Fandry (Marathi): Movie Review

Fandry is not just a movie. It is an experience! There is no melodrama. No propaganda either. It hardly takes any cinematic liberties. No actor seems to be acting. They are very natural while moving in front of the camera.

The story depicts the few days in a life of a teenager- Jabya, a lower caste boy. Jabya seems good in studies. He has some innocent dreams about the life.

Will these dreams get fulfilled? Or would they be crushed by our existing social system?

Fandry makes you think. It disturbs you. There is a great void after the movie ends....both on screen and in your mind. It takes you some time to come back to the normalcy and realize that Fandry is over.

But then, is it really over??? Or has it just begun???

It is one of the best movies I watched. Do not go to Fandry if you want to see a masala entertainer, which requires no brains. Fandry is different. It makes you think.

It is a rare movie. It gives us a chance to re-visit our social system and see how the life goes in rural India.

Go for it!

• Entertainment Aspects: 4/5
• Technical Aspects: 4/5
• Creativity Aspects: 5/5
• 'Classic' Movie?: 5/5
• Overall: 4.5/5

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Hasee Toh Phasee (Hindi): Movie Review

Hasee Toh Phasee is a Hindi Romantic Comedy. It is one of the best Bollywood romcoms.

Hasee Toh Phasee is fast, witty and funny. It has multiple LOL moments. Dialogues are crispy. The lead pair of Parineeti Chopra and Sidharth Malhotra is perfect. The music is good.

Parineeti Chopra is the real hero of Hasee Toh Phasee. She is one of the best actresses in Bollywood at the moment.

If you are a fan of romcoms, this one is must see.

• Entertainment Aspects: 4/5
• Technical Aspects: 4/5
• Creativity Aspects: 4/5
• 'Classic' Movie?: 3/5
• Overall: 3.75/5

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Timepass (TP) (Marathi Movie Review)

Dagadu!!! Yes……. Dagadu is the name of our hero in the latest Marathi Movie – Timepass (TP). Dagadu has just failed in his secondary examinations. All his friends but Dagadu have joined the junior college.

Dagadu, our affable street ruffian, falls in love with Prajakta Lele. Dagadu belongs to a poor family. His father is an Auto-Rikshaw driver and works day and night to meet both ends. While, Ms. Lele comes from a typical (and strict) middle class family.

While, Dagadu spends his time in his (harmless) Tapori-giri, Prajakta studies hard, goes to library and learns classical music. Would these two different worlds come together?

Timepass (TP) is a funny story about the teenage love. It looks like a sequel to other Marathi Movie ‘Shala’. While ‘Shala’ ends when the protagonists enter SSC, Timepass begins after the SSC exams are over. Timepass has freshness, charm and innocence about it. The characters hardly enter the path of melodrama. The movie doesn’t end in predictable way but it speaks about a new beginning.

The scene at the library where Dagadu and Prajakta communicate using the titles of books is hilarious. Also, the scene where Prajakta imitates Dagadu is also funny. There are many comic moments in the movie.

Music, cinematography, finishing and acting are superb. Prathmesh Parab and Ketki Mategaonkar give solid performances as lead actors.

It is worth every buck you spend!!! 

• Entertainment Aspects: 4/5 
• Technical Aspects: 4/5
• Creativity Aspects: 4/5
• 'Classic' Movie?: 4/5
• Overall: 4/5

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The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (Movie Review)

Thorin Oakenshield, the King under the Mountain, continues his journey to Lonely Mountain along with fellow dwarves, a burglar (!) hobbit - Bilbo Baggins & the wizard – Gandalf. A journey to reclaim their homeland….. A journey to find their most valuable gem – The Arkenstone….. A journey to take revenge against an old enemy….an ageing dragon - Smaug!

Desolation of Smaug takes us back to our beloved Middle Earth. And it is as stunning and beautiful as it was in the past. It is the world to get lost into. And once you are inside, you don’t want to get back. Amazing 3D effects take us even closer to the action.

As we had already predicted, this sequel to – The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey - is fast. Jackson took some time to build the story in first part. But Desolation of Smaug gathers the pace right from the beginning. There are hardly any dull moments.

