Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Saturday, December 26, 2009
3 Idiots movie review | Critique
Rajkumar Hirani, after having completed two hugely popular and entertaining Munnabhai films, had announced that he wanted to give us a film based on the education system of our country. A few moons later, I heard that his next was to be based on Chetan Bhagat's bestselling Five Point Someone. Hmmm. Mighty exciting, I thought.
And then, '3 Idiots' came. There was a hype that was deafening and my instincts started tingling. Good, bad, confused. Two days ago, I stopped reading everything about the film - articles, reviews - everything. And I saw it today, finally.
Today, I could not help but marvel at that genius man - Hirani. We owe it to him because we can't honestly remember when was the last time we had a good deal of fun at the cinemas and because while we were busy with our mundane lives, this man thought about entertaining us for a few hours by making a light-hearted film. You see, what he does is simple. He visits the old style filmmaking roots of Hrushikesh Mukherjee and Manmohan Desai and creates his own style by taking a leaf out of theirs. His agenda is to entertain us and pass us a message hidden below those laughs, those tears, those characters.
The film is a heart-warming story set against the backdrop of the harsh education system of our country.The thing here is that the makers chose to TELL the story, PASS the message and believe me, the movie never cries out loud from over the rooftops. The movie is fun and frolic, sad and melancholic. But, it has that trademark Hirani style - a new Color, a new palette which we got to see in his previous two films as well. What that color is, I don't know. But, I know it is there. It might be the camera, the story, the characters or all of the above. But, the Hirani-sque touch is very much there. The story follows the lives of two friends Farhan (Madhavan) and Raju (Sharman) who embark on a journey to find their third friend Rancho (Aamir), who since graduation, has vanished. While on the journey, they let their minds wander into the past and reminisce how it was Rancho who changed them all.
Okay, before you argue that Aamir Khan looks too old to play a 20-something student, I advise you to hold your jaw lest it hits the ground too hard. There is no trace of the 44 year old Aamir. He IS the student who Raju set out to carve.
Films like these have an inherent nobility that is too hard to find in films these days. 3 Idiots presents us with two new finds - Chatur (Omi) and Millimetre (couldn't get his name). I will not say much except that they are brilliant and need to be lapped up by filmmakers. 3 Idiots works big time. But, is the movie without its share of faults? How could it be? It is after all from a director who has always made us believe in a story by removing the logical streak from it. Some things are overdone here and there. Case in point, an elderly professor moving his zip up and down, in front of the whole class. Looks highly forced to generate laughs. But...there are times when you'll laugh till your sides ache and there are times when you will want to feel the lump in your throat.
The strength of 3 Idiots lies in what it becomes when it wants to be. When it has to be poignant, it is. When it has to be funny, it is. When it has to be the leave-your-brains-behind type, it is. For example, if you look at Mona Singh's delivery scene, it may look ridiculous. But, the energy is what differentiates it from those Akshay Kumar no-brainers.
Sometime after the film ended, one of my friends asked whose performance I liked the most. I hadn't thought about it at all. So, I asked him a trick question- Whose performance did you not like? He was in the same dilemma I was in. No one strikes a false chord here. Be it Aamir, Sharman, Madhavan, Boman, Kareena, Omi- everyone deserves a pat on the back. One word for Madhavan who I have always found to be a terrific actor. Note the scene at the climax, when Aamir tells him, "Tu meri baat sun na..." and Madhavan retaliates saying, "Nahin, Nahin, Tu meri baat sun...". The way Madhavan does it is so organic and real that I wanted to take some lessons from him.
Thankfully, Hirani chooses to steer clear by not focusing too much on the love story and it works big time. For this is the story of 3 friends and their somewhat uneven life. Muralidharan C. K. needs to be applauded for the sweeping cinematography. Screenwriters Abhijat Joshi, Vidhu Vinod Chopra and Hirani, take a bow!
The audience I was with was in a state of extreme euphoria. I was swept away with them too. I applauded like a child. I really did. I felt a lot good and so did they. Melodramatic even, but also a little feel-good, a little feel sad, but feel-bad? No, that it ain't!
* * * 1/2.
Written by Gyandeep Pattnayak.
And then, '3 Idiots' came. There was a hype that was deafening and my instincts started tingling. Good, bad, confused. Two days ago, I stopped reading everything about the film - articles, reviews - everything. And I saw it today, finally.
Today, I could not help but marvel at that genius man - Hirani. We owe it to him because we can't honestly remember when was the last time we had a good deal of fun at the cinemas and because while we were busy with our mundane lives, this man thought about entertaining us for a few hours by making a light-hearted film. You see, what he does is simple. He visits the old style filmmaking roots of Hrushikesh Mukherjee and Manmohan Desai and creates his own style by taking a leaf out of theirs. His agenda is to entertain us and pass us a message hidden below those laughs, those tears, those characters.
The film is a heart-warming story set against the backdrop of the harsh education system of our country.The thing here is that the makers chose to TELL the story, PASS the message and believe me, the movie never cries out loud from over the rooftops. The movie is fun and frolic, sad and melancholic. But, it has that trademark Hirani style - a new Color, a new palette which we got to see in his previous two films as well. What that color is, I don't know. But, I know it is there. It might be the camera, the story, the characters or all of the above. But, the Hirani-sque touch is very much there. The story follows the lives of two friends Farhan (Madhavan) and Raju (Sharman) who embark on a journey to find their third friend Rancho (Aamir), who since graduation, has vanished. While on the journey, they let their minds wander into the past and reminisce how it was Rancho who changed them all.
Okay, before you argue that Aamir Khan looks too old to play a 20-something student, I advise you to hold your jaw lest it hits the ground too hard. There is no trace of the 44 year old Aamir. He IS the student who Raju set out to carve.
Films like these have an inherent nobility that is too hard to find in films these days. 3 Idiots presents us with two new finds - Chatur (Omi) and Millimetre (couldn't get his name). I will not say much except that they are brilliant and need to be lapped up by filmmakers. 3 Idiots works big time. But, is the movie without its share of faults? How could it be? It is after all from a director who has always made us believe in a story by removing the logical streak from it. Some things are overdone here and there. Case in point, an elderly professor moving his zip up and down, in front of the whole class. Looks highly forced to generate laughs. But...there are times when you'll laugh till your sides ache and there are times when you will want to feel the lump in your throat.
The strength of 3 Idiots lies in what it becomes when it wants to be. When it has to be poignant, it is. When it has to be funny, it is. When it has to be the leave-your-brains-behind type, it is. For example, if you look at Mona Singh's delivery scene, it may look ridiculous. But, the energy is what differentiates it from those Akshay Kumar no-brainers.
Sometime after the film ended, one of my friends asked whose performance I liked the most. I hadn't thought about it at all. So, I asked him a trick question- Whose performance did you not like? He was in the same dilemma I was in. No one strikes a false chord here. Be it Aamir, Sharman, Madhavan, Boman, Kareena, Omi- everyone deserves a pat on the back. One word for Madhavan who I have always found to be a terrific actor. Note the scene at the climax, when Aamir tells him, "Tu meri baat sun na..." and Madhavan retaliates saying, "Nahin, Nahin, Tu meri baat sun...". The way Madhavan does it is so organic and real that I wanted to take some lessons from him.
Thankfully, Hirani chooses to steer clear by not focusing too much on the love story and it works big time. For this is the story of 3 friends and their somewhat uneven life. Muralidharan C. K. needs to be applauded for the sweeping cinematography. Screenwriters Abhijat Joshi, Vidhu Vinod Chopra and Hirani, take a bow!
The audience I was with was in a state of extreme euphoria. I was swept away with them too. I applauded like a child. I really did. I felt a lot good and so did they. Melodramatic even, but also a little feel-good, a little feel sad, but feel-bad? No, that it ain't!
* * * 1/2.
Written by Gyandeep Pattnayak.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Avatar Movie Review | Critique
I never thought I would find it erotic- watching two blue-skinned giants making love on screen. The key point here is I felt SOMETHING. An emotional connect. That too, watching two images which are not real. We always talk incessantly about how films have the power to transport us to a new world altogether. But, truth is, we forget about most of them in a day or two. AVATAR is not that kind of a film. It really does transport you to a new world, literally. And this is a movie which will linger in your minds for a long time to come.
Legend has it that James Cameron, after wrapping up the story way back in 1995, realized that the technology required for this kind of a movie did not exist at all. Gosh! Such a dilemma! What to do now? Simple. He spent a few 12 years or so, developing the technology. Motion Capture, Virtual Camera, Digital 3D Fusion Camera System were the results. And are they revolutionary, do I hear you ask?
Let me put it this way.
Never before has something like this been attempted. And it will be very, very difficult to top this. Even for Cameron himself. At least, in the technological department. This is a film, which has a "decent-enough" story with a strong political and environmental message. You won't believe how well the visuals and the narrative have been married together.
But, the story here takes a backseat. Its technology-triumphs-over-narrative all over but for once, I am not complaining. The story is simplistic enough- In the year 2154, Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) must inhabit, along with an alien clan called Na'vi, on a distant moon called Pandora, in order to win their complete trust. You see, the clan and their religious ethics sit upon a mine full of valuable minerals. SecFor's Colonel Miles Quaritch (brilliantly essayed by Stephen Lang) and Parker Selfridge (again a brilliant Giovanni Ribisi) are the people to whom Worthington has to report, despite knowing that the botanist Grace Augustine (Sigourney Weaver) stands on morally rightful grounds. So, Worthington lets his mind enter the body of a genetically-bred hybrid Na'vi or in short, his Avatar and sets out to infiltrate the clan, thereby gaining their trust as well as valuable information. He meets a Na'vi girl named Neytiri (Zoe Saldana) and falls in love with her. Realization kicks his butt and he decides to change sides, for good, before its too late.
