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.

The 15th Edition

Editor's Pen | Indiblogger Win

Hello Readers,

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

Alfred James Pacino was born to an Italian couple and later in his life, he immortalized one of the most loved Italian character from books- Michael Corleone. Beyond the Godfather, he saw both the best and the worst of his life.

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

3 Idiots | Music Review

Aamir Khan is a brand name in himself and Vidhu Vinod Chopra involved you expect a lot from
3 Idiots. But sorry Shaan,Sonu,Shreya Ghoshal have nothing much in store for you this time,
instead lyricist Swanand has done his role well.

'All Iz Well', a tackky track with the theme of 'care-a-damn' attitude misses the heights set by 'Paathshaala' from RDB. The lyrics alone have something to offer to desi crowd allowing it to get a stand between famous campus tracks.

'Zoobi Doobi', the only song in album with a female voice and Shreya is proving to be the most versatile playback singer of our time. A hummable jazzy song with well woven lyrics giving it a 50's touch but song lacks longevity.

'Behti Hawaa' is the best among album in voice of my favourite Shan having a Bengali touch adding to its sweetness. The lyrics narrate the charachter sketch of Amir, so check it out but song seems just an instrumental at times.

'Give me some sunshine' has a slow beginning with Sharman Joshi narrating a line but sudden change to peppy music is surprising. Soon after Suraj Jagan starts singing this track with song going to a high point every time the line 'Give Me Some Sunshine' comes on the forefront. The song is in a softer mood but music is peppy and they seem to be poles apart. An experimental track but I wont give it credit.

The finale is interesting with Sonu Nigam coming up with 'Jaane nahi dunga'. He changes the pitch of his voice extraordinarily well but high notes seem to be forced.The lyrics are set in a mood where the friends are rooting for each other but surprisingly, Sonu Nigam’s vocals are somewhat annoying at some places.

My verdict- Singers have tried their best, but the only person worthy of credit is lyrcist Swanand.

Rating - 2.5 / 5

Written by Neha Jain

Brandon Lee 'The Crow' shot dead 'on set' | Hammers High

Brandon Lee, shooting for 'The Crow', was shot dead on the sets itself!! Well how did that happen you would think, read on...

'The Crow' is the story of a ghostly figure who rises from death to avenge his Girlfriend's rape and murder. The protagonist is shot in the same incident.

March 31,1993
The killing scene was being shot at last of the film. As per the script the Villain had to shoot protagonist... and he did. Brandon Lee collapsed to ground, well that too was in script! Blood was oozing out furiously. The shot was perfect. "Cut" said the director... Brandon still lay in pool of blood mumbling something, "very funny, nice shot, now get up", thought crew of the film.....two more minutes passed ... then it dawned ! Brandon had been shot for real. He was rushed to hospital, but in 12 hours Brandon expired.

Later investigation revealed that a bullet loaded in another shot of the film was left in barrel of the gun. The fateful scene, though shot with fake bullet(which have enough propelling power) pushed the real bullet left loaded earlier. This slight error caused Brandon Lee's death.

Son of legendary, Bruce Lee, Brandon Lee had struggled in his early films over the legendary image of his father. It was in 'The Crow', that Brandon had supremely acted in, and he expected 'The Crow' would give him his first big hit.

March 13,1994

Yes, it was huge hit amongst audiences and was highly praised by critics. Alas, Brandon wasn't around to enjoy the success.

Ironically, similar tragic death happend to Heath Ledger, when he died tragically just before release of his most famous work as 'Joker' in 'Dark Night'. Another strange similarity that these deceased men have in common is that their characters ('Joker' and 'Crow') look so similar. Eerie!! I'll be doing article on Heath Ledger's death in next issue.

P.S. Does anyone remember Raj Comics' "Anthony"? It was rip-off the same character "The Crow".

Note- We also featured the movie "The Crow" in our "list of Best Movie Adaptations from Novel / Graphic Novel"

Written by Ali Naqvi.

Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani | Critique

Rating-**

Ghayal, Ghatak, Khakhee, Damini, Pukar, The legend of Bhagat Singh, Barsaat & Andaaz Apna Apna....what is the common link between all these bolllywood blockbusters??... its RAJ KUMAR SANTOSHI . When someone is associated with movies of such a grade, its obvious that the expectations are quite high! But unfortunately with APKGK, he just disappoints us.

The story is quite simple & straight. Our hero falls for a girl, takes all the pains he can, but the girl doesn't see that because she is in love with some another guy, who is kinda stupid & loves less than our hero(ofcourse!), & this very fact is realized by the lady suddenly, when she is on the verge of getting married! To be straight there is nothing "ajab or ghazab" in this "Prem's kahani"! You know everything from the starting itself.

This is seriously not expected from a person who has given us an all time comedy like Andaaz Apna Apna. The movie is full of low-brow & high school humor. Most of the scenes are completely stupid & predictable(most of them are old jokes). Some scenes are so silly that they make you feel as if you are watching some amateur work. Ranbir & Katrina look excellent on screen, but there’s nothing more out there, no comedy, no romance. There are just a handfull moments in the movie which actually make you laugh. The stammering protagonists made an interesting effect initially but it was used quite inappropriately many a times & that too in excess. Even the production values are below standards!

For me only two things, made it bearable. Firstly, melodious music by Pritam. Secondly, Ranbir Kapoor. You will just love this awesome actor with a fantastic comic timing. He made even average scenes also look damn hilarious. Darshan Jariwala (as Prem's father) & Smita Jaykar (as Prem's mother) were also very impressive. These three together have given the best scenes in the movie, which infact are really very funny! But rest of all, simply overload of overacting, none of them was seriously interested in comedy there. Zakir Hussain (as Sajid Don) also tried to bring in some humor, but all efforts in vain (it was very loud too!). Salman Khan also does a cameo in it.

The movie has already grossed crores, mainly due to the hype created & the publicilty of the movie. But if you are really interested in slapstick comedy, or if you love movies for their music, or you are a big Ranbir Kapoor fan, don't miss this one!

Written by 'Rishabh Shukla'

Jail Movie review | Critique

Rating - **1/2

The voiceover dialogues as the opening credit roll transport you to a hitherto unknown world, the 'Jail', another of Madhur Bhandarkar's hard-hitting films. The movie is a sarcasm at the legal procedure but fails to do justice to the title. Hard realities inside jail are just touched and not dealt. If you wish to watch the movie for hard hitting realities then I suggest reading "Shantaram" chapter 20-22 and skip the movie.

The plot revolves around Parag Dixit (Neil) who gets fixed into a false case of drug dealing and is sentenced to judicial custody and 'Jail' is about his pursuit for freedom. I do wonder, that a well educated boy working in sales department of one of top firms isnt able to say a word in his defence. Neil seems dumb occasionally struggling in emotional outbursts, only his acting has stabilised the character. Mugdha Godse underplays her part beautifully, but has little to do in the film. She carries the non-glam look well. Manoj Bajpayee a super talented actor is in form after a long time. A major highlight of Madhur movies is the interesting array of supporting characters and they have played vital role in supporting the eerie void often in the plot. Rahul Singh looks good and we wish him luck in his career. The couplets delivered at occassions give heart touching messages. The 2 liner track Daata is also touching. Unlike his other films, Jail does have
an end, a cohesive totality,and draws to a conclusion.

Compare Jail to Madhur Bhandarkar's earlier works and you will be disappointed to certain extent. Nevertheless, compare it to many other mediocre movies of today and Jail is still a step ahead. Jail is captivating but not consistent.

Written by Neha Jain

London Dreams Movie Review | Critique

Rating-***1/2

Vipul Shah, has become one of the most successful names in the industry, giving us blockbusters like Aankhein, Waqt, Namastey London, Singh is Kinng(producer) & RHTDM(writer). Now, his latest flick "London dreams” stars Salman Khan, Ajay Devgan and  Asin in the lead.

