Lord Of War(2005)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Crime)

Highly appreciated  movie based on a true story. It’s about an arms dealer confronts the morality of his work as he is being chased by an Interpol agent.A 'Stylish" Look At Arms Dealing.

 Nicolas  Cage plays an illegal arms dealer with similarities to post-Soviet arms dealer Viktor Bout.This was a very pleasant surprise, far better than I had ever hoped, filled with fabulous cinematography and riveting story about the life of arms dealer during the 1980s and '90s.It was an interesting film, to say the least, and Nicholas Cage was terrific as the lead character, "Yuri Orlov." I loved his narration, too. 

Though it is not a usual kind of movie but while watching it you will never find a dull moment and at the end you will be asking for more.  How much of what he said is true, I have no idea, but it's fascinating stuff.  One of the best crime war I have seen. Go for it!

Directed By Andrew Niccol Starring : Nicolas Cage & Jared Leto

Sunset Boulevard(1950)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Film Noir)

This is Billy Wilder’s sensitive and beautiful movie with a social message. It’s about a hack screenwriter writes a screenplay for a former silent-film star who has faded into Hollywood obscurity.This is such a great film on so many levels I can't really settle on where to begin.

 It is so beautifully shot (in that stark black/white that only nitrate negative could achieve), has a witty, clever and extremely well-written script, features some of the best acting in film's history, acrobatically balances the main plot/subplots with expert precision, contains some of the best characters on celluloid, has many true-to-life parallels (Swanson's career/real life cameos/DeMille's involvement/etc) and is peppered with such great dialogue/narration that today's film writers should take note. If that weren't enough, there's even a cameo by silent film great Buster Keaton (among others). The screenplay is crafted artistically and it’s a real treat to watch how the same scenes come from different angles each time within new sequences.

 

The movie is an ensemble of veteran actors and William Holden & Gloria Swanson are just perfect in their roles. You love and sympathize with one and simply hate the other. To sum up, it is a  must watch for all women, since it is about them and their own sufferings.

Directed By Billy Wilder Starring : William Holden, Erich Von Stronhim, Gloria Swanson & More Music By Franz Waxman

Manjadikkuru-Unbeleavably Good.(Movie Review By Yoonus Mohyudhin)

Even after many visits to international film festivals with a number of recognitions, some movies find it difficult and takes time to grace their ultimate audience. 'Manjadikkuru' is also one such film which was waiting for long to fetch the best of the recognitions- that is the  popular approval. And when we are finally  into the film, we recognize that  here comes a women director in Mollywood to look out for her creations that are sure to make their strong presence in the list of ''best''s in Malayalam..

If you can go wrong to this length with such an enormous star cast of Prithvi, Rahman, Murali and Pathmapriya, then movie making is still to be studied much harder by everyone associated with this film. The film good in almost all departments including cinematography and Prithvi. He has a few good dialogues to render but that alone cannot make you enjoy a flick with huge expectations.

Yes ,  Anjali Menon' with his debut movie  Manjadikuru (Lucky Red Seeds), unquestionably proves that she is the best among the few women who had ever contributed to the list of Mollywood History. A nostalgic trip down the childhood of the eighties, 'Manjadikuru' told through the viewpoints of a few children is undoubtedly likeable giving an air of similar international movies from countries like Iran.The movie has been rated best in many international festivals and is a treat to watch for its perfect pitching of the period and narrative styles.That itself was a clear indicator of the director’s vision. Every actor who is an asset to a movie . The movie is told through the narration of 'Vicky'(prithviraj ), who makes a homecoming in his age of ten ( A very convincing display by master Sidhharth) to attend his grandfather's funeral. Back from Gulf with his pompous parents(Sagar Shiyas and Urvashi), Vicky is joined by the fragmented family members from very different places, who stay together for a sixteen day long funeral period, nurturing their differences and similarities.Initially Vicky finds it difficult to connect with the 'desi' friends and curious looking rituals but very soon he is in the centre of events, contributing to the fares with his childhood curiosity and consideration.