I know what you're thinking. Too outdated a plotline, isn't it? But, Cameron makes sure you don't go home empty-handed or empty-headed rather. Stunning visuals, a heart-warming score by James Horner and the PERFORMANCES. Ah! Yes! The performances, indeed. For this is just not a motley mix of real images and animation. To quote Cameron, "Every little detail you see, every tiny bit of expression is actually physical. They are the performance expressions captured from the actors' faces. It is not merely animation.". And boy! Let me tell you. If I were to recommend you some special-effects extravaganza, I'd recommend you AVATAR rather than Transformers, anyday. The live action and animation is a visual orgy of sorts. Cameron has a vivid eye for detail and it is more than evident in the scenes when you see the SecFor Chopper hovering over a prairie-like land, the grass billowing like green silk. Also, be prepared to marvel in that scene where Jake tames a dragon. Or the one, in which we see the chopper gliding through a series of floating islands. Full marks to the guys at Weta Digital for pulling off the mammoth CGI and Special Effects. And the action-filled climax proves that when Cameron decides to get down to it, there's no stopping him.
The performances are worthy of a mention. Sam Worthington does adequately, here. A pretty face and some good acting too. Sigourney Weaver, a big name in the cast, is rightfully cast and she acts as the moral backbone of this whole story. But, its Zoe Saldana finally who nails the show by giving a spectacular performance as the 10 foot (or was it 11) giant Neytiri. Zoe is 100% Neytiri here and her expressions are so convincing that you actually care for her character by the time the film gears forward.
The only hitch- some meat should have been provided to the storyline. I repeat, an event-movie with a less eventful story feels a little hollow.
I saw this movie in 2D. I recommend you catch it ASAP in 3D. You need to LIVE this movie, DEVOUR this movie, not just see it. I will be more than willing to tweak the rating for this (which I'm about to give) a little bit once I catch hold of it in 3D. 3D-IMAX would be excellent.
Which brings us to Cameron. To say that Cameron has a vision would be like saying Lion loves meat. James Cameron deserves every bit of the hype, every bit of praise and every body's attention. The man once declared while accepting the Oscar for Titanic, "I'm the King of the World". We don't need to ask him for any proof. We agree, in unison.
Rating: * * * * 1/2
Written By Gyandeep Pattnayak.
Legend has it that James Cameron, after wrapping up the story way back in 1995, realized that the technology required for this kind of a movie did not exist at all. Gosh! Such a dilemma! What to do now? Simple. He spent a few 12 years or so, developing the technology. Motion Capture, Virtual Camera, Digital 3D Fusion Camera System were the results. And are they revolutionary, do I hear you ask?
Let me put it this way.
Never before has something like this been attempted. And it will be very, very difficult to top this. Even for Cameron himself. At least, in the technological department. This is a film, which has a "decent-enough" story with a strong political and environmental message. You won't believe how well the visuals and the narrative have been married together.
But, the story here takes a backseat. Its technology-triumphs-over-narrative all over but for once, I am not complaining. The story is simplistic enough- In the year 2154, Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) must inhabit, along with an alien clan called Na'vi, on a distant moon called Pandora, in order to win their complete trust. You see, the clan and their religious ethics sit upon a mine full of valuable minerals. SecFor's Colonel Miles Quaritch (brilliantly essayed by Stephen Lang) and Parker Selfridge (again a brilliant Giovanni Ribisi) are the people to whom Worthington has to report, despite knowing that the botanist Grace Augustine (Sigourney Weaver) stands on morally rightful grounds. So, Worthington lets his mind enter the body of a genetically-bred hybrid Na'vi or in short, his Avatar and sets out to infiltrate the clan, thereby gaining their trust as well as valuable information. He meets a Na'vi girl named Neytiri (Zoe Saldana) and falls in love with her. Realization kicks his butt and he decides to change sides, for good, before its too late.
I know what you're thinking. Too outdated a plotline, isn't it? But, Cameron makes sure you don't go home empty-handed or empty-headed rather. Stunning visuals, a heart-warming score by James Horner and the PERFORMANCES. Ah! Yes! The performances, indeed. For this is just not a motley mix of real images and animation. To quote Cameron, "Every little detail you see, every tiny bit of expression is actually physical. They are the performance expressions captured from the actors' faces. It is not merely animation.". And boy! Let me tell you. If I were to recommend you some special-effects extravaganza, I'd recommend you AVATAR rather than Transformers, anyday. The live action and animation is a visual orgy of sorts. Cameron has a vivid eye for detail and it is more than evident in the scenes when you see the SecFor Chopper hovering over a prairie-like land, the grass billowing like green silk. Also, be prepared to marvel in that scene where Jake tames a dragon. Or the one, in which we see the chopper gliding through a series of floating islands. Full marks to the guys at Weta Digital for pulling off the mammoth CGI and Special Effects. And the action-filled climax proves that when Cameron decides to get down to it, there's no stopping him.
The performances are worthy of a mention. Sam Worthington does adequately, here. A pretty face and some good acting too. Sigourney Weaver, a big name in the cast, is rightfully cast and she acts as the moral backbone of this whole story. But, its Zoe Saldana finally who nails the show by giving a spectacular performance as the 10 foot (or was it 11) giant Neytiri. Zoe is 100% Neytiri here and her expressions are so convincing that you actually care for her character by the time the film gears forward.
The only hitch- some meat should have been provided to the storyline. I repeat, an event-movie with a less eventful story feels a little hollow.
I saw this movie in 2D. I recommend you catch it ASAP in 3D. You need to LIVE this movie, DEVOUR this movie, not just see it. I will be more than willing to tweak the rating for this (which I'm about to give) a little bit once I catch hold of it in 3D. 3D-IMAX would be excellent.
Which brings us to Cameron. To say that Cameron has a vision would be like saying Lion loves meat. James Cameron deserves every bit of the hype, every bit of praise and every body's attention. The man once declared while accepting the Oscar for Titanic, "I'm the King of the World". We don't need to ask him for any proof. We agree, in unison.
Rating: * * * * 1/2
Written By Gyandeep Pattnayak.
Editor's Pen: From Our Archives...
It has been a great year throughout and we are aiming even higher for next one. Coz... this is a small beginning only. Some friends asked me to forward them the best from our archives, so we thought lets pull off an issue rather than mailing articles using ctrl+c and ctrl+v. Here are we...
This edition we are choosing our best stories. Please comment and let us know what you liked and what can be improved. Throw us challenges so that we may know whether we are competent or not. Ratings mean a lot but your comments mean more...
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Sujoy Ghosh
Sujoy's Pick: A. R. Rahman
A.R. Rahman | Statesmen
In 1990's, who listened to Tamil music beyond the water of Kaveri? Hardly anyone. What did Indian teenagers dance to at discotheques? What else but Michael Jackson. But one man single handedly changed all that.
He solidly bridged the gap across the Vindhyas, between Tamil & Hindi with an universal language of all times,” MUSIC". Independence Day, year 1992, marked the demolition of all conventional rules in Indian film music when Hindi speaking denizens lapped up at Carnatic tunes of Roja. Year 1995, saw first time a Hindi movie, Rangeela running successfully in Tamil Nadu, the trick being that distributors did away with the actors altogether from the posters and replaced them with Rahman & catch line "The first original score of A.R. Rahman in Hindi". Rahman is the first composer to receive adulation that was reserved for the biggest of film stars.
"Muaqabla", "Mustafha", "Humma Humma" & "Chaiyaa Chaiyya" were the songs which turned Indian film music to "cool & hip". Indian youth danced to these tunes at every pub, club or disco. Crowd even danced in the theatres and forcing them to show the songs again. Nearly a dozen versions of the song "Muqabala" were churned out, earning the song and Rahman a place in the Limca Book of Records!! "Bombay" was the being biggest seller in the history of Indian films music, selling close to 15 million units in all languages till date. His popularity touched such heights that albums with music composed by someone else were falsely credited to Rahman & released in the market.
Rahman is not just a national idol but an internationally known figure quite before "Slumdog". His tracks have been used in several international fashion shows. He was invited to compose the theme music of the 1996 Cricket world Cup which he didn’t accept due to unspecified reasons. He was the first composer to be invited by Webber to work in a musical. In 1997, when International music giant, Sony Music, planned to enter Indian market, it signed one of the biggest financial deals of India of those times with Rahman, on a 3-album contract. Result the world saw was, "Vandematram", a tribute to the motherland, on 50th year of Independence. This was released simultaneously in 28 countries across the world.
But this world famous composer actually wanted to become a computer engineer, thank God he didn’t, else what would have happened of 4 National awards,13 Filmfare awards, 1 Golden Globe,2 Oscars, & many more in future won by him.
Tech savvy Rahman avoids making music on tape, and prefers to carry his music on his portable computer with MAC platform. His studio Panchathan Record Inn is one of India's most well equipped & advanced recording studios, also giving platform to new talents regarding it to be his social responsibility. His western rhythms mixed with Indian classical and garnished with local folk is the 'raga' of Indian cinema, no doubtedly calling him, 'Isai Arasan' (emperor of music).
Written By: Neha Jain
Sujoy's Pick: Lost Romance Of Mughal-e-Azam
Hammers High: Lost Romance Of Mughal-e-Azam
Legendary Dilip Kumar saw Mughal-E-Azam for the first time in 1975, some fifteen years after its first premiere. Why? Read on.
