Valentine(2001)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Horror)

A true representative of the Golden Years of American Film Industrywith all the ingredients of a perfect Hollywood style movie.A Wonderful Horror Movie!Call me stupid, but I absolutely loved the 2001 horror movie, Valentine. It was so well-made, well-written, well-acted, well-directed, etc! Everything about it was wonderful! There were parts that were relatively routine (Lily's death), very funny (www.Bleed-Me-Dry.com), completely horrifying and creepy (Paige's death), and just plain heartbreaking (the first scene). I think the entire cast did a great job, especially the three leads: David Boreanaz, Denise Richards (both of whom I met, and got autographs from, during the filming of this movie - VERY nice people!), and Marley Shelton.

I am very sick of people calling this movie "another Scream clone".  David Boreanaz is impressive again in his transformation of the character performs it with a great conviction. The movie also proves the fact that why he has been the inspiration of many successful stars  and literally worshipped   in the field of acting. One of the best David Boreanaz movies, simply not to be missed. A pure American Classic with memorable songs.

Directed By Jamie Blanks Starring : David Boreanaz, Denise Richards & Marley Shelton Music By Don Davis

Dil(2003)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Romance)

An  Super Hit movie with a usual story of a  Boy (Nitin) meets girl (Neha) in college, both fall in love and the fly-in-the-soup is the girl's father (Prakash Raj) who is a powerful mafia leader.The movie is about Nithin, who falls in love with Neha and incurs the wrath of her father. Whether Nithin succeeds in marrying Neha, with the help of his college mates, forms the rest of the story. Pure Entertainment!!!Inspite of being a run-out-of-mill story, the movie keeps you glued to the seats purely owing to the novel treatment.

 The film was also one of the inspirational sources for the highly successful “Kuthuthu” made in Kollywoood. In few words, the movie has a lot of fun elements in it along with a message to take life more lightly. A highly entertaining and strongly recommended movie capable of making your evening.

Directed By V.V Vinayak Starring : Nithin & More

Alaigal Olivathillai(1981)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Musical)

It is often said in our part of the world that the Tamil people are short of emotions. May be the material world proves it but this movie shows the soft side of the Tamil.“Alaigal Olivathillai” is bundled with tender loving emotions of the character played by Karthik belongs to a poor Hindu family in coastal Tamil Nadu. His mother, played by Kamala Kamesh, teaches music to Radha, who belongs to a relatively rich Christian family.  The lead pair has acted just superbly and you really fall in love along with them while watching this loving drama with a touch of comedy.  Some scenes are hillarious as well as lovable and are capable of winning over the viewers completely.

Though the Malayali viewers will find that this movie was very poorly copied as Vineeth’s “Oru Muthashikkatha” but still they can enjoy it immensely. Vineeth & Nirosha in the Malayalam version could not meet the excellence achieved by Karthik Muthuraman & Radha in this original classic. Few sequences of the film will linger on in your hearts for a long time. The brilliant chemsitry between the lead couple gives the movie a tremendous repeat value. A strongly recommended romantic movie for young couples and for the young at heart. Indeed ”Alaigal Olivathillai”.

Directed By : P.Bharatheeraja Starring : Karthik Muthuraman & Radha

Lekhayude Maranam Oru Flashback(1983)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Biographical)

K.G George’s path breaking movie on an actrsses with a delightful insight on the life of actrssess in the film. It is one of the most appreciated and talked about movie of K.G George. The unique & special highlight of this movie is that it features Nalini & Shubha together in powerful roles. Both were considered as the strongest pillars of alternative cinema at that time, but sadly Nalini return from the field which was a huge loss for the Malayalam Film Industry.

Lekhayude Maranam Oru Flashback is an interesting film about the relationships actrssess have with their directors and within themselves. A touching description of their life style makes it a worth watching movie with a different and novel concept. A script which must have been written after intensive research on the topic and it also represents the bitter truths of our society. A must watch for meaningful and art movie lovers. A definite food for your thinking minds.

