Movie Review: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 –A fitting finale

The wait is over and its finally here. After keeping the audience impatient for more than a year, part 2 of the final instalment is finally out. Part I had played out near perfectly, raising expectations for the next one. After all, this is the one with most of the action, the grandiose scale at which events occur and hence, where the maximum opportunity lies. Question is, does it deliver?

Early on in the movie, one begins to feel that something seems to have gone off track. The events are happening faster than normal, the movie seems rushed and the familiar flow is missing. Significant departures from and new additions to what the book offers, further throws you off course.

However, as we move towards the second half the pace begins to even out, the connect with the characters and the situation, re-develops and the climax is enthralling as it ought to be. Looking back one can say that the first 40 minutes of the movie could’ve probably been given more attention, but the rest of the movie more than makes up for its flaws.

Snape’s memories (and those who have read the book know exactly where this comes in) and onwards is beautifully re-created and the flow of events is just right – probably just as you would imagine it while reading the book.

Disappointingly though, while you get the chance to ‘complete the journey in 3D’, its hardly ever there. There are probably one or two scenes in the whole movie where the 3D effect is truly felt. And this, when there was immense potential. What could have been a perilous and adventurous journey through the eyes of Harry Potter and his friends, continues to be in a third person format, as if you viewed from a distance – which is a let down

Other than that and the shaky first half, there are few complaints. The actors are all now top of their form and do justice to their roles. The special effects are right up there and the quality of presentation has just gotten better with every instalment.

But like I’ve always maintained, its the story that’s the real hero of this series. One still marvels at the incredible journey that a single mind has created and salutes the sheer depths of creativity and imagination that are the soul of this saga.

However, as the train leaves King’s Cross Station for one final time and the credits roll in, it is a sad reminder that all good things must come to an end and the saga, however great it was, is now finally over

Movie Review: Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara–Go Reclaim Your Life!!

At the minor risk of being sued or at least frowned upon by Mahindra & Mahindra (for having used the tagline of their Mahindra Scorpio car, in the title of my blog), I still continue to keep it there because nothing else is a better descriptor

A fresh and light presentation, with decent humour, just the right amount of emotion and good performances makes Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara a definite watch in this week’s line up. What may seem as a run-of-the-mill and predictable plot is very well woven, expertly paced and presented.

The movie is a celebration of life, what it stands for or rather what it ought to stand for. It is also a wonderful celebration of true friendship, what it means in the true sense of the word. In fact, if its possible try to take your best chums along to see this one

The humor is good and clean (proof that you don’t always need toilet humour – read Delhi Belly, to make the audience laugh). The writing is brilliant, some of the dialogues stand out and especially the voice over poetry one gets to listen to at different points in the movie is simply sublime

The movie is also perhaps the perfect advertisement for Spanish tourism. Don’t be surprised if after watching this movie you end up choosing your next holiday destination to be Spain. Spectacular landscapes and natural beauty are exquisitely shot and displayed.

One may complain of the predictability of the plot – so much so that you can almost predict the next scene accurately in most cases. However, doing it any other way would not have worked as well, and I have no complaints.

In terms of performances, Hritik puts in a sincere but stereotypical performance for a character that he doesn’t look the part one bit. Abhay Deol’s dialogue delivery is noticeable for the wrong reasons, though other than that he gives a credible performance. But Farhan Akhtar easily steals the show in this one and seems to only get better with every movie. His acting is near-perfect and he seems completely at ease portraying his character as well as doing complete justice to some emotional scenes. Katrina looks lovely throughout the movie and that’s probably all that matters from that standpoint. Kalki on other hand does not, and neither is her performance too great.

The title track is melodious but the other songs, not so much. The movie could have easily done with one song lesser but the good news is that for a change, it doesn’t drag or bore you. In fact, the feel-good factor is pretty strong in this movie and you tend to come out of the theater quite refreshed and rejuvenated.

So without further ado, you’ve lost on enough time already, go book your tickets and reclaim your life!!

Movie Review: Delhi Belly–hate it or love it?

This one’s hard. Its a decent movie, but its definitely not what all the hype is making it out to be. Yes, it is outrageous. Yes, it is ground-breaking and outrightly bold. Yes, it seems more like Hollywood than Bollywood. But is it that much fun? Well, yes and no…maybe in parts.

