Thursday, December 24, 2009

3 Idiots: All iz Well.


I'm officially a fan of raju hirani's cinema now. The movie is among some of the best i have seen in recent times. Every thing is just perfect. The story, the script, the performances, the technicals and above all that the 'feel'. Everybody can relate to the movie at a very emotional level since almost all of us have shared the same experiences in our lives. All of us have been a part of the same rat race which most of us are still running. But you still remain a rat even if you win it. The movie makes the same statement (although a cliche) in a very non preachy way and thats what works.

All the points are made but in a very light hearted manner. Its a lesson but you never feel that you are being taught. Its a sermon but you dont feel sermonized. Its like a lecture of your favorite professor on whose class you never got bored and wanted to 'really' attend it. Same is the effect on me. Would wanna go back to the class.. Again.. and Again.. and Again..

Its not the movie with the best story or the best performance or the best technicals or the best music or the best anything but still comes across as the best movie. there is a synergy there. Where the sum of all parts exceeds the sum itself. More than anything you come out of the cinema hall with memories, characters and a strange happy feeling, which for me is the reason i go to movies anyways.

Plot: There is a twist here. More than 'Three' friends. Its about one guy (obviously aamir) and his relationship with other friends. Loosely based on five point someone. Some sequences are a straight lift from the book. Its about the typical engineering college (and hostel) life and adds a (slightly) preachy 'Follow your dream/ Do what you want' point. Its about love, friendship, entrepreneurship, fun. everything rolled into one.

Performances: Aamir (obviously) is very good. But i really liked Sharman Joshi and a guy called Omi Vaidya (who played Chatur) also. Omi was phenomenal in his portrayal of a guy with a think (i think) mallu accent. His Teacher's day speech is gonna be a rage and reminds me of andaz apna apna.

Technicals: Honestly, neither did i notice anything nor do i give a damn. Coz i was way too engrossed while watching.

Positives: Everything is (almost) perfect. Performances. Plot. Story. But the best part for me was characterization (although the credit here goes to Chetan and not Hirani). The 'Happy' feeling when you walk out of the cinema hall thinking you have a 'paisa vasool' here and wouldnt mind watching it again.

Negatives: Yes, i am an awe struck fan but would also mention a few flaws(Although i ignored them coz of the overall feel while deciding the final rating). The script sometimes appears as if have been taken from '101 management book' and 'quotable quotes' translated in hindi. I could so easily find out the english quotes from which quite a few dialogues were straight translaged. 'Cinematic Liberty' took a new dimension altogether some times especially when the kid's heart starts beating after hearing 'All is Well'. It was stupid and not required. And a couple of more points here and there.

Overall : Best movie of the year (Tough competition Dev D!!). Have to see it to relive those college moments once again and come back smiling.

Feel-o-meter: 10/10 (For the fulltoo 'Feeel' factor and ignoring a few negatives here and there)

Sunday, December 20, 2009

Avatar: 'Just about' Lives up to the hype.


The movie is a visual treat no doubt and has (obviously) the best graphics in cinema till date. Also has its own share of love story masala, environment conservation preachings and cliched dialogues. For me what worked was (again obviously) the Special Effects and also the 'human touch'. You almost seem to relate with the Blue creatures. What din't work for me was the sluggish pace in the first half and too much detailing, which was more like a distraction. Also, may be i expected too much from the movie especially after all the hype with the budget and almost a decade in planning.

"The problem with research is that it takes too much time". That exactly was the problem with the movie. If reports are to be considered true, then the movie took almost a decade to reach theaters and all the sci-fi and CGI stuff which was supposed to be 'pioneer' in the new age cinema was already (almost) matched up before Avatar could even release. No doubt its absolutely stunning. But just about manages to live up to the hype, which for me is not good enough when there are no seats available for any shows at the weekend.


Plot:
The movie revolves around the human mining for a material called 'un-obtain-ium' (Yes, the cliches start here) on a planet (or a moon) called pandora. In order to get unobtainium, humans need to destroy a tree and throw out the 10 foot tall blue inhabitants (Na'avis) of the planet, who are not going to do because of their 'spiritual' association with the tree. The person who was supposed to convince the inhabitants falls in love with the tribal leader's daughter and switches sides. And (predictably) the fight of Good vs Evil takes place and you (obviously) know the end result. Simple and Straightforward.

Performances:
Well, I dint go to watch any oscar performances and was not disappointed. But yes, Zoe saldana was pretty decent.

Technicals:
Well (at the cost of being repetitive), the CGI graphics are absolutely amazing and almost real life especially when it comes to the Na'avis. Their expressions are captured phenomenally life like. But i would like to provide a caveat here. It gets kinda video gamish towards the end. The color pallette is so vivid that you might want to watch it in 2D since the 3D version makes it too dark to enjoy.

Positives:
Graphics.. Graphics.. Graphics.. A bit of emotional connect too.

Negatives:
Cliched dialogues. Too many expectations. Slow first half

Overall:
You HAVE TO watch it, atleast once just for the graphics and realize where movie making has reached. Its not a movie but an experience.

Feel-O-Meter:
7/10

PS:
I guess, the movie also is a take on America's foreign policy too. Just like their war on terror towards Iraq (for the oil). Just a thought!! ;-)

Monday, December 14, 2009

Rocket Singh: Din't take off!


Rocket Singh is another one of those 'follow your dreams and you shall achieve what you want' to type movies. It has its share of positives being a 'different' storyline, decent script, relateable characters and refreshing performances by all but still there was something missing. The problem that i saw was, that it dint really has those 'moments'! Moreover, i found the whole ethics, customer service plot to be too preachy which dint work for me again. It also dragged a bit in the first half where the movie was just not moving everywhere. The movie was supposed to be super on paper but doesnt really reach thatlevel anytime. Its a one time watch when you dont really have nothing much to do.

Okay, first things first. I think i may appear to be highly critical of this movie and it doesnt mean that i dint like it. I liked the movie especially the characters and their performances. But i feel disappointed as it is one of those 'could have been great' movies and i expect much better work from shimit amin after chak de and ab tak chappan. To me, This was a disappointment coming from him. I think the story was 'different' but too predictable and one track. I expected a slightly more funny movie especially after the 'pocket mein rocket hai' became such a big hit. Funny it is that its not even there in the movie.


Also, I think it was a marketing faux pass to even promote the movie as a comedy. Coz it was anything but a comedy. It tried to tickle your funny bone in bits and pieces but the wait for those moments was too long. There would be a dialogue or two and then a long wait for the next.


As for the positives, I think it was a fresh new story not told before. The story of a salesman. A plot which has never been touched before (Though i am not sure how many can actually 'relate' to that plot). The characters were as real as they come. You turn your head and you could see one of the characters around you somewhere. Secondly, Performances by everybody was top of the line. Be it Ranbir or D Santosh (The computer service guy). Ranbit definitely does a good job keeping it restrained and not going the 'funny sardar' way. Some of the dialogues were very quick witted too. The movie was 'different' for sure. And the second half was way better than the first. It was quick and grippy.


Overall : A one time watch provided you dont really have anything better to .


Feel-O-Meter: 5/10

PS: Generally i divide my review in plot, performance, technicals, positives, negatives etc. But here honeslty, i dont feel like writing much. Its may be because i was not really excited about the movie after the movie as i was before. :-)

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Paa: Moving !!


The best part about movie is its non-preachy nature. It did not use tears but smiles as a medium to take the story further. The characters do not cry on their situations and blame fate, but rather come out strong and take life day by day cracking jokes, having fun, enjoying each day as it should be. THAT for me was the strongest point of the movie. Its very moving and emotional but at the same time never goes overboard through tears. It has everything in order. A 'Different' story. Gripping Script. Strong performances. Soulful music and background score. Good Cinematography. Although some scenes could have dispensed with to make it slightly tighter. But with performances like those, I am sure i can forget the flaws here and there. Must Watch!!

More than a father-son-father story (Which i think was just a marketing gimmick to generate hype). The movie is about relationships and acceptances. The Relationship between two lovers, Mother-Son, Father-Son, Grandmother-Grandson and Best Friends. And acceptance of people as they are. The best thing for me was that no footage was 'wasted' on crying about a disease and the patient. There were no 'ohh.. thats awful' scenes where people would just break into tears because a 13 year old could die any time soon. It represented the positivity about life (however small it may be). Its about living every moment of life, till the time we are alive and not dying everyday thinking that we may die soon. The movie is full of one-liners and jokes and puts across the point in a humorous way. It has the perfect balance of humour and emotional elements, without being 'sad'. THAT for me worked in the movie.


Plot: Auro (Amitabh Bachan) is single mother Vidya's (Vidya Balan) son who suffers from a rare disease called pregoria where the kid physically grows 4-5 times faster than usual. Vidya left Amol Atre (Abhishek Bachan), an inspiring politician who asked her to undergo abortion since he could not marry her because of his career. Rest i think is pretty obvious as to what happens in the end. A Simple Story but told in a very 'different' without any crying or preaching.

