Has Joshi lost his Golden Touch?

Recently Joshi came back with “Salam Kashmeer” and a lot was expected from him this time. But unfortunatley he repeated history and again gave us a weak and unimpressive movie. Even Jayaram could not save the drowing ship since it was the script which had nothing new to offer. “Joshi’s Midas Touch” was again missing.

In-fact, I am quite surprised why he chose a plot which had already been tried before in“Aagathan”, “Itha Ivide Vare”  and “Varnajalam”. Also it can easily be termed as inspired from“Minority Report” too. It seems that the directors dont prefer to see the work done by others in the industry and then unknowingly committ the same mistake again.

I wish he had used a virgin topic for his latest movie.

And what i really don’t want to see is a Madhu repeating himself in Joshi.

The veteran “Madhu”also gave us some masterpieces in his young days and after that is coming up with such incomparable movies. (though he always comes with a new theme, but the execution lacks a lot).

Dear Joshi, we really want to see you back with classics which can be compared to “Tiger Salim”, “Moorkhan”, “Ithihasam”, “Aarambam” & “New Delhi”.

Hoping to see you back in form again with your “next”.

The Usual Suspects(1995)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Thriller)

One of the best movies on  the interrogation of Roger "Verbal" Kint, a small-time con man who is one of only two survivors of a massacre and fire on a ship docked at the Port of Los Angeles.  Stephen Baldwin and Gabriel Briane unarguably give one of their career best performances in this intense movie. The movie is based on an unusual plot in which a boat has been destroyed, criminals are dead, and the key to this mystery lies with the only survivor and his twisted, convoluted story beginning with five career crooks in a seemingly random police lineup. Bryan Singer again is at his best and gives out another Classy movie to American Cinema. Benitio Deltoro is very fine and calm in the role of Fed Finster . Chaz Palmintery is funny & convincing as a U.S coustoms special agent . Kevin Pollack along with Pete Postleweite,Kevin Spacy and Suzy Amiz do full justice in their smaller roles. A well written script and screenplay which also became an inspiration to many future bollywood movies. Strongly Recommended if you haven’t seen it yet. Directed By Bryan Singer Starring : Stephen Baldwin, Gabriel Briane, Benitio Deltoro& More Music By John Ottman

Tangled(2001)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Thriller)

Jay Lowi proves himself once again with his New Age thriller and gives a new dimension to the word ‘GRANDEUR’ in American Cinema. The very first thing I suggest is that don’t consider it as an thriller movie, rather see it as a drama . The second thing I would like to say that as most of the people took it as a miscast movie, “its not”. The casting is just perfect and after watching it you cannot consider any other actor portraying the role of Jenny among the young generation so brilliantly except Rachel Leigh Cook. Rachel Leigh Cook is again at her best and has done full justice with her character. Especially she is incomparable in the scenes where she shows her anger. Equally impressive is Shawn Hatosy as David and he provides all the dignity and beauty needed by his character. Here I would like to add that the promos of the film are only 10% of its actual worth, so don’t be mislead by them. It is purely a love story  with some awesome music by Rein Hold Heel. Directed By Jay Lowi Starring : Rachel Leigh Cook & Shawn Hatosy

Masters-One of the 10 Best Thrillers in recent years(Movie Review By Yoonus Mohyudhin)

After seeing “Masters”, I could say that keeping the inspiration fact aside from his track record, Johny Antony is no doubt one of the top 3 directors of thrillers movies in Malayalam Cinema. And “Masters” proves that again and the movie can be stated as the most impressive work from the director  after his last few pale attempts.

“Masters” is a high paced and slickly edited thriller with shocks & more shocks for the viewers at regular intervals. And with each new turn you come forward on the edge of your seat. As I don’t prefer wasting words on giving out the story of the movie in my reviews, I would just like to add that its one of the most tightly written script and you dare don’t go for a popcorn in between the movie or else you will miss a new twist in the story.

All the characters have a well defined role and the casting is just near to perfect too (with only Sandhya as a miscast). Each person in the script has a plan against the other and after the light 20 minutes in the opening, the movie just picks up the speed with a kick start. At times you feel that its going too pacy and there are too much twists and turns in the plot, but still its all enjoyable to a great extent.