It was onset of a classic romance, Dilip and Madhubala was a perfect match, they were both rising stars and had similar backgrounds to help take the relationship forward. Bliss followed with ecstasy of Dilip-Madhu Relationship mirroring that of Saleem-Anarkali relationship in the beginning. K Asif, the director would drop by at Dilip’s house for lengthy discussions, here he met Dilip elder sister Akhtar. Akhtar was a MA in Philosophy and would have long conversatios with K Asif. K Asif was married to Nigar Sultana (who played the crafty Bahar in the movie).
From then on relationship between these co-workers took downturn. Ironically, tense turn in Saleem-Anarkali relationship in script also mirrored in Dilip-Madhu Relationship. Madhu’s father was against the relation as she was the sole breadwinner in the family.They stopped seeing each other. K Asif and Akhtar got married against the wishes of Dilip. This in turn also estranged K Asif from Nigar Sultana.
Shooting took about ten years to complete and these people would grudgingly work together. So by the time shoot got over, most of the major people didn’t want to see each others face, to the extent that Dilip Kumar did not attend the premiere.
Thus one of the greatest films of Indian Cinema was also the cause of immense pain to many greats of the industry…
Written By: Ali ‘Rosebud’ Naqvi
Pyaar Impossible Music Review
§ Alisha - Anushka Manchanda full of zest has done a fabulous job. The change in notes and pitch of voice has been dealt well, enriching the song. But chorus by Salim Merchant, though required, is quite interruptive and spoils the fun one is having. The Remix version is quick paced and has its own flavor.
§ You & Me – A zappy track with an interesting combo of Neha Bhasin & Benny Dayal. Not a romantic song, talking about two different people. Heavy influences of pop make it run out of stream. You wont realize when the song comes and goes, yet a tolerable one. In contrast to above, its chorus is its life.
§ Pyaar Impossible – Being the title track suits to theme of movie and yes, the best one selected for promotion. A breezy number in smooth vocals of Dominique Cerejo & versatile Vishal Dadlani with conversational lyrics is lively listen all the way. It reminds me of title track from movie, “Neal & Nikki”, & its not coincidence that both star Uday Chopra. Remix version can simply be avoided.
§ 10 on 10 – Rock On had set a trend in hindi cinema music and this song continues it. Viva girls Mahua and Anushka impart just the right amount of energy to a song of this genre. Though it’s a fast song but not a dance number at first,but the beat grows on you, after hearing it a couple of times. Naresh Kamat is the sole male voice in this song.
§ Ek thi Ladki - This is the song to be played with opening credits having a story to tell. Rishika Swant sings it with a child like glee just as in nursery rhymes but yet good attempt by a newcomer. Song starts with children chorus making you to snap your fingers but soon kidding around seems overdone and it turns monotonous.
Soundtrack is well suited to theme of movie but they have sticked to theme so much that every track seems to be title track. Female singers rock and have stolen the credits to album. But one thing we will have to agree, ‘old is gold’ & no song is ever lasting type, none of them.
Written by- Neha Jain
Helen | Statesmen
Helen with her unusual looks— trim figure, blond hair, eyes that sparkled like fiery emeralds and fair skin looked just like Cinderella and her story is similar too. She walked to India from Burma to Assam one winter in the early 1940s with her mother and brother to escape mishaps of World War II. An impoverished childhood & her mother’s cane made her to quit school and practice dance for long hours when other girls played with toys. This is the reason that with inimitable ease she executed flamenco to belly-dancing to kathak. On screen there was joyousness in her dance, she could create the ultimate male fantasy, but no one knew she was dancing her troubles away. Although her dance numbers were chiefly about men’s pleasure but she took care to wear skin-colored body stockings in most of her cabarets even when she donned daring outfits.
But no one comes to Bollywood to become an extra, but her looks proved to be a major obstacle when she tried to make it as a heroine. Yet during her 25 years and 3 generations reign in bollywood as a “Cabaret Queen” she also acted with all leading actors of her time. She won Filmfare best supporting actress award in 1979. Bollywood allows fame only for few years and with age Helen started losing work. Salim khan came to her rescue and she married him and retired. Her occasional appearences in movies like Khamoshi, Hum Dil de chuke sanam, Mohabbatein & Marigold have always been a treat to movie fans.
Helen’s contribution to Indian cinema have been acknowledged by a 30-minute documentary film, “Helen, Queen of the Nautch Girls" from Merchant Ivory Films. A book about Helen was published by Jerry Pinto in 2006, titled “The Life and Times of an H-Bomb” . She was awarded Filmfare Lifetime Achievement award in 1998 & Padamshri by Indian Government in 2009.
A new phenomenon occurred to Indian cinema in form of “the Golden Girl – Helen”. She is truly “the original Item Girl” !!
Written By Neha Jain
"New Moon" movie review | Critique
When this sequel to Twilight was released here, I had to choose a side. Either I had to go with the critics (who found the movie nonsense) or believe what the box-office collections said ($267 million gross). Unfortunately, initially believing in the box office collections, I finally landed on the critics’ side! Why unfortunate? ... because I watched this movie!
The basic plot- Edward & Bella have to separate coz her life is in danger because of the vampires, so he goes away from her. She feels terrible & tries to find her new love in Jacob (her old friend), but it doesn’t work well. By the end, circumstantially, Edward & Bella are again together.
No complaints against the story, it is good no doubt, but the way it has been presented on the screen is terrible! The first half of the movie is at a very very sluggish pace, I suggest you to go with in a good company in case you want to watch this flick! In most of the first half all you can see is Bella worrying about her age (she is just 18!), & trying to cope up with Edward’s absence. The only time the movie takes pace is when we are told that Jacob turns into a wolf to kill vampires, in fact he can smell them! (I pity Bella for not able to find love in a normal person!). You get to see some good special-effects & some thrilling wolf-vampire fights & this is the best part of the movie (I wish the movie had more of it!). Although for some girls it was Jacob’s eight pack abs! (Now I understand why this movie is amongst the top grosser of this year!)
In terms of performance, both Edward (Robert Pattinson) & Bella (Kristen Stewart) are pathetic, but Jacob (Taylor Lautner) is good, rest everyone didn’t have much part to play. Some scenes are built so badly that in the end you wonder why the hell was it happening! Like Bella’s love for Jacob was shown in a very confusing manner, I wasn’t able to understand what she is up to! Cinematography is good & some scenes are really well shot. Another drawback is the length of the movie.
Final verdict, supposedly a romantic movie, but you will hardly feel any romance. The screenplay is at a snail’s pace, but is accompanied by good cinematography & good special effects. You can watch it once if you are a big twilight fan (& it hardly matters if you enter late, you will catch up!) & if your girlfriend is keen to watch this one, you know why! ;)
And a question for all … why is it named ‘new moon’?!
Rating-**
written by Rishabh Shukla
The basic plot- Edward & Bella have to separate coz her life is in danger because of the vampires, so he goes away from her. She feels terrible & tries to find her new love in Jacob (her old friend), but it doesn’t work well. By the end, circumstantially, Edward & Bella are again together.
No complaints against the story, it is good no doubt, but the way it has been presented on the screen is terrible! The first half of the movie is at a very very sluggish pace, I suggest you to go with in a good company in case you want to watch this flick! In most of the first half all you can see is Bella worrying about her age (she is just 18!), & trying to cope up with Edward’s absence. The only time the movie takes pace is when we are told that Jacob turns into a wolf to kill vampires, in fact he can smell them! (I pity Bella for not able to find love in a normal person!). You get to see some good special-effects & some thrilling wolf-vampire fights & this is the best part of the movie (I wish the movie had more of it!). Although for some girls it was Jacob’s eight pack abs! (Now I understand why this movie is amongst the top grosser of this year!)
In terms of performance, both Edward (Robert Pattinson) & Bella (Kristen Stewart) are pathetic, but Jacob (Taylor Lautner) is good, rest everyone didn’t have much part to play. Some scenes are built so badly that in the end you wonder why the hell was it happening! Like Bella’s love for Jacob was shown in a very confusing manner, I wasn’t able to understand what she is up to! Cinematography is good & some scenes are really well shot. Another drawback is the length of the movie.
Final verdict, supposedly a romantic movie, but you will hardly feel any romance. The screenplay is at a snail’s pace, but is accompanied by good cinematography & good special effects. You can watch it once if you are a big twilight fan (& it hardly matters if you enter late, you will catch up!) & if your girlfriend is keen to watch this one, you know why! ;)
And a question for all … why is it named ‘new moon’?!
Rating-**
written by Rishabh Shukla
‘The Fall’ Movie Review | Critique
Once in a while comes a movie that makes you want to beg fellow film fans to watch it- for cinema’s sake. “The Fall” is such a film. Super. How do I explain? Let me try to. Well, I regard Del Toro’s “Pan’s Labyrinth”, THE most imaginative movie ever and Jet Lee starrer “The Hero” THE most beautifully shot film ever. “The Fall” in my opinion is close competition to both of these movies: it rivals “Pan’s Labyrinth” in sheer imaginativeness and “The Hero” in beauty. Yup, it is that good and more!
Directed by Tarsem Singh, ‘The Fall’ is simple story about this little girl Alexandria who is staying in hospital after her arm fracture. In the hospital Alexandria befriends Roy, a stuntman whose feet are paralyzed from his last stunt. Amused, Roy promises to tell Alexandria a fascinating story.
Roy goes along to tell the story of five bandits who are off to kill Spanish General Odieus, against whom each of the bandits has some grievance against. Alexandria meanwhile pictures the whole story in her imagination. Herein lays the film’s beauty, through her imagination we see the most picturesque world. The characters of Roys story are played in the girls imagination is played by someone she knows. She also vetoes the parts of the story that she doesn’t like, and as Roy changes the story her imaginary world changes too. Can’t divulge anymore folks, check it out yourself.