In short IT’S THE BIGGEST Good OF MoviES AFTER “Diomand Necklace”. I would say that even “22fk” was a better unenjoyable movie than this.

After the funeral, the interests of the adult members are more on the division of their ancestral property while young  Vicky, and his cousins Kannnan and Manikutty  (Rijosh and Arathi Sasikumar), are plotting plans to somehow send their young Tamil maid Roja(vyjayanthi) back home to Sivakasi to  enjoy a better life.After the good script the strong point of the movie is its music. Ramesh Narayanan have given just some good tunes to each song. The songs are very well and suit to the situations.  An opportunity treated well by Ramesh Narayanan.

The movie is in fact  a near masterpiece with a nivcely woven storylines and the director's skillful handling of the masters and the children alike. Starting from a perfect presentation in a baritone voice by Prithviraj which is immensely likable, the movie's, heartrending narratives is wisely pictured by Peter Zyuercher.

Moreover, right from the selection of the name 'Vicky', to the very lovable, natural  dialogues, the movie stands  as a good example of  rightest approach and execution of a promising subject. Effective performance by the child cast, all of them engaging us in more ways with their meticulous observations and contrasting thought processes than never before. Siddharth and Rijosh are revelation for their perfect natural acting skills. Perfect casting and near perfect performances by all including Jagathy, Murali, Praveena, Rahman, Bindu Panikkar, Sindhu Menon,and Urvashy.The music by Kavalam and Pt. Ramesh Narayanan are thoroughly  enjoyable. Live sound is made the best of the use by Harikumar, whose audio management is definitely brilliant.

The only pitfall is a little drag that we feel in the second half. Had the movie been cut short by twenty minutes, it would have immensely boosted its  B O chances too. Anyhow, this 'Manjadikkuru' is a right addition to the list of well made films that came out this year. Just have a go into this scent of fresh air.

Rating : Four Stars (That also for Rahman’s effort too)

The Chaser(2008)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Crime)

The following few lines about the plot of this movie, will surely compel you to watch it as soon as possible. Eom Joong-ho is a dishonest, ex-detective turned pimp who is in financial trouble because two of his girls have gone missing...Joong-ho is a dirty detective turned pimp in financial trouble as several of his girls have recently disappeared without clearing their debts.

 While trying to track them down, he finds a clue that the vanished girls were all called up by a same client whom one of his girls is meeting with right now.The film is about themselves and on the unnoticed relationships they are having with each other. The film uncovers some astonishing and disturbing facts about each one of them. Deep secrets comee out slowly as the film moves and what comes at the end is just unimaginable. A brand new idea, a well shot movie and an exciting stuff to watch out for.

Directed By Na Hong-Jin Starring : Kim Yoon-Seok, , Ha Jung-Wo & More

The Heartbreak Kid(2007)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Romance)

One of those rare movies, written on the love failure saubject. A film about loneliness, solitude and regrets of life. It is a story of a newly wed man who believes he's just gotten hitched to the perfect woman encounters another lady on his honeymoon. Ben Stiller & Michael Monaghan act as they are really  and the ascent in which they speak shows the hard work they must have done for their respective roles.

It's no "Something about Mary".The horrible crude scenes leave a bad taste and overshadow any funny scenes.  Malin Akerman as the annoying wife also plays her heart out. Interestingly all the actors in the movie were in fact very young at the time when “The Heartbreak Kid” was shot. And they truly deserve a huge applause for the sheer excellence with which they enacted the roles of those aged persons. In short, its artistic cinema at its best. A must watch for lovers of unconventional and meaningful cinema.