Performances: Amitabh Bachan all the way. It was amazing to see his acting through his body language and eyes only, since his make up did not allow him to use his facial muscles to express his feelings. He leads from the front and shows why he still is treated as the star of the millennium. None of his dialogues are aimed at making the audience cry but still leaves a tear in the eye. No surprises here. But Vidya matches him at every step. Every single scene that she portrays is as 'strong' as her character itself. She is just amazing specially in her scenes with Amitabh and her mother. Abhishek is average but notable mention must be made about Arundhati Naag (Grandmother) who delivers a stellar of a performance. Even the kids are too cute and equally good.

Technicals:
Cinematography, Direction, Background Score, Make up, Editing. Everything is just perfect.

Music:
The Paa theme is the most hummable and does not leave you even when you come out of the theater. Rest songs are pretty average although Mudi mudi is better than others.

Positives: Performances, Story, Script, Cinematography, Background Score, Non-preachy nature, Humour.

Negatives:
Drags a bit in the middle where footage is wasted on establishing Abhishek's political career orientation. Social messages like Using condoms, Keeping the cities clean etc etc were not required and work as distractions. The tagline of 'Father-son-father' story does not seem to be apt as its more about relationships in general.

Overall:
The movie delivers the message with a perfect balance of humor and emotion. Does not get preachy about the disease and no shedding of tears for the 'unfortunate' condition of the little boy. Must watch!!

Feel-O-Meter:
8/10

Saturday, December 5, 2009

The Rebound: Not the usual run of the mill Rom-Com


The movie is all about (the usual) mismatched couple. Their meeting. Falling in love. Falling apart and then getting back together. But the movie STILL is not your usual run of the mill rom-com. It has the usual formula but still has something which makes it different. It has all the usual checkmarks but still has something special. May be its the performances by both Justan Barth and Catherine Zeta Jones(not to forget the two ADORABLE kids). Nicely written. Well executed. Good performances and a believable (and logical) ending. The movie is not only about romance or unbelievable endings, where the couple realize their love, where the heroine is flying abroad and the guy reaches the airport and proposes and happy ending etc etc. It is as realistic a rom-com that you can get. Its not about stupid one night stands and people landing up together. Its not ONLY about 'ohhh he is so cute' stuff. It is one of the most 'believable' love stories that i have seen. And i think we may have a new Hugh Grant on the scene. Justin Bartha has come off age after his supporting actor roles in National Treasure etc and has grown up. He is just so charming. I am sure a lot of women would fall for the 'cute' guy and go 'ohhh he is so cute'. Plot: The movie is about a relationship between a 40 something recently divorced Sandie (Catherine Zeta Jones) who moves to a new city where she finds a 25 year old Aram (Justin Bartha) working in a coffee shop. And NO they dont fall in love with each other. The guy babysits her kids and becomes a part of the family. They gradually realize their importance for each other but then the 'Age' difference plays its part. They get apart for 5 odd years and then reunite in the end. No mushy stuff. No unbelievable romantic antics. The 'believable' stuff of slow realization. Performance: Justin Bartha takes the responsbility on his shoulders. He leads from the front. He plays the 'young but responsible' 25 year old with amazing ease. He is cute but not too sugary. He is responsible but not cocky. He is compromising but not unbelievable. Catherine, on the other hand, still manages to look as graceful and stunning as she has always been. She suits the part perfectly well and she carries it with elan. Special mention of the two kids, who light up the screen whenever they come on. They are just adorable. Overall, good performances by all. Technicals: Its a rom-com, so no jazzy stuff was expected anyways but it doesnt feel awkward anywhere as well. Positives: Believable Story, Good performances, Tight Script, Nice overall feel. Negatives: Tends to lose grip in parts. The ending might not appeal to all. Not too mushy. No Awwwww scenes. Overall: Not too mushy but more of a mature and (may be) thought provoking rom-com

Feel-O-Meter: 7/10

Sunday, November 29, 2009

De Dana Dan : Confused, Crazy, Exaggerated, Stupid and i loved it


The movie is a typical priyadarshan, where chaos and confusion prevail upon logic and story. Situations take precedence over script. It has more than 25 characters and almost 5-6 different stories all taking place at the same time. It is a crazy laugh riot and did not let me relax even for 5 minutes. I was just laughing and laughing all through out. Fulltoo paisa vasool and time pass. Do go with a bunch of crazy friends. And ya, Do watch out for the climax. Its so stupid and yet so funny.

Okay, First things first, If you the intellectual cinema lover, Do not even read this review and watch a documentary insteadl. If you are a crazy cinema fan who loves David Dhawan and Priyadarshan genre, then also stop reading this and book tomorrow's tickets. Its a crazy movie (and i mean it in a good way) full of funny situations and slapstick. Must watch according to me. Another Do knot disturb or All the Best this year. Another thing that i liked was that, The stars were not given any unnecessary bhavs. They were treated like characters and according to the requirement time and space was allotted to them, which did it for me.


Plot:
Well, the movie starts with a Dog kidnapping plan, and then travels across atleast half a dozen storylines and almost 25 characters. Numerous funny situations. But credit must be given to the writer, who could actually write all that chaos and confusion and still not get confused himself. I kept asking my friend, who is he, who is she, why is he here, what is she doing with him etc etc. But honestly, i dint really care about all that in the end.

Performances:
Akshay and Suniel (surprisingly) dont even have that long a role, especially in the second half when paresh rawal takes over the show with johny lever and others. They are simply awesome. Katrina and the other girls have their moments of looking pretty (but dumb) and they do it with ease. All the 25+ characters did their job pretty good. No complaints there too.

Technicals :
I think i made it very clear that its a situational comedy. So wont even bother writing about cinematography etc. Next question please.

Music:
Paisa Paisa has that groovy, hip hop-ish feel. Rishte naate is hummable. I HAVE to mention another song which goes like, " Feel me, touch me, hold me, i am your naughty babe in town" picturized on Neha Dhupia. It is hilarious. Its just soo funny i cant explain. Rest of the songs(if any) i dont even remember.

Positives:
Edge of the seat excitement, Sense between chaos and confusion, Amazing comic timing. Some really funny dialogues and situations.

Negatives:
Same as above. Because there is nothing except what is mentioned above. The confusion might actually frustrate you at times when you cant keep a track of whats happening.

Overall :
Typical situational comedy with some really funny sequ3nces

Feel-O-Meter: 7/10
( I know most would treat this as high. But mujhe full feel aa gayi. I was rolling in my seat almost at every stupid sequence. So for me, it deserves an extra 2 for those extra silly moments which did the trick for me)

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Andaz Apna Apna Quotes

Collection of most dialogues i could remember or find.. Kick Ass i say!!!

* Main Jaanta tha.. Main Jaanta tha

* Teja Main hoon, Mark Idhar hai.

* Main Teja hoon kyunki mera naam bhi Teja hain

* Nahii.. Ghutna Nahi.. Ghutna Nahi..

* Arey. Udhar idhar kya dekhte hain. Idhar udhar dekhiye.. Idhar udhar..

* Happy Budday Robert

* Nahi Nahi tum lo. Tumhari budday hai. tum lo

* Lagta hey katcha khiladi hai yeh.

* Na surat, na shakal, na akal. Jise dekho chala aa raha hai

* Unkey ek ek sawal hamarey do dod jawab...Sawal Ek Jawab Do. sawal jawab sawal jawab...chupp.......

* Jhakaaass...shabash cheetey, shabaash...ab aya hy oonth pahaar k nichey..

* Gogo Sahab, aapka ghaghra.

* Teesri baar tu khush hua tha. Jab tune apni maami ke ghaghre ka naada....

* Langde Baapu.. Langde baapu

* Robert : aapne bataya nahin sir, aaj mera bday hai.

* Ye bichhu ka zeher hain. Pinewala 2 hi minute main pila hokar nila ho jata hain. Kifayati aur bharosemand!

* Dhak ki tiki dhak ki tiki dhak ki tiki dhak ki tiki,,,dhaa....isme toh ek hee goli thi!!!

* Bread ka badhshah ur amlet ka rajja BAJAJ humara BAJAJJJJJJ !!!!!

* Robert: Phir Sir aap kyon nahi gaye London???
Teja: Kaise jaata main? kaise jaata....? Kya mujhe London dekhne ka mann nahi hai kya? kaise jaata...? Pehle uss Mugambo ka dus karor ka gaphla kar baitha ab uska bhatija crime master Gogo mujhe dhundh raha hai... usse kisi tarah bach raha hoon! aur doosra apna munim Harisha...nkar tha na... uska maine galti se game kar diya... lekin achcha hua... bahut bore karta tha saalaa, hameshaa dharm-karm ki baatein karta tha... bahut bore karta tha... achcha hua uska bhi game ho gaya...!!!

* Abhi Aap.. Piyo.. Arey piyo piyo.. Peeta hai ya lagaoo sir pe ek. Abey peeta hai ya lagaoo bum pe ek

* Uncle aa gaye , Uncle aa gaye. Uncle humne apni jaan par khel ke bachaya hai... aaiye aaiye uncle .. yahaan aage aaiye , are phir main chalaoonga kaise.. uncle beech main aaiye.. uncle uncle 'Dandi' pe baithiye.

* Ye dekh... ye dekh... ye dekh...

* Kya namaste,namaste?? dawat pe aye ho kya???

* Sir, Yeh Vasco da Gama ki Gun hain.

