Movie: Raavanan
Language : Tamil
Date : 18th June, 2010
Review
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'Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder' is an old saying but that holds true for the master director Mani Rathnam's new movie 'Raavanan'. Its a 3 way saga which depicts the faith and love of a lady torn between the honesty of a villain and destiny of the unbecoming of a hero. If one is able to see this saga beyond the hype and the hooplah then you will find this one beautiful. Imagine this 3 way tale set against the breath taking backdrop you could possibly imagine and you get the delicately poised 'Raavanan'.
Raavanan - The thought
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A Women in captivation who to death believes that her husband is equal to god. Her beleif that he is true, honest and would never succumb his values to anyone. The Captivator who is a 'villain' she hates from the stories she has heard of him. She isn't able to even look at him without hatred. The Captivator who has never before seen fearlessness in the eyes of his prey at the point of death, falls for her when she fearlessly jumps of a cliff rather than dying at his gun point. The Captivator who later understands the lady's relentless belief and love for her husband and that he could never become like him eventhough how hard he tried. He wishes to get her love but sadly understands that he can't be match to her 'god'. And the third angle, the Brave Husband who is out to tame and capture a menacing villain and reclaim his love.
The point when the women stands at the relaisation of her beliefs and who the real hero is, becomes the high point of 'Raavanan'.
Who is ultimatley the real hero? One who compromises her trust to meet his goals or the one who even at death point would still think of her happiness.
'Raavanan' is the battle of good and evil in the canvas of love and faith.
Mani Rathnam - Master @ Work
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Mani Rathnam is in superb form as usual. If 'Guru' was biographic, 'Raavanan' has 3 strong characters. He builds their tryst slowly against the breath taking canvas of Forests and Waterfalls. Until the interval, the pace is a bit on the slower side but never boring. Interval arrives actually out of no where and in the second half he actually reaps in all that we have been waiting for. Character sketches reach its full clarity in the second half and the 3 way story tussle becomes interesting. For setting such a thought,for the backdrop, for the shots, for the amazing performances from the lead actors and for creating his own brand of cinema, Mani Rathnam deserves all the applauds and more. Hope that people have eyes to recognise this.
Performances
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Vikram as 'Veera' is the best role because it has everything packed in to it. From the helplessness of a villain who is in love with a lady who beleives that his enemy is god-like, to sounding and behaving completely crazy and maniac, to the heart broken lover, Vikram is powerful as only he can do. Aishwarya Rai as 'Ragini' is the central piece of the 3 way tussle and is the audience's consciousness. It is through her that the other 2 characters are discovered. She has put in so much effort in to the character that she needs applause for the same. Finally, Prithviraj as 'Dev' is strongly impressive. With superb screen presence and a performance that matches 'Veera' in terms of the tension on screen, Prithviraj puts in a solid performance. Its a 3 way story and all 3 are really superb. Karthik,Priyamani,Prabhu and Munna also chip in with competant performances.
Technical Aspects
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Santhosh Sivan's camera is amazing and its the life and soulf of the movie. A R Rahman's re-recording lights up the scenes with apt emotions. The tracks are not that well used especially the 'Kaattu Sirukki' track. Usire Pokuthe, Title track, Kalvare are nice on screen.Art Direction needs special mention.
Negatives
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The special effects in some could have been better especially Aishwarya's fall. The first half needs some better pacing.Also, Priyamani's episode comes in a tad late in the proceedings. Its emotions do not set properly in to the audience.Second half looks better than the first. There is a gradual gradient for the 3 way plot and the characters. Hope the audience has the maturity to understand the underlying layers.
In short, 'Raavanan' will require all hype and hooplah to be put behind and to be seen with an open mind to understand the nuances behind the thought and soul of the movie. Its canvas should not act as a distraction but should be an enabler. 'Raavanan' is way way beyond the craps we see each week day in and day out. For the poignant thought, the unforgetable backdrop and the amazing lead performances, 'Raavanan' deserves its rightful place - The rightful place of a hero!
Verdict - 4/5 and 'Watch it with an open mind' as an opinion
Raavanan - One of its Kind
Movie: Rajneeti
Language: Hindi
Date : Saturday, 05 June 2010
Review
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To hold the attention span of a viewer is very difficult in this age when there are so many distractions at one's finger tips. Many movies struggle to hold viewer's attention for 2 or 2.5 hours. And amidst this is Prakash Jha's new movie 'Rajneeti' which succeeds to hold the interest for almost 90% of the 2 hours and 50 minutes length of the movie. This Sweeping epic full of melodrama is commendable for that one facet among others.
'Rajneeti' is a political melodrama about 2 families who fight in the dirt of Hindi Heartland politics to gain power and supremacy. Close to a Dozen characters are unleased on the screen which may confuse the viewer about their relations and this takes a good time to settle down. Performances are really competant. The youngest actor being the best i.e Ranbir Kapoor. He is the ace strategist and has the maximum screen time. Close on the heels are performances by Arjun Rampal and Katrina Kaif. Manoj Bhajpai also puts in a good villain act. Ajay Devgan is a bit of a disappointment considering his potential. Nana and Naseerudin are present and just that.
One of the major negatives, is the heaviness of the proceedings. Never does it divert to a lighter note. So, you have close to 3 hours of intense drama. A lighter scene never arrives. Prakash Jha had 2 good tracks in 'Bheegi Si' and 'Mora Piya' which are wasted as background passing tracks. The movie could have been shorter by 10 minutes atleast but that doesn't mean that it is boring.
Prakash Jha's Direction is really top notch becasue to have these many characters and not to loose track at any point with them, is commendable. To have 3 hours of unrelenting high voltage poilitical melodrama is a great ability in itself. He never tries to ridicule the system or preach which comes as a relief. Just look at 'Rajneeti' and its just a story, say like Mahabharatha. There is no effort from the director's part to preach or lament.
'Rajneeti' should be taken as serious cinema and its been a long time since we had such a high voltage drama on Bollywood screens. There is never a dull moment.
Verdict - 3.5/5 and 'Engaging Drama' as an opinion.
'Rajneeti' - Sweeping Epic ...Political Melodrama.
Movie: Kites
Language: Universal
Date: 20th May, 2010 - Paid Preview
Review
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In one of the pivotal scenes from Hrithik Roshan's latest movie 'Kites', a Mexican born Linda (Barbera Mori) returns across the amber landscape of the Bryce Canyon, to tell her Indian origin lover Jai (Hrithik) that she doesn't choose to move away to safety leaving him alone in the chase they were involved till then. Linda says she would choose to live or die with Jai rather than escape alone. It can be a scene straight out of Bollywood love stories but the characters, setting and context in 'Kites' makes it UNIQUE. There are no two ways to it, 'Kites' is nothing like what you have seen on Indian Screen before. It is for sure - Unique.
Plot and Screenplay
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The story of 'Kites' is a no-brainer. It is exactly what you expect before you enter to see the movie. It is the age old romantic story between two of the most unlikely people. Heroine in a 'caged' situation. Hero and Heroine on the run along a gorgeous countryside. 'Kites' at its heart is a ‘pakka’ bollywood film. It has so many of its clichés. Customary scene for the villain to show of his villa nary. The rich father and the spoilt son as the villain. Breaking to a song and dance to show the romance. You name it and its all there. Yet what sets 'Kites' apart are 2 beautiful characters essayed by Hrithik and Barbera and the landscape of the movie.
Hrithik and Barbera
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Hrithik is awesome to say the least as the Indian origin 'Jai' who does false marriages to make money. Try placing someone else in this role and then you will for once understand how effortlessly Hrithik has done this. From the dance floor to the stunts to the emotional breakdown at the end, Hrithik moves effortlessly slightly reminding us of the Big B himself in his hay days. Such is his command and screen presence. The only negatives are his self conscious torso display scenes.
Barbera is the surprise package of 'Kites'. She is warm, bubbly, effervescent yet quite unpredictable (may be her adventures make us think if she can cheat him). Barbera is quite natural as the Mexican girl hence initially you feel difficult to accept her. But slowly as the movie progresses, Barbera emerges as the perfect foil for Hrithik.