So, Thorin and company make their way towards the Lonely Mountain. They pass through the Mirkwood forest, the realm of Wood-Elves. King of Wood-Elves, Tharanduil, is less concerned about what is happening in other parts of the Middle-Earth. For him, the safety of his borders is the only concern. This is why he did not help Dwarves when Smaug attacked Erebor (the Lonely Mountain). Would he let them pass this time? Or would it take Bilbo's presence of mind to escape the dangerous Mirkwood? Would Tharanduil’s son – Legolas, understand the situation and help Bilbo and dwarves? And how on earth did Bilbo gain the title of Barrel-Rider?

Along the way they visit the city of Dale, where they are helped by Bard. After the long journey they finally reach the Lonely Mountain. Would Bilbo be successful in finding the precious Arkenstone? Would the company of dwarves be successful in hunting down the dragon? Or would it enrage Smaug (the dragon!) to carry out further destruction?

Along with the journey of Bilbo and the Dwarves, Jackson, in parallel, tries to link this hobbit franchise to The Lord of The Rings Trilogy. And so far, he is succeeding in it.

While the dwarves are on their way to Lonely Mountain, an old enemy – Necromancer re-appears in Dol Guldur. The rest of the Middle-Earth turns the blind eye towards assembling of Army of Orcs and Goblins at Dol Guldur. In spite of their ignorance, Gandalf leaves the company of dwarves to confirm his doubts.

Has the Sauron returned? Would Gandalf be able to escape from Dol Guldur?

What would happen next????

I cannot wait for the third movie of the trilogy – There and back again. There are no doubts in my mind that it would be one hell of a movie and an epic conclusion to this Hobbit Trilogy!

• Entertainment Aspects: 5/5
• Technical Aspects: 5/5
• Creativity Aspects: 4/5
• 'Classic' Movie?: 4/5
• Overall: 4.5/5

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Thor 2- The Dark World (Movie Review)

Thor 2- The Dark World is the second part of this super-hero Franchisee from Marvel's Stable. And it is more entertaining than the first one.

Thor is not a typical super-hero. He is is hammer-wielding Norse God and the Prince of Asgard. He is hot-headed, strong, volatile and reckless.

Thor 2- The Dark World is fast-paced, action-packed, entertaining and a powerful movie.

It starts where The Avengers ends. Thor (Chris Hemsworth) brings his brother - Loki (Tom Hiddleston) back to Asgard. Odin (Anthony Hopkins), their father and the king of Asgard, condemns Loki to the imprisonment in dungeons.

Meanwhile, old enemy- Malekith (Christopher Eccleston)- the king of the dark elves, returns. Malekith seeks revenge. For that, he wants to use an element Aether, to wield unlimited power and to rule the universe.

Thor's mortal love interest - Dr. Jane Foster (Natalie Portman) somehow manages to get entangled in this mess created by the immortals!

Will Odin and Thor be successful in stopping Malekith? Would Loki escape the prison and betray his father and brother? Would Malekith get his revenge?

You will get the answers in Thor 2- The Dark World. It may not be a classic but it is a complete entertainer with hardly any dull moment. Loki, though his part is reduced in this sequel, steals the show again.

The performances of everyone are good. Special effects are perfect. 3D effects are (as usual) average.

You won't regret if you watch this latest flick from Thor Series.

So, are you ready for hammers, swords and wrath of Gods????

• Entertainment Aspects: 4/5
• Technical Aspects: 4/5
• Creativity Aspects: 3/5
• 'Classic' Movie?: 3/5
• Overall: 3.5/5

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Gravity: Movie Review

Two astronauts try to return to earth after escaping their damaged shuttle. These astronauts happen to be - Sandra Bullock and George Clooney.

Gravity is a simple film. Simple, yet powerful. The story is usual. A fight of ordinary people against extraordinary odds…

But this time, the surrounding is different.....

It happens in space.

The running time of the movie is short (around 90 minutes) and it adds to Movie's advantage. It is a fast movie. Director Alfonso Cuarón has tried to keep most of the facts right about the space.

There are only two major characters in the Gravity. Sandra Bullock is good as Dr. Ryan Stone. George Clooney is fabulous as always.

The special effects are amazing. You would enjoy the views of earth from the space. More than a story, Gravity is an experience! It is a journey which you feel you are a part of. And you crave for more after it's over.