Directed By Peter Farelley&Bobby Farelley Starring : Ben Stiller, Michael Monaghan & Malin Akerman Music By Bill Ryan

Simhasanam(2012)&It's Inspirations

Shaji Kailas rightly mentions his inspirational source in the opening credits of his movie, “Simhasanam”. This time he is inspired by an old, American underworld novel called“The Godfather”, which talks about  the story of a fictitious Mafia family based in New York City (and Long Beach, New York), headed by Don Vito Corleone, who became synonymous with the Italian Mafia.  If we talk about world cinema, then there are two other movies, made on the same novel mentioned below : 1. “The Godfather” (1972) (American-English).  Check out at : http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0068646/ 2. Dharmathma (1975) Check out at : http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0361505/ 3. Sarkar (2005) Check out at : http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0432047/ And if we talk about our Malayalam Cinema, then a similar kind of storyline was there in Mammootty & Sumalatha Starrer “Parambara” (1990). And the same theme was also witnessed in Mohan Lal & Rupini starrer “Naaduvazhikal” (1989).

Californication(2007)-(Movies To See Before You Die-TV Series)

One of the most famous and highly appreciated comedy from TV Series which truly deserves all the praise it has received. The Series was made with all the new comers in the industry from Ad films. And no one knew that a cult and trend setting series was into the making.

Simply hilarious with brilliant one liners & superb performances by the entire star-cast. Especially the drunkard act of Hank Moody with his Los Angels acsent and his small verbal fights with David Duchovney. The dead body sequence with Natasha Mc Elhone, , Pamela Adlone  is also quite funny. But the best part certainly is the climax shot.  Though there are some inspired plots too, incorporated intelligently in the movie. But still, director, Tom Kapinos, is sure going to be remembered for this classic forever. Watch it as a must if you haven’t seen it yet.

 

Directed By Tom Kapinos Starring : Hank Moody, David Duchovney, Natasha Mc Elhone, Pamela Adlone, Madiliene Martien, Madilein Zima & More

Once Upon A Time In Mexico(2003)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Action)

Once Upon a Time in Mexico is sometimes enjoyable to watch but it gets a little cheesy and idiotic. Haunted and scarred by tragedy, El Mariachi has retreated into a life of isolation. He is forced out of hiding when Sands, a corrupt CIA agent, recruits the reclusive hero to sabotage an assassination plot against the president of Mexico, which has been conceived by the evil cartel kingpin, Barillo. But El Mariachi also has his own reasons for returning--blood revenge.  The desperado returns with his two capable cohorts Lorenzo and Fideo. And the legend of El Mariachi reaches new heights of adventure. The first two were good but I felt that this sequel wasn't really needed. This film is pretty much plot less as it was just a bunch of different action sequences. The story was weak and it seemed like this film was only run by star power and gory action scenes.  Directed By Robert Rodriguiz Starring : Antanio Bandares & Salma Hayek

Titanic(1997)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Epic)

Trying an experimental kind of movie in the late nineties, proves how intelligently James Cameroon worked at that time. And it also gives you a glimpse of the creative vision James Cameroon had even in the initial years of his career. “Titanic” should not be considered only as an epic film, since it also talks about more bigger and important issues related to our social lives. The film narrates the story of  members of different social classes who fall in love aboard the ship during its ill-fated maiden voyageA seventeen-year-old aristocrat, expecting to be married to a rich claimant by her mother, falls in love with a kind but poor artist aboard the luxurious, ill-fated R.M.S. Titanic. It captures human emotions and expectations beautifully and is capable of making you cry for the couple. A must watch for the students of cinema and for the people who simply love this medium of expressions.    Directed By James Cameroon Starring : Leonardo Decaprio, Kate Winslet, Billy Zane & More Music By James Hornor

Asuravithu(2012),D(2005)&Guns For San Sebastian(1968)

A.K Sajan’s stylishly made “Asuravithu” was not accepted well at the time of its release. But it is now considered as one of the average works of his career. However the movie gets many of its main scenes from “D” & “Guns For San Sebastian”. In fact, these two movies have inspired numerous malayalam flicks based on Gangster and Gang War theme. Among the inspired ones, is the sequence when Asifali takes Samvrutha to a Restaurant for dinner and people start staring at them with a disgusting look.  You can find the same scene in ”D” too. Apart from this, the conflict between Aasifali and his mother, the hospital sequence with the nurse are also there in the original starring Randeep Hooda. In “Asuravithu”,the gangster turned priest plot is similar to “Guns for San Sebastian” or “Bataille de San Sebastian, La” (1968)   But Inspite of all the above similarities "Asuravithu" is an average  in its own, withMaqbool Salman as an added ace beyond any imitation.