The first half has Prithviraj, Shashikumar, Piya Bajpeyi & Ananya as the lead. Prithviraj clearly gives another powerful performance after “Indian Rupee”. Shashi Kumar too performs a tough role in an impressive manner. He can easily add this movie in his career’s Top 3. Piya Bajpeyi looks more ravishing than Ananya, but they both surely give the required “Oomph Impact” to the racy thriller.

At the end of the first half enters Biju Menon as the driver. And from here onwards you start enjoying the movie more with his one liners and thrilling timings. But Sandhya seems to be unfit in her “Kitty-Karmachand” role as an assistant to Biju Menon. Biju Menon is very entertaining eating all kinds of fruits while he was investigating. Jagathi Shreekumar is wasted as he is there only for one scene, but he had to be there since he is the lucky mascot of the director  from “CID Moosa” days. While watching “MASTERS”, each time you think that now the whole plan is told, there comes another twist and this continues till the last scene of the movie.

The one thing which can be said as the weakness in the script is that there is no Police involvement shown in the crime. Biju Menon is supposed to be the only official driver looking into the case and he is too involved in the plot. The second half belongs to Biju and Prithvi equally and they both simply excel. The Climax is one of best in the recent times as it is  concerned in showing the victory of truth, and shows how the victims win and respect the intelligence of the other.

The songs are quite enjoyable but there is already plagiarism factor involved with “Gopi Sunder” lifting more than one tunes.  I think the fast paced instrumental version of “Suhruthu suhruthu” should have been used repeatedly in the background rather than the slow theme music. It would have given more pace to the scenes.

Summing up, this is one of the best works of Johny Antony, and one of the best Thrillers coming out of the Malayalam Film Industry. The only fear I have is that I should not receive any mails in the coming days that the movie is an inspired one. I pray that it should be an original work from the makers as this is indeed a commendable one.

Go for it, the movie can turn you into a fan of thrillers. Rating : 4 / 5

Thappana(2012)&Aar Ek Aashapurna(1983)

When I first saw Thappana, I was quite impressed by its entertaining treatment and the unique storyline. Especially, Mammootty, superbly playing the ex convict was the major USP of the movie having a fast paced script with no dull moments. 

But I really felt quite low to find that this authentic looking movie was also an inspired version of an Original Bengali Flick called "Aar Ek Aashapurna" (1983), written by Aasha Purna Devi.

Check out : http://www.crossword.in/books/aar-ek-ashapurna/p-books-9788172932893.html

But the silver lining in the dark clouds is that the Malayalam Version was more thrilling and captivating than its Bengali source. And “Thappana” can easily be included in the category of Better Inspired Movies, where a version outshines its original.

Best Actor(2010)&Pappu(1980)

It was a highly entertaining and gripping movie, well made by the director Martin Prakkattu, but it took most of its inspiration from "Pappu" (1980). You will find every main character and sequence of this Mammootty starrer, there in the old Original too.

But an interesting observation is that the new version of the movie is more enjoyable and engrossing than its real source. Martin Prakkattu used this inspiration in the best possible way and came up with a well directed movie which keeps you glued to your seat from the first scene itself.

Just check out : http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0334083/?ref_=nm_flmg_dr_20

8mm(1999)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Crime)

A combination of Crime, Mystery & Thriller is very rare and tough to attempt. This flick is a entertaining mix of story about a private investigator who delves into the world of snuff films. I'd heard about it, thought "Oh, another Seven".  A great thrill to watch as it grips you with surprise each time it unfolds a new mystery. 

New unexpected twists and turns are there in each segment of the movie and the climax is just superb. Though not considered as a masterpiece but the movie is worth watching as it mixes crime and horror in a very enjoyable way. In fact the Indian viewers may find that many of Mohit Suri’s movies gimmicks are there in this flick, so he may have got inspired from 8mm too. A must watch for lovers of crimes, thrillers and mysticism.

Directed By Joel Schumacher Starring : Nicolas Cage, Joaquin Phoenix & More

Meen(1980)&similar themes

I.V Shashi has always been involved in films which are innovative, entertaining but also highly inspired from other indian Cinema. Like “Aanandham Paramanandham” (1977) was inspired from the Tamil movie “Anubhavi Raja Anubhavi”  (1967). His movie on a bold subject of rivenge, “Itha Ivide Vare” (1977) was very close to “Khasakkinte Ithihasam” (1969) and “Itha Oru Manushyan” in which Madhu had a lead role, was entirely based on a Hindi movie “Amanush”.