Directed By K.G George Starring : Nalini, Shubha, Gopi & Thilakan Music By M.B Shreenivasan

Aadaminte Makan Abu(2011)&Kandam Becha Coat(1961)

Salim Ahammad have a brilliant track records of successful films and that is the strongest point in their favour if we talk about inspiration in his movies. Despite the fact that   his film is inspired from old Cinema, he still come up with really exciting, enjoyable and well made classic in his own style. The way he re-design an concept according to the new taste is really commendable. His "Ayaalum Nhanum Thammil" (2011) follows ‘Kandam Becha Coat’ (1961) Chek Out at: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0254473/

Eeyadutha Kaalathu(2012)&Life In A ....Metro(2007)

Indrajith's "Eeyadutha Kaalathu" is loosely based on "Life In A....Metro" featuring Shiney Ahooja playing the role of play boy which was enacted by Nishan in the Malayalam Version. All the extra marrietal affairs and sancity of marriage in the Malayalam version are entirely based on the Hindi Original. 

Check out at : http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2188733/

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0800956/

Bachelor Party-Only Innovative Camera Angles and Lighting doesn't mean an entertaining Movie(Movie Review By Yoonus Mohyudhin)

A huge sea of expectations was on high tides before the release of “Bachelor Party” and many Amal Neerad fans were sure of a grand comeback by the master film-maker. But I had my doubts with me as I entered the cinema.

Sometimes a period of lazy creativeness is seen in the works of the masters. I noticed this kind of phase in the life span of many creative geniuses who made some not so good movies in the middle of their careers. And later came back with some greater masterpieces even better than their first ones. As I see it Amal Neerad also seems to be going through that phase in his life. He is no doubt a self-made genius of his own kind but sadly couldn’t make an impressive comeback with Bachelor Party .

The movie is dark, slow and the only knock out moment in the movie is in the last 20 minutes as the gunshot starts. What I found most displeasing in the movie is the overuse of innovative camera angles and the excess of dark lighting in the whole movie. The subject no doubt needed this kind of treatment but it goes over the limits as you watch this remake of  Exiled. It’s an intense crime drama with powerful performances but unfortunately the script is not able to entertain the viewers with its content.

The story is quite predictable from the very first scene and therefore the viewer keeps waiting for something new on the screen, which only comes in the climax. Surely the first attempt by Amal Neerad was much better than this. Bachelor Party lacks the grip and is not able to entertain enough. Though technically and creatively its superb, but that’s not what the majority of people are paying for.
Performance wise two people top the list, Rahman (though he has less scenes this time) and Indrajith Sukumaran. Their scenes together are superbly shot and Amal Neerad genius shows in these few moments. In fact these are the only worth watching scenes in the movie not to be missed at any cost. Truly speaking Rahman is the only active actor who could do justice to the character of Benny and he lives his part fantastically. The last scenes of the movie show his inimitable class and equally competent is Indrajith  in their confrontation scene.

The rest of the cast is just fine. Aasifali looks intense in his silence and Nithya Menonlooks sober. The sad point is that apart from Rahman and Indrajith no one else adds anything to the movie. Everyone else is just enacting their parts and only these two characters stand tall. The part of gunshot was very childish to use by a man of high standards named Amal Neerad.
Musically, Bachelor Party is many steps behind the original Exiled. You don’t remember any chants walking out of the cinema and also the background music is not able to grab attention.The audience in the cinema was quite restless while watching it as they all were expecting much better stuff from Amal Neerad.

The movie is not as expected but it has its moments not to be missed which have the stamp of a master film-maker. But the conclusion is that Amal Neerad needs to get over his trademarks and has to reinvent himself urgently. May be his next film on one of his favorite topic, Anju Sundharikal (Anthology Film) gives us our good old Amal Neerad back in form. Rating : 1 / 5

Appu(2002)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Action)

Appu is a Poori Jagannath's film all the way. He seems to be getting better and better with the films. He excelled in all five departments he donned. 

Story of the film is a routine one, but the treatment is excellent.  It was in fact an unexpectedly entertaining movie and that was the reason it won hearts of every single Kannadian. Screenplay of the film is tight. Poori Jagannath made sure that the comedy in the film is injected into the character of hero. Hero does the 90% of comedy in this film.  However, it is seriously advised to watch this comedy at once, if you haven’t seen it yet.

Directed By Puri Jagannath Starring : Puneeth Rajkumar, Rakshitha & Avinash Music By Guru Kiran

The Silence Of The Lambs(1991)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Thriller)

Very seldom we witness a movie which not only becomes an instant hit but is also unanimously praised by the masses and the critics both. The Silence Of The Lambs was one of those trend setting movies where its lead character grew bigger than its movie stature and entered into the lives of its viewers and appreciators. Clarice Starling & Dr.Hannibal Lecture became a household name after the movie released and are still one of the favourite characters of many.