The Final Destination(2000)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Horror)

I think it is safe to say every individual has different feelings about death. Some fear it. Others deny it. Most are weary in some way regarding decease. "Final Destination" is a perfect thriller for skeptics, detailing seven confused individuals who accidentally escape demise, discovering the impossibility of defrauding their destined time. The film's atmosphere provokes cringe through a presumably omnipresent force stalking the characters, producing audience participation whether the Grim Reaper is footsteps away from us all. 

 Devon Sawa ("Idle Hands," "Wild America") is a high school senior named Alex Browning. He and his French class are at an airport flying to Paris for a field trip with their teacher, Ms. Lewton (Kristen Cloke). Once on the plane Alex begins to experience a dream-like vision of the jet exploding in midair killing all of its passengers. As the plane is about to descend, Alex notices his illusion gradually comes to life. This leaves him no choice but to cause a small riot leaving him and six other passengers thrown off the flight. 

A pure triumph in cinema by one of the greatest film maker, James Wong. Devon Sawa, Ali Larter and Kerr Smith  have given their lifetime performances in this world famous movie. Strongly recommended for all.

Directed By James Wong

Music By Shirley Walker

Starring : Devon Sawa, Ali Larter, Kerr Smith, Tony Todd & Kriston Cloke 

Diomend Necklace-An Imotional Film From The Talented Director(Movie Review By Yoonus Mohyudhin)

There is not a long list of directors who also became successful new-generation directors. But first V.K Prakash successfully proved it and now Lal Jose also shows his sparks of new generation direction.

His new generation debut is a sensitive and emotional love story of a married couple. The  pair Fahad & Anushree both fit to their roles as Arun Kumar and Rajashree. A special worthy praise is deserved by Anushree for her lovable act and Lal Jose for choosing a difficult subject.

In simple words, Diamend Necklace is not a family drama, it is not a film with bubbly valentine kind of love. But its intense, emotional and mature in content. Though it lacks in some departments but the overall impact at the end of the movie is quite touchy.

The first half starts with influences of “Tapan Babu” and “Varikkuzhi”. But after the marriage of the lead actors, the film just moves on to a different unexpected platform. The story is about a tale on fiscal irresponsibility - Living beyond one's means.

No doubt a difficult subject to choose for a newgeneration debut. The only problem is that the viewers expected a good enjoyable love story with many lighter moments to share. But the film is more of a slow, heavy and mature love story. Still Fahad Fazil, the lead actor, manages to extract brilliant performances and Lal Jose also visualizes some memorable scenes which can make your eyes wet. Specially the last hour of the film. It has some very emotional scenes to cherish.

The most good department of the movie is the Music. It had some soothing and melodious love songs and make the impact  better. There is some slow & soft love song with meaningful lyrics which was a must according to the demand of the script as I see it. May be Lal Jose regarded that essentielly. Vidya Sagar never misses the train this time.

Performance wise Anushree is superlative and majestic in all her characters. As a smart waitress, as a girl ready to fall in love, as a lover and as a wife . She slips into all shades of her character with such an ease and elegance. Unarguably one of her best performances . Fahad is soft and has underplayed his character, but he emotes well as a worried and caring husband. His performance in the second half is much better and impressive. Another gem of a performance is by Gouthami Nair. She excels in her small role and makes her presence felt. The scenes where all the friends are together are well written and executed.

It can be said that after “22Female Kottayam” this is the second movie on the theme of a lust and how family affect it. But there should be no comparison drawn between the two. “Diamend Necklace” is more for the young audiences and it may be treated as “Immature” by the heavy generation.