Walking down the same road, his another venture “Meen” is also based on a seen before theme of revenging a son to his father. The story is  very close to a Hindi movie “Thrishool” (1978) featuring the actor Amithab Bachan.  Since I haven’t seen the Hindi flick so can’t comment strongly on the  similarity. But with the look of it the theme seems to on the same lines of “Meen”.

Chek out at : http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0078418/plotsummary?ref_=tt_ov_pl

Out Of Time(2003)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Thriller)

With his each film Carl Franklin moves ahead on the road of becoming a director to watch out for in the coming years. A man of many talents and with an eye of interesting subjects, his movies are both entertaining and classy at the same time. Out Of Time can simply be put as his best work till date as it is fantastic in almost all the departments.

Denzel Washington and Eva Mandes together are like fire on the screen and Sanaa Lathan is ravishing as never before. The only drawback I found in direction was that veteran actors such as Dean Cain and John Billingsley were totally miscast in their small & unimportant roles which were not according to their world known caliber.It is brilliantly made and highly entertaining with commercial hollywood elements woven into the script. The film has a tremendous repeat value due to the superb acts by both Eva Mendes & Denzel Washington. A must watch and strongly recommended for all. 

Directed  By Carl Franklin Starring : Eva Mandes, Denzel Washington & Dean Cain

Arthur(1981)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Comedy)

Self respect and confidence is the key feature of this immensely popular film and arguably one of the top 3 by the legendary Dudley More. The latest buzz I heard few years back is that some states in u.s.a have included this film in their school syllabus to teach young students the meaning of self-esteem and confidence.It was the quintessential comedy of the decade.

 It won Sir John Gielgud the Academy Award.  Even if you have seen this long time back, the movie still lingers in the memory strong enough. Another gem from the combination of Steve Gordon and Deadley More. Highly Recommended for lovers of Golden Eighties Movies of American Cinema.

Directed By Steve Gordon Starring : Deadley More, Liza Minnelli & John Geilgud Music By Burt Bucharach

Love In Kerala(1968)&Similar Themes

“Love In Kerala” was a very rare and successful attempt by one of the most serious actors of Mollywood, Prem Nazir. Brilliantly directed by Shashi Kumar, the movie had a fabulous script enacted by a talented star-cast. And it was indeed a courageous step to make a movie entirely based on a girl who locked her cid lover with love. What I liked the most about the film was its opening sequence where the entry of hair cropped villain-Jose Prakash. The sequence is a pure cinematic gem to watch.

As far as the inspirational part goes, Love In Kerala is undoubtedly an Original in itself with respect to its unique & innovative treatment. But still there are few movies made on a similar kind of theme and subject.

In “You Only Live Twice” (1967) too, James Bond is locked by his lover.

In "First Yank Into Tokyo" (1945),An American secret agent going through a yellowface procedure in order to spy on the Japanese.

Malayalam Cinema’s golden classic “Incepector” (1968) also had a similar kind of subject where, again Prem Nazir is an indian secret agent going through a procedure in order to spy on the pakisthan.

But these are only references of some similar themes, with no indication towards any inspiration in particular. And “Love In Kerala” still stands tall as a true example of excellence achieved in the modern cinema.

The King&The Commisioner-Where Is Shaji Kailas?(Movie Review By Yoonus Mohyudhin)

Shaji Kailas returns after the debacle of “Augast15?”. But unfortunately I was again disappointed and found the shaji kailas spark missing in the movie. Infact, I am quite surprised why the filmmakers keep on using the same plot again & again even when they know that it has been exploited before by others in the industry.

We all have seen the plot of “a colletore&a police unite against terrorism&a cult who used his power for terrorism” used many time before also. The main source behind the inspiration is “The King” which came in 1995 starring Mammootty as the collector & Ganesh as the police. It was  a follow up of Shaji Kailas’s own“Commisioner” released in 1994, in which Ratheesh played the cabinet minister and Suresh Gopi was the police. We also witnessed the similar kind of thing in the second half of Shaji Kailas’s “Ekalavyan” (1993) which had Narendraprasad, a cult who used his power for illegal activities. And now again it is repeated in “King &Commisioner”.