Direction and the Climax
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Anurag Basu has a liking for tragedies. We have seen that in 'Gangster'. 'Kites' is a tragic love story. And for once not sure whether to pat Anurag or criticize him. The tragic end doesn't seem to be forced upon but it leaves 'Kites' as a pain in your heart. On the one hand you wish to praise the team for the guts they have shown with the ending. And especially to Hrithik, who is a big superstar and when he releases a movie after 2 years, he chooses such a 'unique' movie like 'Kites' and such a tragic ending. May it has a lesson for the Mammottys and Mohanlals, who dare not still churn out 6-7 formula movies a year for the fear of failure. Anurag does a decent job with the movie and has extracted commendable performances from the lead. The Las Vegas setting gives the movie the edgy feeling and the Arizona, New Mexico trail a beautiful canvas.
Technical Aspects
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Stunts are well choreographed. Cinematography is well done. Music is also a high point in the film with 'Zindagi', 'Dil Kyun' standing out. The 'Fire' Dance is a treat to watch with Hrithik's super moves.
Negatives
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Almost 50% of the movie, one keeps asking oneself of how these 2 people can fall in love without even knowing the common language. But for once, the scene mentioned in the opening of this review changes all that.
The Spanish dialogues of Barbera have been well subtitled but missing in some portions.
The re-recording is a major disappointment with the background scores missing the main tracks. Looks disconnected.
Its always a 2 character play hence can be a bit boring.
And the biggest dampener (if it can be called that) is a tragic ending. Though looking not forced upon will still leave the audience disturbed and not sure how many will have the patience to appreciate it.
In short, 'Kites' is nothing like you have seen on Indian screen before. May be it is India's true Universal Cinema. With a spirited performance by Hrithik and Barbera, if you have the patience to appreciate a unique love story that is tragic, then go for it.
Verdict - 3.5/5 and UNIQUE as an Opinion
'Kites' - Flying a Unique Trail.
Movie: Kadha Thudarunnu
Date: 15th, May 2010.
Language: Malayalam
Review
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Simplicity and Honesty are 2 of the most attractive traits of any story. Malayalam Commercial Cinema's Ace Director Satyan Anthikad's new movie 'Kadha Thudarunnu' has oodles of simplicity and honesty. After few contrived efforts, Satyan is back in form to a great extent and makes 'Kadha Thudarunnu' one of the better movies of the year.
Plot and Direction
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The story of 'Kadha Thudarunnu' moves at a very lovable pace. It neither has those speedy cuts or gimmicks and it is never too slow to make you squirm in your seats.From the word go the movie and the characters look very simple which endears you to the movie. Not made out simple but naturally simple.
Satyan has kept the direction really under control. His famous squandering in the second half doesn't happen this time. Satyan usually contrives his plot in the second half and makes it illogical, atleast in the last 2-3 outings but this time he is in better form. He has also extracted commendable performances from 3 of his 'non-team' members namely, Mamta, the baby girl, Anikha and Asif Ali. Satyan's usual team is in its good form as well (namely KPAC Lalitha, Innocent etc).
Many scenes are really touching espeically when Mamta is shocked and goes to Asif's house. The way it has been handled shows experience. Mamta's escape from Jayaram initially,Jayaram's camping outside the school etc are all good scenes. As the interval arrives, you are sure that this is one of the better movies of the year but the famous Satyan second half miss keeps you concerned. But thankfully this time around, Satyan does better.
Performances
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The movie belongs to two people. Mamta Mohandas as 'Vidyalekshmi' - a young widow and a single parent left alone at the crossroads of life. Mamta is subtle, bold, helpless and vulnerable as the situation demands. She lives through the best role of her life till date.A confident performance which will change the way people think about her as an actress. If her performance in 'Passenger' was an indicator, 'Vidyalekshmi' confirms her potential as an actress.
The second person to whom the movie belongs to is Baby Anikha. She brings so much warmth on the screen that she keeps many screens alive. She is a perfect foil to fill up the scenes which could have felt a bit empty and illogical otherwise. Mamta and Anikha put in winning performances. Natural and Endearing.
Jayaram has nothing much to do but is competant. Asif puts in a good performance. Lakshimi Priya as Malli is also commendable.
Music
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'Kadha Thudarunnu' has 2 of the better tunes from Satyan- Raja combo in 'Aaro' and 'Mazhamegham'. 'Aaro' has been used well in the re-recording.
Negatives
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Some sequences have issues with logic. Why Mamta decides to go the park and stay there (what was the thought behind such a decision) or her move to the platform all seems a bit difficult to digest. Mamta rejoining the Medical College reminds you of 'Vinodayatra' but soon Satyan changes that to a community support for her education and salvages it. But Anikha and Mamta's performances make you forget all these.
Also, the climax which appears to be a sudden twist and a bit forced upon gives you a feeling that it arrived soon out of no where. Its not cliched and usual which is a plus but the end kind of fizzles out a bit.
In short, 'Kadha Thudarunnu' is a good movie. It could have been even better with an ending that was better handled but all said and done, it shows that Satyan has matured as a script writer and has left his usual tendency to contrive things. That for sure is a welcome change.
Verdict - 3.5/5 and 'Simply Good' as Opinion
'Kadha Thudarunnu' - Simple and Honest!
Movie: Pokkri Raja
Language: Malayalam
Date: Saturday, May 8, 2010
Review
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Around 10 years back, Malayalees used to call Tamil films as 'Paandi' (which had a derogatory touch to it). It meant over expressive emotional scenes, over the top action scenes, over the moon heroism and Logic defying hero worship. Today, times have changed. Tamil movies are no longer 'Paandi' (in that sense of the word). Yes, some movies in Tamil still come out with the age old formula of hero worship but the industry as such is now known for independent cinema made by talented directors who not only produce brilliant movies on low budget but also make them super hits. But in Malayalam the trend is now reversed. Its now our turn to be called 'Paandi'.
'Pokkriraja' is a final nail in the coffin of proclaiming and christening Malayalam movies as the so called 'Paandi'. If you felt that, over the years, it was the feel, takes etc that were inspired in Malayalam from Tamil but some sort of ‘Malayalitham’ was retained. Its all gone with this. Watch 'Pokkriraja' in most parts and you will think for sure that its a typical Tamil Masala movie. The only saving grace is once you have compromised that much, then it doesn't irritate or torture you to death.
The Story
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There is not much of a story involved. There has to be a village and then a 'Uthsavam'. There has to be 2 warring families for conducting the same, enmity and murder etc. 2 brothers have to part ways - customary. Thankfully both become Pokkris (Goons). At least, an interesting formula (since the whole movie is so formulaic) was that one could become a police and other the goon. There would have been some tension and interest. Even that is avoided. Its so formulaic that it will make you cringe at points.
Factor this, in true 80s Hindi movies style, when 2 brothers meet after so many years, they both say dialogues which one has said in the childhood to recognize each other. Sigh! Sigh!. Thanks that the director avoids an old family song to join the brothers (aka 'Yaadon Ki Baraat'). Also, as in hero worshipping Tamil movies, an old lady praises the hero as 'Singam' and ' Messiah of the Poor’ before the hero arrives. Pointless!!
Performances
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Mammotty and Prithviraj are saving graces of the Movie to say the least. With some good screen presence, they save the movie from falling in to the death trap of becoming a complete bore. Prithviraj shines in the first half and has a virtual side kick role in the second. Mammotty has been hero worshipped so much that it makes you choke. I think some sanity should reign on his thoughts. May be its high time he had his famous 3 Ss - Sense, Sensibility and Sensitivity. He plays to the galleries and his fans. He tries hard to flounder English (the initial attempts are so foolish because actually he is good at English personally). Nevertheless, both the stars have enough to hold the interest of the viewers.
+ves and -ves
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The positives include a pretty fact screenplay. Slick presentation and some action scenes which are bound to go well with the masses. The -ves include completely clichéd story, over the top situations and hero worship that almost makes you throw up. Songs are ordinary. 'Manikinavin' is never shown while a Tamil style song is shown. Shreya is wasted in a role that could have been done by anyone.