* Siir lakh lakh ke pachas cheque hoyenge...

* Yeh Teja Teja Kya Hai??? Ye Teja Teja .....??

* Ailaa !! Seeta aur Geeta ??!! Seeta aur Geeta nahi be, Raam aur Shaam. Han han wohi wohi :))

* Khandaani chor hun main, khandaani... Mogambo ka bhateeja GOGO :))

* Raveena ki maa mai aa raha hoon!!

* Goli nahin thi toh bataya kyun ...

* Aankhen nikaal kar gotiya khelunga....

* KISKE Mama ki Gun hain!!!

* abe ye firauti ka paisa hai ya maiyat ka chanda

* Main darta nahin, bas thoda sa gabrata hoon.

* chal chal...uttar niche...godiwale...

* ye dekh goga, in heero'n ko aakhri baar dekh le! tere kisse se ek aur naya kissa jud jayegaa ... haath ko aaya par muh na laga

* mera boss??....kaun hai mera boss???....mera boss kaun hai????

* Babulal kaha tha kaan sabhal k katna

* Kaun sa mark re .... kahe ka mark yaar... Teja main hoon safed Ramu ... Main Teja hoon.........Teja Main hoon mark idhar hai !!!!! BHaad mein gaya mark ... main idhar hoon na yaar

* yeh topi aapne New York se kharidi hai? nahi America se.. accha accha mujhe laga New York se..

* Sala circus ka retired bandar lag raha hai.

* sala shakal se to bidi ke kharkhane ka majdoor lagta hain..........!

* sir shakkar dalnai ka time ho gaya?

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Tum Mile : (Surprisingly!!) Survivable..

Well. This was my first emran hashmi movie and yes. I just about made through. Its a very average movie but ya, you can survive through it, provided you keep an open mind and stop looking at actors(obv you have to think long and hard to watch an emran hashmi starrer) and noticing characters. The characters are very well written. Script is not too loose. Storyline is pretty simple but intriguing. Performances are pretty average (but i obv was not expecting an oscar winner here anyways). Music is very nice (Infact thats one of the main reason i actually saw this movie). Overall not the worst movie ever made. If you have to watch it, you can.

But somehow i felt that the love story was much more interesting than the 25/7 setting. If the setting can be discounted and movie remade with a better star cast and only the love story. I think it can work ammazingly well. A few moments were actually touching. The love story is very well thought of. And most will actually be able to relate to it. The 25/7 background (i believe) was only there to create hype, and was not required. Infact, that works as a distraction from the main story. Make it again with better actors and without the 25/7 background and i will watch it a few times over.

Plot: The plot revolves around a live-in couple who have their share of laughs and fights and end up separating only to meet again during 25/7(Quite filmy.. I know). During that one night they realize that they are made for each other and has a happy ending with a few (unrequired) twists and turns. Just get rid of the 25/7 setting please.

Performances: Soha does a pretty above average job(Given that i did not expect her to be able to 'act' at all). Although i cannot tolerate Emraan at all, but i tried my level best to not be biased because of my personal dislike and infact i kinda liked what he did. The guy acts in his limited capacity and does not go overboard at all, which i seemed to liked. Rest there is nobody else anyways in the cast.

Music: I quite liked a couple of songs. Especially the title track. I think it was damn neat. Also Dil Ibadat and Tu hi haqeeqat are worth mentioning.

Technicals: Very ordinary. They could have done a much better job while creating the 25/7 sequences. But that obviously would have required some more spending which i am not sure would have been allowed. Rest nothing worth mentioning.

Positives: Neat Story. Decently tight script. Does not lose its pace mostly. Okayish performances. No hickups. Pretty smooth actually.

Negatives: Again not any major problems but the 25/7 background did not work for me. Also could have been even shorter. I wish it was only a love story minus the setting and the fact that its an emraan hashmi movie!

Overall: Pretty average and survivable if you dont have any major hang ups against emraan hashmi!

Feel-o-Meter: 6/10 (Yes. You read it right.. 6.. :-p )

Saturday, November 14, 2009

2012: Kick Ass. Plain Simple.. Kickkk Assss!!!

100% paisa vasool for me. I ONLY went for the graphics. Ignored anything else and was damn damn happy with the movie. Some of the scenes are so 'Oh my Gawdddd' that you just cannot afford to miss it. And there were some like "How the hell can they even imagine this.. forget about filming". And For god's sake, dont go with that 'Whats apart from the graphics' curiousity. Just go for some spell binding, kick ass action and you will NOT be disappointed. And for all those who think its nothing but graphics and action. You guys are damn right and yeah.. F**k you!! :-D

Every single scene.. You just go.. How the f**k can they even think about this. I mean the canvas is too friggin big. I still am in the awe of the writer/director who COULD think of such masssive scale and effects. Whole buildings going down in a flash. Trains flying in the sky. Highways gone in a flash. A whole city just breaks in half and is wasted in the sea. Tsnunamis hitting the himalayas!!! wow.. wow.. and WOW!!! Full marks for even daring to 'imagine' forget about thinking of filming it!!

Plot: Do you really care?? I mean in hollywood sci-fi flick these days. Do you really bother about the plot or the story or the 'message'!!! Its a one liner plot. Some eruptions from the sun has some heating effect on the earth's core and there are earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, shifting of poles etc etc. The world is coming to an end and there are some people who are trying to survive.. Blah.. Blah..

Performance: What else can be expected apart from the usual screams and exaggerated expressions going.. aaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhh.. Ohhhh shiitttttt.. Runnnnnnn... etc etc. Nobody has any other thing to do apart from those screams etc.

Technicals: Ofcourse special effects are the biggest, meanest, most imaginative and craziest EVERR on screen. But when there are no special effects and in close shots, it gives a kinda 'sit comish' feel. I guess its gotta do with some new technology of cinematography used or something. But gives an uncomfy feeling during those shots. But yeah. I dont think i know enough to even comment on special effects of that stature.

Positives: Kick Ass Special Effects. Ammmmmazing creativity. Imaginative.. Just too f**king imaginative.

Negatives: Too lengthy. Gets a bit preachy in the middle and you start to feel, 'when would the next big sequence' come, Gets repetitive since there is nothing one can do apart from running from nature. But i think EVERY negative is forgotten once the sequences start flowing. I just wish that ending had been less preachy and more kick ass like the start!!

Overall : Fullll Feel. Kick Ass action, Graphics and Special Effects. Must Must Watch

Feel-O-Meter : 8/10

Friday, November 13, 2009

Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani: Naah.. Nothing 'Ghazab'. No Prem. Definitely No Kahani. :-(

Well. Not that i HATED the movie but honestly, i dint come out with anything after the movie. Good movies you have something left with you after you are finished. Something that reminds me of that movie. In this case. I dint get that feel at all. The movie is too overrated and i dont understand why on earth have some critics given it 4 stars!!!! There is almost no chemistry between the lead pair. Story, Script, Direction, Comedy, Senti Stuff. Almost nothing worked for me. But yeah, A couple of sequences here and there are quite funny, but overall. Feel nahi aayi yaar. Katrina looks pretty (obviously). Ranbir is cute(obviously). But nothing else, I guess i was expecting too much from Santoshi after being a die hard fan of Andaz Apna Apna. Disappointed.

First things first, Its not that i dont like Silly Slapstick stuff or something(For the record: I loved 'All the best') but this just didnt do it for me. The jokes were too stale. The slapstick was straight out of a school skit. I guess the movie just tried too hard to be funny and it shows. Santoshi so desperately wanted to replicate an AAA. Named the key character as Prem. Even the villain's right hand is called 'Robert'(and even casts the same actor, Viju Khote). The climax also tried the same AAA setting and slapstick but just dint work. You cant copy your own classic and lift a few sequences and expect to make a kick ass movie out of it. And that exactly happened. It just ended up being a confused movie. I am still not sure if its a romantic comedy with some senti twists or is it a comedy with romance as the side plot!!!

Plot: There was nothing 'Ghazab' in the story. Its a very plain simple love story with a couple of predictable twists. Guy meets girl. Starts liking her. Girl loves somebody else. He tries to help her find the true love. Twists. Turns. Predictable Ending. Done. With these simple storylines, 'Treatment' makes the difference and in this case. It dint.

Performance: Ranbit is Cute. Katrina looks pretty. hmmmmm.. I guess thats it.

Technicals: Technicals!!! What!!! You actually are looking at ANY sort of technical expertise anywhere?? Anyways. Nothing noticable. One song picturized full frozen(Madonna) style was pretty good. Baaki.. Nothing to mention.

Music: I guess the only saving grace for the movie. Nice songs. Some very good too. I liked Dil tera, Tu Jaane Na and Prem ki Naiyya a lot. Worth a buy(or download). Definitely!

Positives: Hmmm... The Cute Ranbir. He has done a pretty decent job. Songs. A couple of really funny sequences. A couple of really well written dialogues too. But nothing much apart from that

Negatives: Trying too hard to tickle your funny bone especially in the end. Stupid twists(Kat and Ranbir Stammering!!!!). Very ordinary script and performances by most.