So, are you ready for this Spacewalk????

• Entertainment Aspects: 4/5
• Technical Aspects: 5/5
• Creativity Aspects: 4/5
• 'Classic' Movie?: 3/5
• Overall: 4/5

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Shuddh Desi Romance (Hindi): Movie Review

Sometimes you go to the movies without any hopes or expectation. Shuddh Desi Romance was the same case for us.

We did not have any hopes and the movie did not do anything to affect that opinion.

Shuddh Desi Romance is a story of a very lucky guy who does nothing worthwhile but somehow two pretty girls fall in love (?) with him.

Now, there is a usual confusion of whom he loves and whom he does not. We could not decipher that while watching the movie. But then in the end he makes his choice (otherwise, how could the movie end?) and everyone lives happily ever after.

On acting front, it is ok. Sushant Singh Rajput and Parineeti Chopra do manage to utter few words when they get some time from kissing and smoking. Vaani Kapoor is all right. Rishi Kapoor keeps up his momentum in yet another supporting role.

Shuddh Desi Romance has nothing special about it. At the same time, it is tolerable if you still want to go.

• Entertainment Aspects: 3/5
• Technical Aspects: 3/5
• Creativity Aspects: 3/5
• 'Classic' Movie?: 2/5
• Overall: 2.75/5

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Chennai Express (Hindi): Movie Review

Shahrukh Khan is not retiring yet. But, Chennai Express is a tribute to his journey (so far) in Bollywood with occasional references to his past films.

Rohit has done the right thing in casting Shahrukh and Deepika as lead actors. Shahrukh is back as a lover-boy. A common man who can beat the hell out of baddies when angry! It is his presence which makes Chennai Express a watchable movie.

Chennai Express is a typical Rohit Shetty Film. However, it is not in the genre of Singham or Golmaal-3. It is a combination of Rohit's style and Shahrukh's charm.

And they are well supported by Deepika. She has acted superbly and her (Tamil) accented Hindi has worked.

Few scenes are hilarious, especially - the communication between lead characters in form of the songs is unique and funny.

In addition to that, Chennai Express is a complete family entertainer with no offensive/abusive language. You will not remember anything about the movie after you go home. Neither would you regret watching it.

Music is average. Cinematography is excellent. Acting is above average. Dialogues are fresh. Running length could have been reduced by 15 minutes.

If you are ready to keep your brains home and want to spend a couple of hours smiling (laughing on a couple of occasions), you can go for it.

So, are you ready to catch the Chennai Express?

• Entertainment Aspects: 4/5
• Technical Aspects: 4/5
• Creativity Aspects: 3/5
• 'Classic' Movie?: 2/5
• Overall: 3.25/5

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Duniyadari (Marathi): Movie Review

Duniyadari is a new addition to the list of impressive Marathi Movies, released in recent times. 

It was not long before the people were talking about the probable demise of Marathi Film Industry. But look at it new. It is reviving itself. Film-makers are coming up with fresh new ideas and depth in the subjects. Duniyadari is a Masala Entertainers which can give Hindi Masala Entertainers, a run for their money.

Duniyadari is a collection of multiple pieces (scenes, to be precise!). Each piece is amazing. Each piece is beautiful. At times, the transition from one scene to other is not smooth. Sometimes, it is sudden. Sometimes it is delayed. On an occasion, the sequencing appeared jumbled. Second half is stretched. But these are just minor hiccups.

Duniyadari is not perfect. But, what is?

Even life is not perfect. It has its flaws and failings. But that makes it interesting. Doesn't that?

Same goes with Duniyadari. It is worth a watch! A great entertainer! Based on a hit novel by Mr. Suhas Shirvalkar, Duniyadari is an excellent blend of comedy, action, drama and emotions.

It is a story of college 'Katta' gang, a group of college students in 70s, who stick together through thick and thin.

It is a journey of their friendship. Parallel to main story, each character has his/her own story (and life). They face challenging situations along the way. They need to make decisions.

Do they find their way out of troubles and problems? Will they be able to continue their friendship? Or would it be affected by 'Duniyadari'? You would get the answers in the movie.