The movie is a good situational comedy, a dark comic caper but its not your rib-tickling stuff. The movie, interestingly, shows some shades of Kaminey (and before you get excited, only some shades…), but lacks the directorial brilliance and tight plot that Kaminey had. Rather, it relies on language that today’s youth uses and a dose, rather over-dose, of potty humor to woo its audience which succeeds to some extent. In terms of boldness, some of the scenes even seem to be purposefully put, some dialogues deliberately written – to justify the ‘A’ certificate this movie has, as well as generate the current hype. To the plot, script etc. they add absolutely nothing and could have been easily omitted. So is the case with the absolutely useless last number with ‘Aamir Khan’ as ‘Disco Fighter’!! Aamir can pull off practically anything, any role..but I think we just figured what he ‘shouldn’t’ attempt

However, on the bright side the movie has an original script, is well presented. There are a few hilarious scenes (mostly because of the acting) and some really good one-liners which won’t be forgotten easily. Imran, Vir Das and Kunal Roy Kapoor all do a good job though the best act is by Vijay Raaz. While the character of the villain himself is not that well etched out, Raaz delivers it to a T. The plot build up is good and there is a definite flow to the movie right up to the climax, along with the racy soundtrack running in the background.

All that said, once you’ve seen Delhi Belly, I’ve got a feeling that you’ll not be able to hate it or love it, but rather something in the middle. Something just seems amiss from making it a must-watch and I can’t really pinpoint what it is…

So go watch and find out for yourself. A word to the wise, though – this movie has been released in both Hinglish and Hindi. Please catch the Hinglish version – the Hindi version is a dubbed one and most of the offensive language has been translated quite faithfully, making for a rather crude viewing, am told. So make sure you book the right tickets!

That’ s the verdict then – Delhi Belly, in Hinglish..bhaag..dk bose bhaag!!

Movie Review: X-Men First Class…is truly First Class!!

I think I ‘ve practically given it away in the title itself this time…go book your tickets right now. To be frank, I wasn’t overly optimistic. Though a big fan of the franchise I wasn’t sure if there was much ‘meat’ to pull off the sequel. Plus a look at the poster made me even less hopeful..they look like little kids wearing their superhero costumes…but all doubts were expelled and out the window once I emerged from the theater a full 2 hours 20 minutes only wishing that there was even more

With Kung Fu Panda II and now X-Men First Class, I am beginning to appreciate even more what ‘a complete package’ can deliver. That’s exactly what X-Men First Class is…decent plot…excellent build up…awesome special effects coupled with an inspired background score..there isn’t too much more you could ask for. Top that up with commendable performances from all, especially the leads James McAvoy (Charles) and Michael Fassbender (Eric) and you have a truly First Class package.

Though the base storyline is fairly average, the way it is delivered, each character is carved out and the pieces put together is really a class act. Great direction from Matthew Vaughn (who hasn’t made any of the X-Men movies incidentally) It is evident that time and effort has been put into defining each scene in the movie. What’s more one gets the impression that the storyteller is one who has deep understanding and love for each of the X-Men Characters and the franchise. One always was intrigued about the history between Charles and Eric and their curious relationship...and it couldn't have been portrayed better.

My only regret, if any, was that this movie was not made in 3D. Given the astounding special effects, this would have been a larger than life spectacle, worth watching many times over

As it stands though, X-Men: First Class delivers well and truly and must be at the top of your ‘must-watch’ list this weekend.

Mutant...and proud :)

Movie Review: Hangover II: The same stuff all over again..

I know what you are thinking! If its the same stuff it should be great, right? I mean, looking at how awesome Hangover was, this should be a sure winner. Well, not exactly…

One of the major reasons the first instalment was that great, was that the audience, at the time, did not know what to expect. We were just eager to watch on how much messier it got, before it all came right. Plus we had no idea who Phil, Stu and Alan were, so getting to know their quirky characters was fun. As Hangover II, that becomes the base expectation. So when that’s all you get served, the second time round, it isn’t that great.