Overall: Can watch with friends (or girlfriend/boyfriend) if dont have anything better to do. Ignore some stuff and enjoy some of the funny moments and come back. Zyada load nahi lene ka

Feel-O-Meter: 4/10

Sunday, November 1, 2009

LONDON DREAMS: Buy One, Get Two !!!!

COMBO OFFER!!!! Buy one ticket and get Two dreams free. One on screen called london dreams and the other one in your sleep during the first half!!! Infact, there are two movies in one. It sucks in the first half but picks up in the second. Its a classic example of being plain Stupid to sheer amazing from first to the second half. Cinematography and AD's performance are damn neat. Salman is okay. Music is Bad. Story was damn good but script screwed it. One time watch and i soooo wish somebody makes the same movie again but keeps it short and to the point without stupid jokes and masala stuff. Watchable.

First things first, Its not too bad a movie as well provided you can survive the stupidity, not funny jokes, zabardasti ka character establishment and illogical stuff (i am sure you are not looking for logic in a salman starrer anyways..) The second half is very nice specially performance by AD. He does his usual best in the intense scenes.

Plot: I am sure you would have guessed through the promos, that its a story of jealousy between two friends because the second is more successful than the first. Just to add that extra flavour, a love triangle is also thrown. Add to that some senti family pride motivation. and you get London Dreams' plot. Honestly i love the storyline but script and dialogues were just so pathetic that you start pitying the poor story writer.

Performance: AD rocks. He is known for his intense performances and he delivers damn damn good. You just need to be patient and ignore his spiked-gelled-colored hair, earrings, tight white t shirts, tight brown checks wali trousers and yeah.. he does look damn funny when he tries to perform on stage like a Rockstar!!!!! ;-p But once you ignore that part. He is amazing. Salman does his bit as the 'star performer'. Keeps the audiences interest alive. His character is written pretty well, just that the extra bit of his being a 'playboy' was not required. Asin has nothing to do but to 'dance' in the background while a rock performance(!!!!) is going on with all that 70s look. (Imagine!!!!) She does her bit as the cute wide eyed girl who just runs here and there and keeps giving a shy smile. Thats her job and she does it well.

Technicals: Cinematography is damn good. Ammazing actually. The color combinations in 'Tapke Tapke' was great. Light sequences during stage shows were damn neat as well. Apart form that everything sucks. Direction, Script, Music, Dialogues everything.

Music: One or two songs are hummable. Rest are PATHETIC to the core. You tend to start laughing actually!! I sooo missed Rahman :-(

Positives: AD's performance. Cinematography, Salman is good too.

Negatives: Direction. Script. Dialogues, Stupid jokes, Length

Overall : Its a one time watch with a few friends when you are just planning to have fun. Provided you can ignore Salman and AD miming at hindustani classical songs wearing Black suits with white ties (that too with silver polca dots!!!) AD Rocks. Definitely a one time watch for him.

Feel-o-Meter : 5/10

PS: I soooo wish somebody makes the same movie again with a tigher script, keeps it short without the stupid jokes and parallel tracks, AR Rahman as music director. I will watch it 10 times over. Is anybody listening :-(

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

All the Best: You get what you expect!!

You get exactly what you expect from this movie.. A totally crazy mind less comedy with ammmazing feeel.. The jokes are lame but still work. The script was written on the set and still is kick ass.. The comic timing is just about raapchick.. and performances.. The same old slapstick returns with 'situational' tricks.. Take some crazy friends along, maaro some seetis on PJs, ennjoy, come back, forget and get back to work!!

Okay, first things first. If you the 'Intellectual Cinema Lover' and dont belong to the David Dhawan, Rohit Shetty genre of comedy then, DO NOT read this review. Just go and watch some film festival type movie and discuss the camera angles. IF you just watch movies for fun and dont try to find logic anywhere, then also DO NOT read this review.. Go to the theaters and watch this flick!!! hehe..

Plot: Do you realllly care??? Its just some confusion thrown here and there. Add to that some funny characters with some very funnny PJs and decent treatment and you get the plot.. If you are still interested its about lies and coverups and rest you can go and figure yourself

Performance: Obviously nothing award winning, but yeah, nobody seems like an awkward fit anywhere. All were decent. The girls anyways dint have anthing to do but look pretty. They did that. Johny lever dint have anything to do but to make strange faces. He did that. Ditto applies to others too. Sab theek thaak hai..

Technicals: Yeah sure.. IF you are actually gonna watch this.. I am sure you are NOT the technical types anyways.. But ya.. the color combination could have been slightly less pink, green, orange-ish..

Positives: Tremendously funny comic timing, Crrrazy pull your hair out PJs, Slapstick.

Negatives: Arrrey Chill maar, relax karr aur forget about the negatives

Overall: Dont Think. Just Grab a couple of wella and crazzy friends who dont make faces while watching un-intellectual cinema, Go, Enjoy and come back.

Feel-O-Meter: 6/10 (Yes.. You are right.. I rate it higher than Blue)

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Blue: Just Style No Substance

Well, Its not the worst movies ever made But definitely not worth a second watch. Pathetic Performances, Almost No Storyline, Good for Nothing Script. On the positives, It has some kick ass action sequences and ammazing under water photography. Go only if you have nothing much to do this weekend. And restrict yourself to the normal seats, dont waste money on the Gold/Premier Class.

First things first, The movie has almost nothing on the substance front. One line story, Bad performances, Stars who dont fit in characters, no script, no direction, almost nothing. What it lacks there, it compensates on the style front. Lara Dutta in her usual cleavage flaunting best(or should i say breast.. hehe), Classy action sequences, Kick ass marketing with all the hype around it being the most expensive movie ever made(although i couldnt understand WHERE that money was spent), Decent background score etc.

Plot : As already established, its about a treasure hunt with a few twists and turns (The bad part is that the hunt itself lasts for 15-20 mins and the build up to the hunt stretches almost 1.5 hours) and honestly i was not impressed by nothing there.

Performances: Not a single name comes up. Akshay kumar anyways is only known for his action sequences (although in Blue i dont even remember a single one from him) and not his acting prowess. Sanjay Dutt should take a break from action movies and concentrate on stuff like lokhandwala. He in his 50+ looks such a miscast that its almost pathetic. And Top that with her pairing with LARA.. I mean dude.. get a life.. Zayed khan: No comments. Lara Dutta: Does her bit in those tiny winy bikinies.. (Hey.. what else you expect from her). Katrina : Yeah, she is there too in a couple of sequences. NOBODY impressed.

Music: A Couple of tracks are nice but i doubt if you take 'em with you after the movie is finished. Background score is kick ass. Those chase sequences have some really ammazing background score. Full points there.

Technicals : Okay, THIS was the only saving grace for the movie. The phoren cinematographer captures the underwater shots ammmazingly well. The lighting, the colours, everything just perfect. I think for me he was the actual hero for me. Honestly speaking, I think the director was too bored to direct the movie so he just gave some extra money to the action coordinator who did a pretty good job in most sequences (specially the earlier chase sequences, which became repetitive later on though).

Positives: Hmmmm.. Action Sequences, Cinematography and Ishtyle Quotient

Negatives: No story, Pathetic Script, Bad Performances

Overall : Only style no substance. Watch only if you dont have anything better (or as i always say "Less worse") to do. Got some extra cash to spare. And you dont really bother about storyline, script, performances and like a movie for ammazing marketing and hype!!! ;-)

Feel-O-Meter: 5/10 (2 each for action and underwater cinematography and 1 for sheer scale and bravado)

Monday, October 5, 2009

Do Knot Disturb: Do Not Bother!!!

Yeh kahaani hai Gobar, Buntoo, Nunnu, Mangu, Dolly aur Diesel ki.. Yes, These are names of the characters from the movie!! Need i say more. Honeslty, i dont mind goofy, stupid, DD-Govinda ishtyle comedies.. But iss baar thoda zada ho gya.. Everything was too repetitive, as if DD had decided on a 20 min movie and then thought its too short and stretched it to two hours. Funnily enough, Even 2 hours seem like 4..Infact, I started accessing FB in the middle!!!

Top it up, with some sleazy shots of Lara Dutta at her cleavage exposing best. I felt she was kept so that atleast the male audience keeps their eyes on the screen (For sometime atleast!!). But that too became too repetitive!!

I am not the 'intellectual cinema lover' types and understand that I need to keep my brains out of the cinema hall while watching a DD-Govinda movie. But, even after that. It was just not funny. Every scene was stretched like a chewing gum. Ek hi joke baar baar.. Thoda zada ho gya.. I sooo wanted to see this movie after the 'Dolly dolly' Ad.. But that too was used atleast 10 times in the movie!!!

Also, the whole starcast (supposedly) lives in Delhi and the movie is entiredly shot in Dubai!!! (No, i am not finding logic here, but wondering WHY did DD mention Delhi anyways.. It wasnt required right??) A Slapstick comedy is something but this hamming personified. I felt as if the dialogues were being written on the sets!!!

On paper, it was supposed to be an Awwwwesome laugh riot.. Imagine, just the starcast is enough.. Govinda, Rajpal Yadav, Ranvir Shorey, Riteish Deshmukh, Manoj Pahwa.. All of them excellent comic actors.. Add to it, two stunningly hot former Miss Universes, Lara and Sushmita and then put the DD brand name!! Still.. It didnt work. I guess this proves that brand names alone cannot make a movie. You cant take the audience for granted. And Songs itneee wahiyaar hai ke bass kya kahein!!!