“The Fall” has been shot in 28 countries, though many of these locations may be familiar but I doubt if they have been ever used more beautifully. (For Indian audiences, be prepared to be surprised, many Indian locations are used sooooo beautifully.)
The performances of Catinca Untaru as Alexanderia and Lee Pace as Roy in Father-Daughter like relationship are very real. All actors perform superbly their double roles, one in real life and the other in Alexandria’s fantasy.
Here’s what world’s most respected critic, Roger Ebert, had to say about the movie http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080529/REVIEWS/805290301/1023 (By the way, this review by Ebert made me see the movie in the first place)
If you aren’t yet convinced take a look at what users at IMDB have to say about “The Fall” http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0460791/usercomments
Do what ever, just watch the movie.
Rating - *****
Written By Ali Naqvi
Directed by Tarsem Singh, ‘The Fall’ is simple story about this little girl Alexandria who is staying in hospital after her arm fracture. In the hospital Alexandria befriends Roy, a stuntman whose feet are paralyzed from his last stunt. Amused, Roy promises to tell Alexandria a fascinating story.
Roy goes along to tell the story of five bandits who are off to kill Spanish General Odieus, against whom each of the bandits has some grievance against. Alexandria meanwhile pictures the whole story in her imagination. Herein lays the film’s beauty, through her imagination we see the most picturesque world. The characters of Roys story are played in the girls imagination is played by someone she knows. She also vetoes the parts of the story that she doesn’t like, and as Roy changes the story her imaginary world changes too. Can’t divulge anymore folks, check it out yourself.
“The Fall” has been shot in 28 countries, though many of these locations may be familiar but I doubt if they have been ever used more beautifully. (For Indian audiences, be prepared to be surprised, many Indian locations are used sooooo beautifully.)
The performances of Catinca Untaru as Alexanderia and Lee Pace as Roy in Father-Daughter like relationship are very real. All actors perform superbly their double roles, one in real life and the other in Alexandria’s fantasy.
Here’s what world’s most respected critic, Roger Ebert, had to say about the movie http://rogerebert.suntimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080529/REVIEWS/805290301/1023 (By the way, this review by Ebert made me see the movie in the first place)
If you aren’t yet convinced take a look at what users at IMDB have to say about “The Fall” http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0460791/usercomments
Do what ever, just watch the movie.
Rating - *****
Written By Ali Naqvi
Psycho Movie Review | Critique
Psycho is based on a novel of the same name by Robert Bloch, which was in turn based on the crimes of Wisconsin serial killer Ed Gein. The basic storyline deals with a woman (Janet Leigh), who cheats her boss for money, & escapes. On her way she gets into a motel, meets the sweet owner (Anthony Perkins), & is killed! I can’t tell you what follows next or I will be taking away all the thrill & fun of watching this flick, from you!
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This film boasts of many outstanding scenes especially the shower scene which has been used, remade & spoofed, countless many times. But that’s not the only one! The opening scene, the scene involving killing of Arbogast, & the scene in which the killer is revealed, all of them are simply fantastic. I also love the way camera first zooms in to the hole in the bathtub & then zooms out through the victim’s eye, when Leigh is murdered. All the murder scenes come out to you so sudden & quick that you can’t even realize whether you are shocked, surprised or scared!
However the most stunning part of the film is its concept. A film based on a psychological disorder, & that to in 1960! WOW! For the first 45 minutes you can’t even realize what amazing shocks are waiting for you.
The strong points of the movie also include Perkin’s performance. His innocence is so charming that till the end he manages to gain your sympathy. Background score by Bernard Hermann is the best that the movie could have got. The movie was shot in black & white due to financial reasons, but it works in its favor. Hitchcock has also done a cameo; he can be seen through a window, wearing a Stetson hat, standing outside Marion Crane's office (seven minutes into the film).two sequels have been made to it- Psycho-2(1983) & Psycho-3(1986) & a prequel Psycho-4-the beginning(1990,which was a TV series)
Hitchcock also put a strange condition-‘late admission wasn’t allowed’, & it was well put on the posters, because he thought that if viewers entered late & did not see Janet then they would feel cheated. Although feared, but this condition was no hindrance & the movie turned out to be a blockbuster, warmly welcomed by the crowd eagerly waiting outside the theatres!
If you have real love for movies you can’t miss out this one. It’s the mother of all the suspense movies made till date. I promise you will be overwhelmed to witness this timeless beauty. WATCH IT IF YOU HAVENT YET!
Written by Rishabh Shukla
Monday, December 14, 2009
Rocket Singh:Salesman of the year review | Critique
THIS ROCKET SOARS...
One advice....If you haven't seen this film yet, stop reading this review and go, grab your tickets! That's how good it is!
Look through Shimit's eyes.....Ranbir is searching for a shop which will provide him with two Graphics cards in the early hours of the morning. People have already started selling accessories (it is a computer accessories market) and Ranbir looks around. He sees a dukaanwallah praying in front of a group of photos (Gods and Goddesses) stacked together. Ranbir approaches the shop.
Why did I write that? Look at the everydayness Amin brings to his movie. If the first customer goes away unsatisfied from the shop, it is considered that business will go bad for the rest of the day. Ranbir approaches the shop thinking that there are less chances of him and the shopkeeper bargaining too hard about the quality, price, whatever. Hence, I made the above point. Oh! Pardon me, if I am reading too much between the lines. But, what to do, picture hi aise perfect banayi hai, kya kahein?
Shimit Amin and Jaideep Sahni are like maestros- the world they are creating, they know only too well. And for once, I don't see much of an interference from the producers or the upper echelon, that is. Here, the executors are in complete command!
I understand why the people at Yash Raj have been so hush-hush about their latest production Rocket Singh:Salesman Of The Year and I absolutely support their efforts. You deserve to see this film cold. No, there are no twists or nothing. Just a simple enough story to keep you glued to your seats for the rest of the running time of the movie. Don't let anyone tell you anything about this movie's plot. Let's just say this film involves the politics at office, the harrassment new trainees face, the variation of work culture and....principles. There are films that irk you to no end and there are others that you will absolutely enthrall you and then, there is Rocket Singh:Salesman Of The Year. A simple movie, no stylish camera shots (save for a wonderful tracking shot of Ranbir doing a mini-jig) and no songs that create unnecessary hindrances, Rocket Singh... grabs your attention because there is such a witty, intelligent story here that you actually care and root for the characters.
Ranbir Kapoor is immensely likeable and so are the other actors who, surprisingly, have been given equal amount of screen time. D Santosh and Mukesh Bhatt are everyday people whom you see in offices, in real life, at work. Gauhar Khan is alright, no trying-to-prove-to-be-a-great-actress mannerisms. Shazahn Padamsee....ummm....let's just say we shall wait and watch a few more endeavors of hers to decide whether she is a good actress or not. Here, she does adequately. Prem Chopra is excellently cast as Ranbir's grandpa and so are the two wonderful friends of Ranbir whose names I haven't been able to get hold of.
Any quibbles? A minor one. The monologue at the end, a wee bit too familiar. But, a befitting end, nevertheless.
One word about Ranbir. He is the "tomorrow" of Hindi Cinema. I don't know how he exudes that warmth, that confidence, that charisma...but boy, does the lad do it well!! His confidence embraces you and sucks you into his own little world, his own little struggle.
To make one such film is an achievement and to make three of them is no mean feat. Ab Tak Chhappan, Chak De! India and now Rocket Singh.... Shimit Amin goes for a hattrick and how! Collaborating with screenwriter Jaideep Sahni, who comes up with an truly ingenuous story, Amin delves into the profound depths of fine filmmaking and gives us what can be best described as ONE OF THE BEST FILMS OF THE YEAR!
Rating * * * *
Written by Gyandeep Pattnayak
One advice....If you haven't seen this film yet, stop reading this review and go, grab your tickets! That's how good it is!
Look through Shimit's eyes.....Ranbir is searching for a shop which will provide him with two Graphics cards in the early hours of the morning. People have already started selling accessories (it is a computer accessories market) and Ranbir looks around. He sees a dukaanwallah praying in front of a group of photos (Gods and Goddesses) stacked together. Ranbir approaches the shop.
Why did I write that? Look at the everydayness Amin brings to his movie. If the first customer goes away unsatisfied from the shop, it is considered that business will go bad for the rest of the day. Ranbir approaches the shop thinking that there are less chances of him and the shopkeeper bargaining too hard about the quality, price, whatever. Hence, I made the above point. Oh! Pardon me, if I am reading too much between the lines. But, what to do, picture hi aise perfect banayi hai, kya kahein?
Shimit Amin and Jaideep Sahni are like maestros- the world they are creating, they know only too well. And for once, I don't see much of an interference from the producers or the upper echelon, that is. Here, the executors are in complete command!
I understand why the people at Yash Raj have been so hush-hush about their latest production Rocket Singh:Salesman Of The Year and I absolutely support their efforts. You deserve to see this film cold. No, there are no twists or nothing. Just a simple enough story to keep you glued to your seats for the rest of the running time of the movie. Don't let anyone tell you anything about this movie's plot. Let's just say this film involves the politics at office, the harrassment new trainees face, the variation of work culture and....principles. There are films that irk you to no end and there are others that you will absolutely enthrall you and then, there is Rocket Singh:Salesman Of The Year. A simple movie, no stylish camera shots (save for a wonderful tracking shot of Ranbir doing a mini-jig) and no songs that create unnecessary hindrances, Rocket Singh... grabs your attention because there is such a witty, intelligent story here that you actually care and root for the characters.