What would have done it for Hangover II would have been some freshness..a new wacky way to get Phil, Stu and Alan in a whole new mess, with probably another new way more wackier character thrown in!! But no, there is nothing new!! The picturization, presentation, characters, everything is the same, apart from the background music which is actually more eerie and doesn’t sound much better

But then, am not saying that its bad a movie either. If you haven't seen the first one (though chances are remote), then you should love it...If you have seen the first part, you'll still have fun - the characters are all top of their form, the dialogues are good, some situations are the typical laugh out loud types and you’ll definitely enjoy the show, just don’t watch it with too many expectations.

Movie Review: Kung Fu Panda 2–Not twice, but plenty of awesomeness!!

Most sequels tend to fail and I think a key factor is that not enough thought goes into making the next one..the first one does so brilliantly well that the second one wants to just ride that wave..and that’s where a promising series is dealt a deathblow

Kung Fu Panda 2 does not fall into that category

Yes, Ladies and Gentlemen, your favourite Dragon Warrior is back and even if he isn’t as awesome as his debut, his awesomeness is not the only reason that you should be rushing to the theaters to catch this one

Awesome 3D!! That’s the first thought that strikes you once you are leaving the hall…Kung Fu Panda 2 comes to life, especially during the action sequences which are aplenty. Probably the best 3D effects I have ever seen in an animation film, this one wouldn’t be half the film it is without the 3D glasses. 15 minutes into the movie and you can see how the makers have spent time and effort thinking of everything that was lovable and enjoyable in the first one and given a whole new dimension to it

And that’s a real savior, especially since the plot line itself is wafer thin, While there was a lot more depth and interest in the unfolding of the plot, in Kung Fu Panda (part I), there is precious little to expect from a story point of view. However, its the whole package, the fight sequences, the 3D, the equally appropriate background score and of course, the familiar old characters, that make part 2 of this series worth a watch

The Furious 5 are back, as is Master Shifu and though they individually have even lesser air-time than last time (a pity though, would’ve liked a little more of them) they still make their presence felt. Po is now the Dragon Warrior but that doesn’t stop him from being Po, if you know what I mean..and hence, all the laughs.

The animation, well the animation keeps getting better with every movie and this one is no different

But now..I think it is time to tell you what I should have told you a looong time ago….

Naah! Am not giving it away..just go watch the movie!!

Movie Review: Pirates of the Carribean: On Stranger Tides– Stranger No More..

Well, if the title doesn’t give you clear direction, let me make it simple – Captain Jack Sparrow is Back!!! And while he doesn’t get any better than the first edition of this roller coaster of a series (which has been on the down-turn for its last two installments), he does get as close as he can

The real dilemma for you, my good people, is not whether to watch it or not but more so that you should watch this movie in 3D or not…let me explain: Most of the movie is better enjoyed without those troublesome and heavy plastic glasses weighing down your nose..however, there are some spectacular sequences close to the interval and the climax that would be best enjoyed if those creatures were to jump out of the screen and hit you in the face than just be pasted on the screen…and really, I have no clear answers.

I myself saw it in 3D and if you were to take my opinion alone, I’d say you’re better off going in for the 2D version, the action sequences aren’t gonna get better than what you saw in Avatar, anyway. But, let’s get back to the movie, itself.

The movie is an honest attempt to recreate the magic of the 1st edition and you have to laud the effort. The story is simpler, much less convoluted, more focus on the dialogues and taking the plot in the right direction, all the good elements. As for the changes in the star cast, Cruz is a welcome addition to the crew and her character itself, presents exciting possibilities..These are yet to be explored in their fullest, and one would hope that happens in the next editions that are to follow. As for the missing people (Knightley and Bloom), you do miss them in parts, but all the others (Barbossa, Mr. Gibbs) are there so you get used to it

Captain Jack Sparrow, is back and he is in fine form…Even though we are familiar with his ways, he still manages to keep you interested in what he is up to, throughout the movie and Johnny Depp is truly in his element, portraying Sparrow. The character is legendary, and reason alone for this series to have another episode

To cut a rather long story short, the gist is that this movie is a resurrection-of-sorts of a promising series that had lost its way in the middle. With Stranger Tides, Pirates..has moved back to its more ‘familiar’ ways and is a ‘stranger’ no more

Now, bring me that horizon…and catch that movie yo ho!