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A Beautiful Mind (2001)
A Beautiful Mind is indeed beautiful
Ron Howard's A Beautiful Mind is complex yet touching wonderful story about a Mathematics genius John Nash who suffered paranoid schizophrenia. The film covers a lifetime of a man, his ambitions, his pain, his struggles and his discoveries. And the person who took the center stage is brilliant Russell Crowe. However, it is not safe to say that the film is flawless – particularly the direction - Howard's direction is focuses and tight in first two acts. But in third act, when the Nash gets old, the film goes like a conventional tear-jerker Hollywood schmaltz. Based on the book, the screenplay is very well written by Akiva Goldsman. The film does not entirely follows Dr. Nash's life and times, and did took some creative liberties showcasing his life. Also, I wanted to see a bit more of Nash's work – the film barely touches that.
Cinematographer Roger Deakins and composer James Horner contributed amazingly to the film. Editing in between the middle is slightly slow in pace, but I am nit-picking here. The man of the show is Russell Crowe. He brings great sense of humanity and emotions to his portrayal of John Nash. His body language, his dialog delivery is so effortless that you really think that he is John Nash. Jennifer Connelly also did a great job portraying Nash's loving wife. She was pitch perfect in many scenes, and perhaps her role itself defines the word 'Supporting'.
A Beautiful Mind is a well made film with wonderful performances. Although flawed, it is a film that will be remembered for Russell Crowe's beautiful performance. The film is a must watch, but it is certainly not a masterpiece.
8/10
No Country for Old Men (2007)
The film is outstanding, unfortunately in parts
No Country for Old Men is what I call a film with great potential. The potential of being a masterpiece, potential of reaching same heights of "Fargo" or "Blood Simple". But by the third and final act, the film loses its narrative arc and it resolves into just a good film.
The first, second and third acts of the films are truly gripping - genuinely thrilling. Every muscle on the faces of all the actors moves exactly the way it should, following the directors' vision; the actors' enunciation is 100% perfect, and the dialogs, frequently minimalistic, are flawless. But by the last act, the graph drastically falls, characters don't get their proper send off and the film basically ends without any conclusion.
The film is fueled with damn good performance by Javier Bardem, stunning photography by Roger Deakins and some great sound design which compensated for music score. Bardem is eerie, creepy and down-right chilling as Anton Chirugh, a ruthless psychopathic serial killer. His stone cold expressions are imported straight from hell. Bardem's Chirugh is one of the best on screen villainy I have seen. Josh Brolin is decent enough, Tommy Lee Jones is just there. Bardem outshines each and every cast member and steels the film.
Roger Deakins' (who unfortunately again didn't won Oscar) work is marvelous. The bleak, deserted region of South Texas is wonderfully framed and composed. Deakins played with shadow and light so well in jaw dropping sequence of Motel confrontation, that alone deserved an Oscar.
The film could have been so much more - only if the screenwriters/directors Coen Brothers could've made the ending of the film a little bit more cohesive. The biggest folly made by the directors was the off-screen death of Moss. In the end, the whole film resolved into nothing and you are left disappointed.
7/10
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2 (2011)
It all ends...
...and ends with a bang. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 is a near-perfect movie, with jaw-dropping visual effects, spectacular acting showcase by veteran British actors, grand production design and an emotional end.
The film starts out where the Part One ended - Voldemort now possess the Elder's Wand, Harry and his company set out for a mission to destroy all the remaining horcruxes. The first outstanding set piece in the film is the breakout at the Gringott's Bank and a bumpy ride on a enormous Dragon (very, very well made CGI).
The film will make most of the fans happy and a wee bit emotional as well. The film has certainly the most critically acclaimed film of the year, and sure the film will break many box office records.
Daniel Radcliffe is pretty decent as Harry (as always), Hermione and Ron don't have much to do except for supporting Harry. But the Ralph Fiennes and Alan Rickman stole the show - Ralph's vulnerable Voldemort is highly affecting - specially his hisses and heavy dialogs - are perfectly delivered. Rickman, although with even a with a screen time of some 10-15 minutes, gives a performance of his career. Among the others, Maggie Smith is awesome as McGonagall, Julie Walters finally gets a kick ass moment and Helena Bonham Carter, is just outstanding in the early scene where she plays Hermione.
The film is not flawless - specially after King's Cross scene onwards, the film feels a little rushed. The whole Elder Wand theory is not properly explained. And the final showdown feels a but anti-climatic.
But still, it is one of those rare films in which you have to over look the flaws - after all it is the end of a generation. Director David Yates, screenwriter Steve Kloves, production designer Stuart Craig, cinematographer Eduardo Serra, composer Alexandre Desplat and hundreds of other technicians gave the fans most fitting finale.
3D is a bit dim (as always), but not very bad. Still, there are some standout scenes in 3D - watch it in both 3D and 2D if you can.
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 marks the end of an amazing era. I wished Jo wrote another novel.
10/10
Gladiator (2000)
Are you not entertained?
If you're not, then watch this film. After quite a long time, I have seen a film which is near-perfect. Outstanding story, outstanding acting, direction, music, production design, cinematography, editing and what not.
The film is a fictionalized account of life of a Roman General Maximus, whose family is murdered (crucified), he himself is ordered to be hanged, all thanks to evil emperor Commodus. However, the destiny had other plans, he is turned into slave, into gladiator and ultimately he is fated to avenge his family.
Probably Ridley Scott's best film, his magnificent vision of ancient Rome and focused direction is something to be applauded. His way of story telling has unique style to it. He got almost all things right - ranging from costumes to acting, sets to cinematography.