The film is a unique thriller with an emotional touch, thoroughly enjoyable by all. Antony Hopkins gives a memorable and effortless performance as Dr.Hannibal Lecture, a seriel killer trying to catch another seriel killer for cop’s sake. And the other best part is played by the inimitable Jodi Foster, who won praises for her well enacted role as “Clarice Starling” from all ages. It is one of those rare American movie which was appreciated by every section of the society and also well received and remade in the other regional languages in world.

 

Though it has taken references from movies like “Unchin Undolou” & “Dracula” but still it is a highly entertaining film and a must watch for all. If you haven’t seen it yet, then don’t miss it anymore and do yourself a favour watching“The Silence Of The Lambs”.

Directed By Jonathan Demme Starring : Antony Hopkins, Jodie Foster & Scott Glenn Music By Howard Shore

The Day After Tomorrow(2004)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Climate Fiction)

Here are a few words about this movie - Brilliant, Superb and Congratulations to all associated with this film. I just picked up this movie, impressed by its synopsis and the DVD sleeve design. As I was not aware of it and its excellence, it was indeed an unexpected pleasant experience to watch this fine example of good cinema.

All the actors play their heart out in the movie and that makes it a compulsory watch for everyone. The film is about  fictional catastrophic climatic effects in a series of extreme weather events that usher in global cooling and leads to a new ice age. Jack Hall, paleoclimatologist, must make a daring trek across America to reach his son, trapped in the cross-hairs of a sudden international storm which plunges the planet into a new Ice Age. 

And then starts the outstanding expressions of life, our values and human feelings hidden in all of us. The film really makes us think about ourselves, our directionless life and what we are doing with it as the days go on passing. I rank this film, as one of best movies I have seen till date. Instead of talking more about this remarkable piece of art, I would simply like to request watching this movie as soon as you can. In other words, if you are a serious cinema lover, then it would be a crime to miss “Instinct”.

Directed By Rolland Emmerich Starring : Dennis Quaid, Jake Gellenhaal, Ian Holm and Emmy Rossum

Mella Thirandhathu Kathavu(1986)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Romance)

 It is an important movie to be seen and shown to the maximum viewers  In fact you will be amazed to see its brilliantly directed  sequences.

 The eyes have it in this dramatic Kollywood tale as a violin student (Mohan) falls in love with Noorjahan (Amala), whose traditional veil hides the rest of her face. Overcome with curiosity and passion, he proposes to Noorjahan, but events take a tragic turn when she dies before they can tie the knot. Grief-stricken, the young musician seeks comfort at his uncle's home … where more misfortune awaits.

Mohan as the lead character in the movie gives a memorable performance, which was rightly appreciated . Undoubtedly an enlightening movie .   Directed By R.Sundararajan Starring : Mohan, Amala and More

Erin Brockovich(2000)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Biography)

In simple words Everything she does is real

It is a brilliantly made film based on a truestory of Erin Brockwhich and a masterpiece from Steven Soderburg, undoubtedly can be included among his best five movies.Julia Roberts stars as an unrelentingly tactless, thoroughly tasteless, charm-school dropout twice divorced, the mother of three who dresses like a Las Vegas whore. We love her.  The movie has many sub plots which are relevant to each other in the story and that’s really a highlight of the movie to be studied deeply.

Interestingly, Steven Soderburg had also used symbolic scenes to show the pain in the hearts of his characters. You can feel the movie in your system even after days of watching it. And I rate it as one of the 10 best I have ever seen in American Cinema. A must watch if you are a lover of Realistic American Movies.

Directed By Steven Soderburg Starring : Julia Roberts, Albert Finney, Aaron Eckhart, Marg Helgenburger and More. Music By Thomas Newman

Heroes(2006)-(Movies To See Before You Die-T.V Series)

If Al Pacino has “The Godfather” & “Scent Of A Women” to prove his undoubted caliber then David Anders has “Heroes” up his sleeve, proving that he is truly capable of carrying the “Actor” torch much more higher. Impressively, it is the finest performance by David Anders after “Alias”. Tim Kring once again proves his mastery over the medium but at the same time also surpasses his earlier ventures. Clearly among his top five series.