As a BIIIIG DD-Govinda fan, I wish that come back with an insanely comic relief and wash this 'Daaman ka Daag' for them! :-(

PS: I am not getting into the positives, negatives, technicals, performances and plot of the movie. Reason- I am too damn bored to even write the review!!!

Overall: Even if you are a crazy DD-Govinda fan like me.. Still dont think you'll be able to tolerate it beyond the first half hour..

Feel-O-Meter: 4/10 (Woh bhi thoda zada hai, but still Thodi toh DD-G ki izzat karni padegi)

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Wake up Sid: Refreshing.. Loved it!!!

Its like a breath of fresh air.The movie is about 'growing up'. Its about movement from boyhood to manhood. That too without any preaching.. From the first scene onwards. The pace is set. Ranbir(surprisingly) has done a Fab job. You just cant seem to find anybody else fitting in the role so amazingly well. Great music. Tight Script. Fresh 'Feel'. Nice performances. Everything worked for me. Funny enough, I cant find anything bad about the movie. (Given that i am known for my 'destructive' criticism!!). Nothing overdone. No preaching. No zabardasti ka emotional drama. Just a plain, sweet script with nice performances. But scores on the 'FEEL'. A mustt watch!!!

The best movies are those where you can see yourself in the characters. Its like watching your own self on screen. The days when you were in college. When all of us wanted to do something 'creative' and not run of the mill stuff. When all we cared about which movie to watch and things like career, life etc took a back seat. And then, you realize that you need to find your place in the sun. What you are meant to be or do. What is it that you want to or have to do. Whats your story and how are you gonna write it.

The Plot: Its a no brainer. The movie is about a boy who needs to wake up and realize that life is not only about partying hard, cars, movies, gaming, credit cards, spending father's money etc. And how an event changes his life and how he transforms form a 'kid' to a man.

The Performances: For me, Ranbir has actually 'grown up'. or may be the part was written just for him. I cant seem to imagine anybody else but him in the role. He is ammazing. Kongkona is as usual fabulous. Anupam kher and Supriya pathak score in their cameos.

Music: I generally dont mention music in my reviews but couldnt help this time. ALL the songs were better than the other. Be it the soft 'Iktara' to the full feel-ed 'Kya Karoon' which describes the plot unbelievably well. The title track is just too ammazing and even the english parts (as background scores) are just fabulous.

Technicals: Top notch. Script is tight. Story is simple. Direction is gripping. Music is fab. There are no dull scenes. Anil Mehta has done wonders in the cinematography department. Sets. Colour combinations. Even the clothes are just class..

Positives: Everything. Be it performances, Plot, Script, Music, Direction, Lyrics, Feel. Everything was just right.

Negatives: Funny enough, I cant find anything negative in the movie. Its just scores perfectly well for me.

Overall: Its just such a refreshing story telling that i just cant describe. Script is tight. Direction is almost perfect. Music is Fab. Performances rocking. Everything just how it should be. Go and Grab your seats NOW!!!

Feel-O-Meter: 9/10 (I am sure all are gonna say its too much but you tell me why not??? )

Inglourious Basterds: Mr Waltz.. Get the oscar speech ready!!


Good(and i hate to use that word for a tarantino movie) but not Great!! I think the problem lies in expectations and build up. I expected too much from the movie, and thats where i was disappointed a tad bit. An Excellent setting, Good Story, Great Actors and above all.. The Brand called QT.. But still, the movie is above average for me. Watch it if you are NOT a QT fan. If you are.. you might be disappointed. And

First things first, It took me almost half an hour to think of the opening paragraph to describe the movie but still couldnt get it right. The worst part is, I already had a DVD of the movie with me and even then i decided to watch it in theaters just because its a QT. I thought a QT deserves to be seen only in a cinema hall, more for the respect i have for 'The God' !! And then, coming out of the movie, i felt kinda disappointed. Had it been any other movie but a QT, i would have liked it still. But i guess its about expectations(As always)..

It had every possible 'tickmark' for a masterpiece, that you can imagine. A World War setting. Jews Vs Germany. Great Actors. Phenomenal performance by Christopher Waltz. But i was disappointed by the slow pace of the narrative(That took the magic away). The problem area according to me was scene length(There were only appx 5-6 scenes overall in the movie). No matter how amazing the dialogues are. No matter how great shots/Camera angles/Background score you might have. No matter how good the actors(and the performances) are. If the scene is too long and verbose. It tends to lose its effect.

Plotwise: I think it was FAB. The movie might be 'Ahistorical' but its interesting in its own way and you tend to keep guessing how the end is going to unfold. For me, the plot was just too amazing. But longish scenes spoilt the fun. I dint like the way Hitler was portrayed in a comic book villain kinda style. And 'Ingluorious Basterds' (The group) themselves look like a cameo rather than THE plot.

Performances: Its a cracker by Christopher Waltz. For me he has already EARNED an oscar this year. Ammazing.. Ammazing.. Ammmmazing.. is the word. Every scene he comes on screen. He sets it on fire. His dialogue delivery. His mannerisms. Man.. I am already a fan.. Full points to him. Except him. I dint find anybody else being even half as good as him.

Technicals: Meri Aukaat nahi hai QT pe comment karne ki. And (for obvious reasons) i dint(and i cant) have any problem what so ever. Great background score. Amazing camera work. Kick ass action. The QT trademark violence. All good.

Positives: Great work by Christopher Waltz. Amazing Storyline and Overall setting of the plot. Ammazing sequences here and there.
Negatives: The slow pace. Long sequences. Too many Dialogues and less QT action!!

Overall: A good watch (and ek baar to banta hai) but you tend to feel like going for a walk when the sequences get too stretched. Go for Christopher Waltz and you will NOT be disappointed. Or else, 'I' will reimburse your tickets if you don like HIM.. Kick ass performance by him

Feel-o-Meter: 7/10 (3 only for Chris ;-D )

Saturday, September 26, 2009

UP: Two Thumbs Up!!!!


Ammazing.. Cute.. The Awwww Factor.. Characters you would fall in love with.. Kick Ass Animation.. Touching Story.. Action.. Adventure.. Humour.. You say it. UP has it!! All in all.. A Kick Ass Animation movie for those Shrek, Wall-e, Monsters inc, Finding Nemo, The Incredibles, Ice Age Fans.. Take a bow and make way for Up.. Coz its right 'up' there at the top..

I am sure the paragraph above has given you an idea as to what this review is gonna be like. Infact i am running short of words now. And yess. It is in the same league as all the movies i mentioned above if not better.. (although shrek still takes the first place for me.. hehe..)

The best part about the movie is that its not a 'kid' movie. It would appeal to all age groups(i think). The movie is about a 80 year old man who wants to fulfill his dead wife's childhood dream to go to an Island and have a house there.. They keep postponing it due to finances and then the wife dies (awwwww...) So tadaaa!!! He ties 10000 balloons to his house and airlifts it to the island.. Simple.. Isnt it?? Not exactly.. Add to that a kid trying to get a 'Help Elderly' kinda badge, A rare species of bird whom the villain is trying to capture and ya.. how can i forget.. a pack of dogs who can SPEAK... yess you read it right.. SPEAK!!!

All in all an ammazing adventure and hehe.. The adventurous is spell binding.. Its thrilling and emotinal at the same time. Infact a couple of times,i myself went Awwww.. and looked for a tissue!! hehe..

Another thing worth mentioning is, that the movie doesnt have ANY star voices to boast of. And THAT in itself is an achievement.. To Take off the audience's focus from the ACTORS to the CHARACTERS.

All the characters are so ammazingly written, that you cant NOT fall in love with them. Be it the Grumpy Old Man or the sweet little talking dog or the wilderness explorer kid or even a colorful bird that CANT talk!!!

Animation obviously is amazing. And that is taken as a given anyways from a pixar movie. But what worked for me was that i dint even notice the animation in the movie. It just struck me where it should and then i dint really bother about the animaiton or technicalities. Just engrossed in the adventure.

Bottomline: Kick Ass.. Go watch it. Period

Feel-O-Meter: 8/10 ( Saving 2 for the 3D version.. coz i saw the normal one only :-( )

Catch the trailer on : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=USpI6Jzl3No

Monday, September 7, 2009

Quck Gun Murugan: Okay.. But Rajni is the king, i say!!!

I am sure you'd been tempted to see the movie after the promos and you should watch it once too. But make sure to keep your brains outside and go with a few friends who are the 'seeti' types and you are gonna love it. The movie has some really damn funny sequences but just the wait for those is an ordeal in itself. I very well understand that its a spoof and its supposed to be tacky, but i guess it was too spoofy and no dhinchak rajni ishtyle which i was lookin forward to.

As far as the goods are concerned, it is refreshing and 'different' from the usual masala flick and has its own place in the sun. Some of the jokes are damn funny and would make you rolling in your seats. But as i said, they are too far and few. The plot in itself is very novel and the 'idea' seems to generate a lot of interest but i guess the problem would be that the movie doesnt have a repeat value. Performance wise, QGM stands out and but Nobody else. And he cant keep the movie on his shoulders all the time.

