movie. In comparison to this one, that made more sense (and that's saying something, coming from some one who is decidedly not a Sanjay Leela Bhansali fan).

The movie starts off fresh and unabashed about its pyar as well as fyar (if you do end up watching, you'll know what this means). Vicky Kaushal is barely recognizable in a very unlikely avatar whereas Taapsee tries her best to pull off the brash and loud-mouthed rebel. There is no background to why these folks are the way they are, what are their motivations and aspirations. There are a few trace instances here and there but mostly you are left to piece together things yourself about them.

A lot of the chuckles in the movie (not unlike previous Anurag Kashyap offerings) are to be found in the background chatter - the complaining siblings, the relatives' remarks and the parents frustration and confusion regarding their offsprings. However, unlike his other offerings, which had a solid mainstream flow as well, Manmarziyan has the characters pretty much doing the same dance over and over again.

The storyline is predictable to a fault and while you look for some interesting twists to put things in a new light - they never actually come. When they do, they make little sense and just look like an attempt to find some way to head things off, all the while showcasing the new indecisive generation at their confused best, or rather, worst.

A lot in this movie depended on its main cast of characters. Of those, it is Vicky Kaushal who shines the most in a very different avatar - barely recognizable in his new look. Not only does he look badass but despite a flashy yet shallow character, he makes Vicky (also the name of his character) a little more fleshed out than what the script would have provided. Taapsee Pannu has the strongest role of the lot and her delivery is a bit of a mixed bag. She clearly struggles at first in terms of the Punjabi accent, high strung dialogue delivery, but soon becomes more comfortable with her character. There are some moments where she is brilliant though and overall she just about pulls off a tough act. Abhishek Bacchan (in his comeback film) has the least role of the 3. In fact, he is barely visible in the first half. His needs to be more of a restrained performance and he sticks to the part.

From a director's perspective, there are some subtle messages - a critical view on the established traditions and their place in modern day society - if you really pause to reflect, you might catch them but there isn't any overt commentary on them. There are umpteen number of songs (more parallels to Bhansali than I would've hoped) and while some are melodious, the movie feels more like a bad musical with songs popping up every now and then, many of which do nothing to move the painfully slow narrative forward.

To my mind, I don't think this one's worth a visit to the theaters - baaki your marzi.

Movie Review: Gold...all that glitters

Gold had a lot going for it. A glittering star cast, a director with solid credentials, the nationalistic theme coupled with a release on Independence Day. And yet..all that glitters...

Gold starts off with a bang - so much so - you'll be forgiven to thinking you are seeing the climax of the movie. However, the moment the gold medal embellished GOLD title credits begin, the downhill journey begins. There is a central premise but nothing on screen seems to build up to that. A team is formed but its characters are very sparsely explored. There is some exploration on team dynamics but that too is quickly lost. The movie trudges on till just before the intermission point which is perhaps the most poignant, moving and stirring sequence in the entire film. One of the darkest chapters of Indian history, is well portrayed and casts a strong shadow on the central premise and you begin to hope - maybe this is what the movie is about and it'll pick up post intermission.

Sadly, that's an empty hope and this supposedly biggest obstacle is also quickly overcome. That's perhaps the biggest challenge of GOLD. Its unsure which thread it wants to truly explore (if any) and ends up opening several of them. Within the two and a half hour long expanse you wait for a particular thread to gather steam. The protagonist faces a challenge and its quickly resolved within the next frame, leaving you to wonder why it was introduced in the first place. Even towards the climax, there are so many unnecessary supposed twists which build superficial tension and don't really hold your attention. The only thing, that is somewhat well done I suppose is the patriotic notion, that goes beyond national boundaries and spreads a message of benevolence and love.

Gold could have been really solid. With a better connect with its chief protagonist, the team he brings together, a concern for their fate as well as realizing their dream, Gold could've been so much more. As it stands though, while it tries to show its sheen, it ends up being empty and hollow instead. And then, there's Chak De India.

Had the world not seen Chak De India, they might have still sat through the rest, to see an endearing tale of a hockey team coming together. However, with Chak De having fully explored that theme and very successfully at that, whatever little hope Gold would have, is lost in recollections of better presented scenes and sequences from that masterpiece, that was clearly ahead of its times.