London Dreams is a story about dreams, friendship, talent & love and how all these come in each others way. Basically, the story deals with a guy who cannot handle the success & fame of his childhood friend and goes against him. Although the story is not new, but the treatment of the movie is very fresh and very gigantic. Shot fantastically, some scenes impress you so much that you don't forget them even after leaving the hall. Like when Salman Khan composes different genres of music with same lyrics and music, by just changing the style, or when he first time jumps into the crowd (the scene is shot fantastically), or the Bhatinda night scene when Salman is drunk. But the most impressive part of the movie is Salman Khan! Yes, you simply will love him and the role played by him. You laugh on his jokes, you feel bad when he cries, you infact enjoy each and every moment when he is in the movie. Its one of the best performance by him till date!

The complete movie is shot in a darker tint, which I consider as a very good experiment. It is technically excellent & has lavish production values. Background score by Salim-Suleiman is class, however the one that's used in the second half is similar to the one used in Batman Begins, but full points to them coz it really increases the pace of the movie. Cinematography by Sejal Shah is spectacular and the rock concerts are filmed quite well. The overall cinematic experience is so good that I stopped thinking about the weaknesses of the movie. Also, the movie is been treated very harshly by the critics, it deserved better reviews.

Actually, Vipul Shah made a few blunders with the movie, which went strongly against the movie. The first one is casting Ajay Devgan as a Popstar. No doubt he is a fabulous actor but this is not his cup of tea. Secondly, when you are making a musical, you ought to have good music in it. Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy have disappointed a lot this time. If these two factors would have gone right then it would have been loved by everyone for sure. Asin also doesn't have much to do in the movie except dancing ! Ranvijay and Aditya were good.

Overall, the movie is good and a hell lot better than those that have released recently. It can be watched once at least although there was scope to make the movie better. I would conclude by saying that - "The painting may not be magnificent but the canvas is."

Written by Rishabh Shukla

Chinese war movies| Under Lens

Chinese movies are rich in heritage. Their drama and comedy, both are terrific but the most alluring one is the war movies. They have a mystic value added. Reason: For long China has been mysteriously a legend in war tactics. It is considered to have a strong defense. The Great Wall Of China is a just example. In this edition, we will find three great war sagas of the decade produced by China:

1. Warrior Of Heaven And Earth: Set during Tan dynasty, in the story, a lieutenant Li refuses to kill women and child prisoners. He is thus expelled. He becomes a fugitive and travels through the Gobi desert. He comes across a caravan that carries a mystical relic. On the other hand, The Emperor of China orders Lai Xi to kill Li but eventually he stands for Li’s cause. What happens next ensures a great cinematic success.


2. On The Mountain Of Tai Hang: It is pseudo government sponsored movie about the Eighth Route Army. It is being led by General Commander Zhu De. The troop marches east across the Yellow River to form the Mount Tai Hang Military Region during the second Sino-Japanese War.

3. Assembly: Based on a novel “Guan Si” the movie is a realistic portrayal of Chinese Civil War. The plot is based on a real account of a veteran army captain upholding his company honor.

Chinese movies allure audience at film festivals. Watch these three till we come up with more.

Written By: Sujoy Ghosh

Preeti blames Madhur Bhandarkar for Rape | Eyes Read it

Madhur Bhandarkar has always shown us ugly sides of many faces of society... alas, he might be one of those ugly faces. Starlet Preeti Jain, has accused him for using her physically in the promise giving her work. We have all heard stories of casting couch in cinema world but from Madhur Bhandarkar, maker of Page 3!! Ironical indeed.

Madhur, if he is guilty of the same, must be punished. More so by the audience, whom he always emotionally manipulates in each of his films, of Women protagonist being cheated in a man's world. He is as bad as any and all of his negative characters.

But is Ms. Preety, not to blame? Well, according to her statement she was 'used' not once or twice but sixteen times between 1999 and 2004. She very well knew what she was into... what if she had got work she compromised for? Would she have kept quiet? Sure, 5 years of silence says so.