Ranbir Kapoor is immensely likeable and so are the other actors who, surprisingly, have been given equal amount of screen time. D Santosh and Mukesh Bhatt are everyday people whom you see in offices, in real life, at work. Gauhar Khan is alright, no trying-to-prove-to-be-a-great-actress mannerisms. Shazahn Padamsee....ummm....let's just say we shall wait and watch a few more endeavors of hers to decide whether she is a good actress or not. Here, she does adequately. Prem Chopra is excellently cast as Ranbir's grandpa and so are the two wonderful friends of Ranbir whose names I haven't been able to get hold of.
Any quibbles? A minor one. The monologue at the end, a wee bit too familiar. But, a befitting end, nevertheless.One word about Ranbir. He is the "tomorrow" of Hindi Cinema. I don't know how he exudes that warmth, that confidence, that charisma...but boy, does the lad do it well!! His confidence embraces you and sucks you into his own little world, his own little struggle.
To make one such film is an achievement and to make three of them is no mean feat. Ab Tak Chhappan, Chak De! India and now Rocket Singh.... Shimit Amin goes for a hattrick and how! Collaborating with screenwriter Jaideep Sahni, who comes up with an truly ingenuous story, Amin delves into the profound depths of fine filmmaking and gives us what can be best described as ONE OF THE BEST FILMS OF THE YEAR!
Rating * * * *
Written by Gyandeep Pattnayak
Saturday, December 5, 2009
The 16th Edition
LATEST UPDATE -
Paa Movie Review | Critique
The hall was completely silent when Auro entered the frame. Not a single person made the slightest sound. Including me. I, alongwith, several others were witnessing something of a phenomenon. Amitabh Bachchan-virtually unrecognizable, the famous baritone of his vanished- I sat there bewildered. Read More
List of Mint Fresh Arrivals at TheReelMag !!
Editor's Pen : Blue Notebook & You
Critique : Do Aankhein Barah Haath
Statesmen : Howard Hughes
Critique : 12 Angry Men
Top 10 Hindi Recommended Songs | Music
Critique : Ninja Assassin | Movie Review
Critique : Chitchor | Movie Review
Eyes Read It : Reality Bites; Waiting for Rajneeti
Hammers High : Bruce Lee's Mysterious Death
French Comedies | Under Lens
Critique : Kurbaan | Movie Review
Paa Movie Review | Critique
Amitabh Bachchan, THE MAN has exemplified the very fact that no CGI, no prosthetics can take away from the character. In this character AB finds a rein, grips it and goes galloping. he becomes the character. Such is AB's performance.
PAA the second outing from director R. Balki is a humorous and emotional take on a 12-year old kid named Auro (played by AB) who is suffering from a rare disease Progeria. It is a condition which makes Auro look like a 12 year old trapped in a body aged about 65. The characters who form the world of Auro are played by Vidya Balan (his mother), Arundhati Naag (his doting granny), Abhishek Bachchan (his father) and a few friends. I don't believe that a critique should emphasise on providing the story to readers. So, my advice, my sincerest advice actually- you need to go see PAA, pronto! It is not without its share of faults, yes. There are cliches and a lot of digressions but overall, the film is a well-balanced product. (albeit with that extremely manipulative ending).
There are some moments which will cause a lump in your throat and also some in which your sides will ache from continuous laughter. Much of the humor is provided by the excellent Prateek Katare who plays Auro's best friend Vishnu. A quirky little character, he delivers lines with furious confidence that generates genuine laughs, not forcefully. Vidya Balan as Auro's mother is spot-on as she delivers one of her finest performances. Her pain resides in her eyes and is almost tangible. Except for once scene where she goes yackety-yak shouting "Just because you gave me your bloody sperm doesn't mean blah-blah-blah".. I shifted uncomfortably in my seat because that piece of gratuituous dialogue took away much of the friction from the confrontation between Abhishek and Vidya.
Arundhati Naag is excellently cast and she is delightful as Auro's granny.
Abhishek Bachchan doesn't do anything different except trying to be too uber cool. No, I am not saying he turns in a ridiculous performmance but that smug look on his face has to go.
The film could have done away with some of the meandering moments like Abhishek's politics. It extends for the most part and overstays its welcome. The music by Illaiyaraja is soothing and varies largely as well. PC Sreeram's cinematography lends to the films lushy and frothy look. And what is with the quick-cuts the editor is obsessed with? It is an interesting device but too quick to jump the gun just defeats the fun.
So, that leaves us with the Big B. AB is the heart and soul of this film turninng in what can be best described as a text-book performance that film students will be happy to do the anatomy of. There are many reasons to prove that AB is God and PAA is just one of them. Make room Pacinos and De Niros, for when AB cometh, you better give him his space.
PAA deserves to be watched because some of the spectacular performances and also because the disesase is not the centroid of this film. If you take the Progeria factor out, Auro is the same mischievious boy whom you sat next to in school. PAA is good....just not the great film it aims to be
Still, it deserves a watch. AB fans have all the right reasons to celebrate.
Rating - ***
Written By Gyandeep Pattanayak
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Blue Notebook and You | Editor's Pen
Last few editions have be great. Both contents and readership wise. Well, first of all. A warm welcome to Gyandeep. He gonna be in the league of Neha and Rishabh; our two 5-star contributors.
I take this opportunity to declare the categories of Blue Notebook: our annual celebration of Indian Hindi Cinema. Following are the categories:
- Noted Movie Of The Year
- Noted Actor Of The Year (including M n F in same category)
- Noted Director Of The Year
- Noted Story (Movie) Of The Year (including adaptations)
- Noted Musical Work of The Year (entire team of the movie)
- Noted Editing Work Of The Year (entire editing team of the movie)
- Noted Art Direction Of The Year
- Noted Movie Of Foreign Category Of The Year
- Noted Regional Movie Of The Year
Lots of love...
Sujoy Ghosh
P.S.: Warm welcome to Prof. Naqvi on our page. He is a father of my friend Ali. By all means, his article is going to be a phenomenon setting a benchmark for movie reviews. He has the contemporary insight and would love to read more from his MS Office folder.
Do Ankhein Barah Haath movie review | Critique
Recently I saw “Do Ankhen Bara Hath “ after almost fifty years . Although I did not weep bitterly when Sandhya sang “Aey Malik…..” ,as I did as school boy but the song again moved me . This film is one of most awarded films of India
Do Ankhen Bara Hath was based on true story of a jailor in erstwhile princely state in Maharashtra , who is convinced that even the hardened convicts can be changed in to better human being with humane treatment . Initially original writer of the story refused to write the film version doubting the chances of success of the venture , but later co-authored with Shantaram .Like many of his films Shantaram played the male lead opposite his favourite Sandhya in the role of courageous toy-seller. Keshav Datey and Ulhas were in main character roles .Maestro Vasant Desai’s tunes of “Aye Malik … ” and “Sainya Jhooton ka ..” are still hummed after more than half century . Surprisingly the wording of “Aye Malik …” were taken from the morning prayer of a Pakistani school .
The story begins with typically harsh behaviour of chief jailor and failed attempt on life of the jailor . Despite of his chief’s advice admonitions and ridicule he insists on , and takes six murder convicts to an open farm , later named Azad Nagar ,with the conviction of changing them into better persons while serving the rest of their prison term . He puts every thing, his job, his property even ready to go to jail as warranty for the success of his experiment .
The experiment as expected ,was not easy from beginning to the end .In beginning , by repeated revolt attempts by the convicts and in the end by trouble created by the middle man due to the low price of his Azad Nagar farm produced vegetables in local market .
Every revolt attempt is subsided due to dedication of the jailor . Once the convicts revolt turn almost bloody when Jailor allows two small sons of a convict on compassionate ground There was none to look after the convicts children besides a very old and frail grand mother .Other convicts want the same favour and on refusal by the jailor they conspire and attempt to kill him .The last phase of trouble came from the vegetable market’s middle man .First he tries to bribe the convicts ,and gets them drunk Then after realizing their mistakes go to bazaar two sell their produce under the oath not to retaliate under any circumstances .This time they are beaten almost to death . To the utter dismay of the jailor toy seller bring back them in a very precarious condition .The middle man sends in a herd of ferocious bulls to trample the farm while the jailor was trying to pull the badly injured men to safety ..He had to fight a trampling bull .In the ensuing fight his cloth are struck in bulls horn who ultimately throws the jailor to his death . The fight was real as Shantaram decided to perform “ the stunt ” him self he was almost killed in the process .He lost his eye sight and regained after protracted treatment and hospitalization .
Do Ankhen Bara Hath is a frame by frame master piece .Virtually nothing can be cut from the film .In every sphere Shantaram is at his best . Sandhya who started as vamp in “Parchaien”.
Written by Prof. Naqvi
Howard ‘Aviator’ Hughes | Statesmen
Howard Hughes was a very versatile person in business. He was an aviator, oil czar and a crazy movie maker. He was one of the most controversial businessmen of all time. He inspired biopics like Citizen Kane and Aviator and has been a focal point of movies like ‘Hoax’. He married actress Jean Peters and had an intimate relationship with actresses of 30’s, notable Katherine Hepburn.
The two most remembered movies (for odd reasons) were Hell’s Angels and Outlaw. Hell’s Angels was released in 1930. That time the budget of the epic movie soared upto $3.8 million. It was written and directed by Howard himself. The plot of the movie was woven around air warriors of world War I. the expenses were attributed to multiple reshoots, large number of cameras and Howard’s perfectionist attitude. Contemporary makers like MGM were shocked when they were told how Howard is making his movie. With Jean Harlow in lead, this movie was a blockbuster but owing to big budget lost $1.5 million on the boxoffice. It is still considered one of the finest war movie.