In short, if you soon come to terms with the fact that 'Pookriraja' crosses the line and is probably the first mainstream Malayalam - Tamil Masala movie made on highest dose of hero worship and clichéd situations, then you may probably end up watching this movie as a one time, time-pass movie. If you are the creative and subtle types, then you are in for a rude shock.
Verdict - 2.5/5 and 'Just Average'.
Pokkri Raja - Finally, Malayalam Cinema has now officially been 'Paandified' .
Movie: Janakan
Date : 09-04-2010
Language : Malayalam
Review
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Being Predictable is boring and not even trying to move away from that is even more, in these times. 'Janakan' is exactly what you expect. It begins where the last year's movie 'Vairam' ended and then tells the story in flash back. Finally, you eagerly wait for that 'difference' which is how the advocate would save the father (who has taken the revenge for his daughter's murder) and you wait for that grand climax which never happens and fizzles out to a great extent.Never quite still understand what a 'Brain Bank Story', caption of this story means. It is a story which you can watch leaving your Brain ‘Blank’.
'Janakan' is a late movie. Both the story and the narration take Malayalam Cinema a good 10 years backwards. The theme suddenly has been given a social message in the second half and is predictable to the core. Direction is fare during the first half but as the movie proceeds; you loose interest as you very well know what will unfurl. The predictable flashback should have ended at least by the interval and post interval dedicated to how the advocate saves them (which was expected to be the new portions of the predictable story) but that doesn't happen. Director and Script writer have let the flashback linger on up to 90% of the movie making it a boring affair.
Suresh Gopi is good in glimpses but mostly taxed and tired. He looks foolish at times in the act of trying to seem innocent. Jyothirmayi is passé. Kaveri is wasted. The new girl has nothing much to do as well. The only interesting thing in all of 'Janakan' is Mohanlal as Adv. Surya. He keeps you interested whenever he is on screen. He is the story listener and a representative of the audience. Its not a guest role by any means and the second lead actor in the whole movie. But as we anticipate an intelligent climax to save the protagonists it never happens.
Camera is so-so. The sole song 'Olichirunne' is fine. BGM lifts the movie in certain scenes but mostly jars for no reason.
In short, 'Janakan' is predictable to the core and with only saving grace being Mohanlal as Adv. Surya.
Verdict - 2/5 and 'Predictable and Outdated' as an opinion.
Janakan - The Brain Blank Story.
Movie: Paiyaa
Language : Tamil
Date : 02-04-10
Theatre : Cinemax, Kochi, Screen 1 (Opening Day)
Capsule Review
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Last year saw a commercial action entertainer in Surya's 'Ayan'. Though not a path breaking cinema by any means, 'Ayan' was an entertainer for the time it lasted. This time around we have Karthi (Surya's brother) trying something similar in Lingusamy's 'Paiyaa'. And 'Paiyaa' succeeds to a great extent in what 'Ayan' did i.e to entertain the audience.
'Paiyaa' starts of as a road movie and director keeps it engaging with some crisp pace, beautiful foot tapping songs and a fresh performance by Karthi. Tamanna is engaging as well. As the movie starts after interval, we see Lingusamy going back to his forte. One man against a goonda gang world which he has used successfully in movies like 'Run' and 'Sandakozhi'. It looks a bit cliched but nevertheless engaging. He falls in to many traps like the hero and heroine land up in a forest as an escape and we soon see the customary song and dance. As we start to feel that the movie may be loosing it with too many unnecessary plots and songs, Lingusamy ushers in the grand climax.
At the end of it, you feel entertained. Not as to the level of 'Ayan' but quite close to that. Technically, direction is neat and crisp except in portions of second half. Action scenes are well choreographed.Its just a car and 2 people during the majority of the movie, hence the camera is also used well as its kept engaging all the while. Karthi is almost the life of the movie. Fresh and charming he uknowingly resembles mannerisms of Surya, many a times. He is a lot of promise. Tamanna is good to watch but not as good a performance as 'Ayan'. The chemistry looks lacking. Songs are really cool and well shot. 'Thuli Thuli', 'Poongatre' and 'En Kadal Solla' are soothing tracks by Yuvan.
All in all, as an entertainer 'Paiyaa' is the brother of 'Ayan', no two ways about that.
Verdict - 3/5 and 'Entertainer' as Ratings
Movie: In Ghost House Inn
Language: Malayalam
Date: 25th March, 2010
Review
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'In Ghost House Inn' has the by now Lal formula in place. A first half that tries to be comical. A second half which turns serious and delves deeper in to the premises of the story. A pre-climax conundrum and finally the grand twisted climax. The only differences this time around are that the foursome from 'Harihar Nagar series' are not chasing girls but they are chasing (or being chased by) ghosts. The premise is horror. Playing with Nostalgia which was a major part in the previous edition is completely non existent. So does the formula work this time around? Yes, to some extent.
The backdrop - Horror
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'Horror' is always an interesting backdrop to have for a comical movie and Lal has presented the setting well. As the first half begins with the story explaining the 'Ghost House the mood is perfectly set. Then begins the jokes and gags which are not that great but you still feel the fun because its quite creepy setting to say the least. The proceedings move at a smooth pace and as the interval arrives the feeling is about not a great movie but still engaging watch. Second half is when Lal last time caught the viewer in surprise with the pace. This time around things start to take creepy edges. Pre-climax conundrum is where Lal almost looses the game but salvages it with a wonderfully executed twist and end credits.
Director's Game
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'In Ghost House Inn' is whatever it is only because of one man and that is Lal. Like a master chess player and a captain tightly holding his ship against raging seas, Lal manages to engage the viewer and keep him hooked for most parts of the movie. A good director is always a good story teller and Lal uses such tools, techniques and takings to move the story forward, that its impressive to say the least. The kind of scenes designed to give the horror backdrop and presentation is worth mentioning. Lal will have a tough time breaking away from the formula he has set especially the famous 'twist' in his forthcoming movies. His amazing story telling ways should be applauded big time.
Cast
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The foursome have nothing much to do. Its Nedumudi Venu who takes the cake with the best role of the movie. Followed by Radhika who is somewhat competent with a not so easy role. Execution could definitely have been better though. The four leading ladies also are passé.
Negatives
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None of the four characters actually have a growth in 'In Ghost House Inn'. They remain where they were after the 2nd part. None of them have a proper sketch neither they play a major part or role in the movie. It is the horror setting and the Ghost house which is the main character followed by Nedumudi. This aspect may leave the foursome's fans tad disappointed.
The pre-climax portion is very loud and over the top. Could have been better executed seeing the way Lal has command over rest of the movie. This is the only time the audience feel like giving it all up and the only time when the director who
is a master story teller looses his grip on the audience. Screeching and Screaming with gory scenes and stunts. Nothing looks good, subtle or deft here.
Technically the movie is good. You may wonder whether some such horror scenes have ever been done in Malayalam before. But the music is pathetic to say the least. Tracks have been forced in. Looks completely formulaic and out of place.Background score is better.
Finally, 'In Ghost House Inn' is not a good or great cinema. You can watch it once because its engaging. Its like 2 hours spent in some fake haunted house ride. It will keep you hooked when it lasts and once you are out of it you will soon forget it as well. That is kind of ok in these transient and fast times. Isn't it?
Verdict - 3/5 as Rating
'Engaging' as an Opinion
'In Ghost House Inn' - A Director's Game Plan
Movie: Thaanthonni
Language: Malayalam
Date 19, March, 2010
Review
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Imagine a movie in which the script writer is hell bound at telling all the stories in the world within that one single movie, combined with a director who has no control where the movie is heading to. Looks like a Combustible Combination in over drive. Right? This is exactly what T.A Shahid and George Varghese do in the latest Prithviraj movie 'Thaanthonni'. There are not one, but three 'Thaanthonnis' (Disobidient ones) in the movie. T.A Shahid, George Varghese and Prithviraj. And what results is ‘movie mayhem’!