 

Shaji Kailas surely moves ahead with an offbeat and an unusual track for Anto Joseph and he has broken his own old pattern of filmmaking with this venture. But its quite questionable why he chose a story which has similarities with many other movies. The film lacks the grip from the first half hour itself and then the only engrossing aspect is the music which comes as a background theme in many scenes. The screenplay is predictable from the first scene and the viewer also cannot relate to the secular them in a big way.

The only impressive elements in the film are : 

 

1. The unmatchable act by well know mega star Mammootty as the collector.

 

2. And the Soul Stirring music by Rajamani. Infact this is the first time I am impressed with this music for a film soundtrack. Way to go Rajamani…Keep it up..

Shaji Kailas undoubtedly has a gifted ear for good music which he has proved again with this latest offering.

Suresh Gopi is impressive and establishes himself as veteran actor in the industry who can be a strong pillar for any project. Say Kumar is a good , but he has got not much to do and only has to give the starring looks according to the his role most of the times. So he can be judged better when he emotes, fights and dances in his next movie. Samvrutha sunil is loud at some places and the rest of the cast just ok.

 

The climax is the major letdown. The similar kind of climax you may recall in “Ekalavyan” and “Roudram” when the bomb explodes after the heroes getting out of the building, killing the villaines. Trivandrum and Heritage Sites in Delhi are the new craze in Malayalam Films now a days. The best part remains the music by Rajamani, though he borrows a lot from the old  Music treasures, still I will rate it as his best work for a film soundtrack till date.

In simple words, its Shaji Kailas’s attempt towards a different kind of cinema. He excels in parts no doubt, but I wish he had chosen a virgin topic for this move. Watch it for Mammootty…and do listen to its complete soundtrack…

Rating : 2 / 5  (Buy The Soundtrack, It's worth it.)

Unfaithful(2002)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Erotic)

It tells about a couple living in suburban New York City whose marriage goes dangerously awry when the wife indulges in an adulterous affair with a stranger she encounters by chance in Manhattan.Whoever thought that director Adrian Lyne and star Richard Gere were finished needs to see this haunting and provocative film. Because this is a stunner that will put both back on the map - big time. For all their star power though, it is the female star Diane Lane who must take huge credit for making this such an effective movie.  I've always liked Lane as an actress from when she was a kid in Francis Ford Coppola films, but she rarely got the chance to 'carry' a film. Well, she not only 'carries' UNFAITHFUL, she delivers one of the most haunting and powerful performances I have seen from an actress.  A great choice for erotical and thriller movie lovers. Directed By Adrian Liane Starring : Richard Gere, Diana Lane & Olivier Martinez

Amma(1952)&Shavukaru(1950)

The Thikkurishi Sukumaran Nair starrer lover story has one inspired sequence in the movie where  the tale of Lakshmi Amma, a loving mother, and her son Venu. Venu falls in love with Radha, a rich lady, and later marries her. After the marriage, Venu and Radha shifts to Madras. He manages to send some money to his mother in the beginning. But as days went, Radha intervenes and Venu is not able to send any more money to his poor mother. Meanwhile, a private moneylender from whom Lakshmi Amma had borrowed some money for Venu's marriage, kicks her out of the house. Venu brings Lakshmi Amma to his Madras residence but Radha is not ready to allow her to stay there. This creates problems and Lakshmi Amma had to leave that house. She is thrown to the streets within the same scene.  

It has a straight similarity with a sequence in the classic “Shavukaru” featuring N .T Ramarao.

State Of Grace(1990)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Nio Noir)

Famous for the character of “Terry Noonan”, the movie is unanimously included in the list of Top 10 Movies by the living legend Sean Penn. Each and every scene of this nio noir cum crime story is a class of its own. You are sure going to find it in the most watched movies list of many Hollywood lovers.

Though it is based on an over exploited plot of an underworld and sacrifices among the friends, still it has a charm, style and pull of its own. Sean Penn lives his onscreen character of “Terry Noonan” perfectly with a class. The songs and dialogues are still remembered by his fans all over the world. Robin Wright looks gorgeous in the role of sisters of the gangsters and Ed Harris is impressive as the third angle in the story. A must watch for nio noir and  crime drama movie lovers.