Either ways, if it did happen, it is an ugly blow  to Bollywood. Both parties are to blame, Madhur Bhandarkar more so. It is a point thinking over....

We will be on guard till next time...

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Star Movies award for TheReelMag.com

Hello folks!

GREAT NEWS !! Well here is a good news for all of the readers of TheReelMag, we have just received mail from Indiblogger.in that our article on Indiana Jones has won 2nd prize all over India in STAR NEWS-Indiblogger.in Indiana Jones contest for this article.-> http://www.thereelmag.in/2009/10/george-lucas-steven-spielberg-statesmen.html

The mail read "We're happy to let you know that you are one of three winners for the Star Movies Indian Jones Challenge on IndiVine. A hearty congratulations from the IndiBlogger team and Star Movies India. :-)"

We are on cloud nine, for this recognition. Thank You Indiblogger and STAR MOVIES INDIA for this prize and motivation.( we're all smiles the whole team of TheReelMag. Infact we'll do our next editorial exclusively for this win of ours in 16th November issue. :-) )

Regards,

Ali Naqvi,

Co-Editor -> www.thereelmag.in

The 14th edition

This is It- Micheal Jackson

25th June 2009, the day considered as one of the worst day in the history of music...reason??...the day brought to us the news of the death of the legendary "MICHAEL JACKSON". He died after he suffered cardiac arrest at his home in Holmby Hills, Los Angeles. He was treated by paramedics at his home, but was declared dead at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center.

He was scheduled to perform the spectacular -'This Is It'- concert tour to over one million people at London's O2 arena, from July 13, 2009 to March 6, 2010. The "50 show This Is It concert tour" would have been Jackson's first major performances and series of concerts since the HIStory World Tour that began in 1996 and finished in 1997. It was supposed to be a comeback tour for Jackson, but due to his untimely demise, the concert was canceled. However, his interviews, rehearsals and all the backstage footage was documented and it's movie version was released this Wednesday(28th October) throughout the world,by SONY pictures, with a limited two week run.The movie is directed by KENNY ORTEGA.

It doesn't matter if you are a movie buff or not, but you must have witnessed the karizma of Michael Jackson. His style of dancing was a cult ( everyone has atleast once tried doing the moonwalk! ), & so was his music. He was in fact one of the best artist & performer this world has witnessed, & his last creation "this is it" is out now. So don't miss it !

The soundtrack of the movie was also released on 26th october 2009. It is a two cd collector's edition including a lot of stuff for his fans. CD1 consists of all his chartbusters that he was supposed to perform in the concert, in the same order as the concert. It ends with two different versions of his latest track - 'This Is It', which is an awesome track. It once again highlights the brilliance of the artist. The second disc features "previously unreleased versions" from Jackson's 'catalogue of hits' and includes a spoken word poem entitled "Planet Earth" (which orginally appeared in the liner notes of the Dangerous album).

This movie basically makes us realize what we have missed and what all we will always miss. Its not just about this concert but we all know the depth of the loss that we have suffered due to his death.His albums were not released every now & then but he was always remembered, just because of the quality of work he had delivered & the standards that he had established. No doubt this genius will always live in our hearts, as the "KING OF POP".

Written By Rishabh Shukla

HOW I GOT RAVE REVIEWS FOR MY 0$ VIDEO

There are numerous constraints while woring with a short movie: 1: Budget 2: Camera 3: Location etc. etc.

But I received rave reviews and applause for a simple video I made from images of a tour. I presented a story by slideshow and added some mobile music and narration. For rest Movie maker was there. And guess my investment- ZERO!! So, if you can tell a story; visit Between Breaths...