But the movie has the truth of life in it. Anybody can face this, as we all live in an uncertain life. And “Diamend Necklace” teaches how to live life with love even when the times are real tough.

Go for it if you love intense drama and feel that Love is the way to live Life. Rating : 4 / 5 (I really wish it had better back ground music)

22Female Kottayam-Good and Impressive

A movie from the house of Aashiq Abu certainly raises expecations. And the publicity just before the release did add to the excitement.

The film live up to the expectation and the film good in all departments.

First of all the movie is completely unpredictable from the very first scene and it simply goes on with sequences which arent just repetition of stuff seen many times before. In a nutshell the story is about the travails of a 22 year old nurse Tessa (Rima Kallingal) from Kottayam who was raped and takes revenge on her tormentors.  This time the novelty is that the climax.

All the talented artists including Fahad Fazil, Prathap Pothan, Sathar and Rima Kallingal are just good and  many scenes to talk about. Rima Kallingal is the one who is the show stealer among the actors as the pratagonist. Fahad Fazil, strangely is not doing the hero role but shows that he can be a villain too. Prathap Pothan can be seen trying to do the hard work as the boss of Fahad. Sathar has no  much dialogues and speaks through his facial expressions. But as the script has something for them in store so they all seem to be good.

The movie is inspired from a 2003 movie “Kill Bill” but it’s   an impressive copy.

The greatest achievement is that it’s  a pheminist film, though it was publicised as a thriller. You keep waiting for thrilling scenes to come and they are  there. All the songs come never as an interruption and are also  enjoyable . The biggest achievement is the “Chillane” song after the interval, which makes you enjoy the whole film. The last scene with some good dialogues is a kind of trend setter.

The biggest asset of the movie ”climax” is well shot .Music has something to talk about which is hearable. The pace picks up just before the movie ends and the director tries to imitate a Quentin Tarrantino kind of path breaking climax sequence which is amazing. The film has a theme as old as the Kannaki myth but comes nowhere near in terms of inspiration.22 Female Kottayam is like a fresh whiff of breeze. A Big acheivement with a huge parellel lines between the expectations and the final outcome. It is either a good thriller or a good drama. Rating : 4 / 5 (That too for the talented star cast and their efforts)

Two For The Money(2005)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Drama)

If you love drama and sport movies then in few words “Two For The Money” should be your next destination. Undoubtedly one of the top five drama movies I have ever seen. A complete entertainer for everyone young or old. A well made film with highly enjoyable and unbelievable special effects for all.

Its about  the world of sports gambling.  Amazing animated images playing on the screen are the main USP of this movie.A sampling of the ugliness of the sports gambling life ensues... You just feel scared of what’s going to be the next while watching this movie and the proceedings don’t let you move from your seat till it ends.

 

Al Pacino is superb in this roller coaster ride. Truly “Two For The Money” is a lifetime achievement by its makers and it would be a huge crime to miss this. Go for it with all in the family NOW!

Directed By D.J Caruso Starring : Al Pacino, Mathew Mc Conaughy & More

'Chithram'(1988)-A Fact File On The Cult Classic(Part One-Before The Release)(Did You Know-2)

It is the movie which has represented Kerala Film Industry all over the India in the last few decades. Millions have their memories associated with the classic and have seen it uncountable times in theaters, on cable, television and dvds. It is a must for every Kerala Movie Collector’s home video library and it is the first choice for broadcasters when they can find nothing else to telecast.

For all who love the unforgettable epic, here are some amazing facts associated with “Chithram” its making and its cast and crew. Many of you may be aware of few facts listed here, but you surely will find some very fresh and new findings too in the info below. So just explore the world of “Chithram” once again…..

Inspirational Sources :

It was noticed that the film had heavy North influence of comedy movies. It was highly inspired by the comedy norths of Guru Duth. It was also called as a curry north by many critics at that time.