The problem is presence of too many 'buts'.. Nice idea But not great execution. Good performance by QGM but others. Decent Script but technically a dud. Good one liners but too few o them.. An idea which could have made it BIG but ended up being just another spoof ..

Infact i toh had imagined a few sequels even before the movie. QGM as a brand. He could have been a cult. The character which could have had repeat value. More like the Jauhar Mehmood series during yesteryears.. But was disappointed. My heart bleeds to write that its such an amazing opportunity wasted.

There were so many 'could haves' there. I mean just imagine Rajni and all his antics. I just wished that there were many more crazy fight sequences. I mean the stuff where you throw a blade in the air and shoot a bullet bang in the middle, the blade snaps, and there are three dead bodies.. THAT kinda stuff, i just wish the director had been just a tad bit more creative and not only dependent on the character but situations too!!
Technically, Treatment toh tacky hona hi tha. but i guess thoda zada ho gya. Production quality was more like a serial or channel V's any other reality show.

Overall: Its such a brilliang idea and character but feel nahi aayi yaar.. I just wish that the next instalment is better (or as i always say, Less worse)

Feel-O-Meter : 5/10

PS: I wish Good, Bad and the Idly rocks.. :-)

Aagey se Right: Wasted Effort!

I just feel so bad when you take actors like Shreyas and Kay Kay Menon, a kinda funny idea but still manage to screw the movie. The funny part is that it takes an almost not known actor like Vijay Maurya to provide fresh air during an otherwise boring and stupid affair. For me, HE and a few dialogues just save the sinking ship. Ignore the stupid antics and watch it once for some really kick ass performance from him.

Plot toh i am sure everybody already knows, Its about a cop who keeps losing his guns and in (trying to be) funny circumstances, keeps getting into trouble and Still manages to come out as a winner through sheer luck! On paper, i thought it was a kick ass plot. I mean kinda mr magoo and pink panther or even a bit of mr bean i guess.

We could have had a series of movies based on the character. The funny cop who keeps getting into all sorts of trouble but always comes out clean and is rechristened as a 'supercop'(with full superman attire too). An Opportunity wasted. There was soo much scope if they had only taken this one character and built the entire plot.. but nahi. masala bhi to daalna hai.. He added a stupid reporter, a bar girl, a terrorist falling in love, a crazy police commissioner, and a mallu cateringwallah cum gangster(who incidentally is the only performance worth mentioning)

Performancewise, As already mentioned, Vijay Maurya stands out. HE just picks the movie everytime its falling. I mean he is just too funny man. His dialogue delivery, body language, is just so awwsome. I just fell in love with the character. There is one scene where he teaches kay kay to walk in a 'cool' style and how to call an 'item'.. That is just Kick Ass... Rest all are pretty average.. Even kay kay and shreyas!!!

One thing worth mentioning are the dialogues. Script weak hai but dialogues amazing. There was one dialogue which went 'Ibtida e lafda hai.. locha hai kya.. dimag ka dahi horela hai.. etc etc'. Kick ass man.. I was rolling on the floor laughing and half the hall was looking at me and my friend was getting embarassed. I am sure she is not gonna watch another movie with me so i would need somebody else to watch such stupid movie with me.. help!!!

Also, the sequences where vijay is teaching tapori language to kay kay are just so sexy but the wait for those is too long and the other sub plots are nothing less of frustrating and irritating!

Technically, Nothing at all. Infact a couple of sequences were so blurred as if the cinematographer forgot to adjust focus only. Music ekdum bandal. Gaane bilkull bakwaas.

Overall: Go for vijay maurya and some crazzzzy dialogues. One time watch to banta hai if you are bored and there are no other movies to watch.

Feel-O-Meter: 6/10 (out of which 4 are for vijay maurya)

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Tere Sang: Nah.. The 'Awww.. So Sweet' factor!!!

Its not the most pathetic movie of the year but still is pretty 'not good' (Intentionally NOT using 'BAD'). Credit goes to no dum in the script. Old treatment. Not one performance to mention about. Too much of preaching. Too much 'trying to be cute' masala. Too 'Kiddy-Mushy' for me. Although there are a few moments in the second half which are cute as well as touching but are too few and you seem to doze off waiting for those moments.

Plot: Its about how a teenage girl 'accidentally' becomes pregnant coz bacchon ko feel aa jati hai. Then the preaching part begins where they dont want to 'Kill' a child. Add to that Running away from home masala and mix it with the second half of 'maine pyar kiya' way where the guy tries hard to make a living for the 'love' of his life and the gal tries to manage the house (A few scenes are pretty nice too). And in the end it all ends with some amount of gyaan session for both the parents and the kids.

Performance: Both the kids are cute, but thats the end of it. (And I am sure they were cast for that quality too and not for their acting prowess, so no complaints there). The guy whatever his name is, is better(or rather less worse) than the gal. Both of them look damn sweet together too. Waise bhi, the movie is more about the 'moments' than the performances. It rests on creating that 'sweet' feel, which makes you go 'Awwwwwww'. Thats it

Technicals : Nope. Nothing to mention. Even so that i dont even remember anything about anything. Soundtrack is equally pathetic (Although i think 'Morey Saiyaan' is one of the best songs of the year). Absolutely nothing to mention about

Overall: If your girlfriend is one of those 'Awwwwwwww.. Thats so cute' types. Go ahead and watch it. She can watch the movie and you can watch her. ;-)

Feel-O-Meter: 5/10

PS: Do download Morey Saiyaan.. Its a FAB FAB song..

Sikandar: Not Impressed


I might be being too harsh on the kids, but the movie just dint do anything for me. It had a good storyline, gripping script and decent direction, but i guess the 'kids' were trying too hard to be 'grown up actors' Thats where the movie lost its innocence for me. Its another 'could have been' but 'couldnt' movie.

First start with the positives. Its has a very strong plot, which talks about a kid who accidentally finds a gun and ends up in the struggle between politicians, terrorists, spiritual leaders and the army. Nowhere in the movie i found it to be preaching about anything. It talks about terror from a kid's perspective (just that the kid seems to perform like a grown up). A couple of twists are indeed very surprising and when ever you feel a bit bored, the twist just retains you on your seat.

Technically, the camera work is pretty neat but i guess credit goes to kashmir's locales rather than the cinematographer himself. Direction is pretty solid too since he takes out pretty okay work from (non)actors like madhavan, sanjay suri etc. But I had the problem with the backgrouns score, It is too 'cute' for a terrorism based movie. It is not as dark as it could have (or rather should have) been. May be the usage of softer instruments (i dont know the names but they have a very 'stringy' and kashmiri feel to them) took away the effect. Serious scenes mein bhi soft type background.. Feel chali jati thi.

Performancewise, There is a cameo by one of the actors who plays a terrorist in the first half was the only performance that impressed me. That too, coz of his FAB kashmiri accent (may be he actually is a kashmiri). FAB.. Just FAB.. As already said earlier, The kids (Parzaan and Ayesha) both try to act like grown ups. The effect of being 'kid-stars' is very obvious in their performance. They seem to be 'acting' and not portraying 'characters'. (I know i am being too harsh on the kids but being honest in my opinion). Thats where the movie lost its charm for me. Had their been not known kids, i am sure it could have been a damn neat movie.

Overall : An Okayish watch if you dont have anything else to do. (Afterthought: Less than okayish watch actually)

Feel-O-Meter: 5/10

Life Partner: Not 'THAT' bad actually!!!

The movie is nothing great but its not bad either. Its a very normal movie but kinda funny too (in parts). Its not among those irritating comedies which try too hard and end up frustrating audience. It has a decent script with some quite a few funny punches here and there.

Well.. First things first,I am gonna keep it pretty short coz there is nothing 'great' to write. But ya, its not as bad as you might expect it to be. I expected it to be complete trash (and you cant blame me given the cast), but i was pleasantly surprised with the outcome. The movie infact is pretty okay and does not bore you anytime. Even the jokes are too old, still it works. May be its to do with Govinda's timing.

Although Govinda is a complete miscast on paper. Imagine, govind in his late 40s (or early 50s) playing a casanova kinda character with baalis in his ears.But you cant take away his timing. He still has it.

Plotwise, Its a comedy with a pinch of gyaan on how life changes after marriage and adjustments involved therein!!!! Its purely situational, nothing else

As far as performances are concerned, Govinda has done pretty well. Others obviously are not doing anything great (for the simple reason, that i don really think genelia, fardeen or tushar can act to save their lives, but thats a separate point i guess)

For me, a decent script with some quite funny dialogues and scenes did the trick.

Feel-O-Meterl : 6/10

PS: I went to watch it for Genelia and wasnt disappointed. She is a pathetic actress no doubt, but is just too cute otherwise.. ;-)

Saturday, August 15, 2009

Jashnn: Surprisingly 'Not Bad' at all.


Surprisingly, the movie is not bad at all. Its a very sweetly made movie. It has no tantrums, No Show off, No marketing gimmicks, No stars, No out of the box creativity, No path breaking script writing, No great technicians, Almost Nothing. But STILL the movie worked for me. Because there was an honesty by which the movie has been made, which you can feel. Its not a Fab movie on which you would generally spend money and watch it, but still its better than the recent kambakht ishqs and Luck crap!!