The megalomaniac’s Outlaw was released in 1941 amidst great controversies after a remarkable censor battle. The lead lady Jane Russell and her revealing attire grabbed the eyeballs. Her sensational gown and the exposure caused unrest in Censor Board. Howard won the battle. The poster of the movie is still the most remembered cinema poster. Interestingly, the half-cup bra worn by Russell lead to an improvement in aviation technology.
Howard will always being remembered as an adventurous business men, an eccentric movie maker and to many a corrupt person… but more than that he was a person who needed love immensely.
Written By: Sujoy Ghosh
The two most remembered movies (for odd reasons) were Hell’s Angels and Outlaw. Hell’s Angels was released in 1930. That time the budget of the epic movie soared upto $3.8 million. It was written and directed by Howard himself. The plot of the movie was woven around air warriors of world War I. the expenses were attributed to multiple reshoots, large number of cameras and Howard’s perfectionist attitude. Contemporary makers like MGM were shocked when they were told how Howard is making his movie. With Jean Harlow in lead, this movie was a blockbuster but owing to big budget lost $1.5 million on the boxoffice. It is still considered one of the finest war movie.
The megalomaniac’s Outlaw was released in 1941 amidst great controversies after a remarkable censor battle. The lead lady Jane Russell and her revealing attire grabbed the eyeballs. Her sensational gown and the exposure caused unrest in Censor Board. Howard won the battle. The poster of the movie is still the most remembered cinema poster. Interestingly, the half-cup bra worn by Russell lead to an improvement in aviation technology.
Howard will always being remembered as an adventurous business men, an eccentric movie maker and to many a corrupt person… but more than that he was a person who needed love immensely.
Written By: Sujoy Ghosh
12 Angry Men | Critique
12 men, 1 room, one table, 12 chairs & 96 minutes of cinema & that too in black & white!… now how does that sound to you??!!
To be very frank, it sounded very boring to me, when I was first told about it by a friend of mine. I thought that I would end up mocking the film & those who tried to make it! But it ended in a completely opposite manner. I was spellbound by the intensity & the depth of the movie. Not for even a single second was I in a mood to leave it. In fact I delayed all my works to finish this one!
‘12 angry men’ basically deals with a jury of 12 men who are into giving a decision against life or death of a boy who is accused of killing his father, believing certain witnesses. The condition is that the jury will come to a decision only when all of them abide to a single decision. Initially, only a single juror supports the child, focusing on the fact that it is a matter of life & death, so the case should be discussed upon once again. But as the movie progresses certain facts are brought into focus that defy that the boy is a killer & question the authenticity of the proofs. Finally, all the 12 jurors accept that the boy is not a killer & give the decision “not guilty”!
There are two big facts associated with this movie –
1. Only 8 minutes of the movie comprise of scenes outside the room. (that includes a courtroom scene & a washroom scene)
2. Apart from two jurors leaving the room, only three names are being used throughout the movie – ‘the boy’, ‘the old man’, & ‘the lady across the street’.
The two reasons that have made me a big fan of this flick, & have brought it in the list of my all time favorite movies.
It is an adaptation of a play by ‘Reginald Rose’, of the same name. The movie basically indulges itself into a clash of conservative & non-conservative ideologies & the simplicity in which it is presented is marvelous. With no fancy sets to supports, the movie completely depends upon the acting of the leads. However, the hero of the movie turns out to be its script & screenplay, by “Reginald Rose”, along with the fabulous direction by “Sidney Lumet”. The story begins as a simple murder case but gradually begins to unfold the underlying truths & the logics behind the innocence of the accused, & the drama that surrounds the logics & the decisions of the jurors. It very clearly demonstrates the fact that a person’s decisions can be biased & unfair because of the miss-happenings that have occurred to him in the past & how he becomes blind because of it.
It has also been remade in India as “Ek ruka hua faisla” , directed by “Basu Chatterjee”, in 1986.
Written by Rishabh Shukla
Top 10 Recommended Hindi Songs| Music
The songs are in random order and not by ranking.
1.Dil mera ek taara – 16 December
Few people know of the song but not to be missed. Romance with classical music and heart touching lyrics are what it offers you.
2.Ishq hota nahi – Joggers Park
Adnan Sami at his best but this song is ‘bana hai kisi kisi ke liye’. Had a heartbreak , you will fall in love with it & if hadn’t you will dare not to fall in love.
3.Tu jo nahi – Woh Lamhe
Don’t say you have never been in love and thus would have definitely missed them sometime. Listen to the song, you will be compelled to ring them.
4.Seedhay Saadey – Socha Naa Thaa
A perfect proposal song. If you said “no” to above question then try this song, you would get your love.
5.I’m in love – Neal ‘n’ Nikki
I agree movie was a disaster but the song is not, its equally melodious. Try it out.
6.It’s a beautiful day – Aryan
Since love is in the air, try this one too. The English lyrics and the music, you will flow with it.
7.Hoshwalon ko - Sarfarosh
Nothing more required to say when Jagjit ji’s name is associated with a song. Listen to it and enjoy falling in love.
8.Feeling blue – Pyaar ke side effects
Though a sad song but music maintains a light mood making it an any time listen. Lyrics are just wonderful conveying the mood well.
9.Tosey naina lagey – Anwar
Another song telling hardships of love but compelling you to fall in love. Enjoy the classical music blended with wonderful singing.
10.O re piya – Aaja Nach le
Rahat Fateh Ali Khan sahab’s awesome work, cant be afforded to miss.
Try these and do let me know how many worked for you.
Happy Musical Time
Written by - Neha Jain
Ninja Assassin Movie Review | Critique
Rating- **1/2
The excitement is only understandable: the director of 'V for Vendetta', the makers of 'Matrix Trilogy', a film having 'Ninja' in title. What could us mortals look for more, eh?
The movie starts with an awesome (blood-filled, yeah) scene, alright. It tells the story of a clan that breeds killers who have executed killings for more than a thousand years. This 'Ozunu' clan kidnaps children to train them into becoming these killing machines when they grow up. One of these trained killers, Raizo (played by Rain) starts to hate the clan when his love interest( who also belongs to same clan) is killed off for trying to leave. His revenge forms the most part of the film.
If the Fanboy is jumping to know were there any entertaining action scenes? Yes, three of them-
1. The scene of Raizo's first killing.
2. My favorite scene is the one where the ninjas fight it out on the road. (can you remember 'Matrix Reloaded' Scene in which Trinity drives against the traffic? This Ninja scene was similar and with ninja's fighting in the traffic! )
3. Climactic fight scene.
Rain does preform in action scenes superbly (awesome physique too!), but his acting skills are just passable. The thing is Rain's character fails to strike a chord, as one fails to feel sympathy with Protagonist. As a viewer there are many stretches of the movie, that are boring as they fail to engage. The plot is confusing and unconvincing for the most part
Verdict- It isn't too bad, it isn't too good either! It is watchable but not memorable, I would prefer my 'Kill Bill Vol.1' DVD over this, anyday.
Written by- Ali Naqvi
The excitement is only understandable: the director of 'V for Vendetta', the makers of 'Matrix Trilogy', a film having 'Ninja' in title. What could us mortals look for more, eh?
The movie starts with an awesome (blood-filled, yeah) scene, alright. It tells the story of a clan that breeds killers who have executed killings for more than a thousand years. This 'Ozunu' clan kidnaps children to train them into becoming these killing machines when they grow up. One of these trained killers, Raizo (played by Rain) starts to hate the clan when his love interest( who also belongs to same clan) is killed off for trying to leave. His revenge forms the most part of the film.
If the Fanboy is jumping to know were there any entertaining action scenes? Yes, three of them-
1. The scene of Raizo's first killing.
2. My favorite scene is the one where the ninjas fight it out on the road. (can you remember 'Matrix Reloaded' Scene in which Trinity drives against the traffic? This Ninja scene was similar and with ninja's fighting in the traffic! )
3. Climactic fight scene.
Rain does preform in action scenes superbly (awesome physique too!), but his acting skills are just passable. The thing is Rain's character fails to strike a chord, as one fails to feel sympathy with Protagonist. As a viewer there are many stretches of the movie, that are boring as they fail to engage. The plot is confusing and unconvincing for the most part
Verdict- It isn't too bad, it isn't too good either! It is watchable but not memorable, I would prefer my 'Kill Bill Vol.1' DVD over this, anyday.
Written by- Ali Naqvi
Chitchor- Unsung Brilliance | Critique
Simple stories , next door characters and melodious music define Rajshri Productions. Chitchor is another sweet romantic movie by Rajshri starring ever humble Amole Palekar and Zarina Wahab in lead and music by Ravindra Jain. Ironically, Palekar is one of the most underrated actor and Jain is the most underrated musicians. Both have great following but deserve more applause than what they ever got.
Pitambar Chaudhri is trying to find a groom for his second daughter. His elder daughter Meera is living a married life in Mumbai (Bombay), tells her father that an engineer is coming to the village and is a perfect match for Geeta, her younger sister. A visitor comes and is well treated by the family. He starts liking Geeta and the same happens with Geeta. Happy father (Our favorite A. K. Hangal) decides that the boy- Vinod, is perfect for his daughter. But the color of sky changes with the news that the prospective groom will arrive late and his name is Sunil. Then the big question pops up: Who is Vinod?
Vinod is an overseer who came before Sunil and the family asks Geeta to forget Vinod and to look forward at Sunil as a match. Now, incidentally Sunil also starts liking Geeta and says yes to engagement. Vinod, when come to know about this, decides to move out but fortunately everything is sorted when Geeta opens up.