Love Akshay Chandra

Some Sweet Testimonials | Editor’s Pen

I usually get good comments and that really makes me happy. Some say that the blog is good, some say your ezine is really informative; frankly speaking, some dismiss me outright. But here, I would like to quote what a reader said in a comment- “I have been reading your blog since May when I first came across it………. I never read their articles to totality and never never miss yours.” Thanks Abhinav. True appreciation means more than volumes of praise without gravity. Next; Aladin is alive now. My third movie- Just Kidding. Its nice to share the complete name with the director of the movie. I loved Jhankar Beats and didn’t hate Home Delivery. And am loving Aladin. I hope that the flick grabs a good market. Yeah… you suggestions for Blue Notebook are still awaited. Love Sujoy Ghosh

Hamraaz Movie Review (older film, 1967 one) | Critique

We have all had felt some point in time in the past, “Dude, past Hindi thriller flicks have been pretty ordinary’?? Think again. Case in point being, 1967 flick Hamraaz starring Sunil Dutt, Raj Kumar aka Jaani and once-a-starlet Vimi.

The plot follows, superstar Kumar( Sunil Dutt) meets Meena (Vimi), and marries her. Few years of blissful marriage pass, but then Meena suddenly starts acting suspicious and nervous. Kumar investigates, but Meena gets murdered soon. What follows is a tight thriller from that point on.

Watch it through, and you’ll be surprised how well the film has been put together. Plot, Characters, lighting all are wonderfully done. Both cinematography and direction are top notch. Film moves through different genres, a-bollywood-romantic, a-murder-mystery, police-chasing-the-innocent, and it succeeds at all genres. Sunil Dutt looks his best in the movie and fits the part as a superstar. Raj Kumar has a smaller role but is spot on. Frankly, I didn’t know who directed it but little research (read Google) showed it to be BR Chopra film, and it is evident why he is considered as the finest directors in India

Lest I forget I need to mention its superb songs like “Tum agar saath dene ka waada karo” and “Neele gagan ke talle”.

Watch out for the scene in which Dutt sahib is performing at a stage play(which is set in colonial times), and unwittingly strangulates his co actress as he is disturbed by thoughts of his wife unfaithfulness. Also look out for kid Sarika (mother of new actress Shruti Hasan).

Hamraaz is in my list of top 20 Hindi suspense thrillers, right up there with my other favorite ‘Teesri Manzil’.

Rating– 3.5 stars.

Verdict- if you ever get your hands on a DVD or on TV do give it a chance, you’ll love it! A Must Watch.

Written By: Ali Naqvi

Korean "ACTION" Thrillers | Under Lens

The major reason Korean cinema attracts me is because of their style of making movies. They are very stylish & have a completely different way of showing things. This week, let’s focus on the thriller ones. Bringing into spotlight, I recommend you the following movies -

1. OLDBOY (2003) Have you watched 'Zinda'...did you like it? The treatment of the movie script, the action sequences...if yes, then please do watch this one to realize how bad a copy zinda was. The story is about a guy who is been kidnapped suddenly one night and is then kept in a secluded room with only a television. He however manages to escape & then hunts for people responsible for his condition, in the process discovering the reason & the main person behind everything. The movie is an awesome thriller & managed to keep me well engulfed even though I knew the story (to some extent although). It has a very bold concept (might be offensive for some), but all praises to the makers for presenting it in such a refined manner. It is based on manga tales & has been remade many times. The latest remake is by Steven Spielberg, starring Will Smith!

2. MEMORIES OF A MURDER (2003) Now this one is based on a true incident, & this one fact makes this movie really outstanding. This is one thriller in which I desperately wanted the hunt to continue on & on. The story deals with two detectives hunting for a serial killer but with no intentions to catch him, just doing duty, until they are accompanied by a special detective from another district,& then the series of events following them. The characters are fabulous and they very beautifully show the condition of Korea at that time. Another remarkable thing about this movie is its end, which I can't disclose so that you enjoy it the most! Korean movies are somewhat similar to bollywood in the sense that they show the existing political & judicial systems along with their weaknesses.