The Story - Over Written
---------------------------------
TA Shahid believes in over writing this story to the point that no one cares beyond a point. The first one hour is the saving grace in the movie. Its watchable.The antics of Prithviraj as 'Kochukunju' are kind of bearable and the first flash back arrives. You still feel that though everything happening is formulaic, its all as expected. But soon the interval scene arrives and what is clearly inspired from 'Puthiya Mugham' goes all sour in a poorly written and executed scene.After the interval, all hell breaks loose and its a downward spiral from then on. To a point, when it becomes a torture chamber where you are forced to watch the second flashback story, Prithviraj's 'Sagar Alias Jackey' act, tear-jerker family scenes and reunion of the old couples. Oh my God, they can use this one for the Guantanamo Torture Chambers, if they still have them open.
Directon - Lack of One
------------------------------
George Varghese has no clue where the movie is going for once. He completely has given the reigns over to TA Shahid's story and script which keeps on over running. Most of the scenes are so poorly executed that from the word go, you get the idea that this new director lacks vision of his kind of cinema. A story has to be told in its sincerity and trueness. Everything of that sort is missing here. It seems director thinks that too many flashbacks means a great story or at least the scriptwriter has impressed that point on him. We surely do not need poor clones of Joshy. The original one is still alive and kicking.
Scene after scene you understand that not even chopping off 30-45 minutes of the movie can save it. Its was never destined to be a sane movie. At a running time of 2 hours and 30 minutes, 'Thaanthooni' is torture.
The Rebel Hero
----------------------
No Mincing words here. Prithviraj is below par in 'Thaanthooni'. He has charm in many portions, agreed but it cannot be called even as a good performance in a bad movie.
His scenes in the first half as a drunkard, poorly ape Mohanlal. Its almost as if you can see Lal performing in all his drunakrd mannerisms. And he commits criminal
mistakes in the kind of scenes that he has agreed to do. He is over stylish and loads of reels are wasted to show him as some 'super power'. Horrendous!
Finally, all the good will which 'Puthiya Mugham' and 'Robinhood' (to certain extent) had created has been vanished. No longer one can believe that the young star has a sane head on his shoulders. The script selection , the director, everything is shoddy. 'Puthiya Mugham' was sincere, precise, to the point and a performance well delivered in a commercial set up. 'Thaanthonni' takes him a few years backwards. He delivers 4-5 minutes long dialogues trying to be like Mammotty and Lal in One man hero movies, but haven't we seen that all with them. This is not the change that we are looking for. We thought the new generation star would think like the new generation and have better sensibilities. This is like back to square one.
Rest of the Bits and Pieces
-----------------------------------
Ambika in a tear jerker mother role is filling up the screen space - literally. Loads and loads of characters but none leaves an impression. Poor old Suraj cracks some
one liners and scores. Jagathy is funny in a short role. Heroine is wasted for a song and few scenes. Cinematography is amateurish. Gopi Sundar does a decent job and
is one of the positive points of this movie. Tej Mervin's poor tunes remind us of Deepav Dev's valuable contribution in the success of Puthiya Mugham.
Finally, 'Thaanthonni' has neither soul or sincerity nor purpose. Its like those 'B' grade movies wrapped in to a family tearjerker. No one expected a master piece. Frankly, even an average movie would have been a positive surprise. But even with such low expectations, 'Thaanthonni' fails miserably. Sorry, to say the young super star, you have a long way to go in choosing scripts and getting them executed.
Verdict - 1.5 / 5 as Rating
'Torture' as Opinion
'Thaanthonni' - Get ready to be Tortured.
Movie: Vinnaithaandi Veruvaaya.
Language: Tamil
Date: 06th Mar, 2010
Review
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Good Love stories are like rain in the summer. Heart warming and Refreshing. And it makes you feel that it has been a long summer all the while.Goutham Menon's New Movie 'Vinnaithaandi Veruvaaya' is special because probably its a pure romantic movie after a long long time. A perfect two character play in all its complexities, the movie takes itself very seriously when it comes to telling a true love story.And for that one factor, it rises above being just good.
A Lasting Love Story
-------------------------------
The tale of Karthik (Chimbu) and Jessie (Trisha) is a love story that is not only true and realistic but also creates a lasting impression. Karthik is the quintessential next door boy. Young, Lacklustre and without much of an aim in life except for his love of cinema. Karthik is not different from many other heroes that you have often seen in movies. He is daring when it comes to love and ready to go the extra mile to make things happen. The twist comes in the second portion of this 2 way tale.
And that is Jessie. Completely unsure of what she wants for her, fearful of her father, she is that modern day girl who tries to be different when she is outside home. She is ever afraid to show her love or even accept it. Confused between whether to commit or reject even though she loves Karthik. As she tosses up Karthik's life and plays around with it, Jessie creates a beautiful character out of herself.
VTV is memorable because of the love story between these 2 well defined characters. Kudos to Goutham for writing such beautiful characters.
Director - All about Trust
----------------------------------
Goutham believes strongly in the movie and the theme that he has made. Its visible in how genuine and true he has been to the subject. VTV is not an action - romance or a romantic comedy or anything else but it is a pure romantic movie. Goutham takes his time building his characters and as an audience you get to know their various untold facets which reveal slowly. You grow with these characters as an audience. For the sheer sincerity with which the subject has been treated, I rate it at par with his best movies till date.
Jessie - Drives you Crazy
--------------------------------
For me, VTV belongs to Jessie. Trisha's career best role till date, is a revelation. She is so perfectly cast that she lives through the role. Looks simple and gorgeous as Jessie. She looks completely deceptive when seeing Karthik's love. Charming and lovable when she accepts Karthik's love. Helpless and Restless in love when her father rejects Karthik. Calm, composed and mature towards the end. All rolled in to one, the movie is interesting beyond a point only due to the spice which Jessie adds to it. Chimbu has put in perhaps his career best role and taking nothing away from him, he also stands his space and holds on. Chimbu's Karthik is almost a routine role done well but 's Trisha's Jessie is special.
Music that makes your heart skip a beat
-----------------------------------------------------
The soul of any love story is probably the songs and the music and for me this is the best album (in terms of the number of good tracks) for atleast 2 years now. In an era when each movie has hardly one or two good tracks, VTV boasts of 5-6 really beautiful tracks. AR Rehman is stupendous and his compositions are breaking the barriers of culture and fusion. Hats off to Goutham for extracting such an awesome album from him. The rerecording is mint cool especially the 'Jessie drives me crazy' bit.
Cinematography is good and Editing could have been tighter at some instances but movie has a nice pace of its own.
Negatives
-------------
The interval scene and dialogues could have been handled way better. It quite looks silly and abrupt in a poetic movie. Same is the case with the sudden love interest from Karthik's Cinema Colleague. Songs are soulful but 3 of them (Omana Penne, Hossanna and Kannukkul Kannai) have been picturised in the very same way (road dancers). Some more imagination, thought and effort could easily have been applied to make these songs have different identity. May be Goutham can learn it from Shanker or Mani Ratnam. He has done proper justice only to 3 songs (Aromale, Mannipaya and Anbil Avan). Some dialogues are completely silly and Trisha's dubbing inaudible at times.
'Vinnaithaandi Veruvaaya' is not devoid of shortcomings but the sheer sincerity of the movie, truthfulness to the subject, interesting character sketches, superb performances and breath taking music leaves an impression for some time ahead. After all when did we see the last genuine love story?
Verdict - 4/5 as Rating. 'A Treat for your Heart' as an opinion.
Vinnathaandi Veruvaaya - ' Crossing the realms of Love'
Movie: My Name is Khan
Language: Hindi
Date: 12-02-2010
Review
----------
We live in an era of where entertainment with a message is perhaps the need of the times. Bollywood's one of the most celebrated directors of recent times, Karan Johar, has come up with latest offering 'My Name is Khan', which has a message to the entire world. MNIK is promising for the message that it delivers but falls short of being a uplifting cinematic experience.
The Journey
------------------
MNIK is about the journey of a man with Aspergers syndrome through the landscape of post 9/11 American mainland, trying to proclaim that all Muslims are not terrorists. His strong belief is that men are only of 2 kinds - good or bad. MNIK is a worth watching movie in the first half. Though not a rollicking entertainer, but the character Rizwan keeps you hooked. He is 'awkward' and 'limited' in true sense of the words but the first half is lifted by a completely contrasting ‘Mandira’ played by Kajol. The contrast and the tale just carries you through the first half with ease and you break at the interval with some proud thoughts about KJo, SRK and Kajol.