Akshay Kumar tries somewhat to still get Gold to shine. Though weaker in the first half, he himself shines in scenes of extreme emotion in the second half but that alone isn't enough to save the movie. Part of the problem is also his own character. Very little is known about why he is in the position he is and why he is able to pull it off apart from his passion and determination to realize his dream. Most of it doesn't add up. In fact, its the other characters who are far more interesting and deserving of more screen time. Mouni Roy who plays his better half has very few lines but still seems to hold her own quite well, Bengali accent intact. Kunal Kapoor is a bit wooden with his limited character. Sunny Kaushal is a standout performer and one to watch for.

At two and a half hours, Gold is stretched beyond imagination. The central premise of this movie doesn't merit much content and had the movie been snappier and better paced, it might have still worked. The songs don't help either and most of them are unnecessary additions to an already bloated script. There is very little that I can actually recommend about Gold. Independence Day deserves better celebrations - not the solid gold entry I'd have hoped for.

Movie Review: Christopher Robin...does a bit of something

Christopher Robin seemingly does nothing. There's nothing new here - no complexity of characters, a highly predictable storyline - one that's been told many times earlier in different shapes and forms, the live action animation is there but nothing jaw dropping - and yet, as Pooh wisely says very early in the movie - sometimes doing nothing is what leads to the very best something. He may well be talking about Christopher Robin.

The movie's trailer gives away practically the whole storyline so avoid it if you can. The movie starts off with a wonderful storybook-like presentation, melding hand made drawings with actual scenes to set up the context in a quick few minutes. Post that though, the movie slows down but it doesn't feel off. Especially the scenes with Pooh and his friends are adorably cute. Pooh says some seemingly simple lines but they have a world of depth within. His simple life philosophy is a great reminder of what a mess we've made of our own lives - with something even as ordinary as a simple red balloon.

The second half is where things get a little awry - especially towards the climax. However, at no point does the movie drag or feel dull. Predictable, yes but not boring. The animals keep things interesting - while very stereotypical and one-dimensional as characters - their dialogues are what keep the interest going. That and the lines between Christopher and Pooh. The whole cast puts in a decent performance but frankly there isn't much focus on acting or histronics in a movie like this.

Disney has always been the one to bring that bit of magic back in our lives. The daily rigmarole can always get us to let go of our childhood - grow up, focus too much on work and less on play, less on imagination, less on dreams. Christopher Robin is yet another offering that serves as that reminder and reinforces what's important, what ought to matter most. There's one line towards the end that Pooh says which while Robin dismisses off as a line from a silly old bear - its anything but. Its for these gems and reclaiming your imagination that you must go and see Christopher Robin.

Movie Review: Mission Impossible - Fallout...falls below the mark

I know..I know...its touted to be the best of the franchise yet. Its breaking records world over. Its the most 'self-aware', 'action-packed' and 'thrilling'. Believe me, I went in hoping all that was true myself. To be fair, some parts are all that too. However, as an overall package and at the risk of a fallout with a lot of MI fans - I have to be honest, its just about better than its predecessor and isn't a patch on Ghost Protocol.

There is much that is good about Fallout as a standalone action movie. There are thrilling bike rides and car chases. There is a very poetic run through of a scenario with music in the background which is particularly special. We see Hunt pull it off yet again with the climax being particularly noteworthy. Yet, it doesn't feel like Mission Impossible - the scale needs to be there. I don't care enough about how 'true to life' the action' is, how exaggerated the gadgets are - in that moment, in that context - it just seems do-able, on the edge of impossible, but not out of reach for Hunt.

Another thing is, it is relentless - there's no time to catch a breath, not for Hunt and not for the audience either. Both with Rogue Nation and with Fallout, the movie slows down at multiple points, the stakes suddenly seem to disappear, the action is much more emphasized and not for its scale but how it gets pulled off. The cinematography and action is more than great but there's nothing jaw-dropping about the whole situation. Seeing Hunt manage to steer a motorbike against the run of traffic and figure out bylanes in a city is fun - but not thrilling. For the persona, we have of Hunt, this is a day job for him. There are many moments like this. Its either that, or he pushes forward - with no known skill, plan or agenda in a seemingly desperate move to not let his team down - sorry, but that's not the Mission Impossible we know and love. I don't care whether the critics find it ludicrous - it needs to be fun. Not every franchise needs to take the 'Skyfall' route.