Among its major western influences were:

1. Mr.&Mrs. '55
2. Manchali
3. Noukar Biwi Ka
4. Joroo Ka Gulam
5. Come September

6. Dulhan Wahi Jo Piya Man Bhaye.

7.  There are shades of Taming of the Shrew in how the hero woos the girl. 

8. It was copy of the hit Pakistani Punjabi movie Naukar Wohti Da.

Among it’s said Kerala influences were:

1. Abhinayam - Based on the theme of incognito, the movie was released in 1981 and was  written by T.A.V Raj. It had Jayan playing the role of a widowed bank manager  who need a fake wife togiven back his child from his uncle&aunty,and recruit a drama actress played by Vidhubala for it.  Also “Paadam Pootha Kaalam” song’s situation was quite similar to the “Kadal Thedi Ozhukunna Puzha” song in the same film. 2. Manicheppu Thurannappol - Featuring Balachandra Menon in his then famous the boy next door image.

 However Vishnu’s character was reportedly based on a real-life convict of the same name who was famous in the villages around Kannur in the 1950s. 

 

A Bitter Sweet Life(2005)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Action)

A crime filled action flick which finds its place among the Top 10 Actions from Hindi Film Industry. Things go wrong for a high ranking mobster when he doesn't proceed by his boss's orders.

A superb action featuring Lee Byung-hun and Kim Yeong-cheon in their most remembered performances. Lee Byung-hun acts in his famous action style. Shin Min-ah is very impressive in the role of young mistress & Hwang Jin-min too entertains in his own unique way. Immensely popular songs just add to this entertaining flick from the golden years. It is a milestone action made in a simple but effective way. Go for it if you haven’t seen it yet.

 

Directed By Kim Ji-woon
Starring : Shin Min-ah, Lee Byung-hun, Hwang Jin-min & Kim Yeong-cheon

Music By Jang Young-gyu

Derailed(2005)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Thriller)

An innovative crime thriller which also forced Bollywood to buy the rights and make it in Hindi too. It’s nice to hear that  the east is impressed with one of hollywood movies. However I also came to know about a similar Tamil movie based on a comparable plot but that still doesn’t take away the merits of that highly entertaining thriller. The story is about When two married business executives having an affair are blackmailed by a violent criminal, the two must turn the tables on him to save their families. Clive Ovan is in his true elements again and so is Jennifer Anniston. But the best part is played by Vincent Cassel and he is superb in his witty one liners. An entertaining movie but with an unconvincing climax. It could have been a remarkable film with a better end. I think the film-maker himself were in two minds regarding the end so the movie was also released with a different climax later on. In short a must watch as an entertaining Drama cum thriller.   Directed By Michael Hafstrom Starring : Clive Ovan, Jennifer Anniston, Vincent Cassel, Melissa George, Addison Timlin & More Music By Ed Shearmur

Mayamohini-An Average,Cliched,Inspired Comedy(Movie Review By Yoonus Mohyudhin)

As suggested by the look of the movie, it is about man disguising as women background, but its entirely based on a revenge story.

First of all its no doubt a polished inspired version of Chris Columbus’s 1993 movie “Mrs.Doubtfire”. Secondly its quite surprising that this is a work of the same director who directed “Nhan Kodeeshwaran”. Jose Thomas has really worked on his mistakes and directed a much better movie this time. Though the movie has its downslides but still its worth watching specially for viewers with the adult caps.

Script wise Dileep is playing the disguised man. Biju  is the 'husband' and Maithili is the journalist investigating with Mohanakrishnan.

Talking about performances, Dileep starts off as laid back person but then transforms into a serious one with a mission on hand. He just does a fine job, but the fire seems missing in his fight. Maithili looks cute and gets a good role here. But she also looks pretty mature at places (may be due to make-up). Baburaj as the failed lawyer friend is just there to say his lines and doesn’t have much to do. On the other hand Lakshmi Rai impresses in her small cameo.

And above all there is Biju who we all know is a great actor. He just outshines everyone in the few scenes he got. In fact I rate his scenes with Dileep, as the most powerful and the only saving grace for the movie. As the subject of movie differs from the original so there should be no comparisons made between Dileep and Robin Williams (The man disgising women in “Mrs.Doubtsfire”).