The Pit falls
----------------
Where MNIK begins to loosen its grip is when each and every scene is planned and composed to proclaim a part of the umpteen numbers of sub messages fitted in to 2.40 hrs of MNIK. Hence, there is an African American township episode, detention episode, Burkha, American - Indian kids love-hate and so on. Alright, the message in the movie is noble and superbly mounted on a good platform but when every scene becomes a mode to keep saying that, then MNIK looses the charm of storytelling in a movie but becomes almost like a corporate presentation deck where each slide has a well planned agenda and message. And slow paced, filmy and preachy it becomes in the second half that, by the end of it we start wishing that the American President somehow appears so that the movie can end.
Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol
-------------------------------------
MNIK is one of the better movies of SRK but he looks and sounds more 'robotic' than 'autistic'. The kind of perfection expected from such a life changing or path breaking character is lacking. SRK does much better than hamming away as expected but the kind of mind blowing perfection is missing. 'Chak De India' was much more clinical and more justice to that character but Rizwan is more complex a character than in Chak De India for sure. He is very good in some of the scenes like the proposal scene, speech in the church and 'Khan' corrections.
Kajol as 'Mandira' is stupendous and natural as ever as long as she is the thick of it. The breakdown scene is one of the best for a lead actress for some time now. She is so natural in her reactions and a perfect foil for the controlled and limited Rizwan. Perhaps no one else could have brought so much to this role as her.
The Surprise
------------------
The surprise of the whole package though is Karan Johar to a great extent. From the days of 'KKHH', 'K3G', 'KANK' Karan has come a long way. But perhaps he has some more way to go and reach the destination that he is headed to. Why does the hero need to have an Aspergers Syndrome in the first place and why not the story of a common man? Why is the story need to be mounted in the US when Indian is equally affected by Terrorism? Can't a global statement be made if the story is placed in India? Even if all these are ignored the filmy clichés of 'Georgia episode' makes you cringe. Rizwan travels all the way to Georgia from LA on a bus much before any help arrives there. He almost forgets his fear for sound or limitations as he helps the people out. Filmy!
Camera by Ravi Chandran is Superb. Music by Shankar trio is a big let down with not even a single outstanding track. Sharbani Bhatija commits the same errors as in 'Fanah'.
In short, MNIK is a many steps forward for Karan Johar, a better work of Shah Rukh, a reaffirmation about the stupendous Kajol and a movie which has a touching message but could have been better in being less preachy , less filmy and more entertaining.
Verdict - Rating - 3/5
Opinion - Watch it once for the Message.
MNIK - 'My Name is Karan' and 'I have few more miles to go'.
Movie: Happy Husbands
Language: Malayalam
Date: 26th Jan 2010
Review
----------
'Happy Husbands' brings to Malayalam the kind of comedy that has been ruling the roost in Bollywood since a few years now. Try watching some Bollywood movies
like 'Maine Pyar Kyun Kiya', 'Golmaal', 'Golmaal Returns' and one will get a better idea of the kind of comedy presented in 'Happy Husbands'. The prime characters in these comedies are young, either bachelors or just recently married. The major ingredients are hep costumes, bright colors, lovely locations, below the belt kind of humor and some confusion. Most of these comedies show 'marriage' or 'commitment' in negative humorous way. From over the top expressions to contrived situations to the sound that comes when a character commits a conversational goof-up, you can trace all this down to these kind of comedy films mentioned above.
And icing on the cake is that content wise, 'Happy Husbands' is a near scene by scene copy of the Bollywood comedy 'No Entry' which was inspired 'xth' version of a Tamil movie 'Charlie Chaplin' (duly acknowledged in the title by the makers here).
The only novelty - All these 'comedy effects' look quite new in Malayalam and the actors carry the movie well.
Script and Direction
------------------------
As its been copied, there is nothing much to say about the story or script. Screenplay and Direction has been neatly handled by this promising guy, Saji Surendran. He is a promise for the future of Malayalam Commercial Cinema. He exactly knows what he is doing and holds the movie tightly together, scene after scene. For those who have watched 'No Entry', it can turn to be a bit boring as each sequence can be fore told. For others, it should be a fair time pass.
Cast
------
Of the cast, the most impressive in terms of a surprise is undoubtedly 'Indrajith'. He is cool as the handsome hunk who is a big time flirt. That is a difficult role only considering the way heroes are in Malayalam. But Indrajith impresses. As the hero of the movie, in terms of pure screen space, its Jayaram who leaves an impression but spoils it many a times with his over the top expressions and acting. Jayasurya shows why Malayalam actors are far ahead of the usual brigade in Bollywood. A forgetful character by Fardeen Khan in 'No Entry' rises above the because of Jayasurya's comic timing.
Of the ladies, its Bhavana who impresses. Samvratha and Vandana are so-so. Rima Kallingal tries too hard but fails to do the Seductress Bipasha act.
Music is average. The 'Happy Husbands...' title track is unexpectedly good as used in the movie and it comes up whenever there is a goof up. (aka the bollywood
comedy movies). The 'Take it Easy...' track is irritating to say the least.
On the whole, Saji Surendran avoids the serial tear jerker model this time which he used to spoil the second half in 'Ivar Vivahitarayal'. He does justice to the concept,
genre and sequences but sorry that there is neither logic or creativity.
Verdict - 3/5 as Rating and 'Time pass Entertainer' as an opinion.
'Happy Husbands' - ' A logic less time pass movie'
Movie: Ividam Swargamanu
Language: Malayalam
Date: Jan 14, 2010
Review
----------
It’s a delight to see an actor do something that you have always liked doing him. And Mohanlal as 'Mathews' in the movie 'Ividam Swargamanu', does the same.
For those who have loved seeing him as a simpleton, a common man and someone who has taken a different route in life, this movie would surely be a lovable watch.
'Ividam Swargamanu' needs applause for the subject that it has chosen and the study that has gone behind it. Its no way near being the best cinema that you might have seen this year but ends up being a just about good movie.
+ Ves
--------
The subject about a simple man who chose to become a farmer instead of taking a 'white collar' job. His fight against the system that is trying to snatch away his land
and efforts. Finally, how he defeats the evil forces using his 'grey cells' (not with muscles, for a change) is something delightful.
The effort put behind the study incase of the land deals and how the land mafia works is worth a watch for sure. Jagathy's character is delightful and his 'methods' are an eye opener to all the innocent people in this world who trust blindly. James Albert needs to be applauded for this effort.
Mohanlal as Mathews is superb to watch. He is so natural and his scenes with Priyanka, Lalu Alex, Shanker were a treat to watch. It was almost as if it was the return of Mohanlal of old times. What makes 'Ividam Swargamanu' convincing is the way Mohanlal has played 'Mathews'. The movie was supposedly based on the farm but when you come out what you remember is 'Mathews' and not the farm. That’s the victory of Mohanlal.
Priyanka acted natural with some mint cool confidence. She needs to get better roles. Thilakan, Shanker, Kaviyoor Ponnamma were as usual. Jagathy was superb. Lalu Alex was at times good and at times didn't create much impact. But this one is one of his better roles.
-Ves
-------
The level which Lal Jose could raise James Albert's 'Classmates' to, Roshan fails to do the same with 'Ividam Swargamanu'. Sometimes the movie goes too much in to details and starts dragging towards the pre-climax portion.
The farm never captures much of your imagination. What probably does is the character Mathews's effort behind it and his choice to become a farmer even though he was talented in studies. The farm could have been better presented which could have emotionally held the audience when land mafia tries to grab it. Especially as ‘Land Grabbing’ is the subject and with the title of the movie, the farm should have stayed our hearts but it doesn't much do that. Perhaps, cue can be taken from still alive memories of the farm from 'Nammakku Paarkkan Munthiri Thoppukal'.
The interval arrives at probably the most unimaginative place. That could have been better handled in the narrative. Even as the end credits roll, the scenes go on.