Then there is the story which is not the franchise's strong points. Apart from the original which had a kickass storyline and plot progression, the others just managed to push through on a wafer thin plot. To its credit, Fallout tries to re-create some of the magic of the original. It too has that one moment where the movie raises the bar and moves to another level. Unfortunately it comes crashing back to normal post that pretty quickly. Much like its predecessor, it doesn't know what to focus one - characters and plot progression of the original or gravity defying action of the next installments. It does a bit of both and hits it out of the park with neither.

Character development is another chink in the MI armor. One of the reasons, the original was so brilliant is because it spent time with its characters. They were all knew, you didn't know whom to suspect and you were as bewildered as Hunt through the journey, trying to put the pieces together. Fallout, unfortunately, doesn't take you along for that ride. Its ambitious with where its trying to take the storyline and its characters, but the journey isn't smooth - its just a jump from this to that.

Rebecca Ferguson who was such a refreshing addition to the previous installment adds to the complexity. She pulls off, this time minor, role well enough - but her character just complicates things too much. Then there's Walker - who's played by the suave Henry Cavill, who's character could've been the ace in the pack but ends up being the joker for the way his character is handled. Simon Pegg, otherwise the funny man in the previous installments has the weakest and goofiest lines.

Cruise is, astonishingly, still pulling it off without a hitch and I'd called that marvel in the last movie itself - I'll have to find new words to describe it this time around. He just seems to keep going and going defying his age with every installment. I now fully expect him to be around if there's a no.7 as well.

Its apt to recall a line by Anthony Hopkins from MI 2 at this point to bring it closer to what the franchise really has been - this isn't Mission Difficult Mr. Hunt, its Mission Impossible. I think the franchise needs to heed those words more carefully and scale bigger heights than the Burj Khalifa in its next installment if its going to get back to its thrilling ways. One way to do that - bring back Brad Bird - he seemed to know what to do with Hunt and his team better than anyone else.

Movie Review: Sanju..un'question'ably brilliant

While the hype for this movie reached a feverish pitch after the release of the teaser and subsequent trailers - I was cautiously skeptical. Sure, the effects were good and Ranbir looked like Sanjay Dutt in a lot of scenes. However, given all the controversy that surrounds the larger than life star, I wasn't too convinced. Especially if, I felt, the movie will try put rose tinted glasses for me to view Dutt in a new light. I fretted unnecessarily. I should've just told myself this is a Rajkumar Hirani film and left it at that.

Yes, the master film maker has done it again. So sublime is his story telling, so perfect is his craft that you aren't sure where he is pulling the strings as a director and where he lets the story be king and chart its own course. Suffice it to say that in the 160 minutes of runtime, you are unlikely to glance at your watch, even once. There isn't even as much humor or laugh out loud moments as say, a 3 idiots had. Yet, it all just feels - right.

After a somewhat shaky start, the flashback onwards has Raju Hirani in his element. So much could've gone wrong. The scenes could be more laboured or even unnecessary (yes, MS Dhoni - I am looking at you), there could've been unnecessary razzmatazz around 'Baba's entry' , the fanfare, the hype, the sensationalism - and yet, none of it is there. The narration is as simple and natural as it can be.

If this movie's one pillar is its director, the other is surely Ranbir Kapoor. His voice may not match the deep baritone of Sanjay Dutt but even that comes close in a few scenes. In the scene where he is Munnabhai, I actually suspect they played Dutt's dialogue in the background. What is fantastic is that at no point do you feel that Ranbir is copying Sanjay Dutt. Instead, he melds into the personality, slips into those shoes - its simply effortless and in equal parts consistent. His gait, his mannerisms, his behavior, his antics and most importantly, his emotions - everything looks and feels like Dutt himself.