While film's story sounds like some classical Shakespeare tragedy, David Franzoni, John Logan and William Nicholson manage to give the script a cinematic edge. Although the film suffers some schmaltzy dialogs here and there, but it is engaging enough to keep the viewer on the edge of the seat.
The film's sheer USP is the lead actors - Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix. Viewers feel the vengeance and sorrow of Maximus. Crowe's portrayal of Maximus is very humanly. Crowe manages to show the most complicated complex emotions in a very effortless way. But for me, Joaquin Phoenix took the cake away for his Commodus - he is as evil as a Satan but the same time, we all feel for him. Sometimes he behaves as if he is a sociopath, but again, he behaves as if he is not loved. Phoenix's pure acting talent will leave you spellbound.
Apart from above, the film features amazing score by Hans Zimmer. The tracks "Wheat" and "Progeny" are completely haunting and they echo to your ears even after the film is over. The film features beautiful photography by John Mathieson, which is, of course, is highly color graded, but still, gorgeous none-the-less. Production Design by Arthur Max is breath-taking - you are really immersed into the 180 AD Rome.
Another thing worth mentioning is the visual effects used in the film - the complete re-creation of the time-period, the digital reconstruction of Colosseum and of course the CGI tigers - are all outstanding, and it is very well justified why the film won Oscar for Visual Effects.
In the end, Gladiator is highly entertaining, and at times, tear jerking film which is extremely well-made, fueled with great acting of Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix. Do not miss it.
8.5/10 (rounded off to 9)
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (2010)
The Voyage of the Dawn Treader - An Average Affair
The Chronicles of Narnia film series, after the first great installment, has tumbled. Disney backed out after the failure of Prince Caspian at the box-office, while Fox is backing up the series. Trying to regain its strength back, the new film in the series, Voyage of the Dawn Treader is plain average.
With some good first 10 minutes, Voyage of the Dawn treader spends lot of time in monotonous search of "seven swords". The middle of the film is very slow paced, with some very boring CG spectacles. The film gains its momentum near the last 30 minutes or so, with a good action sequence with a sea-serpent. Apart from pacing problems, the film suffers from "uninteresting" script. The film suffers from lack of suspense or mystery and dull dialogs.
Michael Apted, however, tried his level best to lift off the film with some few nice touches here and there. The best thing happened to the film is Will Poulter who played Eustace brilliantly as nasty and self-centered kid. The CGI character Reepicheep is also a delight to watch.
The CGI of the film looked unfinished, especially the Dragon Eustace, which felt very "plastic". May be this is due to slashing of budget by the studio, but still, we have examples of "District 9", bad CGI is obviously intolerable.
The film won't win any new fans, nor it will please any other audience except its target. Filled with Christian analogues and uninspiring 3D spectacles, Voyage of the Dawn Treader disappoints a bit, but it is still a big leap from Prince Caspian. 6/10
El laberinto del fauno (2006)
A beautiful film but unnecessarily violent
PAN'S LABYRINTH is probably a film which does not exactly fits into a fantasy genre. Perhaps it is a more kind of a parallel between the reality and fantasy, and thats what makes it one of a kind film.
Hats off to the director/writer Guillermo del Toro for a very different writing. The plot is something which is not seen before. The screenplay of the film is very beautifully crafted and very well written. The characterization of different characters in the film is also very detailed and deep.
The story basically follows a young girl named Ofelia who lives in the fascist regime of Spain. Ofelia is fascinated by fairy tales, and perhaps lives in her own fantasy world and very far from reality. She and her mother move to the house of her new step-father, ruthless sadistic Spanish Captain Vidal. After that she is taken to a labyrinth by a creature who is known as a fairy, and Ofelia meets a faun who told her that she is a princess of an underground realm, and to reach that world she needs to perform three dangerous tasks to prove her purity. I won't go into further details, but the film is just not what mentioned above. It is something much more metaphorical and symbolic.
In terms of acting, young Ivana Baquero is unmatched. She has done an excellent job playing a lonely child lost in fairy tales. Apart from Ivana Baquero, Sergi Lopez has also done a great job in portraying sadistic Captain Vidal. His expressions are merciless and fierce. All the other cast, honorable mention of Maribel Verdú (as Mercides) and Doug Jones (as Faun), are just great.
The film has top notch production values - breath-taking cinematography by Guillermo Navarro, beautiful sets by Eugenio Caballero and lingering music of Javier Navarette. Guillermo Del Toro's direction is very mature as well.
Only one thing that bugs me about the film is that the film is gratuitously violence and bloody. I don't know why, but the same thing could've shown in PG-13 levels. The violence in the film makes the film too 'uncinematic'. The film is also pretty misleading as a children fantasy, in fact it is very graphically violent. Also, the film goes a pretty too mechanical near the end, and the climax of the film could have been more emotional.
Apart from these two things, the film is very good in all sections of film-making. It is a very sad tale as well, and leaves you pretty disturbed. Definitely a must watch, but with a caution of graphic violence.
8.0/10
Brokeback Mountain (2005)
Touching and beautiful
Brokeback Moutain is a very brave attempt to showcase the whole life of a gay couple, their dilemmas and stereotypes and homophobia of the society towards them. Ang Lee has created something very unique and simplistic romantic film.