I know most of you wouldnt even bother about the review or the movie and also might think that why in the hell, would i go and watch 'this' movie. Some of you might think that batla has lost it that he is actually reviewing a bhatt camp movie. The reason is simple, i heard about it through a couple of hardcore movie buff kinda friends and got reasonably not bad reviews and ya, if i can tolerate kambakht ishq and luck, then things cant get worse anyways.

The movie has a very cute and sweet soul, it has no showey attitude about it. It doesnt promise out of the hill top that its the best movie ever made. It doesnt have ANY hype whatsoever associated(obviously with 'stars' like adhyayan suman and anjana sukhani). There are no good performances(again pretty obvious). Absolutely nothing extraordinary about it. Infanct, this ordinary thing worked for me. It had just no tantrums. It was a very simple story, already told like a zillion times and no new treatment also. But its just a sweet movie thats it.

Plotwise, Its a story already told a zillion times over. Take a a struggling singer trying to make his mark add to it a love story and an angry and powerful brother(of the girl ofcourse) who is trying to screw things up. The guy hits rock bottom and then rises to win a singing competition and wins the brother over too. Nothing new, Pretty predictable but still you dont feel like leaving the theater before the finish.

Performances also are very ordinary. I think thats where the problem with lies. Even though it has a pretty decent script, since the budget was tight(i assume), they 'couldnt' take any established actors and 'dint' take any FRESH talent. They just did with reasonably known(just known) free actors. Adhyayan Suman was the biggest problem with the movie. Poor guy just cant act to save his life. He tries soo hard and it appears on screen. You can feel that he is giving his best in every shot but may be even that is just not good enough. Anjana Sukhani(I understand most of you wouldnt even know who she is, not that it matters too) again is a non-actor so cant expect anything from her too. Even the other actors are just not good except shahana goswami who couldnt save the movie on her own since hers is more like a character role.

Some of the scenes are actually pretty good especially the scene where Adhyayan steals a woman's purse and gets caught. Also, when he later earns some money after sweeping floors and goes to pay off a restaurant manager who threw him out. You just need to learn to ignore the 'actors' and concentrate on 'characters'. As already said, Casting is the villain in the movie. Had the movie been made through a bigger banner or fresh 'stars', it could have been another 'Jaane tu' (Dont be surprised, i am very serious).

Music is pretty decent, not great for a 'music' movie. But pretty decent nonetheless. Compliments must be given to the new jodi of music directors sharib and toshi who incidentally have been singing reality show contestants!!

Overall, A Nice Script.Age Old Story. No Great performances. But Good Treatment. No Flashy Airy stuff. Just a plain simple straight from the heart movie. Watch it (if its still in cinemas) if you nothing better to do. (If you can watch Kambakht Ishq and Luck then might as well can sit through this as well)

Feel-O-Meter: 6/10

PS: Please make it again with a better casting. I will watch it again. ;-)

Kaminey: Fort Kut ya Chota Fortkut!!!

The expectations were huge. The build up was too much. The hype was great too. Full 'Feel' bhi thi but it dint turn out to be full 'Dhan te Naan'. Vishal started to make a tarantino and he did, but ended up (literally in the end) mixing it with priyadarshan. Damn good script and dialogues have been written immaculately and delivered equally well. A Good watch but not a Vishal bhardwaj masterpiece. I think in order to do too much, the movie ended up not being 'up there' but just falls short of it, but even then it is FAB.. Damn FAB.. I just wish that the ending was a bit 'less filmy'

My heart breaks when i write anything negative about it but gotta mention the weak points too. The critics i guess are not writing about the negatives, since criticizing a vishal bhardwaj can outcast you big time. It IS damn good even now but promised to be much much more. It had all the ingredients. Gripping Script. Amazing Story. Phenomenal Actors. Great technicals and Crazy Background score.. EVERYTHING.. But the movie loses its direction a couple of times and just falls short of being as pathbreaking as it promises to be. Bas yaar, ending change kar ke ek baar aur release kar do. I will watch it 100 times over.

Its about two brothers one who stammers and the other who has a lisp, who cant stand each other's sight. There are sub plots, a mushy love story, more than 10 different characters with their own pursuits and a plot that brings all of them together.

The first half is a bit slow but its justified. Its more like a play than a movie. It explains every character in detail and gives full bhaav to all the characters, not only to the 'hero-heroine' types. I guess thats why even after the movie is finished, you still remember ALL the characters. It builds up for a cracking second half.

The second half begins with a bang and delivers full throttle. Edge of the seat excitement and phenomenal work by all the characters AND the actors. But just when it reached THE level, priyadarshan and guy ritchie take over. The greatest movies have the best of the endings, and thats where the problem lies.

In order to mix humour with drama, he tends to dilute the intensity of the movie. He brings all the characters at one place and kills them all, which i thought was a phenomenal idea. Another Godfather i guess. But the problem was with the treatment, he leaves scrosese and tries to do a priyadarshan (hera-pheri, malamaal weekly, hungama types). I would have loved him to do a Godfather or even a Lock, Stock.. could have been great but sigh.. All the build up goes out when 'filmy' comedy takes over and add to it a tottal filmy 'new twins birth'.

Performances to SABKI todu hai specially the surprise package from Amol Gupte (Taare zameen par fame), Chandar and Shiv Subramanyam. Priyanka is Fab too. Shahid i guess was good but doesnt do a saif(omkara). Sexy ensemble of cast but i wish in place of shahid if he had taken somebody else. Cant think of who but i have that feel somehow.

Music toh has already been discussed everywhere, almost ALL the songs are phenomenal, whether its Dhan Te Naan, Fatak, Pehli baar mohabbat or Kaminey. Every track is Fab. Just superb

Technically, the camera work is damn neat but goes a bit blurry and shaky in a few close shots, but may be thats because Vishal wanted that effect. Background score is just like another character which maintains the pace of the movie from start to finish. Script and Dialogues to Bhayankar roop se Todu hai boss!!!

Overall, The movie is damn damn neat.. But just loses its focus in the end, i sooo wish that vishal had taken a scorsese-ish stance than a priyadarshan-ish. Even a Guy ritchie could have been pretty neat. Change the ending and i wish watch it 100 times over..

Feel-O-Meter: 7.5/10 (-2.0 for the ending and -0.5 for a somewhat slow first half, Rest ALL's good)

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

New York: Pretty Decent


Well.. I dint have many expectations especially after the disastorous kabul express. Moreover, Katrina Kaif, John Abraham and Neil Nitin Mukesh are definitely not the 'actors' who have impressed me in any way. But i was pleasantly surprised to say the least. The storyline is nothing new, performances are not that great but still the movie scores for me. Nicely shot, simple movie which doesnt do too much of 'experimentation'. Go to the theater, Watch, Enjoy and Come back types. nothin more nothin else. Definitely a must watch, atleast once.

Plotwise, its an extension of khuda kay liye and talks abt the treatment of muslims post 9/11 in the US and how the brutal mental and physical torture in the name of interrogation leads an otherwise 'normal' guy to take up terrorism. Take that and Add to it a hint of Departed where the cops send an infiltrator(who incidentally is the terrorist's friend) to spy for them. And ya, thoda sa love triangle ka tadka and perfect masala movie with a difference ready to be served.

Performancewise, I give full credit to Kabir Khan!!! I never thought i would actually be happy with the performances of any of the three actors in any of the movies ever in life. But i think Kabir has taken out Fab work from all the three. John and Katrina are damn neat, they dont look like the 'model types' in any of the sequences. As far as Neil Nitin Mukesh is concerned, I have always had a problem with his voice. He just doesnt sound right ever. But nonetheless, does a decent job. Irfan Khan as usual is pretty amazing and does justice to his character

As far as Direction is concerned, although the movie looks like a hollywood ripoff(The shots are so similar to any of the A list hollywood movies and i mention this as a compliment). In no shot you get the 'bollywood' feel. But the frisk scene where the cop 'feels' Katrina is a striaght lift from a movie(Crash if i am not wrong). Overall Top class work. Be it the arial shots in the opening sequence or the tight shots in the emotional scenes. Good job there.

The script is very tight and never gives you a dull moment. From the very first shot you are engrossed in the movie(even though the story is quite predictable), the chemistry between the three friends has been portrayed very neatly, you actually start feeling like 'part of the gang'. Although i thought the love triangle bit was not required. But what the heck. I like it anyways

Overall: The movie is very well made and shot, with a tight script, pretty decent performances from 'non-actors'. It has its moments of ups and downs and scores in the end. The plot and a few scenes seem too 'inspired' but a good watch nonetheless, atleast once. Go for it. IF you have not seen it already!!

Feel-O-Meter: 7/10

Sunday, August 9, 2009

Luck: Yuck!!!!


Are you 'lucky'? Yes, if you are shot in chest on the left side and the doctor declares, 'you are so lucky, your heart is not on the left but on the right side'!!!! I dont have the words to describe the disgustful 'feel' that i have for this trash. I fail to understand how bad a movie can be made. Do film makers think that hollywood 'inspired' stunts is ALL that the indian audience is looking for?? I think the movie had everything but story, script, direction, performance, music and... may be a couple of more things!!! Pathetic to the Core. If somebody pays you to watch it.. Run and Hide.. Thats it..