If the mainstream act is solid, the supporting cast is stellar as well. Paresh Rawal may look nothing like Sunil Dutt, but he definitely embodies the persona. The father-son relationship is deep, emotional and wonderfully portrayed. The bromance between Sanju and Kamli comes to life due to the convincing act by Vicky Kaushal, someone who is just going from strength to strength with every movie. Even the female support cast, Manisha Koirala as the supportive mother Nargis and Dia Mirza as Manyata Dutt do a good job in their limited roles. So much so, that even Sonam Kapoor is somewhat bearable in her limited act. Anushka Sharma, however, is wasted in a minor role.

The songs are nothing to write home about. However, the story brings to life 3 classics from the yester-year, at pitch perfect moments, which are sure to gain popularity after this movie.

Of course, you can always debate how close this movie is to the actual life and therein lies the snag. By no means, has Raju Hirani condoned the life and times of Sanjay Dutt. He has openly shown the ill-effects of a drug addled life, the impact on the family as well as the infamous blasts. Yet, he hasn't exactly pinned responsibility on Dutt for most of it. Saying anything more, will spoil your experience - so I'll refrain.

For the best experience of Sanju, forget how true to life the movie is and how much is shown vs how much is hidden. Watch it as an example of sublime story telling, superlative acting and a journey that you rarely get to witness in Hindi cinema.

Movie Review: Raazi..more than acceptable fare

We are all acquainted with a certain stylish and suave super spy who claims to do all in the name of Queen and country, that too with a swagger that makes it look all too easy. Raazi is the story of another spy, who too goes above and beyond in the name of, well, country. Far from swagger though, for this one its all a struggle, presence of mind needed despite months of training and in place of the razzmatazz - a sense of quiet deftness as she goes about doing what she has been trained to do and hoping fervently that she can deliver on the high expectations set from her.

I've perhaps already given away much more than I intended to, but you can blame the trailers for that. One peek at the trailer and you already know too much about the storyline, build up and even climax to an extent. That, I believe, is one of the bigger flaws with how this movie will reach its audience. The classic dilemma of how much to give away in the trailer to attract audiences vs having a tightly woven plot with multiple twists and turns to keep the audience guessing and on the edge of their seat rears its ugly head with Raazi and spoils to some extent what is more than acceptable fare.

However, despite knowing exactly how things will play out, you still want to root for its protagonist, hope that things will work out well and dread that any moment things will turn nasty. Plaudits to the director and screenplay for keeping the interest going. They go for simplicity and realism rather than the sensational and that is why it works.

Surprisingly, Alia Bhatt is a bit of a mixed bag. She is by no means bad but she has set the bar so high for herself with the past movies that her performance can't be viewed from a rookie lens anymore. While her innocence simply radiates through, its an over effort on scenes where she is almost caught, that pulls her down a bit. Especially in the light of a strong supporting cast, especially her counterpart Vicky Kaushal who puts in a particularly admirable understated performance, her attempts seem to over-dramatize in sharp contrast. However, she considerably makes up for that in scenes of pure emotion - her tortured soul screaming for redemption. In fact, there is much depth about this character that we genuinely miss, but Alia brings some of it through from her portrayal alone.

There is no over-emphasis on background score, thankfully. Rather the tension is built through dialogues and code-words. The songs are nice and don't get in the way of the story. The spy act is pulled off particularly well. If there is room for improvement, its perhaps in getting to know our protagonist at a deeper level- the moral challenge or conflict she faces, how she chooses to overcome them and the story of her subconscious. Some elements of that would've really made this a complete drama.

However, that's nitpicking. There is much to appreciate with Raazi as it stands and it has more than my consent for a watch.

Movie Review: Avengers Infinity War...its not about fun anymore

Many many moons ago, when I'd written the review for the original Avengers movie, I had labeled it as being 'super fun'. While not a great description, it perfectly captured the spirit of the movie - highly capable but conflicted heroes coming together in a humor filled, feel good movie with an epic battle sequence that brought some real thrills.

