Reviews

Imtiaz Ali strikes gold again with "Amar Singh Chamkila," a masterpiece in every sense. Diljit Dosanjh's portrayal of Chamkila is flawless; he breathes life into the character, leaving a lasting impact. While the pacing may seem slow at times, it mirrors the rhythm of Chamkila's life, offering an authentic portrayal. Parineeti Chopra shines in her role, adding depth to the narrative. The music by A R Rahman is exceptional, immersing viewers in Chamkila's world. You will feel overwhelmed when the credits roll. The last song was the perfect choice. Don't miss the chance to experience this cinematic marvel.

"Past Lives" takes you on an unexpected journey, prompting deep reflection on life's choices. The title could easily have been "What If," capturing the essence of the film. It's not your typical romcom or drama; instead, it's a beautifully crafted exploration of meaningful conversations and poignant silences. The actors deliver natural performances, adding authenticity to the storyline. While some may find it slow-paced, those seeking a thought-provoking experience will appreciate its simplicity and relatability. "Past Lives" is a departure from the ordinary, offering a unique perspective on life's twists and turns.

"Something from Tiffany's" offers a simple storyline that lacks depth or meaningful connection. It's the kind of movie you'd watch on a lazy weekend or during the Christmas season, but don't expect anything profound. Though the story seemed interesting to me and had much more potential, revolving around the confusion about the engagement ring. But it was not very well portrayed. While visually appealing, the chemistry between the leads falls short, and the acting and dialogue leave much to be desired. Give it a shot if you're in the mood for a light romantic film and have nothing else on your watchlist.

"Anyone but You" has two attractive leads and visually appealing aesthetics, from locations to costumes and cast. You get to see Australia in this one. However, it keeps on disappointing you as the movie progresses. The first 10 minutes are tolerable and you get hopes from this movie, but the quality deteriorates rapidly. The dialogues are very poorly written, the script feels amateurish, and numerous cringe-worthy or awkward scenes makes the narrative worse. The characters come across as typical American stereotypes, and the supposed "romantic comedy" lacks genuine emotion. Save your time and skip this one.

An absolute gem! Dhanush's performance is commendable, solidifying his status as one of Tamil cinema's finest actors. Prakash Raj and Nithya Menon shine in their roles, adding depth to the narrative. This movie is refreshingly simple, devoid of unnecessary drama yet brimming with emotions. I was captivated by the portrayal of every character, finding myself shedding tears multiple times. Despite its emotional depth, it is not a serious movie; it effortlessly blends laughter and tears. The humor is abundant, with many funny scenes guaranteed to tickle your funny bone. And let's not forget the beautiful music, which enhances the overall experience. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this movie and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a heartfelt and entertaining cinematic experience.

With low expectations due to recent Bollywood disappointments, "Fighter" pleasantly surprised me, thanks to Hrithik Roshan's commendable performance. His portrayal was captivating, and he looked amazing on screen. The movie boasts impressive VFX, adding to the thrill of the action sequences.

While most of the cast delivered solid performances, Deepika Padukone's acting fell short of expectations. Additionally, unnecessary songs disrupted the flow of the narrative. The ending part was too dramatic as the filmmakers attempted to inject unnecessary masala.

Despite its flaws, "Fighter" offers an enjoyable viewing experience for a one-time watch. It provides thrills and entertainment but falls short of achieving logical coherence. Overall, it's worth a watch for the adrenaline-inducing action sequences.

"Curry & Cyanide: The Jolly Joseph Case" is the chilling story of a woman accused of murdering six people over a span of 14 years. The documentary presents a detailed account of the case, including interviews with her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, providing valuable insights.

The documentary meticulously outlines how Jolly Joseph executed each murder, leaving no stone unturned. However, there's a sense of something lacking in the documentary. The narrative could have been more concise and transparent, providing a clearer understanding of the events.

While the documentary sheds light on the gruesome details of the crimes, it leaves viewers craving a deeper exploration of the motive and psychology behind Jolly Joseph's actions. Nonetheless, it serves as a haunting reminder of the darkness that can lurk beneath seemingly ordinary facades.

"Merry Christmas" initially grabbed my attention with its promising trailer, but the movie fell short of my expectations. The beginning builds up suspense effectively, with each shot adding to the mystery. The cinematography and art direction are commendable, making the film visually appealing.

However, as the story progresses, the slow pace becomes a drawback, making the movie feel tedious. The climax is underwhelming and lacks coherence, leaving me feeling unsatisfied. A more concise and tightly woven plot could have improved the overall experience.

Despite these shortcomings, the performances by Katrina Kaif and Vijay Sethupathy are noteworthy, adding depth to their characters. While "Merry Christmas" may not live up to its full potential, it's still worth a watch for its beautiful visuals and strong acting.