Directed By Phil Joanau Starring : Sean Penn, Ed Harris, Gary Oldman & Robin Wright Music By Ennio Morricone

The Eyes Of Laura Mars(1978)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Thriller)

This is one of the first path breaking movies made by Irvin Kershner with first of its kind shot takings, camera angles and new techniques. A racy, tight screenplay with punchy dialogues and fine acting by the entire star-cast. The story reveals the truth suddenly Laura Mars can see through the eyes of a serial killer as he commits his crimes. She contacts the police and with the aid of a police detective, tries to stop the killer. 

Irvin Kershner makes his actors speak more with their eyes than with their vocal chords. He brilliantly creates an atmosphere of tension on the screen which was really a novel experience for the audiences at the time of its release.This 1978 chiller directed by Irvin Kerschner (RoboCop 2) and based on a story by John Carpenter, has Faye Dunaway as a fashion photographer who suddenly discovers that she has the ability to "see" through the eyes of a serial killer. All her premonitions of the murders are very accurate, and the victims are all people she knows. Soon it becomes apparent the killer is coming after her. 

Directed By Irvin Kershner Starring : Faye Dunaway & Tommy Lee Jones

Dragon Fly(2002)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Drama)

An American film which was widely appreciated mainly by all the drama film lovers . The plot is about a grieving doctor being contacted by his late wife through his patients' near-death experience. Since it is based on a sensitive issue, the director magnificently handles the sentiments of both the beleivers and the non beleavers communities with utmost care.

No doubt superstion, sadly, does exists in many parts of the world and religeons are the most affected institutions with this curse. The famous film released in 2002 also shows how a grieving doctor is being contacted by his late wife through his patients near death experiences. But the director does not take any sides here. He is not partial and is entirely focused on his story.

 There is something strange about 'Dragonfly'.It can surely be considered as one of the best fantasy dramas ever produced. The film is engrossing, thrilling and has a suspense element too in its climax. Highly Recommended for all.

Directed By Tom Shadyac 

Starring : Kevin Costner, Joy Mortor, Ron Rifkin, Linda Hunt, Kathy Bates

Fear(1996)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Thriller)

Popularly rated as one of the 10 Best thrillerss of American Cinema till date, this is a cult classic famous for its unique thrill, performances, songs and the timeless appeal in its execution. A thriller which actually received its current status after many years of its release in 1996, has been the prime inspiration for all the writers and directors of the present times wishing to make a fine thriller project. The film has a tremendous repeat value and is universally loved by all like a perfect entertainer, since it never drags or makes you feel bored even after its numerous repeated viewings.  

 

It’s a fast paced, entertaining thriller from start to finish, with all the top  actors of that golden era having a good time on the screen. For instance, just imagine Mark Wahlberg, Rees Witherspoon, William Peterson,  Alice Milan and Amy Buvarman (in a step mother role too) sharing the same stage, interacting with each other having their own individual amusing mannerisms performed perfectly. Hence with all these maestros giving their own incomparable inputs, the film eventually turned out to be masterpiece setting a new benchmark for all the thrillerss to be made post the 2000s. 

However, another truth related with “Fear” is that though it is now respected as one of the best products of American Cinema, but reportedly the film was not a huge success at the time of its release in the late nineies. It was produced by Brian Grazer  and he had to make another quickie after “Fear” to keep it rolling which was called “The Chamber” released in the same year. Further as a revelation, “Fear” was actually based on the  novel by James Webb, which was adapted for a film titled “Cape Fear” in 1962 directed by Jay Lee Thomson. Later it was also remade in Hindi and Tamil before being re-made in English.

But if you haven’t seen it yet then please don’t let its rather lesser known “Remake” status discourage you in any way (keeping in mind the present avoidable trend of making remakes in the new millennium). In fact just forget about all the facts and do watch it at the earliest to witness one of the most enjoyable romantic thrillers ever made in American Cinema. And in case you find it too loud or over the top then it also has many melodious memorable tracks which are sure going to keep you hooked on to the screen including Jessica, Green Mind, Come Down, Wild Horces, Machiene head and many more composed by the legendary Carter Burwell. So if thriller is the genre you love, then “Fear” is the one you got to see as a must.