Perhaps Writer James Albert wrote way too much and Director Roshan clearly looks unaware at times what to have on screen and what not. But what Roshan successfully
does is extract good performances from Lal and most of the crew. Also, he never makes the movie look like a damp squib. That’s to his credit.
Lekshmi Rai puts in quite the worst performance of the movie. Lekshmi Gopalswami is tad better.
Lack of songs is something the creators should have worked upon. A subject like this deserves one. Gopi Sunder tries to be too smart with the BGM sometimes and flounders but at times does good work as well.
In the end, 'Ividam Swargamanu' just about manages to be a good movie basically because of the theme, script and superb performance by Mohanlal
Verdict :- 3.5 / 5 and 'Just about Good' as Opinion.
Ividam Swargamanu - Mathews inte Lokam.
Movie: 3 Idiots
Language: Hindi
Date: 31st Dec
Dairy Notes
----------------
'Save the best for the last' is something we always have heard over time. As the new year of 2010, closed in and as I watched the second show on 31st of Dec, 2009, perhaps I felt that 2009 had saved me its best movie towards its very end. Yes, '3 Idiots' is the best entertainer I have seen this year.
'3 Idiots' is nothing extra ordinary. Its not earth shattering message about the flaws in Indian Educational System. Its not hard hitting as say a 'Taare Zameen Par' or 'Rang De Basanti', yet in its own simple way, it throws light on choosing a profession that you love to, about coming of age and realizing one's own wish, of standing up for your friends and giving your life for them. All this told in the most entertaining screenplay is delightful.
'3 Idiots' will make you laugh out loud. After a long time, I did that honestly at a Hindi movie. And it can make your eyes moist as well.
The ultimate winner in the entire fare is Raju Hirani. Though inspired from Chetan Bhagat's 'Five Point Someone', it has been well changed and adapted as a movie. Only a few basic aspects have been adapted.Both the book and the movie are good in their respective places. Personally, I like the movie better.
Aamir Khan is awesome once again. His ability to convince me each time with a role is superb. Its a treat to watch him as a young college goer who is different from the pack and thinks independently is beautifully written. The way he stands for his friends and makes men out of them is heart pleasingly realistic.
Madhavan and Sharman are realistic in their roles. Boman Irani wins accolades with the second best performancein the movie after Aamir. Kareena is routine stuff but fine.
Scenes and Sequences are delightful. Ragging Scene, Farhan Nitrate Scene, Chamatkar Scene, Sharman's home scenes,..One can go on and on.... '3 Idiots' is delightful.
The biggest negative one may find with '3 Idiots' is that it gets too filmy at few scenes. The delivery of the baby done by the 3 friends and the baby coming to life with 'All is Well' was somewhat well handled but filmy. The reason why Rancho avoids everyone and leaves after college is never known though we can link it to his real roots.
But all said and done, I am convinced that I had the best time I could have had with '3 Idiots'. I laughed out loud most of the time and many a scenes were thought provoking and made us think. And it also gets one moist eyed.
I am rating '3 Idiots' as 4/5 and calling it ' The Best Entertainer of the Year'.
Thanks Raju and Aamir, we are laughing our way in to 2010.
Movie: Chattambi Nadu
Language: Malayalam
Date: 24th, Dec
Review
---------
Originality and New Theme are the last things that you expect in a commercial festival movie like 'Chattambi Nadu' and that is exactly what it renders. Shafi who has made some better commercial movies like 'Kalyanaraman', 'Chocolate' and 'Mayavi' this time ends up with a rehash of some previous Malayalam movies. At strict 2 hours of length, 'Chattambi Nadu' won't bore you to death but neither will impress you much.
Theme
----------
The theme is oft repeated. The hero returning to village with which he has a past. Two warring groups and families in the village and the hero stealing the show. 'Rajamanikyam' is still fresh in all our memories hence the similarity is so obvious. Even 'Aaram Thampuran' and so many other movies have had this kind of a story in which a hero with a past returns to his village and so on. Even though expected, theme wise, 'Chattambi Nadu' is a major disappointment. Shafi is capable of bringing out some interesting themes within the commercial format like say in 'Chocolate'. Nothing of that sort happens here.
Mammotty and the Rest
--------------------------------
The saving grace of the whole affair is Mammotty who is once again superb in using diction and dialect to perfection. Even though the 'RajaManikyam' hangover is obvious, Mammotty lifts an ordinary role to a notable one with his use of the diction and flexibility in presentation. The rest of the cast is ho-hum except for Suraj and Salim Kumar. Suraj's antics are worth a few chuckles and Salim Kumar though looks jaded, manages to hold on with some one liners.
Direction is below par except for the handling of Mammootty's character. Lekshmi Rai and Maithili are wasted while Vinu Mohan tries hard to replace Rehman in the
RajaManikyam format. Music doesn't have much to write about either.
Verdict - 2.5/5 and 'Strictly Average'
Chattambi Nadu - The Usual Routine
Movie: Paa
Language: Hindi
Date: 5-12-09
Review
-----------
When the main protagonist is suffering from a rare illness in the movie, what you expect is the movie to capitalize on the sympathy generated around that. So, when you see such a movie and the above factor is never exploited but the character is built as smart, witty and lovable, then it comes across as a surprise. That’s exactly what the Balki's movie 'Paa' succeeds in. 'Paa's main protagonist 'Auro' (played superbly by Amitabh) is developed as a lovable, smart and witty 13 year old, that you will really fall in love with, even though he looks unconventional and almost close to being imagined as may be an 'alien'.
Entertaining Movie
-----------------------
'Paa' in way is a sober, serious movie. It’s actually funny for the most parts of it. And that is because of the way the movie has been written. Up until the interval, the movie is a complete joy ride through the life of Auro. As the second half starts off, many a scenes are lengthy and may look a bit tedious but the honesty and sincerity is evident. Also, by the second half you are in love with Auro and you are really interested in hearing his crackling one liners, which he has ample in stock for each situation. The script smoothly connects incidents up until the last 30 minutes when the emotional part sets in. Also, the length of 2.5 hours looks much appropriate rather than a 3 hour movie.
Performances
-----------------
There are some beautiful performances by an ensemble cast in 'Paa'. Vidya Balan as Auro's mother is one of her best performances since ‘Parineeta’. She is confidant and looks convincing as the mother of a 13 year old and also an abandoned mother. Abhishek Bachan not only essays the role of a father but also that of an honest young politician who is ambitious about his goals for the country. His character doesn't look like a father role alone. It has a definite dimension and sketch.
Arundhati Nag as 'Bum' - Auro's grand mother is so delightfully natural in her acting.
She is superb. And then there is Auro's friend - Ganesh (not sure of the child actor's name). He is a treat to watch on screen.
Finally, the movie belongs to the original superstar of Bollywood. Vintage, Classic and like no one else can do it, Amitabh puts in the most superlative performance after 'Black' as 'Auro' in 'Paa'. Auro doesn't go along 'Paa' by dying, he just lives through it and resurrects the movie along with him. Try acting with a mask on your face and then you would appreciate what Amitabh has done. Words are less to mark this superbly studied performance.
Music and Direction
------------------------
Illayaraja is a maestro but may be the whole of India still doesn't know him. 'Paa' may change that a bit more because its his best tunes for a long time in Bollywood. The tunes may not look that great individually but try seeing the movie and then you will realize its impact. Well mixed and used as background score, 'Paa' has uplifting tunes including 'Mudi Ittefaq Se', 'Gum Sum' and 'Paa'. Balki is an intelligent director and he has proved that with 'Cheeni Kum'. He just reinforces that with 'Paa'. Smart writing, dialogues, screen play and direction make 'Paa' the movie it is. Balki is special and 'Paa' just is a statement to that.
Negatives
------------
The only negatives I felt is Auro's height which looks a bit unconvincing. His dialogues may not be that audible for everyone all the time. Some scenes like Media Retaliation episode by Abhishek which look a bit extended.
Verdict: - 3.75/5 as a Rating. 'Very Good' as an Opinion.
Paa - Smart, Cute and Moving.