Infinity War also brings together the heroes - over 60 of them at that but this one is anything but 'feel-good. However, unlike the garbled mess that was Ultron, Infinity War plays like a well oiled machine. Sequences flow seamlessly into one another. Parallel plotlines playing out without confusing the audience a whole lot. There's a ton of action and if the airport duel in Captain America:Civil War gave some hope that the Russo brothers had a vision for action - Infinity War emphatically stamps its approval.

However, Infinity War is no fun and games with the good guys winning all the way and spouting fancy one-liners as they show off. Surprisingly, for the context in which Infinity War plays out, that's actually a good thing. The stakes are higher than they ever were. Right from the opening scene, with its grim background chatter and even more grim context and developments, the message is clear. Its not about fun anymore. No friendly banter, no chit-chat, there's no time - war is imminent and its toll will be heavy. So much so, that in the few sequences that Stark tries to be 'Stark' and StarLord tries to be 'StarLord' - it pretty much fails. That's not to say there isn't humor in the film - but these are dark times indeed, and humor almost feels out of place in multiple instances. At other times though, you feel relieved that Marvel has still preserved the funny bone.

The challenge with this approach though, is that there are less personality conflicts, character development or even time to stop and take a breath. The hits just keep on coming - one more devastating than the last. Yet despite this, the movie doesn't feel rushed or hurried. There are some astounding battle sequences, something that comes close to the airport magic in Civil War as well, yet there is a character to the movie that looms large above all of this. Infinity War has a formidable villain, who continues to gain strength and that's such a terrifying prospect that every action, effort starts seeming pointless.

In terms of the act, well they are all well versed with their parts now. Robert Downey Jr. is effective as always, Mark Ruffalo is in a very different avatar for Hulk, Chris Evans is a little too intense as Captain America, Chris Hemworth is vintage Thor and Zoe Saldana is emotive in  a surprisingly meaty part as Gamora. Also, Dr. Strange's powers are really on display in this movie as against his own origin movie. Scarlett Johansson has nothing to do as Black Widow, and I think she's just in for it since she gets to be an Avenger and likes the franchise as such. Nothing else explains her continuing to play the part.

If I have a bone to pick, its with the climax and since its the climax that's all we'll say about it here since I don't want to give any spoilers. Suffice it to say that the ending will baffle you, crush you and stay with you long after you've exited the hall. However, there's ample reason to believe that all is not as it seems and this is more of a gimmick to create a finale for part 1, since there's also a part 2 separately arriving in 2019. If so, then I am dismayed for them having used this cheap parlor trick. And if not, then I bow down to the sheer courage of taking the path the movie does take. (Think Dumbledore being dead before the 7th book in the Harry Potter series - only several times worse).

I had my misgivings about Infinity War before I went in for the movie, despite the hype, especially after the mess they made with Ultron. There were 14 million possibilities (wink) where things could've gone wrong. Still, the Russo brothers have truly matured the franchise and its characters to  come up with the one plotline that made sense. Infinity War is truly a spectacle, a befitting finale for Earth's Mightiest Heroes to engage in a battle that might well end it all. I can hardly wait for the sequel to come.

Movie Review: October..an unconventional blossom

The title of this movie itself seems strange given the context in which it sets up. Save for a line well towards the end of the movie there's little that explains the title. But then, Shoojit Sircar's October is not a movie that is easily explained. This isn't great storytelling, plot progression or phenomenal acting. And yet, it has its own bloom.

Those looking for a conventional love story of boy meets girl should simply stay away. October is unlike anything you would've seen before. Its a brave attempt at unconventional yet very real cinema that is unbecoming of Bollywood and deserves the kudos for that alone.

Slow and measured - there is nothing urgent about the storyline or plot progression with October. It takes a simple premise and then focuses the lens very strongly on the characters - their motivations, their innocence, their emotions - everything and the movie lets that do the talking rather than explaining everything. There are those who would find the movie painstakingly slow, but if they are willing to be patient, they get to see some very nuanced direction from Shoojit Sircar. Still, October isn't one to have universal appeal.

While the direction is nuanced and masterful, Varun Dhawan's performance only lifts the movie further. A character that is quite the opposite of what he has largely portrayed on the silver screen, October might be his best performance till date. Banita Sandhu, given her character's state has little resources to pull off her act, yet she does so convincingly. Gitanjali Rao is striking in her support role as the mother and her courage and strength shine through with her presence alone.