Script writers Larry McMurtry and Diana Ossana have achieved a remarkable adaptation of Annie Proulx's short story. The dialogs are very well written and the characterization is just outstanding. The story follows two life and times of two cowboys - Ennis (played by Heath Ledger) and Jack (played by Jake Gyllenhaal) who have their own children and wives but they love each other. This unusual bond between them forms the crux of the story. Over the time, they maintain their secret relationship from the world.
Kudos for both of the Lead Actors - Heath Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal really appear is if they are in love with each other. They have wonderfully done justice to their characters. The bittersweet romance between both of the lead actors is a delight to watch. Performance of Michelle Williams - who played Ennis' wife is also amazing. Her portrayal of a woman who knows his husband is a gay and her ultimate decision is very beautifully played by Michelle.
The film is beautifully shot. Rodrigo Prieto's cinematography is very flamboyant. Filmed in eye captivating locations in Canada, the wide shots of beautiful mountains and landscapes are breathtaking. Music by Gustavo Santaolalla is pretty much minimalistic - just a guitar playing throughout the movie but it is very melodious and lovely to hear and it worked like a charm in the film. Ang Lee's direction, as mentioned above is very clear cut and he is on the focus throughout the movie.
In the end, the film will be a remarkable landmark in history of American cinema. It will probably change the view of some people - The film is not for just gays, perhaps it is for every person who believes in equal rights for everyone. And of course if you want to see something unusual, but yet very touching romantic film - Brokeback Mountain is for you.
8.5/10
Children of Men (2006)
Disquieting, moving and beautiful
Children of Men is one of the most innovative dystopian book of modern times. It is beautifully written, with a wonderful concept. It really enlightens us with one of the terrible nightmares of mankind - infertility. And its adaption falls no short.
Wonderfully written, directed and conceived by Alfonso Cauron, the film displays 2027 as a complete chaos - Several governments of different countries collapsing, refugees from different countries seeking safe shelters in Britain, and British Government, trying to clean off the fugees like pests. Declared as police state, England has become a place of civil assaults, uncontrolled oppositions and several fugee groups like 'Fishes'. And our hero, Theo gets unexpectedly involved in a voyage - a voyage to safely send world's only newborn and her mother to off coasts of the Britain.
Clive Owen does a great job as Theo. Perhaps the film in fact is made for him. Other actors like Michael Caine have a very memorable performances. Julliana Moore had a very short role, but she was good.
The film depicts very realistic images of civil wars. It is very moving as well, and full of intense sequences. Alfonso Cauron does an exceptionally great job in pulling off all these 'war' scenes, they are very very authentic. Cauron's whole presentation of the film works like a charm. And yes, this time too he used wide angle lenses.
One thing for which this film will be reminded is its very innovative cinematography by Emmanuel Lubezki. The film had a very 'documentary style' feeling to it. There were long takes, perhaps very long and several scenes were shot with hand helds, very effectively. And one thing more to mention - the film was mostly shot in natural lighting. The whole atmosphere created by Lubezki is just short of words.
'Children of Men' is definitely Caurons best work to date. He really is one of the best foreign directors that Hollywood has.
Memoirs of a Geisha (2005)
Beautiful, but hallow
Memoirs of a Geisha is a film which will be remembered for its top notch production values. Awesome cinematography by Dion Beebe, mystical music by John Williams, Colleen Atwood's stunning oriental costumes and beautiful production design and sets by John Myhre. But alas, the story itself is very bland and the film resolves into nothing.
Rob Marshall is known for its pretty films - generally with beautiful music and rememberable cinematography. His previous film, Chicago swept major Oscars at its time, but for Geisha, we can't expect anything but technical awards.
A major thing that people complain about is the film's Chinese cast, playing Japanese characters. However, the nationality does not matters if the actors are good enough. Ben Kingsley played Mahatma Gandhi, and no one complained because the acting was marvelous. But in Geisha, all the actors performed somewhat average, and no one really did anything great in terms of acting. However, Li Gong did fairly well out of the others. Ziyi Zhang was plain average, and Michelle Yeoh provided the necessary 'geisha' grace in the film which other female leads lacked.
The very heartbreaking thing is that the screenwriter Robin Swicord did not properly researched about the Japanese traditions and Geishas in particular. As Roger Ebert said, "The more you know about Japan, the less you like the Memoirs of the Geisha". His characterization is very weak and the bond between Sayuri and the Chairman never becomes compelling. There was no chemistry between the both lead actors, Ken Watanabe and Ziyi Zhang hardly had any strong scenes together. Rob Marshall himself looked as if he is very busy in showing the beautiful locations and camera work by Dion Beebe properly and he hardly cared about the character development.
Never the less, the film is not the worst film by an American on Japanese culture. But it is not great either. The film is decent, and by its end, it feels that you saw a beautiful film, but not a great film. And yes, the film is very very stunning, the shining Kimonos, lovely Japenese gardens and beautiful women dancing in vivid lighting done by Dion Beebe, Cello and Violin solos by Yo Yo Ma and Izthak Pearlman, respectively, under the composition of John Williams are all very unforgettable. In short the film is beautiful, but hallow.
The Prestige (2006)
Are you watching closely?
The Prestige, is yet another example of how talented is Christopher Nolan is at screen writing and film presentation. He has this thing of creating the illusion in the audience's mind and finally tricking or fooling them in the end. The film itself, is a trick, and it is up to the audience that whether they get themselves fooled or they find the reason behind it.
As the novel, the film revolves around the obsessive rivalry between two fellow Magicians, Angier and Borden. They do a lot of hard work in cheating each other, defeating each other, and in the end -- None of them wins, exactly.