"Love Breakups Zindagi" is a heartwarming Bollywood film that leaves you feeling good. It's a movie you would want to watch on a lazy day. It's a story about love, friendships, and the young generations bond with elders. The songs are the highlight of this movie, with amazing music by Salim-Sulaiman. The cinematography and costumes add to the charm of the movie. While the ending may be predictable, it still leaves you with a smile. Dia Mirza and Zayed Khan share great chemistry, and the supporting actors deliver commendable performances. Overall, it's a sweet and simple film that's sure to brighten your day.

"Dunki" had me excited, being directed by Rajkumar Hirani and starring Shah Rukh Khan, but sadly, it fell short. Shah Rukh Khan's appearance in the first half felt off, maybe due to excessive makeup or questionable VFX. The visual effects weren't convincing, and the locations lacked authenticity.

Despite a genuine attempt to convey a good message, the movie faltered due to various factors. Instead of unnecessary comedy, the film could have benefited from a more serious tone.

Overall, "Dunki" failed to live up to its potential, leaving disappointed despite the high expectations set by its renowned director and star cast.

"The Age of Adaline" is a captivating fantasy romantic drama that takes viewers on a journey through time. Michaiel Huisman, whom I knew from his role in GOT, adds charm to the movie with his handsome presence. Blake Lively shines in her role as Adaline, effortlessly embodying elegance and grace, especially with her stunning costumes that reflect the various eras in the film.

As the story progresses, the second half becomes even more intriguing as the mysteries surrounding Adaline's age and immortality are unveiled. The uniqueness of the plot keeps you engaged, offering a fresh take on the timeless theme of love and destiny.

It is a visually stunning and emotionally captivating film that enchants audiences with its blend of fantasy, romance, and intrigue.

"20th Century Girl" is a charming film that resonates with the teenage experience. It took me back to my own adolescent years-the excitement of first love, school trips, and the rollercoaster of emotions with best friends by your side. Despite being set in South Korea, the themes are universally relatable.

The lead actress captivates with her beauty and delivers a convincing performance, while the lead actor charms with his handsome looks and amazing portrayal. Their chemistry adds depth to the storyline, making it all the more engaging.

The ending surprised me. I won't spoil it.

It is the perfect pick-me-up when you're feeling low. It's a feel-good movie that reminds us of the joys and struggles of youth, leaving a warm and nostalgic feeling.

This movie was an utter waste of time. I eagerly awaited something good, but the movie only got worse as it progressed. The storyline is pathetic, feeling like a cheap knockoff of "Emily in Paris" and "The Devil Wears Prada." There was no chemistry between the leads, and I struggled to grasp the film's message. The dialogues are horrible, very poor acting, Only the locations where the shot the movie were watchable. Though they wanted to show the glamorous world of paintings and auctions, it failed to show the seriousness with its cringe comedy. "Upgraded" failed to deliver on every front, leaving me feeling let down and unsatisfied.

A hidden gem I stumbled upon, and it left a lasting impression. Shailene Woodley shines, proving her talent as an underrated actress. Initially skeptical of the extramarital affair storyline, I was pleasantly surprised by the chemistry between the leads. As their relationship blossomed, I found myself rooting for them until the end.

The movie exudes a classic charm, reminiscent of old Hollywood romances, which adds to its allure. Additionally, the actor portraying the archivist adds a touch of charisma to the film, portraying his character with finesse.

It is a beautiful and captivating movie that resonates long after the credits roll. It's a testament to the power of love and the unexpected connections that change our lives in profound ways.

Initially skeptical of "One Day" on Netflix, I found myself pleasantly surprised as the series unfolded. While Emma, the female lead, didn't initially resonate with me, the show's depth and complexity drew me in. Each episode peels back layers of emotions and unspoken feelings, exploring the intricacies of relationships in our lives, both good and bad.

As the story progresses, the chemistry between the main leads, Dexter and Emma, becomes increasingly captivating. Their journey is filled with ups and downs, but their connection is undeniable, leaving viewers rooting for their love.

"One Day" proves to be more than just another Netflix show; it's a show that hooks you with its compelling narrative and heartfelt performances.

"12th Fail" beautifully portrays the real-life tale of Manoj Sharma's journey to becoming an IPS officer despite numerous hurdles. The film offers a simple yet powerful narrative, capturing the essence of the struggles faced by UPSC students across India.

What sets "12th Fail" apart is its authenticity; there's no unnecessary drama, allowing viewers to connect deeply with the story's realness. The acting, particularly by co-actors like Medha Shankar (Shraddha) and those who portrayed Panday and Gauri Bhaiya, is commendable, adding depth to the narrative.

However, it's Vikrant Massey's portrayal of Manoj Sharma that steals the spotlight. His performance is flawless, breathing life into the character and making the journey truly inspiring.

Overall, "12th Fail" serves as a reminder that no matter the obstacles, with hard work and dedication, one can overcome any challenge. Hats off to the entire team for bringing this inspiring story to life with such sincerity and authenticity.

"Kho Gaye Hum Kahan" revolves around three characters portrayed by Ananya Panday, Siddhant Chaturvedi, and Adarsh Gourav. The movie goes through the lives of modern youth in metro cities, depicting their obsession with social media recognition, online dating, hookups, and the facade of influencer culture while neglecting family bonds.