“Heroes” is entirely a producer’s series all the way. It really needs a strong imagination and confidence to visualize David as Adam Monroe. And David also delivers a fine and polished act under the guidance of one of the most respected producers in American T.V Industry. Kristen Bell, as Elle Bishop. too comes up with a subtle and impactful performance speaking with her expressive eyes. 

A tight screenplay of a science fiction, is indeed a very difficult task. But here the screenplay is such that you want more of it in the end. As expected the team of Tim Kring and Wendy Melvoin again comes up with some brilliant compositions. Background music and the songs moving into the scenes are just perfectly blended. Along with the lead pair, Santiago Caberara, Jack Coleman and Tawney Cypruss also impress in their short roles. A must watch as an inspiring series .

Directed By Tim Kring Starring : David Anders, Kristen, Santiago Caberara, Jack Coleman, Tawney Cyprus & Others Music By Wendy Melvoin

Mirrors(2008)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Super natural)

One word....Frightening!!!, it’s a remarkable film with both Keifer Sutherland & Alexandre Aja at their best. An entertaining movie on a new and unusual plot about an ex-cop and his family are the target of an evil force that is using mirrors as a gateway into their home.

I love when a movie really makes my hair stand on end, this one did it for me throughout. There are so many twists and turns, and the ending was very unexpected. All the characters were believable and Kiefer Sutherland's performance as the inwardly tortured ex-cop teetering on the edge of insanity was excellent.An innovative script shot beautifully with some superb performances.

 If you rent this, definitely view the unrated version, I yelped out loud a few times. Indeed a commendable performance by the world famous perfectionist. Paula Patton also looks stunning as Amy Carson and provides the required glamour in an otherwise unusual plot. I would definitely put this in the category of supernatural horror guaranteed to scare the s___ out of you. It's really quite intense, and even though most horror movies don't really scare me (I actually laugh at most and find them to be more comical than scary), this is not a movie you want to watch just before going to bed.  Another first from one of the most creative director in the world, Alexandre Aja. Strongly recommended for an entertaining family evening. 

 

Directed By Alexandre Aja Starring : Keifer Sutherland & Paula Patton.

The Grudge(2004)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Horror)

This is a Takashi Shimizu flick which has become the cult horror for the modern American cinema. Though it’s a remake of a Japanese movie but that doesn’t hamper the merits of the film as it was a much bigger hit than its regional original and needless to mention a well directed and brilliantly acted horror of recent times.

Both Sarah Michaelle Gellar and Jason Behr were reborn as horror actors with this movie and for Sarah Michaelle Gellar the movie was a major jump-board for her highly successful career in the subsequent years. But the person for whom the movie is fondly seen again & again is Jason Behr. His impressive and enjoyable act of a boyfriend to Sarah & Kadee Strickland was highly appreciated from everyone in the industry as well as the viewers.

 

Kadee Strickland as the third major character in the movie also gives the required support with his own horror mannerisms. Others in the star-cast are equally good too, including the veteran Clea Duval as a wife. A must watch for all, since it is one of the best horror movies coming from the New Generation of American Cinema. Directed By Takashi Shimizu Starring : Michaelle Gellar, Jason Behr, Kadee Strickland & Bill Pullman Music By Christopher Young

The Ring(2002)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Psychological)

Very few movies are made on the topic of the most prominent truth of our lives, the DEATH. Very seldom directors select this theme for their movies and there are not many writers interested in writing scripts around this topic. But here is a movie, which I consider as the BEST I have seen till date, based on the only truth of our lives……..our Death. The movie which kept teasing me till months after I first viewed it. And I still put it on, at times to see it again and learn more from its brilliant and highly inspiring narration.

It is sure going to be of those few movies which can have the strongest impact on your lives and your thinking styles. A film capable of changing attitudes towards life. A film about crimes which were not committed, miracles which were not believed and relationships which were not planned. A film which comes once in a time after many years and you just find yourself speechless as the end credits role.

I would not like to reveal the plot of the movie here as that would take away the experience you may have watching it with no info on its plot. The movie is more than 1 hours of duration and words are not enough to explain the positive and powerful impact it generates in these 1 hours and few minutes. In simple words I rate it as one of the 10 best movies I have seen till this time of my life. Death, the only known truth of our life, is explained in the most impressive manner ever and you will be compelled to think about your own death, as you see others dying in the movie just like that. That’s really is a great achievement by the filmmaker in my opinion.