The film is presented in different threads of story lines, which are interwoven together and near the end, these threads, produce the real picture, the reality. Outstanding work has been done for the film by both Nolan brothers for writing such a complex yet sophisticated adaptation of the novel. The film's plot joins the list of twisted ending films like the Sixth Sense.
Production values are marvelous in the film. Cinematographer, Wally Pfister gets each and every shot perfectly pictured. The lighting, the colors are magnificent and they complement to the film's dark tone. It is, Wally Pfister's best work, so far. He really brings the chimera of the film through his camera. Editor Lee Smith, again, does a great job, perfectly pacing the film and getting the right scenes at right places. Production Designer Nathan Crowley's set are outstanding, the era of Victorian London of early 1900's is beautifully created by his team. However, music by David Julyan is underplayed or perhaps his score itself is bland, as compared to such an amazing film.
This film is not Christopher Nolan's best, but yet it is very good, and will keep you on the edge of the seat until the secrets are revealed. Not to be missed. 8/10
Inception (2010)
Twisted tale of subconscious mind
Inception is probably one of the most complex, yet one of the best science fiction motion picture. Chirstopher Nolan's forte is science fiction, mind bending thrillers, but without any doubt this picture is on the top of his stack.
Kudos to Nolan for his tight intelligent script, with great emotional impact as well. If you see this film for first time, you will observe a clean storyline with a 'happy ending'. But after repeated viewings, the whole 'idea' of the film will come forward to you.
I can see numerous of people having different theories about the end of the film - whether it was a dream or reality. But Nolan simplifies it, and you hear this line in the film 'The dream has become their reality'. That's it. I won't go on discussing probable endings for the film, but the film is simply what you think it is. And that is the beauty of the screenplay.
The film has some great show of Leonardo's acting skills. The top notch acting from the supporting cast makes the film more special. And the details that Nolan has thrown to us is just outstanding. He has created the whole 'science' of dreaming, and different terms -- Nolan has become a scientist! Another commendable, in fact great job is done by production designer Guy Dyas and man behind the camera Wally Pfister. The atmosphere of the 3 layered dream with a limbo is amazingly put forth towards the audience. Lee Smith, the editor of the film, must have scratched his head for a long period of time for getting this multifaceted dream scape film in right pacing. And he hits the hammer right on the nail perfectly.
One thing worth mentioning his how Hans Zimmer got the whole score persuasively right. The whole blend of Edith Piaf's 'Non, Je ne regrette rien' in the score is fascinatingly beautiful. And the fact that the song does have a great significance the film as well makes this film more extraordinary. And the score has one of the best use of brass I've seen in recent times.
I will quote from another IMDb reviewer who wrote, "In a Decade, Inception May Be A Religion". The film will probably attain an epochal position in the history of motion pictures. Undoubtely, Inception is not a film to be missed in theaters, and only bad thing about his film is that it requires very, very careful watch, otherwise, as Eames said, it will make your brains turn to scrambled egg.
Don't miss this film. It will blow your mind away. An idea will be incepted upon you. Definitely. And what is that idea? - The film is brilliant.
The Twilight Saga: Eclipse (2010)
It is a reoccurring problem...
THE FIRST shot of the Eclipse movie is overwhelming. It is dark, violent and perfectly blending with Howard Shore's score. But just after that, the graph falls down, and near the end, your thoughts for the film are as same as other two Twilight films - Bland and boring.
New director David Slade tries too hard to improve the film. He does succeeds in some parts, but the disastrous script of the disaster book never improves. Maybe the screenwriter, Melissa Rosenberg is to be blamed as she is too faithful to the book. The story of the film is the same - Edward wants Bella not to turn into Vampire and constantly telling her cons of becoming a vampire, Jacob insisting Bella to choose him as he is much more human than Edward apart from showing his six packs and Bella, this time, being confused about choosing Edward or Jacob.
The film has prolonged dull and boring dialogs and most of the characters spend most of their time talking, wandering in the forests and kissing.
For sake of story, the film has a one, pretty much about Victoria and her new-born Army of Vampires, which hunt down Bella to avenge her boyfriend. The whole of army and Victoria appear near the end, and gets defeated within five minutes. Then again, talking continues until the final minute of the film.
The reoccurring problem in Twilight series is its weak storyline, and shallow and irritating characters. Bella is most irritating of them. Characters of Edward and Jacob are out of this earth - they fight over a girl who has nothing special.
Anyways, the only good thing about the film is its better pacing then New Moon. New Moon was unwatchable piece of crap, but this one finds better footing. It drags, but comparatively less than its predecessor. Another good thing was decent cinematography by Javier Aguirresarobe, who made this film watchable. Much anticipated score by Howard Shore was average, and no where near his top scores. I would also like to praise David Slade, who did a lot of hard work on the film, but you really can't do anything if you have the wrong script to work with. Acting has also somewhat improved, and Kirsten Stewart is now bearable. Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner are on the same level, anyways.
First Twilight film was below average, the second one was bad and the third is exactly the same - bad. It hardly takes the story ahead, and its all about the same thing - Bella willing to become Vampire, Edward doesn't wants Bella to change into Vampire, Jacob arguing with Edward for Bella and Bella telling both of them to stop fighting over her. Hopefully some one tells Summit to either stop, or write good scripts with a lots of changes from the book. Otherwise, the problem will persist for other two parts and the whole saga will be eclipsed forever.
Toy Story (1995)
An amazing family film
Toy Story is a timeless classic. Probably the most genuine, innocent, simplistic yet powerful attempt to create a children film which appeals both adults and kids alike.