Directed By James Foley 

Starring : Mark Wahlberg, Reese Witherspoon, William Peterson & Alyssa Milano

 Music By Carter Burwell

Out Of Sight(1998)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Crime Comedy)

This is a one of its kind experimental movie from the thinking mind of Steven Soderburg. A crime comedy in the late nineties was no doubt a daring attempt by the producer director. And since it was a quality effort by its creative team, the film was widely accepted and appreciated all over. Though it’s a crime movie in the sense of crimes and only violence, but few minutes in the film and you will not feel watching something new and out of the box. The direction is of such a class that you don’t realize that we are not having any crimes here.

 

The story is expressed beautifully, especially the love chase between George Coloney and Jennifer Lopez filmed remarkably. Hats Off to the makers of this movie that they had the courage to put money in such kind of risky but creative venture. Really a treat to watch with George Coloney in his true form.

 

Directed By Steven Soderburg

Starring : George Coloney & Jennifer Lopez
Music By David Holmes

Laura(1944)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Film Noir)

A highly entertaining adult film noir based on mystery, romance and sex. It revolves around a police detective falls in love with the woman whose murder he's investigating. It is a mystery  filled movie made stylishly with a different kind of noir.

The movie is not a cheap sexy noir as it tackles the subject with fine sensitivity and perfection. The writers have used the delicate issue of romancing a murderd girl as the backdrop of an intelligent sex noir. If you are interested in watching good innovative stuff about the current scenario of  mystery deaths in our society, then go for “Laura”. In fact some of the recent Hit Hindi Thrillers are also loosely based on it. 
Directed By Otto Preminger
Starring : Gene Tierney, Dana Andrews,Clifton Webb&More.

Witness(1985)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Thriller)

A well conceived and fantastically directed movie about  a detective protecting a young Amish boy who becomes a target after he witnesses a murder in Philadelphia..Harrison Ford is one of those actors that often times just shows up and then there lies his character.  Simply the best work by the director Peter Weir and also one of the Top 10 movies of Harrison Ford and Kelly Mcgillis.

Philadalphia, its charm and its breath taking locations have been captured beautifully on the screen. Joseph Sommer, Lukas Haas & Jan Rubes are also there contributing their valuable inputs to this once in a while movie. Dialogues written by Earl W.Wallace are one of the most worth mentioning assets of this intense thriller. The melodious music by Maurice Jarre  simply touches your heart . In few words it’s a fabulous cinematic experience featuring Philadalphia, as never before.

Directed By Peter Weir Starring : Harrison Ford, Kelly Mcgillis, Joseph Sommer, Lukas Haas, Alexander Godunov, Jan Rubes and More. Music By Maurice Jarre

Body Heat(1981)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Neo Noir)

Re-defining relationships and love in his movie, “Body Heat” is Lawrence Kasdan’s remarkable gift to Hollywood Lovers all over the world. It proved to be a milestone in the career of all the leading stars and they still have sweet memories of this loving movie. Casting William Hurt in the role of a an inept, and somewhat sleazy lawyer,indeed needed real courage after his immensely popular “Eye Witness”. And William Hurt, as expected, did complete justice with his well written role.

 But the best part in the movie, arguably, is played by Richard Crenna in his own unique style. The particular scene where he comes to know about his wife’s  affair, but still takes it lightly with a deep understanding, puts Richard Crenna, on top of the list of all the performers. His scenes with wife played by Kathleen Turner are equally entertaining and well directed.

This movie easily can be included in the category of Classics by the masters of American Film Industry. With the brilliant music of John Barry , the expressions of sex, murder and revenge are beautifully captured on the screen. A must watch movie to suspense and thrill.

Directed By Lawrence Kasdan

Starring : William Hurt, Richard Crenna, Kathleen Turner, Ted Danson, J.A Preston & Mickey Rourke
Music By John Barry

The Evil Dead(Movie Series)(1981,87&92)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Horror)

A highly entertaining and brilliantly directed series of 3 films. Such is the pull in this fantastic chain of movies that the moment you finish the first part, you just want to go on to the second and so on. In few words it is unstoppable horror at its best.

The finest part of this trilogy is that nothing seems to be unbelievable in the movie and the viewer just feels being there with the people on the screen experiencing everything first hand.  Unarguably, one of the Top 10 Best horror movies made all over the world till date.

I It's the early 80's, what do you expect? This is a scary scary film. On merit basis the first part is the best and then the second and third respectively.  And I think I know why films now a days can't hold a candle to films like Halloween and Evil Dead.  If you haven’t seen this series till now, then just opt for it as the next thing you do. Not to be missed at any cost by anyone who loves movies.