 

So, take an off from your work, get this movie from anywhere and watch it, this very moment, to make your life better in the remaining days. Just do it NOW.

Directed By Gore Verbinski Starring : Naomi Watts, Martin Henderson, Brian Cox & More

Dial M For Murder(1954)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Crime)

A tough script executed in the most impressive way. An idea of an ex-tennis pro carries out a plot to murder his wife is perfectly done in the best possible manner, leaving a punchy effect on the viewer. Though it has its resemblances with an English drama but that does not allow anybody to call it a blatantly inspired movie. In fact it is the most inspiring and path breaking movie in the that years which was also responsible of generating public awareness in the society.

A worth mentioning merit of the movie is it’s perfect casting of characters. The entire star-cast is chosen with utmost care which is clearly visible on the screen, as you witness new faces giving memorable performances along with Mr. Perfectionist, Ray Milland. The unexpected tragic end is another point which makes everyone think about the current scenario of the society we live in.

Many instances of the film like the plot, were even copied by the Indian directors in film to express their liking on the film. Ray Milland, living his character as Tony Mendice is the major highlight of the movie. Coming from the director, Alfred Hitchcock, the movie was unexpectedly many steps ahead of his earlier attempts. Musically it has many hugely popular gems from Dimitri Tiomkin . In simple words a must watch for all the crime film lovers and the thriller film lovers.

Directed By Alfred Hitchcock Starring : Ray Milland, Grace Kelly and Others. Music By Dimitri Tiomkin

Boogie Nights(1997)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Drama)

Paul Thomas Anderson’s not so famous classic about a  young nightclub dishwasher, Eddie Adams (Mark Wahlberg), who becomes a popular star ofpornographic films, chronicling his rise in the Golden Age of Porn of the 1970s through his fall during the excesses of the 1980s.  Admittedly though Boogie Nights is not considered among the best works of Paul Thomas Anderson, but in my opinion it has the power to communicate the truth in an amusing manner and should be rated as a masterpiece, may be less than the other classics directed by the maestro.

Based on an engaging storyline, the film shows the young man's adventures in the Californian pornography industry of the late 1970s and early 1980s.Eddie Adams would have been just another high-school drop-out had he not met the likes of adult film director Jack Horner. 

It is a simple yet powerful film having a great social message, which makes you sit and await that what happens next with all the characters involved. Thoughtfully directed in an impressive and entertaining style, it truly shows you the vision films were conceived in that Golden Era of American Cinema by all the legendary directors and how they magically converted simple story ideas into meaningful ventures. Honestly speaking, Boogie Nights is a rare or lesser known  classic which tries to look into the human psychology through its insightful tale and thus remains a highly recommended Paul Thomas Anderson gem for all the lovers of such thought provoking cinema from the past.

Directed By Paul Thomas Anderson Starring : Mark Wahlberg, Julianne More, Burt Reynolds, Don Cheadle & More Music By Michael Penn

Aakashathinte Niram(2012)&Spring,Summer,Fall,Winter....And Spring(2003)

Amala Paul's comeback movie "Aakashathinte Niram" which is also a Dr.Biju direction has a striking resemblance to the theme of a Korian Movie called "Spring,Summer,Fall,Winter....And Spring"which came in 2003. Check this out : http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0374546/  On merit basis the film could have been much better as it was her comeback film and was also based on a philosophical subject. A big let-down was there in the music department too. Being a hardcore fan of Amala, i was really expecting a lot more than this. Still i wish her and her family all the success in life.

Hardcore(1979)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Crime)

Paul Schrader, The original showman of American Film Industry, was called so due to his futuristic and insightful vision of cinema. He made  in this completely out of the trend movie in 1979, which shows the kind of understanding and passion he had for cinema even in the early years of his career.

A father searching for his daughter, who has vanished only to appear in a pornographic film-plot of this experimental movie from the A-team productions. George C.Scott is in his full form and completely believable in the role of the poor man. The incidents in his journey towards the search of his daughter are both entertaining and enlightening for a serious viewer. The director also uses music and songs in this unusual plot in a remarkable way. A simple movie made with noble intentions and a must for the appreciators of Art Cinema.