It is the story of how two rival 'living' toys - a old western cowboy toy (Woody) and action figure of a space commander (Buzz Lightyear) become best friends under some dangerous circumstances. There are bunch of numerals toys like Mr. Potato, a Barbie, a magnifying toy, a truck, alien toys and many more.
The film is crafted so well that within some few minutes of the film, you are intrigued to it. It is a fascinating film, with amazing characterization. The toys are so believable that you feel close to them. You feel cherished when Allan and his company make a spoiled brat kid Sid (who loves blowing up toys) realize how important is to save toys which bring back the memories of childhood.
I must say the script is effortless and very well written. Music by Randy Newman is also great. One striking thing in this film are its sound effects and CGI which are considered ground-breaking for a 1995 film.
Overall, the film is highly recommended. Not only for children, but for everyone who love cherishing the childhood memories - the lovely Toys.
The Midnight Meat Train (2008)
Weird Plot, Odd Execution, Worst the Ending
Midnight Meat Train is another gory, full of flesh and bone horror film, with a WTF ending. The film itself is full of horror clichés, with a bunch load of cheese. But then again, it makes you sit through 100 minutes.
The film starts off unexpectedly well. Through its 30 minutes or so it engages you. Leon is underdog NY photographer, who has a passion to click realistic pictures of the city. He gets into intriguing mystery of a butcher who allegedly kills and butchers humans (Old Cliché) in midnight subway trains. Throughout the whole movie, he, along with her girlfriend Maya, try to solve the mystery and by the end, it turns out the butcher actually feeds a monster like looking creatures, (wtf?) who actually are the rulers of NYC and must need meat (or more precisely, human meat) so that they don't come out above the surface of the city. How clichéd and cheesy is that.
In the climax, the showdown between Leon and Butcher along with Leon's girlfriend, Leon kills Butcher. Her girlfriend also gets killed. And the ice on the toppings is that by killing the butcher, Leon himself takes the job of killing new passengers in the subway and he even consumes (i.e. eats) her own girlfriend. Now that is something completely in-digestive.
But still though, apart from this horrible plot, the film is shot pretty well. Camera angles, and the eerie atmosphere works out great. However, the music was somewhat lacking.
Overall, The Midnight Meat Train is too abnormal like dozens of other gory horror films. It fails to give you any genuine horror, it is based all on the blood and butchering of human bodies. I wish the screenwriter changed the ending of the film, because that was the worst part of it. But still, it is a fine 100 minutes time-pass. 6/10
Girl with a Pearl Earring (2003)
Cinematography, Music, Scarlett Johansson and nothing else
First film by Peter Webber, has its own goods and bad in an ironic way. 'Girl with a Pearl Earring' is a pretty boring affair in a broader view. It starts off slowly, keeps the audience wondering 'Where is the Story?' in the middle, and ends without any conclusion. Much to be blamed is the screenwriter Olivia Hetreed, who has written a rather bland and weak screenplay.
However, you cannot take your eyes off of the film, even though the film is dragging at tortoise's speed. Eduardo Serra with his lovely color tones and extra-ordinary lighting has really made this snooze-fest look like a moving painting. It complements to Alexandre Desplat's mesmerizing motifs and themes.
Johansson has shown some great acting skills in the film. She hardly delivered any 'winning' dialogue but yet her subtle and soft expressions captures the soul of Griet pretty effectively. Furthermore, she looks like a true beauty in this film. Rest of the cast, most noticeably Colin Firth did a decent job.
On technical side, apart from music and cinematography, sets and art direction for this film is commendable. The film, on a visual note, captures the 16th century Holland beautifully.
Overall, the film is something which can be remembered for cinematography, but it definitely lacks a strong story. Most of the people will find it boring.
6/10
The Twilight Saga: New Moon (2009)
Better then Twilight, but nonetheless bad
After watching 2008 adaptation of the first part of Twilight series, I hardly had any expectations from this film. This film has several new entries in the series - director Chris Weitz, cinematographer Javier Aguirresarobe, music maestro Alexandre Desplat and notable production designer David Brisbin. But alas, these people were not able to improve the bizarre story of the franchise.
New Moon, starts off with Bella's dream of herself being old, and Edward being young. She is worried that she will lose her beauty, and Edward, being a vampire will remain young forever. Anyway, I won't go further into the story as it is really very dumb and uninteresting.
The film is full of cheesy dialogues, cringe-worthy scenes and over the top acting. Kristen Stewart can't act. Robert Pattinson's acting is as cold as vampire blood. Taylor Lautner is just present in this film to show his six-pack abs. Actors like Michael Sheen were like sunshine in the storm.
Melissa Rosenberg's script is pretty weak. It leads to nowhere. The film itself ends without any conclusion. The new moon ends without turning into full moon.
Only good thing about the film is better cinematography than the previous one. Alexandre Desplat music is too good to be in this film. Visual Effects were better than Twilight, but again, they were never 'very good'.
Overall I think New Moon will be enjoyed by its target audience. Other than that, I think it will fail to impress other range of audiences. It is a film full of clichés, horrible acting and terrible screenplay.
5/10
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2009)
Beautiful, Funny, Dramatic and Dark... a complete film
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince is the sixth film in the Harry Potter series. It was delayed for almost eight months, and finally it is out.
I'm writing this review in points. First of all let us see what are bad points -
1. Not enough emphasis on the potions book Unfortunately this film does not put any emphasis on the potions book. There are only a few instances where potion book is present.