The conversations and dialogues feel real - the kind you would have heard or are likely to hear in these circumstances. None of it feels forced and there is little that is crammed in. In fact, less is more in October, with scenes of scant, if any, dialogue that let the silences do the talking.

If the movie's setting is unconventional, its climax is even more surprising. One that you might not agree with as it unfolds, but given a moment, you have to appreciate the courage of the director and where he is willing to take the story.

Its fair to say that October doesn't blossom in a predictable manner.Comparatively, Shoojit Sircar's earlier offerings (Vicky Donor and Piku) were a much easier watch. Like certain flowers that bloom only in a specific set of circumstances, not everyone would see October in all its glory. Those who do though, might well consider it a rare treat.

Movie Review: Hichki...prescribed pretty ordinary treatment

Apart from introducing its audience to a rarely know syndrome and educating them about it, there is little that is special or unique about Hichki. Highly predictable fare, the condition, prescription and treatment feel terribly dated. Its been done too many times and 'To Ma'am with Love', doesn't really project freshness or a new approach.

Hichki shows up a host of issues - educating us on the peculiar syndrome its protagonist has,  what education is all about, the class divide between students, standing up for what is right and just - or perhaps none of these, since it doesn't really focus the argument in any one direction. While we see the plight of the students, there is little social commentary. Its all in service of a painfully predictable plotline. Pity, Hichki could have been so much more.

Much like its title, the movie stutters its way through to a very ordinary first half. It picks up pieces from multiple movies and severely lacks originality. In fact, its only towards the climax that the movie shows us something new, and moves to a somewhat higher plane. Most of the other time, one can too clearly see, where the 'inspiration' for this particular set of scenes comes from.

Rani Mukherji tries her level best to breathe life into her character as the protagonist of the story. I had no clue about the syndrome prior to watching this movie so I can't judge whether she pulls it off convincingly - it sure appears like it though. Her determination, cheerfulness and more emotional moments do come to the fore quite well. Of course, its nothing she hasn't done before and Hitchki doesn't really challenge a stalwart like her. Some of the kids in the movie also pull off a good performance.

The songs are few and far between but still the movie feels overlong. It doesn't have as much to say, especially in the first half. The surprise towards the climax is truly worth appreciating. Also, the relationship between the protagonist and her father is particularly well handled. Not overly melodramatic and yet delivers the impact. If only the rest of the movie was also like that.

Released 10 years ago and preferably before gems like Taare Zameen Par - Hichki might have stood a chance. In 2018 though, with a string of movies that have broached the same subject and done a great job of it - Hichki doesn't get one to sit up and take notice.

Movie Review: Black Panther...Not king of the jungle

Like the regal animal itself - Black Panther makes a unique imprint of its own. Unlike the panther though, who's supposed to be fast and furious, Marvel's Black Panther is slow and measured. If its story didn't suspiciously resemble that of another king of the jungle and a beloved one at that, I might have given it more credit. Still, this one has claws that are sharp enough.

The start is important. While most pre-opening credit scenes are minor pieces that set the tone, this one starts in a flashback that is of vital importance to the storyline so make sure you don't miss it. Those expecting this to be yet another Avengers fest are bound to be sorely disappointed. Black Panther looks to make its own mark, there's not even a hint of any of the others. The story is less that of a superhero than a hero, raw and visceral, though it doesn't strike a very emotional chord.

The world of Wakanda is one to behold. The technological marvel it is shown to be sets up exciting possibilities for Infinity War (I fervently hope they do justice to that one). The movie has a lot of subtle under-tones - what is the meaning of power, how is it best used and who decides what is best. While brimming with potential and spending so much time getting us to believe in and appreciate the world of Wakanda, the plotline ultimately falls short. It all happens too easy and predictable.

There's also a surprising lack of humor in this one, for a Marvel movie. Chadwick Bose does a good T'Chaka aka Black Panther, not that his role needs much in the way of acting anyways. The movie does a nice job of stitching together the events from Winter Soldier into the storyline of the MCU we've seen so far.