Music is likeable. Dialogues are crisp. Technically, it is strong. Acting is excellent. Director has managed to rope in the big stars of Marathi Film Industry. Swapnil Joshi and Ankush Chowdhari rock in their respective roles of Shreyas and Digya (aka DSP). Sai Tamhankar is brilliant as Shirin. Everyone has played his/her part well.

There is no doubt that the film is doing great in the theatres and giving a tough time to its Hindi counterparts.

• Entertainment Aspects: 4/5
• Technical Aspects: 3/5
• Creativity Aspects: 4/5
• 'Classic' Movie?: 3/5
• Overall: 3.5/5

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Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (Hindi): Movie Review

Milkha Singh is one of the best athletes ever produced by India. Bhaag Milkha Bhaag is a grand tribute to this 'Flying Sikh'.

But is it effective? Is it worth? 

It depends....

First thing- Farhan Rocks! 

His efforts and determination are visible on the screen. It won't be an exaggeration to say that his is one of the best ever movie performances in Hindi Cinema.

The major flaw with the movie is it's length. Three hours and seven minutes is too long for this story (especially for the biopic of a 400m runner!). It would have been much more effective if the length had been curtailed by an hour.

Also, there was no need to give the (untrue!) excuses for Milkha's defeat in Rome Olympics. He is one of the best, even without such excuses.

Our Milkha runs with injuries. Common people like us would not even be able to stand with such injuries. But that is no obstacle for Milkha! 'Coz he doesn't run.....he flies.....

Then, Sonam Kapoor never looks (and speaks) like Delhi Girl in 60s! 

Few jokes, like - 'Are you relaxing?' 'No,I am Milkha Singh' are pathetic.

Hushhhh.......the list is long! Does that mean 'Bhaag Milkha Bhaag' is a crap??????

No way! It is an engrossing 'masala' movie. An absolute entertainer!

Good songs, patriotic scenes, a lot of melodrama, rise from rags to riches, sound acting AND FARHAN AKHTAR!

May be it does not do a complete justice for a biopic but still it is successful in celebrating a life called - Milkha Singh!

• Entertainment Aspects: 3/5
• Technical Aspects: 4/5
• Creativity Aspects: 3/5
• 'Classic' Movie?: 2/5
• Overall: 3/5

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Aashiqui 2 (Hindi): Movie Review

Aashiqui 2 is slow. It is flawed at times. It has a very small story. It is not coherent. If you like masala or action movies, they you will be doomed. Now, does that make Aashiqui 2 a bad movie?

No. Definitely not! In fact, Aashiqui 2 is an engaging movie. An intense and serious love story…. Different than others in genre! You will have no relief. It is a story of pains the lead characters go through in search of love and peace.

It is a story of singing sensation Rahul Jaykar, an alcohol addict, who is losing his stardom.

It is a story of Aarohi Shirke, a simple, innocent and beautiful girl who aspires to be a singer and dares to believe in an addict like Rahul.

It is a story of Aarohi’s rise in the music industry and at the same time a tale of Rahul’s decline. Rahul’s addiction grows by the day. But, Aarohi does not leave his side. She tries to bring him out. He tries his best. But every time he succumbs.

No matter what, they love each other. Aarohi is ready to quit her career to be with Rahul. And what could Rahul do to save Aarohi’s career? Is it easy to come out of the addiction? Is it a right thing to do?

Aashiqui 2 has an unexpected end. The end we would not have imagined! It haunts us even after the end. It makes us think if there could have been other end(s) to this story?

The music is soothing too. Acting is superb. Aditya Roy Kapur does well. Shraddha Kapoor is just brilliant. She looks gorgeous and acts superbly.  Even with its inherent faults, Aashiqui 2 is a gripping tale of the love.

And yes….it is far better than the original Aashiqui.

Sunn Raha Hai Na Tu???

• Entertainment Aspects: 3/5
• Technical Aspects: 4/5
• Creativity Aspects: 4/5
• 'Classic' Movie?: 3/5
• Overall: 3.5/5

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Nautanki Saala (Hindi): Movie Review

Nautanki Saala is a nautanki of an aspiring theater actor-director. He gets entangled between Ram & Raavan! Will he get out of it?