2. No explanation of 'Half-Blood Prince' and HORCRUXES The film's title is Half-Blood Prince. When we come to know that Snape is the Half-Blood Prince, it is not explained why he is called Half-Blood Prince. There is also no mention of what things are chosen as HORCRUXES, neither the film puts any focus on them until the climax. It feels all of a sudden when Dumbledore and Harry go to hunt the HORCRUX.
Now, the following things are not really very bad ones, but they could have been better.
3. Addition of the Burrow Attack Several extra scenes were added in this film. Some of them, in fact only the millennium bridge attack in the start made sense. The attack on Burrow was pointless, random and without any result.
4. Focus on Romance However, it is not exactly a bad thing, as there is a lot of romance in the film, but sometimes it does feels that romance is a bit dragged, mostly in the middle of the film.
Now the good points
1. Flawless acting by all the actors This film really is a great step up from the previous film, the Order of the Phoenix. And I will certainly say all the actors, ranging from new member of the cast, Jim Broadbent (as Horace Slughorn, perfect) to Alan Rickman (as a bad guy he rocks) and Maggie Smith {always great to see her on screen) to Helena Bonham Carter (wicked!), have done near perfect job of portraying their respective characters. But I have to say Michael Gambon stole the show. He was just a delight throughout the film. Moreover, I'm sure all the people who always complained about his portrayal of Dumbledore will shut their mouths up. Young adult actors did also a great job. Daniel Radcliffe, did a decent job of accompanying him, and his performance of Harry Potter was, as usual, very good. But most improved was Emma Watson. She's now much more calmer, much better as Hermione. Rupert Grint, yet again lived up to expectations with his great portrayal of Ron. Jess Cave, who plays Lavender Brown, was amazing as a crazy and obsessed girlfriend of Ron. Evanna as Luna Lovegood, was great as expected. All the others were fine, in their respective characters.
2. Beautiful Cinematography Can I say this film will win an Oscar? Certainly, this film is one of the finest cinematographic achievements of this year. Bruno Delbonnel, the man behind the camera, did an amazing job. His choice of color washes, steady camera movements, and unusual camera angles were just fantastic. Perfect!
3. Great sets, music and visual effects The next thing which was near perfect in this film were sets - just great and breathtaking. Stuart Craig made Hogwarts to look much more different as compared to other Harry Potter films. The Room of Requirement's make-over was simply beautiful. The sets used for Orphange, Cave, Astronomy Tower were not only true to the book, but also very dark and great piece of art. Nicholas Hooper, did a bit different this time. However, the music lacked some themes, but I must say the music blended perfectly, and some themes (for instance, Harry and Hermione and In Noctem) were just great to listen. There was not much scope of VFX this time, but they did a fantastic job, especially with the Inferi and the Cave scene.
4. Small Details However, I won't say the film was completely true to the book, but there were several small details that fans will love. Slughorn's Hourglass, writings in the Potion's book, Tom Riddle's treasure book and bunch of other details were very good. Things like Marauder's Map and Tom Riddle's dairy also made a come back. It felt very nice while watching this film due to all this stuff.
5. Atmosphere during climax Again, I don't know whether to praise Yates or not, but I just loved the atmosphere created during the climax. It was eerie, dark and just fantastic. Also, the aftermath of Dumbledore's death was very touching and sad. The wand tribute given by all the students to Dumbledore gave me tears.
Final words- Half-Blood Prince is certainly not a film which sounds complete noise - BOOM, BANG, and DASSHH! (like Transformers). But it is beautifully crafted as a film, and is a decent adaptation of the book. Some fans, as usual, will be complaining about the changes made by the film makers, and some of them will be disappointed, but the point is as a film it works. And it works so good that it touches your heart.
10/10 (One point extra for stunning cinematography)
Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na (2008)
Nice, refreshing and delightful
Aamir Khan's production Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na (JTYJN) is amazing film. It has all things that will entertain you- Comedy, Romance, Drama and a bit of action too.
Storyline of the film is no new. Story is old... a boy and a girl are best friends, but they don't want to marry each other. But after both of them got someone to love, they realize that they are in love. Several movies, like Kuch Kuch Hota Hai have a hint of this story. But hats off to Mr. Tyrewala for the refreshing and a new treatment to this over-used formula. And best thing is that the storyline has a pinch of malasa type drama. Direction is very unique, once again Abbas Tyrewala has done a superb job.
One thing must to be mentioned is Imran Khan's and Genelia D'Souza's very commendable acting. Imran acts very genuinely and Genelia is very joyful (she needs to improve her Hindi, but otherwise she superb). And all of the other actors, specially Ratna Shah Pathak, Naseerudin Shah, Paresh Rawal and Manjari Fadnis (who plays Imran or Jay's so called girlfriend) are amazing. One more thing, Arbaz Khan's and Sohail Khan's cameo is something not to be missed.
Music of A R Rahman has always been outstanding. This time, all the song's music and background score has been at top notch. Kabhi Kabhi Aditi is a must to hear track.
Minus points of the film are it is a bit tad too long. And its a bit cheesy. But again, film's new style makes very thing overshadow all the cons of the movie.
I highly recommend this film. Go and watch. You will enjoy it.
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)
A masterpiece of modern film-making
Peter Jackson's first installment of 'The Lord of the Rings' franchise is, put softly, is one of the best fantasy film adaptations ever made. It took nearly 6 years to bring the pages of Tolkien's magnum opus on the screen. Stunning, exhilarating, eye-popping and ethereal, Fellowship of the Rings is a near perfect adaptation of first novel in The Lord of the Rings series.