Directed By Sam Raimi

Starring: Bruce Campbell, Ellen Sandweise

What Lies Beneath(2000)-(Movies To Before You Die-Horror)

Universally acclaimed as one of the most important film of American Cinema by the great master filmmaker Robert Zemeckis. The film is worth seeing for its inventive shot taking, lighting and its unique theme about  a well-to-do couple who experience a strange haunting that uncovers secrets about their past.. Robert Zemeckis captures the true moments in the life of a couple, realistically. The actors and the  everything about the film is just commendable.

Included in the curriculum of major film-making courses in u.s.a, the movie demands to be seen with patience and love as it is a bit slow in parts. But if you are a serious cinema lover then “What Lies Beneath” would be an experience to cherish.

Said to be based on an old movie'THE LODGER', the  movie  is a true masterpiece in totality. Ironically, the movie was not accepted by the viewers when it was released and flopped miserably. But presently, this  movie from the master director Robert Zemeckis is considered to be his finest work. 

Directed By Robert Zemeckis 

Starring: Harrison Ford, Michelle Pfeiffer & Diana Scarwid 

Music By Alan Silvestri

Appu(1990)&Ivide Ellavarkkum Sukham(1987)

This funny crime thriller featuring Mohan Lal & Sunitha is heavily based on another Mohan Lal starrer "Ivide Ellavarkkum Sukham”. All the major characters and sequences in the movie have a straight resemblance with the old original. In the new version too the hero (Mohan Lal) is an orphan  is also quite similar to that of Mohan Lal.

But the new version has a one plus point and that’s Murali. He single handedly takes the movie to another level with his immaculate villaneous timing along with Vijaya Ragavan.

Agneepath(1990)/Scarface(1983)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Crime)

Sadly it’s again an undisclosed adaptation directed by one of the most talked about director in Indian cinema, Mukul S. Anand. Though its an inspired version of “Scarface”, still its quite different in characterisation and treatment which makes it impressive to a great extent.

Mithun Chakraborthy as krishna iyer m.a does a fine job, but Amitabh Bachchan delivers even better as deenanath chouhan and later as the powerful don. The best part is the art direction and background music in the movie complimenting each frame & shot. The film makes you stand with respect as its ends. The top most performance is by the boy child who is fabulous and acts like a complete pro in his art.

The English  original is quite different in treatment and script too. But still it stands intact as the original and moreover is also based on another film of the same name. So go for both the movies as two equal masterpieces made by their respective directors. But I once again feel that the Indian film-makers should have accepted it as an adaptation on their own, rather than people pointing it out as an allegation. 

Agneepath - Directed By Mukul S.Anand

Starring : Amitabh Bachhan & Mithun Chakraborthy

Music By Lakshmikanth Pyarilal

Scarface - Directed By Brian De Palma 

Starring : Al Pacino & More

A Star Is Born(1976)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Musical)

The anticipation for this musical film was huge. It seemed the perfect star vehicle for Barbra Streisand and she hadn't had a hit for almost three years ("The Way We Were"). Janet Gaynor and Judy Garland were superlative in their creations of the classic tale of the Hollywood couple -- one star on the rise, the other on the skids.

 Could Streisand put her own indelible mark on this material as well and reestablish herself as a triple-threat performer?Nope. Not even close. This third version (actually fourth, if you include 1932's "What Price Hollywood" starring Constance Bennett and Lowell Sherman) stalls early in the game by transposing the dramatic setting of Hollywood movie-making to the brash, uncouth pop/rock music scene... and it is only one of many fundamental mistakes this movie makes. Two Thumbs up to everyone involved with this expressive & loving movie.

Directed By Frank Peirson

Starring : Barbra Streisand & Kris Kristofferson & Many More Stars

More Inspirations in "S" Category(36)

1. Shariyo Thetto (1953) - Anthaman Kaithi (1952) 

2. Snehaseema (1954) - A loose adaptation of Lord Alfred Tennyson's classic poem “Enoch Arden”.

3. Seetha (1960) - Takes references from the movie 'Ram Rajya', by Vijay Bhatt.

4. Shreerama Pattabhishekam (1962) - Vijay Bhatt’s “Bharath Milap” (1942)

5. School Master (1964) – All taken from “School Master” (1958)

6. Shakunthala (1965) - Inspired from “Stree” (1961)

7. Saraswathi (1970) - Remake of "Pennin Perumai" (1956) (Tamil). Also has huge similarities with Telugu movie "“Ardhangi” (1955) .