Mayamohini starts off slowly and the main problem is that nothing happens till the interval. There is no excitement in the first half and a song just after the intermission adds to the restlessness of the viewer.

There are two things which I couldn’t understand about the film-making here :

1. Why we always have to add songs and unrelated emotional angles in the movie. Jose Thomas should have avoided the songs completely in order to make the movie more tighter and to the point. And again the friendship angle of Dileep – Biju was also of no use and doesn’t have anything to contribute in the narration.

2. Why we cannot make a film on a theme, like comedy of errors or disguised. Why we have to induce sex and stund into our scripts. Cannot we make a film on certain “Subjects” instead of just talking adult jokes.

In the last 20 minutes the movie just turns into a normal revenge drama with the backdrop of underworld. Only this time there is a low standerd person using his powers to take revenge from a particular place.

As I see it the movie could be a far better experience if this angle would have been avoided. It could have been a thrilling comedy drama based on exciting hilarius sequences. But sadly it can only be called as an average adult comedy movie, entertaining only to a certain section of viewers.

Rating : 2/ 5

Recommendations : If you like this flick, I would recommend to see the following two movies too.

1. Mrs.Doubtfire (1993)     2. Tootsie (1982)

You will really have a good time watching these.

Class Act(1992)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Comedy)

Class Act was a funny comedy when released in 1992. Kid & Play conuntied to make good comedy and are good comedic team. Doug E. Doug in an early sidekick role was alos very funny. My favorite scene in the movie is where Duncan is confused about slang and Blade has to explain it to him.  The story moves around Duncan is a genius straight A student, Blade is juvenile delinquent. But because of a mix up with their school records, everyone thinks each is the other one.  In simple words it is a beautiful movie like poetry on screen. It will cheer you up if you are feeling low and it will force you to think about your life and enjoy it to the max. A pure cinematic masterpiece. Interestingly it was this movie which made me a fan of Randall Miller and his style of movies. Strongly recommended to all.  Directed By Randall Miller Starring : Christopher'Kid Reid, Christopher'Play Martin

Mr.Bean-The Current Inspiration Craze in Mollywood

When we talk Comedy, among the first 10 names which come to our mind unarguably include Rowan Atkinson as Mr. Bean. We all just love his hilarious episodes of the serial and also the few films he has done. His works are like a must for every cinema lover’s home video collection.Mollywood film-makers and actors were inspired by his comedy earlier also but recently many new releases have just used the exact sequences from his famous episodes of the serial “Mr. Bean”.       1.       Earlier we saw Dileep doing an inspired act in his film he leaves his one shoe at the top of a car and the car moves on taking his shoe.   2.       Recently released “Three Kings” had Kunchakko Boban doing his “Spy Act” a scene from “JOHNY ENGLISH”       3.       “Three Kings” also had Indrajith copying his exact sequence, when his hand gets stuck in the back pocket of a man.       4.       The another one “Pattanathil Sundharan” has Dileep copying Atkinson in one scene. In the the scene the employee in the hotel asks some tipp by making sound,he gave a vix and told him that it is better for mucul infection.  There may be many more sequences which couldn’t be noticed but it only shows how brillianlty Rowan Atkinson has performed in his limited appearances. He no doubt has a great influence on comedy makers all over. Would really love to see him more often in movies.

Bad Guy(2001)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Drama)

You may not have heard of “Bad Guy” as it is one of those unknown movies, which simply go  unnoticed at the time of their release. But in reality, it should be included in the list of classy and path-breaking bold movies. One of the best performances from Jae-hyeon Jo, in a difficult but well written role. He is impressive in an intense and serious character of as Han Ki and performs his act convincingly. The movie has a novel concept in which a man who traps a woman into prostitution, then becomes protective of her. The entire star-cast has done full justice to their characters. The second half is racy and highly entertaining with a brilliant background score giving great support to the thrilling plot. Don’t take it as a slow intense movie, considering its name or its posters. On the contrary, “Bad Guy” has some great surprise element for all lovers of drama movies out there. Directed By Kim Ki Duck Starring : Jae-hyeon Jo & Won Seo Music By Ho-jun Park