All three Lord of the Rings films are one of those films which have got everything right - script, acting, cinematography, costumes, sets, music and so on. It is one of the rare films which will keep you engaged till the very last shot - you cannot take your eyes off of the screen.
First of all, Director Peter Jackson should be congratulated for his grand achievement. His direction is crystal clear, focused - with a passion to showcase something epic, something masterful. After that, screenwriters Fran Walsh (PJ's wife) and Philippa Boyens should be praised for their bold and faithful adaptation. It takes huge courage to write a screenplay so detailed, with 125+ million dollars on stake. And they never disappointed.
Fellowship of the Ring features some great acting talent as well, to put shortly, English veterans like Ian McKellen, American talents like Viggo Mortensen, Elijah Wood and Sean Astin. Andy Serkis makes a tiny, but very interesting appearance as Gollum - which as you all know, is the star of The Two Towers and the Return of the King.
Cinematographer Andrew Lesnie's cinematography is mystical and grand - use of steadicams and fast moving swift war and action shots are extremely impressive and visually arresting. Grant Major's production design is marvelous and lush - very faithful to John Howe's illustrations, proving the necessary atmosphere to the film. Star of all the crew is in fact, Howard Shore, whose mysterious, epic and sweeping score buzzes you even after the film is over.
The Lord of the Rings - The Fellowship of the Ring is a film which should not be missed at any chance - it is an experience - to visit the wonderful land of Middle-Earth, to meet some amazing characters, to get to know about an awesome story. If you see the first one, no way you are not seeing the other two as well, so see it when you have 10-12 hours free. And note it down, you won't be disappointed. 10/10 (perfect)
Aabra Ka Daabra (2004)
Good for those who haven't watched Harry Potter yet
I watched this movie and I was totally shocked. This movie was 'so-called' inspired movie from Harry Potter films and Amitabh Bachchan's movie called Jadugar (i.e. Wizard). The film is shot in 3-D and it is full of special effects.
But the problem lies in the script. The film itself looks like that it is doing advertisement for stationary companies. The story for the movie is that a young kid named Shaanu, whose father is dead, lives his mother, Shivani, wins a contest sponsored by Parle-G and Camlin. And he wins the prize of going to magical school (isn't it is funny), Aabra Ka Daabra. And in the school, he becomes friend with two girls (one of them is Hansika Motawani). The headmistress of the school is evil. He also becomes friend of Limbu, keeper of keys of Aabra Ka Daabra. Then he comes to know that his father is not dead. Throughout the film, he tried to save his father from the evil headmistress, who has captured his father.
Special Effects? Lol. Nothing special. Visual Effects? Nothing visual. All VFX and SFX looks like animation. Nothing realistic. Acting was fine.
So, I personally don't recommend you to watch this film. It is poorly handled. Of course if you have no work, then definitely it is a fine time pass.
5 out of 10.
Saawariya (2007)
Not that bad... It was good.
I saw Saawariya yesterday and I want to share my review about this movie. Saawariya is a short-story poetry based Bollywood movie. Of course it is very hard to translate a short story which is a poetry to the big screen.
Fyodor Dostoevsky's 'White Nights' was written a century ago in Russian. The poem is beautiful and extremely touching and emotional. About the movie, I think both the new comers (Ranbir Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor) have done a wonderful job in first film. And of course there is Rani and Salman in this film. Salman has a very short role but Rani takes your heart away. And Zohra Sehgal is always delightful.
Film starts out with a prostitute, Gulab 'ji' (Rani Mukherjee) narrating his friend's story. Ranbir Raj, is a young man who comes to a beautiful 'town' to get a job. He gets job in a bar. Eventually he makes Gulab Ji his friend. One night he sees a mysterious girl, Sakina crying in the bridge. He asks her why she is crying, then she says that she is waiting for her lover, Imaan (Salman Khan), who has been gone to some 'country'. She asks him to help her in finding him. In the process they become very close. Raj falls in love with her but Sakina is very confused. She thinks that she likes Raj but the same time when she thinks of Imaan, she starts looking for him. In the end, Imaan comes and Sakina goes with her. Raj is alone, alone with memories of Sakina.
The movie's sets are wonderful, cinematography is amazing, and music is awe-awesome. Only I have one problem with was screenplay, being very strict and sometimes lenient to the picturization. Story suffers sometimes, but in the end you will leave theater with wonderful memories, and of course you will be sad. The movie has fairytale touch, so you don't have to think about which city they are wandering in? What is background of Raj? Why Imaan leaves his town in a haste? What happens to Gulabji in the end? and so on... You will enjoy it if you stop looking for these answers, but you can create your own answers in your mind.
On an ending note, I liked this movie and I hate those critics who are giving this movie a rating of 2 out of 5. This is a beautiful movie, and it will surely touch your heart (ofcourse if you have heart!).
8 out of 10.
Heyy Babyy (2007)
Fine, but one minute...
This movie was funny. However it is one of the most non-watchable movie with parents and family. Movie contains sexual references, comedy which I think was slightly into vulgarity. However, I laughed at some places and I hated this movie too.
Music was fine, I liked it. Acting was more than average. Since it was a Bollywood movie, it is full of drama and some non-sense scenes. Anyway, people are considering this movie as a comedy film. It is comedy in first half and second half is full of Rona-dhona (cries and screams).
Movie concentrates much more on Akshay than Fardeen or Ritiesh. Vidya was terribly beautiful in this movie.