8. Swayamvaram (1972) – Inspired from “Subarnarekha” (1965)

9. Suprabhatham (1974) – References of “Andaz” (1971)

10. Sethubandhanam (1974) – Main Story plot taken from “Kuzhanthayum Dhaivamum” (1965) & “The Parent Trap” (1961)

11. Sammanam (1975) – Basic Plot close to “Kalyana parishu” (1959)
12. Sindhu (1975) - Pukuntha Veedu (1972)

13. Shantha Oru Dhevatha (1977) - Pashamalar (1961)

14. Sathyavan Savithri (1977) - Sathyavan Savithri (1957)

15. Snehikkan Samayamilla (1978) – References of “Galatta Kalyanam” (1968) 

16. Sharapanjaram (1978) – References of Mark Allegret’s “Lady Chatterly's Lover” (1955)

17. Sayoojyam (1979) - Kalathur Kannamma (1959)

18. Shalini Ente Koottukari (1980) – Highly Inspired from “Ulkkadal” (1979)

19. Shriman Shrimathi (1981)     - Avargal (1977)

20. Sharam (1982) – References of “Vidhiyum Vare Kathiru” (1981) 

21. Swanthamevide Bandhamevide (1984) - Based on “Thommante Makkal” (1965) which was also later remade as “Rajavazhcha (1990).

22. Shobraj (1986) – Basic Plot close to “Don” (1978)

23. Shri Narayana Guru (1986) - K.S Anthony's's “Kalpadukal” (1962).

24. Sukhamo Devi (1986) – Venu Nagavalli’s Tribute to “Ulkkadal” (1979)

25. Swagatham (1989) - Sukhamo Devi (1986)
26. Sandhram (1990) - Follows Howard Deutch’s “The Great Outdoors” (1988).

27. Samrajyam (1990) – Takes its major content from “Veena Meettiya Vilanghukal” (1990) and “Underworld U.S.A” (1961)

28. Sandhesham (1991) - Inspired Plot  from “Ibleesukalude Nattil” 

29. Santhwanam (1991) – Inspired from Fazil's Classic "Nokketha Doorathu Kannum Nattu" (1984)

30. Shevalior Mikhayel (1992) - Follows the main plot of “Maine Pyar Kiya” (1989)

31. Sadhayam (1992) – Main plot close to “The Oxbow Incident” (1943)

32. Sthalathe Pradhana Payyans (1993) – Based on a story quite identical with “Thalasthanam” (1992).

33. Santhana Gopalam (1994) – Has a sequence inspired from1989 Telugu black comedy called “Kalikaalam”.

34. Shipayi Lahala (1995) – Unofficial remake of  Hit “Nadodikkattu” (1987)

35. Simhavalan Menon (1995) – Based on the bollywood film'Golmal'(1979).

36. Swarna Kireedam (1996) – Reportedly inspired from bollywood film'Prem Prathingya'(1989).

Kanamarayathu(1984)(Movies To Before You Die-Musical)

The best thing about the movie is the performances of Mammootty and Shobana. Mammootty looked the part effortlessly in his suits and Shobana looked quite a cutie in her frocks and skirts. I saw the movie yesterday after more than 10 years and still found it very very entertaining and romantic. The movie will evoke a smile in the viewers face. Most importantly, other than the outdated production values, I couldn't find a flaw in this wonderful movie. The movie was a big hit at its time and catapulted Mammootty's career by giving the 'superstar' tag. But frankly, the movie belongs more to Shobana than Mammootty. She performs the adamant teenage lover girl's role to perfection. Even now, we can't think of any other actress in Indian cinema to portray this character. She is just brilliant. Hats off to her!

Directed By I.V Shashi
Starring : Mammootty & Shobhana

Music By Shyam

Bangkok Summer(2011)&Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi(1996)

The famous Rahul Madhav & Richa Panai starrer “Bankok Summer” seems to have a highly inspired  main plot similar to a famous wrestling movie“Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi” (1996).

However, It cannot be called a copy or version, but only the idea of a man  who, in search of his brother  make it to another country and in the middle of this search, he had to face lots of problems and struggles looks highly influenced.