One of the biggest challenges for Black Panther is that it misses a formidable foe. Don't get me wrong, to make a 'villain' of this sort takes courage and I respect the deep-rooted nature of his very being. However, whatever his motivation, the villain succeeds when he is terrifying due to his unpredictability, alarming in his ruthlessness and having his own twisted sense of a moral compass that justifies (to him) his every action. With Black Panther, the villain hardly gets to spread his wings and in some senses we can't even see his as a villain per se. Enuff said.

 People are raving about it as if its the most thoughtful movie Marvel has ever made. I wouldn't go with such high expectations. What Marvel does seems highly familiar. I found Ragonarok smarter and braver.

The Black Panther has bounded up the charts with the grace and speed of its namesake. It makes no such progress in my books - expect an average watch, with a bit less of the Marvel humor and more serious undertones that sets it up nicely for Avengers: Infinity War.

Movie Review: Padmaavat..not a worthy sacrifice

Its no secret that I am not a fan of the Bhansali brand of a cultural and arts show disguised as a movie - and that too at 3 hours long. It is surprising though, that despite knowing that, I've ended up watching all his so-called magnum opus' in the theater. Padmaavat, sadly, is no exception to either of those two statements.

All that controversy prior to the release of the movie was for naught. If history was distorted, it surely wasn't to show Rajputs in a poor light. Of course, if one truly viewed the movie from a more in-depth standpoint, one could argue an unintentional subtle commentary on the choices and decisions of our Indian princes of those times. However, on the surface, its all aan baan shaan for the Rajputs so this was much ado over nothing.

I could understand if Shahid Kapoor had protested though. Such calibre is given a completely one-dimensional and weak role that one wonders why it needed Shahid Kapoor to begin with. This is a role he could do in his sleep - with one constant expression on his face, through the movie. A few scenes in which he is meant to erupt about the Rajput rules and style - he thunders at such a decible that it borders on hamming. Perhaps he was also voicing his own frustrations with his character in the movie.

Much has been said about Deepika's gorgeous presence in the movie - I'll simply say that's a huge overstatement. Deepika has the most blank expression on her face through the 3 hour runtime and lapses back to her monotone dialogue delivery. After such strides forward with movies like Piku , Padmaavat is almost a step back for her. In fact, Bajirao Mastani was a better expression of her talent as well as her beauty. The only jewel in this rather over-embellished but finally unimpressive crown is Ranveer Singh and this one is a Kohinoor at that.

Ranveer embraces the vile and despicable Khilji with such fervor that he might well be the barbarian himself. His presence is the only thing that lifts this movie from its pedestrian standards and gives it a chance to shine.From his unpredictability, to his on-point barbarian dance moves - everything about Khilji has a unique stamp of its own. Despite these efforts though, we still get a very superficial view of Khilji - his motivations, his ambition, his ego or even his obsession with Padmavati herself. Character development is not one of Mr. Bhansali's fortes.

Padmaavat starts off strong moving at a rapid pace initially - to the point that you are wondering, what else would be shown for the remainder of the movie. However, when talks of Diwali and Holi celebrations abound while the enemy is at the gates, its a grim reminder that Bhansali is in-charge and the folk dance is about to begin. The song Ghoomar, while exquisitely choreographed, is just a shimmering display of more jewellery. Deepika does the routine as if its a chore to perform while the blank expression on her face continues. The song between Ranveer and his Man Friday is too nonsensical to even comment on. The CGI, where it comes in, is painfully apparent. I didn't watch this one in 3D - the mere thought of those glasses on for 3 hours would've cancelled the movie watching plan altogether - so I can't comment on that either. The climax, if we can call it that, is just too over-done - with heavy background score and repeat sequences of Rajput women running everywhere, to commit an act that is now, rightfully lost to the pages of history.

Ultimately, Padmaavat, while a visual extravaganza - is not worth the sacrifice - the sacrifice of 3 hours of your time at the very least. Neither is it worth the 180 cr that went into making it in the first place. Here's hoping I don't go for the next Bhansali offering in the theater - I've made enough sacrifices already.