Some movies make you laugh, some make you jump on your seats but this one… will keep you cool and smiling. You will wonder why they remade this into a crass star studded super flop- Main Prem Ki diwani Hoon. Eeeks!
Written By: Sujoy Ghosh
P.S.: Look out for brilliant music and songs sung by Yesudas.
Vinod is an overseer who came before Sunil and the family asks Geeta to forget Vinod and to look forward at Sunil as a match. Now, incidentally Sunil also starts liking Geeta and says yes to engagement. Vinod, when come to know about this, decides to move out but fortunately everything is sorted when Geeta opens up.Some movies make you laugh, some make you jump on your seats but this one… will keep you cool and smiling. You will wonder why they remade this into a crass star studded super flop- Main Prem Ki diwani Hoon. Eeeks!
Written By: Sujoy Ghosh
P.S.: Look out for brilliant music and songs sung by Yesudas.
Reality Bites; Waiting For Rajneeti | Eyes Read It
Eleven girls and a coach with a stubble. Chak De! India was a fine example of a brilliant movie based on a semi-fictional account of a real life hero Mir Ranjan Negi. That was a new beginning of the Indian celluloid.A real life scenario with which common man may relate plus a tinge of melodrama constitutes a fine recipe for a brilliant movie. Madhur Bhandharkar was the one of the first ones to realise this. Chandni Bar, Page 3, Corporate and Jail; all based on real life smitten blockbusters. Incidently, Shimit Amin's directorial debut was Ab Tak Chappan and he followed it up with Chak De!
This year apart from Jail, there were two more interesting movies with a reality taste. New York and Kurbaan: both had a back drop of 9/11. Also, Khuda Ke Liye, an acclaimed movie had a similar flavor- 9/11 and trauma. Furthermore, A Wednesday was another brilliant movie that released the anguish of a common man against merchants of death.
Now, cut to future. Two movies are eagerly awaited. First; romantic saga of Nehru and Lady Mountbatten- Indian Summer which is on hold for some reason and second is Rajneeti. We have talked a lot about the former. So, lets gossip about Rajneeti. Rajneeti has Katrina Kaif and Ranbeer Kapoor in lead roles and is a directorial effort by Prakash Jha.
Jha, after success of Gangajal and Apharan, needs no introduction and soon the movie will also grab a chunk of news feed for reasons. Katrina is playing a role of female politician with a rumor of role being inspired by career of Sonia Gandhi. Some what like Suchitra Sen's role in Aandhi that was inspired by life of Indira Gandhi. Then there are rumors about something going between KK and RK on the romantic side. There is a bad news too...According to news, Nana Patekar who was going to play an important role had left the movie because of some clash of egos between Jha and Nana. Sources from sets are attributing it to Nana's fietry temperament and tantrums leading Jha losing his cool. Since Nana is always a pleasure to watch...
A lot more in the pandorqa box. Check out this space for further...
Bruce Lee's Mysterious Death | Hammers HIgh
THE most famous name of Martial Arts is and will be BRUCE LEE. Part of his myth, was due due to his untimely death just before the release of 'Enter the Dragon'. The movie released after Lee's Death became a huge hit, as it had the best of Lee's performance and also because fans rushed to see their favourite action star for the last time. The question remains how did a man who was so supremely fit actually die at age of 32 years?
There are actually 5 theories about his death
10 May, 1973 (circumstance from police files)
Bruce Lee has returned from post production of "Enter the Dragon", He complained of acute headache to his co-star Betty Ting. She gave him the medicine, Equagesic (kind of Super Asprin). After which Lee went to rest, in the evening when he didn't turn up for dinner, Ting found him unconscious. He was rushed to the hospital where he was declared brought dead. His brain was found to be considerably swollen.
Theory 1 - Official Theory
Equagesic had some chemicals which reacted with his brain and caused his brain to swell. Swelling had ultimately caused his death.
Theory 2 - The Curse
Bruce Lee is said to believe that his father was once cursed by some Chinese traders which lead o Bruce Lee's father's death. He believed that this curse would affect all to one male member of his family in each generation, and they would before reaching their 30's. Well Bruce Lee survived till 32 but he did die mysteriously. Eerily though his son Brandon Lee died of an accident while shooting for his movie 'The Crow' at the age of 28. Three deaths, one in each generations have caused this theory to gain momentum.
Theory 3 - Effect of lethal blow to his head
Lee prior to his death had received a injury due to lethal blow to his head during one of his fights.
Theory 4 - Triad Society
Triad society is one of the old gangsters societies of eastern countries. They are said to have asked Bruce Lee for protection money, which he refused to pay. His death is also believed to be a cold killing executed by the Triad Society.
Theory 5 - Ok, this is one is lame
Some believe he has gone into hiding and will resurface one day. This theory is the silliest and is often applied to many of Hollywood's stars by fanatics. Even Elvis Presley, too is supposed by some to be alive, so is Michael Jackson. Though this theory does points to his stardom more than anything else.
One thing that remains true is he still has one of the biggest fan bases across the world. People still are inspired by him. Infact Jackie Chan's career started when he played body double of Lee in one of his incomplete films. The present generations has many action stars who have been affected by Lee's. Bruce Lee will always be missed.
P.S. Next Edition we will return return to tell the story of Heath Ledger's untimely demise.
Written by Ali Naqvi.
Equagesic had some chemicals which reacted with his brain and caused his brain to swell. Swelling had ultimately caused his death.
Theory 2 - The Curse
Bruce Lee is said to believe that his father was once cursed by some Chinese traders which lead o Bruce Lee's father's death. He believed that this curse would affect all to one male member of his family in each generation, and they would before reaching their 30's. Well Bruce Lee survived till 32 but he did die mysteriously. Eerily though his son Brandon Lee died of an accident while shooting for his movie 'The Crow' at the age of 28. Three deaths, one in each generations have caused this theory to gain momentum.
Theory 3 - Effect of lethal blow to his head
Lee prior to his death had received a injury due to lethal blow to his head during one of his fights.
Theory 4 - Triad Society
Triad society is one of the old gangsters societies of eastern countries. They are said to have asked Bruce Lee for protection money, which he refused to pay. His death is also believed to be a cold killing executed by the Triad Society.
Theory 5 - Ok, this is one is lame
Some believe he has gone into hiding and will resurface one day. This theory is the silliest and is often applied to many of Hollywood's stars by fanatics. Even Elvis Presley, too is supposed by some to be alive, so is Michael Jackson. Though this theory does points to his stardom more than anything else.
One thing that remains true is he still has one of the biggest fan bases across the world. People still are inspired by him. Infact Jackie Chan's career started when he played body double of Lee in one of his incomplete films. The present generations has many action stars who have been affected by Lee's. Bruce Lee will always be missed.
P.S. Next Edition we will return return to tell the story of Heath Ledger's untimely demise.
Written by Ali Naqvi.
French Comedies | Under Lens
The French have always been amongst one of the finest film making nations. They have excellent tradition of making excellent comedies. Here is our list of three French comedies, that are must watch in our view.
Amelie
Jean-Pierre Jeunet creates a world of color, movement, romance and whimsy in a film that became a sensation in France and charmed audiences around the world. Audrey Tautou is delightful as a spirited waitress determined to help those around her find love and happiness, although her own romantic adventure proves to be a challenging one. Light as a feather, Amelie presents an idealized Paris that was shot on location, but which, through visual effects and eye-catching art direction, has the fantasized look of a Hollywood soundstage. Actor-director Mathieu Kassovitz co-stars as Amelie's love interest. A Cesar Award-winner for Best Film, Director, Music and Production Design. By the way it was also nominated in best foreign film category along with Lagaan at the Academy Awards.
The Closet
Daniel Auteuil and Gerard Depardieu top the cast of this spirited comedy from the director of The Dinner Game. An accountant at a condom factory learns he is about to be fired. A neighbor suggests that he pretend to be gay so the company will be wary of a discrimination lawsuit if they let him go. As the deception takes root, co-workers and other associates who previously found him dull now find the accountant to be exciting and mysterious. "...a bonbon spiked with mirth and malice...a delicious treat" (Peter Travers, Rolling Stone). Also starring Thierry Lhermitte and Michele Laroque. excellent watch
L'aile ou la cuisse
As timely today as it was when it was released over 30 years ago, this comedy stars French legend Louis de Funes (of "Les Gendarmes" fame) as Charles Duchemin, the owner of a restaurant guide. The film is very funny indeed, with some inspired moments. Can be enjoyed by old and young alike. Altohugh, this movie has slapstick comedy but it has many moments that will leave you in splits.
Written by- Ali Naqvi
Amelie
Jean-Pierre Jeunet creates a world of color, movement, romance and whimsy in a film that became a sensation in France and charmed audiences around the world. Audrey Tautou is delightful as a spirited waitress determined to help those around her find love and happiness, although her own romantic adventure proves to be a challenging one. Light as a feather, Amelie presents an idealized Paris that was shot on location, but which, through visual effects and eye-catching art direction, has the fantasized look of a Hollywood soundstage. Actor-director Mathieu Kassovitz co-stars as Amelie's love interest. A Cesar Award-winner for Best Film, Director, Music and Production Design. By the way it was also nominated in best foreign film category along with Lagaan at the Academy Awards.