Ram Parmar (Ayushmann Khurrana) Or RP is an aspiring theatre actor-director. His play – Raavan Leela is doing quite good. One night he saves Mandar Lele (Kunal Roy Kapoor), a person trying to commit suicide after a breakup with girlfriend.

Now, RP tries to bring life back to his newly acquired friend. He attempts to resurrect his career by offering him a role of Lord Ram in his play. RP also tries to redeem Mandar’s love story with Nandini. But it is not that easy. Soon, he gets entangled in his own web. It starts affecting his life. And hilarity ensues.

Nautanki Saala is hysterical at times. It generates good laughter. Few scenes (like – Mandar’s audition) are extremely funny! Sadly, the director fails to keep the tempo intact. Movie loses some pace in the second half. However, overall it is a very good product. It is qualitatively better as compared to recently released Chashme Baddoor.

There is no scope for any of the three actresses. Whole burden of the movie is carried out by Ayushmann and Roy Kapoor. And they have done it successfully. Roy Kapoor’s deadpan humor deserves a mention!

It would not be an exaggeration to say that Ayushmann Khurrana is a heart and soul of this movie. He shows the glimpses of future superstar. He has that attitude, confidence, strong screen presence and personality to suit, both, action as well as romantic genres. He reminds us of Shahrukh in younger days! And most of all, he has a good head on his shoulder. It reflects in choice of both of his movies. We wish him best of luck for his future journey.

Nautanki Saala is a nautanki you would love to watch!

• Entertainment Aspects: 3/5
• Technical Aspects: 4/5
• Creativity Aspects: 4/5
• 'Classic' Movie?: 3/5
• Overall: 3.5/5

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Chashme Baddoor (Hindi): Movie Review

We have not watched the old Chashme Baddoor. But we have watched the recently released remake by David Dhawan. Is it worth watching or not? Read on…..

We all know Dhawan’s style of film making. So, if we go to watch his movies expecting something like Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s or Sai Paranjape’s, then it’s our fault…not David’s….right? :D

So, this is a story of three friends. A geek, a poet and an actor (Ali Zafar, Divyendu & Siddharth)! A girl (Taapsee Pannu) comes in their life. And then starts a funny sequence of events.

This is definitely not a classic. But, if you are in the age bracket of 18-35, you might enjoy it. Few one liners/verses/moments are hilarious, remaining are ok-ok. But the acting is generally good. Music also does the job.

The young actors do their job satisfactorily and veterans – Rishi Kapoor, Anupam Kher & Lilette Dubey are marvelous!

If you and group of friends are bunking the lecture, then you shall have a good laugh together. It will give you a momentary relief from the office tensions.

So, if you are young (at heart!)…..ready to keep your brains at home, want to see a light movie and wish to have some laugh, then Chashme Baddoor should not disappoint you. You can bear it once!

The key here is to not keep any hopes. And there are good chances that you would like the David Dhawan’s version of Chashme Baddoor.

• Entertainment Aspects: 3/5
• Technical Aspects: 3/5
• Creativity Aspects: 3/5
• 'Classic' Movie?: 2/5
• Overall: 2.75/5

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The 85’Th Academy Awards (Oscars): Nominations

This is the time for the 85’Th Oscars. Date is – Sunday: February 24, 2013. Who will win and who won’t? Where will be jubilation and where will be the heartbreak? There shall be excitement, ecstasy, agony and anguish!

No matter what the critics say, Oscar (Academy Award) is the most coveted award in the entertainment industry. The ultimate recognition of one’s work! No one can deny its significance.

Winning an Oscar is a lifetime achievement which you can cherish for the rest of the life. Even your children, grand-children, great grand-children,.……… will be  proud of.

So...Will your favorites win???

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Special 26 (Hindi): Movie Review

We all love the heist-movies. Don't we? And Hollywood has blessed us with many entertainers, like – The Great Train Robbery, Ocean’s Eleven, The Italian Job, etc.

However, Bollywood hardly had any movies which could match its western counterparts in this department. But…no more!

Finally, the ‘Special 26’ has arrived. And that too with a bang! It’s slick, it’s stylish. It has got the story. And it’s foundation is a very strong script. It, indeed, is a special movie.

The story is set in 1987. The background work is done with utmost perfection. The cities, names, fashion, cars and buildings take us back to the eighties. Those were the good old days….sigh!