Overall I must say this movie is definitely not a must watch. But it is a great time pass though. 7/10
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007)
Stupefied!!! Three Words- Potter 5 is BEST
I was very lucky, watched screening of this movie in IMAX 3-D yesterday night. I want to confess that I was not a die hard fan of Harry Potter films (but now I am). I have read the book, slightly disappointed due to plot editing. I want to share several points of this movie, so i'll start with bad ones.
---FLAWS---
1) BAD EDITING/SCREENPLAY. Well.. i found it a bit brain-teaser. I think there are SO MUCH things you are going to miss. Anyone who hasn't read the book will going to say "Why is that"? "Is that really this?" I don't really understanded the story". Prophecies were very briefly described (thanks!, for even describing it). They have made a simple story complicated at some places. I think that was too bad editing. Totally out-of momentum. Several amazing scenes were cut. I want to say, WHY? They have edited. It have been AMESOME if they have made it over 145 minutes or so. Too bad. :-(
2) MOVIE IS PACED FAST AT CLIMAX. Yeah. That was bad. The whole effect of the climax was put down. Moreover, the battle at the prophecy room was too short. The whole climax battle finished up in (speculatively) 15 or 16 minutes.
3) OTHER CHARACTERS LOOKED LIKE EXTRAS. The whole film is based on Harry's point of view, which caused this. Ron and Hermione didn't played any vital role, they looked like as an extras at some points.
4) LESS Screen time. Again, this bad point is produced by runtime. The film is just 138 minutes (without credits). Bellatrix, Dursleys, McGonagal, Snape all had a short screen time and some few scenes.
All the above flaws, big flaws. But still its Harry Potter. Lets look at this movie's +points.
---PLUS-POINTS---
1) AWESOME ACTING. All of them did an amazing job. Specially Imelda Saunton, Helena Bonham Carter and Daniel Radcliffe. Superb. Umbridge was painfully bad as well as hilarious. Daniel has improved a lot... a lot. Now I think casting of Dan is Sorcerer's Stone was right. And Helena Bonham Carter must be given a Oscar. She had less screen time as Bellatrix, but what I see was totally mind-blowing. She was cruel and looked true fanatic. Other cast also did their job quite well, specially Alan Rickman (again less screen time), Gary Oldman and Emma Thompson (yes, I cried when Trelawney was sacked). Kids did their job as 'more than average'. Gambon has improved a bit, but he still has a long way to go.
2) MUSIC. Well, I want to say music is just superb. It is not of John Williams' level, but It was way better than Goblet's music.
4) SPECIAL EFFECTS. Mind-blowing. Each Potter film is just awe-inspiring in the SFX Field. Most notable- Dementor's Attack, Weasley's exit, Centaur's attack, Thestrals (and Kreacher, which was just for few seconds), Umbridge's Decree explosion, and whole battle (totally breathe-taking moments at the climax). I think this movie accio's an Oscar for Special Effects.
5) GOOD JOB DONE AT OTHER TECHINICAL FIELDS. Other fields, like cinematography, sound-effects, choreography of battle was just of top level.
6) IMAX 3-D. I don't know whether it is a plus-point or not, but IMAX makes this movie an epic. If you watch it in IMAX 3-D than sure you'll remember this movie for ages and you'll give it a 10 on 10... IMAX 3-D is just magic!
Overall, it is surprisingly best movie (I mean Potter movie) so far with some flaws. Not an epic, an awe-awe-some like LOTR-3, But it is way better than Spider-Man 3 and Sherk 3. It is even better than POTC 3. Obviously best movie summer and Potter movie so far. If you are planning to go to watch any other film, I must suggest you if you miss it than you'll be the most unlucky person. Final Note- GO AND SEE IT..
Spider-Man 3 (2007)
The emotional installment
I saw Spidey 3 in cinemas. I was expecting a very super-hero type action movie, but the movie totally doesn't fits into these genres. Movie was overall very good, although in some places it was poorly handled. A big minus point for this movie was it's own plot. Story was not very good. Villains in this movie are added gratuitously , which makes the plot very weak.
The movie revolves around Peter, his girlfriend Mary Jane and there friend Harry. Characters like Flint, Gwen and Eddie play a vital role. There are 2 (+2) villains in this movie. Main are Sandman (Flint/ Thomas Harden) and Venom (Eddie/ Topher Grace). New goblin which is Harry Osborn (James Franco) turns out a good person in the end and a so-called "Black Suited Spider-Man" kills his evil near the end.
Venom appears in the last half of the movie. Sandman also turns out good at the very end. So, only evil left was Venom (who was a parasite on Eddie Brock). Acting was fine. Cinematography was awesome. VFX were cool, but not classy.
This movie is actually a love-story with a very emotional ending. You should not expect any super-hero thing in this movie. But still this movie makes an impact on your mind. So, overall i'll say it was "Very Good" but not as good as Spider-Man 2, although its better than Spider Man 1. 2.
Naseeb Apna Apna (1986)
Cool and enjoyable but seems a fake & total fiction
I saw this film on a TV channel. I was not expecting enough for this movie, but I was cool.
Naseeb Apna Apna is a something very funny. Especially "A Illitrate Villager Girl" which has no sense of fashion and talking. She's weird and very funny indeed. However, sometimes it makes you think that it's a bit fake. The plot is "Good". Not very good.
The storyline is not something which will happen to anyone, of-course. So, it has nothing wonderful in the plot, but it's hilarious.
Music is average. Amrish Puri's acting is awesome. Overall the movie is quiet enjoyable and one time must see.