The Closet
Daniel Auteuil and Gerard Depardieu top the cast of this spirited comedy from the director of The Dinner Game. An accountant at a condom factory learns he is about to be fired. A neighbor suggests that he pretend to be gay so the company will be wary of a discrimination lawsuit if they let him go. As the deception takes root, co-workers and other associates who previously found him dull now find the accountant to be exciting and mysterious. "...a bonbon spiked with mirth and malice...a delicious treat" (Peter Travers, Rolling Stone). Also starring Thierry Lhermitte and Michele Laroque. excellent watch
L'aile ou la cuisse
As timely today as it was when it was released over 30 years ago, this comedy stars French legend Louis de Funes (of "Les Gendarmes" fame) as Charles Duchemin, the owner of a restaurant guide. The film is very funny indeed, with some inspired moments. Can be enjoyed by old and young alike. Altohugh, this movie has slapstick comedy but it has many moments that will leave you in splits.
Written by- Ali Naqvi
Monday, November 23, 2009
Kurbaan Movie Review | Critique
SACRIFICE?? WHAT...SORRY, YOU LOST ME...
There are films that look heavenly compromised...especially big-budget movies handling serious issues. The most reminiscent one being 'New York'. Now, my, my! Isn't that just a co-incidence?! I say so because the movie that I am about to talk in this column is nothing but a remake(!) of Kabir Khan's New York. Rehash, remake, whatever! So, I was talking of compromises. New York used cliche after cliche to bore us with drama and make us aware that Yash Raj has still got the ability to do action. Pooh! Sorry buddies, that movie was a bad one, intentions were noble. But intentions never maketh a movie work. So, Is KURBAAN any good? Yes, it is. Is it great cinema? Nope. Not even close. So, does it offer anything different? Hmmmm.....yes, it does. And does it have any flaws? You bet. Loopholes so large you can allow Titanic to pass through each of them.
The thing that I admired about Rensil D'Silva's 'Kurbaan' is that there is no showing of the 9/11 attack. It has been referred to once in the movie. But, nothing more than that. It is about the repercussions we still feel in a post-9/11 world. You know, I have a problem with the repeated showing of the WTC collapsing down. Why? Because, it is an event that has left us scarred forever. And it is a little deja-vu all over again when it is shown on film repeatedly. However noble the intentions of the filmmaker are, it is a little painful to see the towers going down, people losing their lives. Kurbaan does not need to do that. However, what 'Kurbaan' really does is, it makes a few valid points.
So, the story goes as follows. Kareena Kapoor's character falls in love with Saif Ali Khan's character and the routine love-shove follows. She gets a call from NYU and he asks her to marry him so that they can both make the trip together....forever. Ah! Heard of eternal love? They do so and everything is well and fine until a neighbour comes knocking on the door suspiciously asking for Kareena's help. Then, what follows forms the main crux of this story.
Let me begin right off by saying that this film is similar in every way possible to the June-released Kabir Khan film 'New York' but in terms of acting and technical aspects, 'Kurbaan' is light years ahead of that film. Sensitive issues like Islam fundamentalism, the behavior toward Islam-followers and the war ensuing between the US of A and terrorism have been, for the most part, handled well. Rensil has clearly got what it takes to be a director. How can you not marvel in that scene when Kulbhushan Kharbanda shows his resentment against what his son (Vivek) has been been doing on behalf of the Americans. Its a scene that stands out in the whole movie. Equally effective are the action scenes.
Saif Ali Khan is wonderfully restrained and gives a measured performance. His silence carries the menace throughout the film. You must have known him for his flamboyant, cutesy, comic roles so far. Here, he exudes what the character demands- Ferocity. Kareena Kapoor is cast well. She shines in a role that requires a little histrionics and she provides them adequately. Vivek Oberoi. Oh my! This lad had talent, energy, only if he knew the right films to channel it through. Here, in the role of Riyaaz, he hits the right note-that of a vendetta-driven cameraman.
One actor stands tall above them all. Om Puri. Frankly speaking, Om Puri has always managed to do so even in many of his mediocre films. Watch that chilling scene in which he asks Vivek's character to shoot an innocent Pizza store vendor. Or the one in which he asks Kareena Kapoor through a car's window to think about her father's fate before doing anything stupid. Or in that scene where...hell, in every scene. I repeat in every scene.
Kirron Kher-miscast. Irritates using that heavy Afghani-accent of hers. Nauheed, thankfully, is given a 2-minute role which does not require her to do much.Except smile, cry and die.
The love story angle is subtle and at the climax, it is palpable enough to blister about anything. Watch with a sharp eye when Kareena yanks Saif's collar and asks him his true name. The undercurrent...yeah! This is what the whole movie should have been like. Still, this movie does not cry out loud.
The flaws- Oh my, hope I remember some of the maaaaany. Why does Vivek's character have to be a HERO? Couldn't he just inform the FBI or the cops before taking on the scores himself. And what is the FBI doing anyway while a terrorist roams freely on the roads, even though they have manged to get a photograph of his? And when a bomb does go off and shootouts ensue in a subway, trains do not stop. They go about their own business. Post 9/11, USA has been so alert and rules have been so stringent that this scene in the movie just looks too convenient. Also, the love-making scene, though shot well is out of place and the reason why the scene was required is hilarious. A little old school, aren't we? And believe me, there are more. And it will be late night before I wind up those.
So, does Kurbaan work. In a way, Yes.
Let those loose ends be. This movie when stripped away, shows the noble intentions of a filmmaker who has sadly given in to convention only too often. As I said, honest intentions don't alone a film make. I have an answer to that. The performances. They nearly help this movie from going down. And the few valid points that this movie makes without taking sides of America or Islamic fundamentalism. Savor the scene in the classroom where an argument follows between Vivek Oberoi and two American students.
Salim-Sulaiman's music lingers in the background and is a terrific score which does not take you away from the story. Hemant Chaturvedi's cinematography alternates between lush, striking and providing a sense of urgency. Outstanding work by the man!
This is a film that does not disappoint as much as it could have. It will linger in your minds, at least for some time after you have left the cinema. But, it may linger for some more time even, so that you can pick out the fatal flaws that nearly marred this otherwise efficient-thriller.
Rating- ***
Written by Gyandeep Pattnayak.
PS - Please welcome the newest entry to TheReelMag clan, Gyandeep Patanayak. We loved this review that he sent to us, that we have put it across to readers, without so much as a changed word. umm, it is long but wasn't it fun ! Welcome Gyandeep.
PS - Please welcome the newest entry to TheReelMag clan, Gyandeep Patanayak. We loved this review that he sent to us, that we have put it across to readers, without so much as a changed word. umm, it is long but wasn't it fun ! Welcome Gyandeep.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Editor's Pen | Indiblogger Win
Ali Naqvi, here. I am here to announce that we TheReelMag has just won 2nd Prize for "Indiblogger- Star Movies- Indiana Jones" blogging contest, held all over India. for the following article http://www.thereelmag.in/2009/10/george-lucas-steven-spielberg-statesmen.html
Yipee, that is one of our first major successes that to within the first year of our ode to cinema world!! :-) Well here's the stroy of how this prize came into being...
One day talking to Sujoy he said, " Hey i just recieved a mail from Indiblogger saying they are holding a India wide contest on Indiana Jones. Lets give it a try.Why dont you write for it." I was like, "umm ok". What i was thinking was, "All India contest ?! what are the chances of any sucsess, but what the heck lets give it my best shot.
I was planning to review one of the parts of the Indiana Jones films. "what if we do Harrison Ford's bio under Statesmen section", suggested Sujoy. Point taken. I called up Rishabh the next day, "hi, there", after sometime I discussed these posts with him. " Well personally I was disappointed when i saw Indiana Jones series a few years back... considering the hype and Spielberg's film",said Rishabh. "Ok then, i'll do both the posts", i said. I must confess i wasn't too happy with the ideas of the articles i was going to wrote on...
next day i spent researching Indiana Jones, and suddenly ideas for two perfect posts came to mind!
1) How Indiana Jones was conceptualised
http://www.thereelmag.in/2009/10/george-lucas-steven-spielberg-statesmen.html
2) The Movies that have been directly Inspired from Indiana Jones.
http://www.thereelmag.in/2009/10/top-5-indiana-jones-rip-off-franchises.html
I submitted the posts and slowly but surely it was noted by IndiBloggers. Then came 13 November! we got results in the mail... phew...
Everybody in TheReelMag is so happy and excited! Thank you IndiBlogger.
Love & Regards,
Ali Naqvi.
Co-Editor ->TheReelMag
Al Pacino> Godfather And Beyond| Statesmen
In 1973, Godfather was released and the saga of an American mafia of Italian origin was a big success. Pacino’s character was an understated supporting cast but with his excellent performance, he grabbed more eyeballs than anybody else barring Brando. It was followed by Serpico where he portrayed a cop. Then in 1974, Godfather 2 was released that made him a legend.
When Pacino was just 17, he left studies and home for his passion ‘acting’. Though poor grades also heated the zeal. He started from underground theatre in NY. That was a of period of extreme pauperism. At times he survived on petty alms. But these things revealed a better Pacino on the stage. Even art the pinnacle of his career, his passion for theatre was alive. Crystal Clear, National Anthem and American Buffalo are prominent testimonials.
Pacino was one of the most critically acclaimed actors of 70s and 80s; was in the league of Brando and De Niro but somehow he missed numerous Oscars. His performances in Godfather, Serpico, Godfather-2, Bobby Dearfield, …And Justice For All, Scarface, Sea Of Love and Dick Tracy could have grabbed the Oscar but failed. Finally for The Scent Of A Woman, he got his first Oscar. The journey that began in early 70’s was recognized by Oscar Jury in ’92. More than two decades of insomnia.Pacino is a torchbearer of cinema that does heroes and villains equally without prejudice.
Written By: Sujoy Ghosh
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