Collateral(2004)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Crime)

One of the few intense and entertaining movies which stay in your mind for a long time after your first view. No was expecting something great when it was released initially, but then it went on to win hearts all over the country with its impressive content. A Tom Cruice movie all the way and he compels you to see it again only for him, his mannerisms and his acting skills. Tom does the toughest scenes with such an ease that you feel like giving him a standing ovation for his act. In fact it was this movie which made hollywood take notice of a simple man with average looks but with talent in abundance.   The movie is based on a cab driver finds himself the hostage of an engaging contract killer as he makes his rounds from hit to hit during one night in Los Angeles.  Some sequences of the movie are simply remarkable.With patience it is a very effective thriller whose plot problems are covered by a great director and a strong cast. Jamie Fox also impresses along with sensuous Jada Pinket Smith. Well directed by Michael Mann who has also directed some entertaining TV serials in the past. Highly recommended for young students, actors and film-makers.   Directed By Michael Mann Starring : Tom Cruice, Jamie Fox & Jada Pinket Smith Music By James Newton Howard

Falling Angels(2003)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Independent)

An experimental and frank movie on a bold topic of the coming of age of three sisters and their struggle for independence in a dysfunctional family. Though it is based on a unconventional subject not appreciated by the society in the east, but still the movie is quite interesting due to the realistic performances by Callum Keith Rannie & Miranda Richardson. After all the irrational thinking, they still find it tough to part away with their own traditional upbringing. It is in fact very soothing and loving to see that at the end, they retain their moral values after facing a steep downslide in their characters. The initial minutes of the movie are also quite funny and well directed. A good experimental movie by Scott Smith and well shot in the limited budget frame.   Though I was told that it is highly inspired from "novel of the same name" released in 2001. So its not an original but still you will love watching it coming from an Canadian Film-maker in Hollywood style.   Chek out at :http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0365183/    Directed By Scott Smith Starring : Callum Keith Rennie, Miranda Richardson , Kathareine Isabelle & Kristin Adams

Sidheeq Lal,James Camerone,Vietnam Colony&Avthar(Did You Know-1)

This may be news to many and surely an interesting one. It is said that it was the master film-maker Sidheeq Lal who was originally responsible for the 'Friendly Alien Concept' to be filmed later. He also had a complete outline of a script ready which was based on one of  short story titled ‘Captain John Smith&the Pocahontas’ . The famous cameroon movie, “Avathar” is actually said to be based on the plot . The outline and the rough script of the idea kept roaming into several production houses in Hollywood before it was made as “Avathar.” and there are many detailed stories associated with this. However the fact is not officially accepted.  You can also check the link : http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0292332/ Or just search “Sidheeq Lal & Cameroon” and there are numerous references on the web. Great Indeed !

The Marrying Man(1991)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Romance)

There are certain movies which have the power to transform and bring changes in your life patterns. The Marrying Man, is such a movie with precious life lessons for every serious viewer. A film recommended to all who are spiritual in nature and believe in life as it comes. Here is a movie which teaches you how to live life and how to enjoy each day as it comes.

Rich playboy Charley Pearl meets Vicki Anderson, singer at a nightclub in Las Vegas. But she's a gangster's-moll, Bugsy Siegel's, and when he finds the two of them in bed, he forces them to marry each other. Charley was going to marry his girlfriend but when she finds out about him and Vicki, she leaves him. And Vicki doesn't seem to be his kind of woman at all...

 

The  movie is just not worth watching, but its worth studying. It’s a spiritual book written on the screen. If you just listen to the dialogues and then think them over, half your tensions would be gone that only moment. Try that watching this masterpiece. If you are a serious lover of cinema then it would be a sin to miss “The Marrying Man”

Starring : Alec Baldwin, Kim Basinger & More

Directed By Jerry Rees