Movie : Neelathamara
Language : Malayalam
Date: Nov, 27, 2009
Review
------ ---
Do you remember the bed time stories during childhood, which your grandma used to tell you? Simple, down to earth stories. These did not have any complexities and had the flavor of human beliefs. It did not need too much imagination nor knowledge but only a clean mind which can be like a clean sheet of canvas ready to be painted by the various colors of such stories. Lal Jose's latest movie 'Neelathamara' is one such story. Simple to the core, 'Neelathamara' will appeal to you provided you have a mind for the same.
Delicious Simplicity
--------------------------
'Neelathamara' has the story of a servant girl who believes in the folklore that God will answer ones questions with an unusual Blue Lotus that would blossom in the temple pond. The usual love story between the son of the house and the servant girl, the miseries of the girl and so on, 'Neelathamara' has much that you have seen before but it has the simplicity and truth to its characters which are rarely seen in the movies nowadays. The audience almost expects something that challenges their mind each time they see a movie nowadays but 'Neelathamara' is nothing challenging. It’s not intended to be. It’s all about the simplicity of a story told at its own lovable pace.
True to Life Characters
-------------------------------
'Neelathamara' has characters that really pulled out of real life. Hence, if the love story between Kunjimalu and Das never seems touching, that’s because it’s exactly meant to be that, as its always the love story of Kunjimalu only and not the other way around. Hence, Kunjimalu is never melodramatic. Through crisis she is always subtle. And hence, Das is always the guy who wants to take advantage of a girl. So he invites Kunjimalu to his room the first time he talks to her. Its clear that he was never the good hearted hero. And hence, Ratnam always knows that Das as the life gifted to him by her father. So she is bold enough to thrash him on hearing his stint with Kunjimalu. Though Ratnam is angry with Kunjimalu as any wife would be but she hence understands her plight being a woman.
We can go on and on but its without a doubt that most characters of 'Neelathamara' are real, honest and not fake. Kudos to MT Vasudevan Nair for yet another collection of beautifully written characters.
Performances
-------------------
Archana as 'Kunjimalu' is the show stealer in the movie. She is simple and slowly by the end of the movie, she would have stolen your hearts. Samvratha Sunil as 'Ratnam' packs impact in a smaller yet bold role. Kailash as 'Das' never much looks the good boy which he was never meant to be. He is above average with a good voice. Reema is somewhat irritating and wasted in the usual walks from the pond to back home.
Technical Crew
--------------------
Lal Jose has done justice to the script written perhaps a bit too much as well. His handling of the sequences is true with the pace of the story. He has been able to extract creditable performances from the cast especially new comers. Cinematography is superb and one of the best reasons to watch the movie. Lighting is superbly done in night sequences. It looks poetic. Music is lilting with 'Anuraga' being one of the best melodies of the year. The Ghazal during the sad sequences is aesthetically shot. There is no injection of unwanted comedy, drama to increase the length. Its sharp as much as the script demands. 1 hour and 45 odd minutes.
Negatives
-------------
Lal Jose looks too much in awe of MT, so much so that he spoils the end. In whatever way you want to see, the end looks abrupt and not well done. Its this aspect that possibly makes a bravely (due to its simplicity) 'Good' movie to stay at an 'above average' level because the end of the movie is always one of the key points in the whole scheme of things. Lal Jose leaves it as if straight out of a novel or a literary ending. Forget a cinematic conclusion; 'Neelathamara' never gets a satisfying end which is a dampener. The director doesn't rise above the story or the script to end it and may have lost the holistic picture by doing that.
All in all, imagine a movie completely shot only in a traditional Kerala home with probably the room in the first floor, the wooden stairs leading to it, being major location spots. The temple pond, the Blue lotus being major factors in the story. Probably its too difficult to even imagine something as simple as that in the modern world. That is simply the beauty of 'Neelathamara'.
Verdict - Rating - 3.25/5, Opinion - Above Average
'Neelathamara'- Simple Poetry.
Movie : Kurbaan
Language : Hindi
Date : 21,Nov. 2009
Review
----------
Some movies try to be so serious on the theme that it leaves you wanting for some entertainment by the end of it. Renzil Di Silva's directorial debut 'Kurbaan' is one such movie. It addresses the issue of terrorism, revenge, punishing the innocents in the name of 'Jihad' and about the American Invasion of the Muslim world. All these issues are addressed without shying away but the way it has been shown leaves you wanting for some fresh air and entertainment.
Sparkling Moments - Few and far in-between
-------------------------------------------------------
'Kurbaan' has some sparking moments on screen. Though you expect it to happen, the chilling sequence when Khalid aka Ehsaan (Saif Ali Khan) reveals his identity to Avantika (Kareena) after she sees their crime, is a wonderfully handled sequence. Also, the classroom session by Ehsaan in to which Riyaz (Vivek) walks in for a debate. The explosions involving flight and subways etc have been convincingly shown.
Kareena - Saif - Vivek
------------------------------
Kareena puts in a strong performance as Avantika. From a girl who tries to explore the world of criminals to a lover haplessly admitting her being cheated, Kareena excels in the best role of the movie. Though her character goes in to a dip at certain portions of the movie, hers is easily the performance of the movie.
Saif puts in a performance with lots of restrain but looks aged in the initial portions. Saif's performance at best can be termed as above average. Vivek also is good in some sequences and average in others. Especially his forced accent sounds plastic.
Negatives
-------------
Renzil has been able to produce a fairly engaging fare up until the intermission but after that its a down hill graph with some interesting moments here and there. Perhaps better direction could have saved the movie.
From the moment Vivek tries to explore the terrorists by joining their gang, the movie goes in to unwanted territory. And with such a serious theme at hand, such escapades make viewers loose interest. As every character in the movie starts turning out to be a terrorist, one is looking else where for some fresh air and entertainment. By the end of it, who cares what happens to the mission or these characters.
Music is not importantly handled. 'Shukran' is the only track that leaves an impression. Even the seductive song by Kareena seems forced upon.
In short, 'Kurbaan' is an average fare becasue of being too serious about its subject. Its not boring to death but one doesn't feel interested beyond a point.
Verdict - 2.5/5 as Rating
Average as Opinion.
Kurbaan - Some movies are written so seriously, one just desires for some fresh air.
Movie: Kerala Cafe
Language: Malayalam
Theatre: Savitha
Date: Oct 30, 2009. 9:30 pm
Review
----------
As a different occasion demands a different look, the most different Malayalam Cinema of recent times also demands a different format for review.Stories have always enthralled us, be it the bed time stories from childhood, to books , novels and cinema. Director, Producer Ranjith's new movie 'Keala Cafe', is an analogy of 10 Short stories.
The 10 stories have been rated below purely on the basis of how much the reviewer has liked each.
The Best Ones
1. ‘Bridge’ by Anwar Rasheed - The most heart warming of all the stories is 'Bridge', the journey of discovering company at the point of being abandoned. It’s not because its unpredictable but because of its sheer presentation that this story wins hands down. With awesome camera and performances (Shantadevi, Salimkumar,Kalpana to the little boy) 'Bridge' reigns down in your hearts as the first rain after the summer.
2. ‘Island Express’ by Shankar Ramakrishnan - Personally, I liked the way this story unfurled. There is this tinge of surprise element and as the missing pieces
fall in place, the journey of common suffering after a disaster is a touching tale. Prithviraj's voice is apt during the scenes and Jayasurya's modulation notable.
Raju, Sukumari, Rehman throw in passing but competent glimpses.
The Good Ones
The first 3 in this lot were too close to call, but here it goes...
3. ‘Nostalgia’ by Padmakumar - The most sarcastic of all the stories, 'Nostalgia' is about all the Malayalees who live in nostalgia when they are abroad but shun the same when they reach their motherland. Brilliantly cheesy and sarcastic, 'Nostalgia' throws our falsifications out in the open. Dileep puts is a good one.
4. ‘Puram Kazhchakal’ by Lal Jose - Simple, unassuming yet with a chilling climax is Lal Jose's contribution, about the passengers in a journey who never know what the other is going through. Srinivasan is competent and Mammotty fits the role to perfection. The closing shot is one of the best story climaxes you will see in the movie. Lal Jose is moneys worth, most of the time.