3. SHIRI (1999) This one is supposedly the first Korean 'hollywood-style' action thriller. The basic plot is that North Korea's 8th Special Forces hijacks a shipment of CTX, a potent new liquid explosive, and threatens South Korea as part of a plot to re-unify the two countries. Two special agents of South Korea's secret intelligence service Ryu and Lee, attempt to track down the terrorists and find the CTX. In parallel, Hee, the 8th's ultra-bad female sniper, creates disaster and haunts Ryu. The movie is tremendously stylish; however it loses grades in special effects at some places. It is supposedly the highest grosser in Korean film industry. After watching it, you may not consider it as one of the best movies you have seen, due to its weak script & characterization; however, it has all records in its favor.

Written By: Rishabh Shukla

Unveiling “Blue Notebook”

Blue Notebook is an expression that comes from two vague thoughts- ‘Blue’ signifying the vastness of sky and ‘Notebook’ signifying the zeal to work hard and achieve something in life. TheReelMag concatenated the thoughts and read it as ‘zeal to study the best of cinema’- our notion from day one.

But question remains- what “Blue Notebook” is in material? Blue Notebook is an annual celebration of Indian Hindi Cinema. The panelists will rate the movies on different parameter and the best will be recognized as Blue Notebook Note…

The event will be celebrated in the month of January. So, be prepared. Note that, suggestion will be incorporated because for us our readers are most valuable assets.

Blue Movie Review | Critique

One of the most awaited films BLUE has finally arrived in the cinema halls, making millions on the very first day. Lets look at whether it is a worthy watch.

Sanjay Dutt plays the role of Sagar, the fisheries businessman; Lara Dutta plays Mona, Sanjay’s girlfriend. Zayed plays younger brother of Sanjay. Akshay Kumar is the rich friend of the Sanjay. Akshay tries to convenience Sanjay Dutt to get to that ship as only he knows the clear location of the ship.

The biking scenes and the biker chase sequence filmed over Zayed are the coolest sequences of the film, but again the main USP of the film remains its under water scenes, for this the film must be given credit. Akshay merely acts as the narrator of the film. Lara Dutta is just the pretty doll in the film, adding glamour to the film and she succeeds in doing so.

Opening scene of the film is quite good. The film shows some of the finest under water photography in the Bollywood. The bike stunts, chase sequences are very good. The dialogues like “Duniya ka sabse bada nasha hai risk” add a little punch to the film. The overall film is quite good but the end is very simple, may be because of the budget or director has lost its grip over the film. The story is about the lost treasure of the ship “Lady Blue”. Lara Dutta has nothing to do in the film, except the skin show. The music of A.R. Rehman is ok. Kiley Minogue adds an international taste to the film.

Verdict - Blue can be watched once.
Why to watch: under water photography, biking stunts, Lara Dutta. ;)
Why not to watch: bad ending and waste of Akshay Kumar.

Written By Hemant Mishra.

Proof | Critique

Are you known by your father’s name in your locale than your own name? An individual! Or do you feel burdened by the legacy of your clan? Some movies beautifully explain the trauma of being a child with a bigger surname. Proof is one of them. The 2005 release, Proof is a drama of semi-thriller genre overshadowed by some exceptional performances by Gwyneth Paltrow and Anthony Hopkins, Directed by John Madden, scripted by Rebecca Miller based on David Auburn’s Pulitzer Prize winning play. Catherine (Paltrow) is a student of mathematics and daughter of exceptionally talented and worldwide recognized mathematician Robert, played by Anthony Hopkins. He is suffering from severe mental illness and dies. One day, she shows a notebook to her boy friend (also her father’s sincere student) Harold. It claims to contain proof of an important theorem and she claims it to be her work. Harold does not believe her as everything from the quality of work to her mediocre academic record, Robert’s success and fame to the cover of the notebook; speaks against her. They suggest her claims to be too tall to be believed. Meanwhile, Catherine’s sister, Claire arrives and supports the doubt. Question? Is Catherine lying? May be she is suffering from mental sickness inherited from her father. Paltrow, Hopkins and Hope Davis (Claire) are the highlights of the movie. Watch it, its worth it.

Written By: Sujoy Ghosh