Now…there is a team of conmen who pose as CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) Officers and dupe the rich businessmen and politicians having stacks of black money. So, they will not complain to Police even if they are conned. Commendable business model, huh?

These ‘good-at-heart’ & intelligent conmen are chased by the real CBI. Knowing this, they make a grand plan to carry out one last heist. Will they succeed? Or will the real CBI be successful in catching them?

Special 26 is one hell of a movie. It’s very fast. Apart from lead hero – Akshay Kumar’s love story, it moves at the lightning speed. It’s fun to watch. Music is soothing. Acting is great. Akshay, Anupam Kher, Manoj Bajpayi and all other actors deliver. Technically, it is superb. The real hero of the movie is its story. Director Neeraj Pandey has once again delivered a master-piece (after A Wednesday!).

The pace of the movie slows down a bit (only a bit!) in the second half. There is a needless romantic sub-plot involving Akshay Kumar & Kajal Agarwal. Due to these minor hiccups the ‘Special 26’ narrowly misses on being included in our ‘Classic Movies List’. However, that doesn’t take away anything from it’s ‘Special’ status in our hearts.

What are you doing? Still reading the review? Don’t waste the time. Go and catch the show. ‘Special 26’ is waiting for you.

• Entertainment Aspects: 4/5
• Technical Aspects: 4/5
• Creativity Aspects: 4/5
• 'Classic' Movie?: 4/5
• Overall: 4/5

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Django Unchained: Movie Review

Watch out people! Step aside! Here comes Django! A freed slave. He wields the gun. Rides a horse. And merrily kicks the bad a**.

There are cruel millionaires who torture the poor slaves. But, no more. ‘Coz….

Here comes Django! A freed slave.

He wields the gun. Rides a horse. And merrily kicks the bad a**.

Here’s Calvin Candie. With looks of a boy who still eats the candies. Plantation owner. Django’s wife is captured on his farm. She is frightened of him. But, no more. ‘Coz….

Here comes Django! A freed slave.

He wields the gun. Rides a horse. And merrily kicks the bad a**.

No bullet can hit him. No punch can harm him. No one can catch him. ‘Coz no one can match him. Look out…

Here comes Django! A freed slave.

He wields the gun. Rides a horse. And merrily kicks the bad a**.

Have you been the fan of Sergio Leone’s ‘Spaghetti Western’ genre? And yeah, of course, of the Man with no name, Clint Eastwood?

But what it has got to do with Django Unchained? Well, nothing much….sadly! It was supposed to be Quentin Tarantino’s version of Spaghetti Western.  It starts promisingly. Django Unchained flatters in the beginning, only to deceive in the end.   But that does not mean it lacks in entertainment department. Django Unchained is full of action. Tarantino has tried to combine typical ‘Tarantino’ style with ‘Spaghetti Western’ style of film-making.

The length of the film could have been curtailed. It’s long for a short story. Django Unchained engages the audiences but defies the logic sometimes (which is acceptable). The story takes place in the south, just before the American Civil War. The animosity towards blacks and racial conflicts form the backdrop. It is a story of a slave trying to re-unite with his wife, with the help of a German Dentist (and now a Bounty-Hunter).

Christoph Waltz, in a German Bounty Hunter’s role, is a treat to watch. His Oscar nomination for this role is fully justified. The way he acts, delivers the dialogue and shoots the guns is absolutely amazing. If you need one strong reason to watch this movie, it is Waltz’s acting.

Another name to mention is Samuel Jackson. His depiction of cunning and scheming ‘Stephen’ – the loyal slave of plantation owner Calvin Candie, is perfect. And that is just another proof of his acting prowess.

Jamie Foxx as Django is ok and does what he has to do….i.e. giving weird looks and smacking the crooks. Leonardo DiCaprio is also acceptable. Rest of the cast delivers. Background music is spot on (but no match for our good old Ennio Morricone).

• Entertainment Aspects: 4/5
• Technical Aspects: 4/5
• Creativity Aspects: 2/5
• 'Classic' Movie?: 2/5
• Overall: 3/5

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The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo: Movie Review

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a movie adaptation of the novel written by Stieg Larsson. It is the first book of very successful Millennium Trilogy.