5. ‘Happy Journey’ by Anjali Menon - Journey that takes twists to unchartered territories; 'Happy Journey' is a wonderful take on a short trip. Nithya Menon shines as the star of the show. Jagathy is classic as usual. Anjali Menon sure knows what she is doing with this two way conversational trip.
6. ‘Makal’ by Revathy – ‘Makal’ is nothing surprising but has a well known social message portrayed in a convincing manner. The actress playing the mother excels in her performance and her desperation and helplessness moves you. ‘Makal’ is for social enlightening.
The Ones That Went Sore
7. ‘Aviramam’ by B.Unni - A normal story of a struggling man in the midst of a financial crisis, 'Aviramam' is pretty much ordinary stuff apart from the warmth between the leading characters. An expected effort by the director.
8. ‘Season’ by Shyamaprasad - A story that tries to be hep, funny, humanitarian but reaches no where and ends up as passing fare. Shyamaprasad fails to leave an impact in the minds of the audience.
9. ‘Lalitham Hiranmayam’ by Shaji Kailas - The bizarre close up shots and the incessant rains proclaim the arrival of Shaji Kailas with a story which has unconvincing sequences and dialogues. Nothing better was expected from this anyways.
10. ‘Mrityunjayam’ by Uday - The story which disappoints as a horror, mythical tale looks like one out for the 'Darna Mana Hai' lot. With CBI and investigators thrown in, it’s easy to be shunned away.
Directors
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Of the directors, the most impressive are Anwar Rasheed, Anjali Menon, Padmakumar and Lal Jose. Most of the cast has put in superb glimpes of their talent. Camera in some stories like ‘Bridge’ and ‘Puram Kazhchakal’ is superb. Renjith needs kudos for bringing this together.
The Link. Does it work?
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The main challenge of any analogy of short stories on screen is whether the link between them works. Here the link is the cafe which they take their breaks during the journeys.The 'Cafe' element seems forced in most of the stories as they progress but as the climax unfurls, it has been more or less convincingly depicted. This should impress the link well in the minds of the audience.
Verdict - 3.5/5 as a Rating
'Good Experiment for a Different Movie' as an Opinion.
Kerala Cafe - Bold and Beautiful
Movie: Pazhassi Raja
Language: Malayalam
Date: Oct 20, 2009
Review
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At the end of a film, when the lights come on and the curtains fall, what ultimately matters is how much the movie has affected you at heart. Especially, if the movie is a piece of history, then the characters live in your memories decades later (The same director's OVVG is a perfect example), if the movie manages to pull your heart strings. Hariharan's latest epic 'Pazhassiraja' is grand piece of history, but how much the movie manages to affect you at heart is the most vital question, as the end credits roll. The Grandeur, effort and the intention is unquestionably there but what is questionable is the soul.
Grand Piece of History
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The movie is a depiction of history in the era of 1790s and undoubtedly the portrayal is grand and on a massive scale. Hundreds of cast in the battle scenes, pieces of tribal villages’ recreated, full strength English Army, guerilla kind of warfare in the forest, 'Pazhassiraja' leaves no stone unturned in setting the backdrop for the epic piece to unfurl. Though the publicized budget seems completely imaginary, still this would go down as one of the costliest productions ever made in this Industry.
Technical Wizardry
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‘Pazhassiraja’ is also a landmark in terms of the techniques used in Malayalam films. The cinematography enhances many a scenes. The radiant forests when Kerala Varma's stallion takes a dip in the stream, looks a beautiful shot. Battle scenes, fort sequences all have been shot well. Another huge positive is the color tone chosen. It becomes every evident in the outdoor scene. The Color tone gives the historic feel to the movie.
The lighting is perfect in many scenes especially one of the starting scenes when English Army invades Kerala Varma's palace. ‘Pazhassiraja’ is also enhanced with use of sound. Academy award Winner Resul Pookkotty shows how sound effects can raise a movie to a better level. Such use of sound in Malayalam is a unique first.
Hariharan as a director gets many things right but that’s about just it. Even though the movie is 3 hours and 20 minutes, it never gets hopelessly boring which should definitely be given as a credit to the director. His vision is strong and the execution succeeds to a point, in terms of scale. Where Hariharan falters is to build characters and to put heart and soul in to them. Script by the legendary MT Vasudevan Nair holds on, but not anywhere close to his previous master pieces.
Ensemble Cast
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‘PazhassiRaja’ has a competent performance by an ensemble cast. Sarath Kumar impresses most just because his is the only character which has been developed with proper character traits. A loyal friend, a faithful lieutenant, a fearsome fighter, a noble heart, ‘Edachena Kunkan’ is a treat to watch on screen. When he bravely ends his life rather than being hanged, your heart goes out to his loyalty.
Padmapriya as ‘Neeli’ is somewhat equally impressive as the ferocious fighter tribal lady. She is completely upright and lives the part to good extent. Manoj K jayan as the ‘Thalakkal Chandu’ acts out one of the most moving scenes in the movie when he is hanged to death.
Mammotty as ‘Keralavarma Pazhassi’ is a walk in the park of the legendary actor. He seems completely laid back and taking it easy until the last one hour. He comes in to his own in the climax. In the last one hour he raises his performance a few notches to add fire to the character. If ‘Pazassiraja’ as a character will be remembered a few years down the line, it would only be because this legendary actor.
Negatives
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Firstly, the movie and its characters do not pull at your heart strings, for most part of it. The moment which the movie really touches you for the first time, arrives well over 2 hours in to the movie when ‘Thalakkal Chandu’ is publicly hanged in the rain. From there on the movie takes a different graph, emotionally speaking. Till then it’s all business as usual. Characters are never built properly. The only ones that touch you somewhat are ‘Edachena Kunkan’ and ‘Kerala Varma’. Character traits are never exposed or it seems no one has time for it though that excuse seems lame as the movie is 3 hrs 20 mins long. OVVG had 3 beautifully developed characters in Chandu, Archa and Aromal.
Secondly, lots of things seems forced upon during the movie. The treaty is signed and then broken without properly establishing events which led to the same. Kanika is shown undergoing a traumatic tragedy and minutes later she is all happy and in romantic scenes with the hero. 'KeralaVarma' abruptly decides that its been long since he has had a duel and does a casual duel with 'Edachena Kunkan'. Plastic. The English lady, ‘Dora’ meets ‘Keralavarma’ in the forest and she is so impressed (aka Lagaan) that she keeps fighting for him with her husband. It’s so plastic and unreal. A hanging scene is created for her to enter in a Pallakku wail and then leave. And when she leaves to England the last word she screams out is to give regards to the King. Completely forced upon and unreal. Even the length of 3 hours and 20 minutes seems forced upon. The interval sequence arrives out of no where.
Thirdly, important characters just disappear. Thilakan who is shown fighting with ‘Keralavarma’ for the throne, is presented as a major challenger to him. But after 2 scenes, he just completely disappears from the picture. Neeli who is the single most impressive female character in the whole movie, is shown putting up a brave fight against the English Army as the King escapes. After that what happens to her is never shown. Probably it needs to be assumed that she went down fighting with the army.
Fourthly, there is some terrible English cast chosen in the movie. Most of them act terribly or over act. The character ‘Dora’ and her husband (who plays the collector) are ultimate symbols of the casting goof ups done in terms of the English actors. They never much evoke any hatred. All they evoke is sympathy for poor acting.
Music is nothing impressive. Kanika is completely wasted in a souless role. The wired jump sequences look unreal and tacky which is a downer.
In conclusion, 'Pazhassiraja' is a piece of history presented on a grand scale and just that. The characters never become heart warming because they are left under developed. What is shown is their bravery and virility only. In terms of being heartless the movie has a striking resemblance to Aamir Khan's 'Mangal Pandey' but is definitely notches above that.
It’s a sure one time watch for the scale, grandeur, sound and techniques used in presenting it.
Verdict - 3.25/ 5 as a Rating.
'Fine One Time Watch' as an opinion.
‘Pazhassi Raja’ - Its Grand but how we wish it had more heart and soul in it.