One of the worst movies since kambakht ishq!!! The movie has absolutely nothing to offer. I still am not sure why Sanjay Dutt still does shitty movies like this. He has enough money i guess. He doesnt need to act to survive if i am not wrong. Or else, what in the world could be the reason for his appearance in this piece of trash.

Plot: Whats that?? I dont think there IS a plot. I am sure one fine day the director would have woken up feeling 'lucky' and next day started shooting, thinking that if they actually are 'lucky' the script writer would write something good during the shoot, actors might act well, and ya.. if they are TOOOOO lucky, there could be a few people who might ACTUALLY pay for a ticket and watch this movie. The movie talks about 'the luck factor' in normal people's life. A 'lucky' gangster brings some other 'lucky' people together and runs an international racket of 'luck games' which include shooting the other one with one bullet in the gun(full gabbar singh style), jumping off an airplane with a bag (it may or may not contain a parachute, depending on your 'luck'), finding a key out of 300 which might be able to save you from a couple of sharks in the sea, and ya.. my favorite.. The doctor telling you that you have been shot point blank in the left part of your chest but hoooray, you are soo lucky that your heart is on the right side!!!!

Performance: WTF!!! Imran Khan, Shruti Hassan, Ravi kisshen(!!!!) cant act to save their lives. God knows whats wrong with Sanju Baba that he is not able to find good work. Pleeease for god's sake get over the sanjay gupta trash genre.

Technicals: Just some hollywood 'inspired' stunts which leave you 'yawning' rather than go 'ohhh thats some action'. No cinematography. No sense of direction (or purpose). ABBOSLUTELY nothing to mention

Music: Equally pathetic (except 'khudaya re' which obv doesnt fit into the movie, but is Ammmmazing) There is a cacophony of Luck aazmaa(Rock as well as the normal version) again and again. once again, Absolutely pathetic

Overall : If somebody offers you a free ticket (plus money for popcorn). Dont fall for it. Its a TRAP and the person might be looking to force you to commit a suicide in the theater. Just turn the other way. Run and Hide

Feel-O-Meter : 1/10 (1 for the khudaya number)

State of Play : The usual 'Pretty Good' Politico-Journo Drama!!


Well. Take Kevin Macdonald(Director : The last king of scotland), Russel Crowe, Ben Affleck, Helen Mirren, Rachel Mcadams in a political drama. What do you expect? A Cracker of a movie. Thats where the problem is, the movie in isolation is pretty good. Gripping performances, A Tight Script, Nice Technicals, Everything (Almost).. But still lacks that special 'feel'. So turns out to be another above average movie.

Plotwise, its a political thriller about a rising congressman (affleck) and an investigative journalist (russel) embroiled in a case of brutal murders, with the usual twists and turns, add to that a few surprises (which are not the usual over the top or 'Wattt,Oh come on' types). The congressman talks about morality but is cheating on his wife!! It also deals with the ethical dilemma that crowe goes through while segregating his professional and personal lives.

Performance wise, No surprises here. Russel delivers a powerpacked performance. His grip on all the characters he plays is just unbelievable. Maybe we are seeing another pacino or brando in the making. Ben is the usual 'okay' kinds and there are no others who actually stir up any emotions.

Technically, i think Kevin has done a Fab job in not going over the top in terms of anything from camera work to lighting or anything else. The shots are crisp and close. Another point worth mentioning is the background score that moves in tandem with the movie's pace and actually facilitates the narration.

Overall, a 'pretty good' movie, which neither stirs up any emotions or is path breaking in any way. The usual 'good movie' types. I dont even know if its been released in India or not. So Grab a DVD if you can. A one time must watch

Feel-O-Meter: 7/10

Saturday, August 8, 2009

Love Aaj Kal: Refreshing Indeed

The movie is about the thin line that every (or rather almost every) youngster goes through. The line between 'being in a relationship' and 'being in love'. The movie breaks 'the guy meets gal. they fall in love. some troubles.. dishum dishum.. twists.. and they live happily ever after' clutter and provides a fresh breather. Its not a soooper movie with great performances with dhinchak technicals, but it does have a tight script and that 'feel good factor' which leaves a stupid smile on your face when you walk out of the theater.

Plot wise, The movie deals with the difference between the 'Love Fundamentals of 'Aaj' Vs 'Kal'. The movie starts with post break up scenario between saif and deepika wherein both are just 'friends' and claim to have 'moved on' from the relationship. Add to it a parallel (not really) track of a flashback romance between a young Rishi Kapoor(dont get confused: Played by Saif himself) and Harleen(A 'Brazillian' punjaabi kudi). There are twists and turns and realizations of movement from 'relationship' to 'love' and everyone lives happily ever after.. Phew!!!

Performance wise, (Obviously) Saif and Deepika disappoint. If you replace both of them with two 'Potatoes' the movie wont be any different because its not about the performance prowess of any of the characters. Since i dint expect any of them to deliver a power packed performance, i was not disappointed. As already established. The movie is not about actors or even characters, its about the situations and realizations.

Technically, i think Imtiaz has done a Fab job when it comes to the sepia-toned 'kal' story. I think it just fits perfectly with the script as well as the timeline. The tone distinguishes the current plot from the past as well as eliminates the confusion that could have arisen from the continuous current vs past tracks.
One think worth mentioning here is the use of Saif as Rishi Kapoor's younger version. Most people i spoke with seemed to have a problem with that. But i guess they miss a very crucial point, Rishi says that Saif reminds him of his younger self and Rishi himself is the one narrating his story, so its pretty obvious that he sees saif in his own flashback. Confusing but has been taken up very well.

Music is just out of the world. Take ANY track and you are gonna love it. From 'aahun aahun' which just simply doesnt go out of your head no matter how hard you try to the mushy 'dooriyaan'. EACH and every song blends perfectly in the narrative.

Overall, a must watch (atleast for every individual who is confused with the concept of 'love' and 'relationships' and the difference therein). Dont expect great performances, but a sweet story with no zabardasti ka mush-wush, Superb direction, Decent technicals, Great Music, A tight script and Gripping Narrative.. Imtiaz all the way from my side..

Feel-O-Meter: 8.5/10


Food for thought: Would Ranbir had been a better choice (if the money was not provided by Saif!!) to play the lead. Hmm.. For one, He is dating Deepika(so chemistry). Second, He is Rishi kapoor's son so HE playing HIS younger version would have been more realistic(Mind you, Neetu Singh also plays Rishi's wife in the movie). Third, The movie has a very 'fresh and young feel' which i dont think Saif does justice to.

Sunday, July 19, 2009

Gulaal : 'THE' Scene

"Tumhe kisne kaha ke MAIN sab ka istemaal nahi kar rahi"

Was watching Gulaal again and couldnt resist writing. No doubt that the movie itself is a masterpiece. But, i think this one scene deserves a special mention.

For those who havent seen the movie, contrary to popular belief, that its about college politics or the struggle for a separate rajputana state and has a 70s struggling flavour to it. The movie is above all this. All those things are sub-plots and the movie is about a simple need of recognition as legitimate children for a brother-sister pair. They need that recognition and WILL get it at whatever cost possible. Even if the cost is to sacrifice his own sister and going till ANY length to achieve it.

This particular scene takes the plot to the end when you realize that the helplessness of Dileep when he comes to know that the woman she blindly loved, doesn't love him at all and was only using him. She keeps on telling him the same thing again and again and He keeps on justifying HER actions. He tells her that she is BEING used and then she says 'THE' dialogue. Man.. THIS is wat script writing is all about. I just don't have the words to describe how i 'feel' when she says that one dialogue which sums up the whole movie in a sentence!!!

The struggle to realize the truth is so amazingly portrayed by Dileep, that it is just out of the world. The innocence which forms the basis of his character is still not lost and can be felt through his thick framed eyes too. You can almost reach Dileep's heart and feel the pain inside. The same guy who trusted this girl more than himself. The same guy who gave up everything for this one girl. The same guy whom most might term as a typical 'emotional fool'. The same guy who picks up a gun and kills 5 people becomes so helpless when he has to face the girl who 'loved' him.

Kiran on the other hand, is just as cold blooded as one can be. She knew what she wanted and was ready to go to any length for it and thats what she did. Be it using dileep or sleeping with other men to realize her goal. Even in this cold blooded portrayal you cant escape feeling for her too. In this one scene, you can feel the pain that she has gone through all her life, being called an illegitimate child. For her, Dileep is nothing more than a stepping stone in her bigger scheme of things.

'Trust' and 'Betrayal' are two sides of the same coin. Its just the way you look at it. Dileep trusts Kiran so blindly that even when she herself tells him the truth. He just cant believe it. He keeps justifying her actions and thinks that 'others' are using her. He just cant understand the concept of betrayal. he just needs to flip the coin and look at the other side. But he doesn't or rather he couldn't. The scene looks at the 'Love is Blind' cliche and multiplies it manifold. Dileep is so 'blinded' by love that he coudn't see the truth. You might call him 'naive, an idiot or a dumb-ass' who doesnt fit in 'today's' definition of love and relationships. But he is not all that. He is just simply in 'love'.

Phenomenal. Nothing short of it.