Movies based on the successful novels have few inherent advantages.

There is a good chance of people, who have read and liked the book, turning up to watch the movie. The people, who don’t have patience to read entire novel will prefer watching the movie so that they will know something about the plot of the famous book. The hype, publicity and excitement before the release are very high. This almost assures good opening week or two at the box-office. However, after that it’s strictly on the merit and word-of-mouth.

This review of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is coming from the person who has read the original book by Stieg Larsson. Hence the opinions expressed may not be applicable to the viewers who have not read it.

The story is more or less in line with the original book. For short and crisp review of the book, please refer to our book review of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.

The movie starts with a telephone call between Henrik Vanger and Police Officer Morell. Just like the Book! The movie proves to be a visual treat. Hedeby Island and Vanger households were exactly what I had imagined while reading the book. A perfect background!

The background score intensifies the drama. Technical aspects are outstanding.

Same goes with the lead characters. The most exciting performance comes from Rooney Mara. She is absolutely superb as Lisbeth Salander, a strange and anorexic but brainy girl. Daniel Craig as Mikael Blomkvist is a good choice. He has effectively portrayed the investigative journalist. However, Craig’s Blomkvist plays second fiddle to Salander and appears weaker at times.

However, other characters are not that effective. It is in complete contrast with the book, where all characters stay in the memory. Christopher Plummer as Henrik Vanger is ok. Stellan Skarsgård’s Martin Vanger is average. Robin Wright does look like Erika Berger. But it is limited only to the looks. It is not reflected in her body language and acting.

Solving the mystery of Harriet’s disappearance is the most enjoyable and thrilling part of the novel. However, it is not as thrilling in the movie. There are so many suspects in the novel that could be behind Harriet’s disappearance. There are very few (almost none) in the movie.

While the movie plot lacks the twists, thrill, suspense and intricacies of the book, it inherits the book’s (minor) weakness - The Wennerström affair. It has stretched the length of the movie by few minutes.

Taking cinematic liberties is not necessarily an evil. If done properly, it can make movie even more interesting. Director has taken a few cinematic liberties here and there.  The Australia connection, which is present in the novel, has been completely removed. However, it was the link which made the novel more plausible.

Overall, it is a good movie which you can sit through and watch. However, if you have read the novel, then there may be a feeling that something is missing!

• Entertainment Aspects: 3/5
• Technical Aspects: 4/5
• Creativity Aspects: 3/5
• 'Classic' Movie?: 3/5
• Overall: 3.25/5

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Skyfall: Movie Review

• Entertainment Aspects: 2/5
• Technical Aspects: 3/5
• Creativity Aspects: 3/5
• 'Classic' Movie?: 2/5
• Overall: 2.5/5

Is this the same movie which has amassed so many positive reviews in media across the world? 

Or did I watch an entirely different movie? 

It's too long, boring, unimaginative and lacks story. 

Bond was never so weak. He doesn't look like a Bond at all. Villain looks like a cheap version of Nolan's Joker(The Dark Knight). He doesn't have the power or aura of the previous Bond villains.

At times, it's illogical, even for a Bond movie. It also feels stretched. 

Sometimes it reminds us of the Dark Knight Rises. Problem  with Skyfall is that it cannot match the benchmarks set by Nolan's Dark Knight Rises and at the same time it disappoints the traditional Bond fans.

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Jab Tak Hai Jaan (Hindi): Movie Review

• Entertainment Aspects: 3/5
• Technical Aspects: 3/5
• Creativity Aspects: 2/5
• 'Classic' Movie?: 2/5
• Overall: 2.5/5

If you can sit through horribly boring first half, the second half could be (comparatively) entertaining. 

It's only about Shahrukh and Shahrukh. His Major Samar is far better than Waiter Samar. Katrina has not much to do. Anushka has sparkled and is a pleasure to watch. 

Music is soothing. Dance sequences are good. 

Actually, story had potential to be made in a good cinema. But, unfortunately, the movie follows the cliched path. Love story between SRK and Katrina seems artificial, prosaic and impossible. It could have been covered in less than half hour. But director has stretched it till the interval.

To be frank there is not much to write about.

If you anyhow want to watch it, check in at the theater after interval.

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