The film sheds light on the harsh realities of today's digital age, portraying the struggles and dilemmas faced by young people. It offers a refreshing perspective on contemporary urban life, presenting a raw and authentic portrayal of the challenges and complexities of navigating relationships in a hyper-connected world.

While "Kho Gaye Hum Kahan" presents something new and thought-provoking, it falls short of leaving a lasting impact. Despite its relevance and insights, the movie is ultimately a one-time watch. Nonetheless, it serves as anreminder to reflect on our own relationship with technology and the importance of maintaining genuine connections in an increasingly digitalized society.

"Animal" boasts a star-studded cast, but it's Ranbir Kapoor who steals the show with his stellar performance. Despite playing a slightly odd character, he delivers a convincing portrayal that keeps you hooked. The background music adds depth to the scenes, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

While I may not agree with director Sandeep Reddy Vanga's opinions, I approached "Animal" purely as a movie. It's undeniably a bold venture, breaking new ground in Bollywood with its unconventional storyline.

However, Rashmika Mandanna's dialogue delivery is poor. It's disappointing that talented actress like Tripti Dimri wasn't given ample scope to showcase her acting prowess. Bobby Deol was surprisingly good.

Overall, "Animal" is a mixed bag.

Stumbling upon the Danish movie "A Beautiful Life" on OTT was a pleasant surprise. Elliot, the lead guy and a Danish singer, steals hearts with his amazing voice. Each song resonates, adding a delightful layer to the narrative. The chemistry between Elliot and Lilly is charming, bringing a sweet touch to the storyline.

While the acting by the cast is commendable, the film falls short on depth in its storytelling. It leaves you wishing for more. You can get a 'A star is born' vibe. However, it is a nice one-time watch, thanks to the captivating musical moments and the genuine charm of the lead actors.

I love Malayalam movies, especially for their village settings and cultural richness. "Kaathal - The Core" handles a sensitive topic with grace. There were so many things happening but things started to unfold near the interval. The interval scene is artistically done, capturing deep emotions and connections. Mammooty and Jyotika acted brilliantly, with Jyotika standing out. She's simply amazing. We need more sensible films like this. The movie's ending leaves a lasting note, making it a heartfelt and authentic watch. It is not just a film; it's a heartfelt journey, exemplifying the beauty of simplicity and the power of meaningful storytelling.

"Three of Us" featuring Shefali Shah, Jaideep Ahlawat, Swanand Kirkire, and talented Marathi actors like Kadambari Kadam and Nina Kulkarni is simply amazing. The film beautifully captures the essence of Konkan through stunning frames, making it visually appealing. What sets this movie apart is its extraordinary simplicity. Everything feels real, and you easily relate to the characters. Remarkably, the film conveys emotions without relying on physical intimacy. The subtle nuances-simple eye contacts, dialogues, and pauses-are powerful and create a deep connection. As the credits rolled, I found myself smiling. Shefali Shah delivered an outstanding performance, and the chemistry between Jaideep Ahlawat and his on-screen wife is truly heartwarming. Swanand Kirkire also played his role well. It is a gem that celebrates the beauty of simplicity, leaving you with a warm and contented feeling.

"Ustad Hotel" holds a special place in my heart as one of the first Malayalam movies I explored. Starring Dulquer Salman, Nithya Menen, and the legendary Thilakan, this film offers more than just entertainment. It serves a delightful platter of life lessons. The cinematic portrayal of food preparation is a sensory delight, making you almost taste the flavors. The climax adds an emotional layer that lingers for long. The movie, beyond its culinary aesthetics, is a celebration of relationships and self-discovery. As a newcomer to Malayalam cinema, "Ustad Hotel" became a gateway to the industry's rich storytelling.

"Hi Nanna" is a good Telugu movie with Nani showing amazing emotions. Mrunal Thakur's script choices are great. She looks beautiful and makes us feel emotional in this movie. The little girl Mahi is sweet and acts well for her age. The story is simple but keeps you interested. However, the ending is sudden. This story deserved a better ending (talking about duration and scenes.) About 80% of the movie is excellent, but the unnecessary dance songs, fights, and unrealistic scenes take away from it. Overall, it's a nice watch in Telugu cinema, with strong acting and a good story, despite a few unnecessary parts.

"Go Goa Gone," the first Indian zombie movie, brings a refreshing concept to Bollywood. The trio of Kunal Khemu, Anand Tiwari, and Veer Das delivers hilarity, injecting humor into a genre typically known for scares. The film strikes a balance, managing to be both scary and entertaining. The catchy and unique music adds another layer to the experience. Saif Ali Khan, in a pivotal role, delivers a good performance. The movie as a whole is a breath of fresh air in Bollywood, introducing a novel genre and combining elements of horror and humor seamlessly. "Go Goa Gone" is a testament to Bollywood's ability to explore new territories and keep the audience entertained with innovative concepts.