Directed By Paul Schrader Starring : George C.Scott & Peter Boyle Music By Jack Nitczhe

The Haunting(1999)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Horror)

A horror movie based on the 1963 of the same name. A Creepy, but could've been creepier. Liam Nesson, as doctor david marrow is a pure delight to watch in this horror fantasy. He is perfectly cast and just fits to the role .

The Haunting is a film that boasts a really creepy house, good effects work and sound work, a cast that seems to believe that everything around them is real and that house. There are scenes that make you jump, and the sinister aspects of what went on at Hill House in the past, I found interesting. There are genuinely creepy moments in the film and I liked the way the ghosts manifested themselves in sheets, curtains and the house itself. Jerry Goldsmith's score gave it the right atmosphere and the sound design had voices popping up around you.

 What I wish could've happened is for something a little more intense. Jan De Bont had a PG-13 rating to contend with and I think that he held back a little too much. Poltergeist scared me silly when I saw it many years ago, and it still holds up. The Haunting could've used a few more scenes of pure terror. The ending was for me, a little anticlimactic. 

   

 

Directed By Jan De Bont Starring : Liam Nesson, Catherine Zeta Jones & Owen Wilson

Fatal Attraction(1987)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Psychological)

Arguably, one of the most convincing acts of a married man, ever by an American actor, Michael Douglas who plays the “Dan Gallaghar” in this psychological thriller directed by Adrian Lyne. Impressively Michael delivers a brilliant act which leaves you in doubt about whether he really have a fatal attraction while shooting for a realistic touch (which in fact is not true). But undoubtedly, his act in the movie, can easily be rated as one of his ten best performances till date.

 

Equally believable and emotional is Glenn Claus in the role of ”Alexandra Alex Forest” who is responsible for the fatal attraction of the dan gallaghar in absence of his wife. Their scenes together are well written and highly psychological capable of bringing tears to your eyes. Especially, Glenn Claus’s death scene shot in sync sound is one of the most memorable scenes of the movie. Interestingly, psychiatric diognisis is also used in a very entertaining way along with soothing melodies in this unforgettable flick. One of the best scores by Maurice Jarre, featuring many hit & famous numbers . A not to be missed pure Hollywood style psychological thriller.

Directed By Adriane Lyne Starring : Michael Douglas, Glenn Close, Anne Archer & Ellen Hamilton Latzen Music By Maurice Jarre

Meri Jung(1985)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Drama)

High Emotions Drama"People don't like warring with words" crowed a film magazine from 1985. This assertion gave me the impression that the movie would be replete with verbal wars between the contesting advocates in the court. 

However when I rented the movie to verify the claim, it had a little legal war, and that too was a bit stereotypical. The movie, however, had its other rewards to offer. A simple, no-nonsense plot about the woes of the family of a wrongly executed man, this film for the most part matches the reaction to the action with minimal overacting. The culminating scene wherein Anil Kapoor, apart from rescuing his mother, gives vent to his pent up feelings of righteous anguish and indignation against the vile acts of Amreesh Puri due to which he had to lead all his life in bitterness -- physical and mental -- is the highlight of the movie in my opinion.

 In this emotional tirade, we the viewers, have emotions exactly like a person would have, who has been victimised thus.  Among the star-cast, Anil Kapoor and Meenakshi Sheshadri give the most impactful performances along with the child actor. The background music and melodious songs by Lakshmikanth-pyarelal are another highlight of this well made film by Subhash Gay. In fact the soundtrack by the maestros can be included in one of their most under-rated works, which surely deserved much more recognition and appreciation from the masses. 

 This sympathy of emotions is the biggest achievement of this film. The music of the film is more than just good, specially the theme song, "Zindagi har qadam ik nai jang hai.." which is yet another spellbinding creation of Laxmikant- payarelal duo.

So for everyone interested it is indeed a worth watching film showcasing a true to life drama with many good songs.

Directed By Subhash Gay Starring : Anil Kapoor, Meenakshi Sheshadri, Nuthan Behl & More Music By Lakshmikanth Pyarelal

Wings of Desire(1987)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Romance)

Two of America’s most famous and respected actors, Bruno Ganz & Otto Sander, came together in a movie for the first time, which was directed by the person who gave us “Beyond The Clouds”. A romantic, fantacy drama cum thriller about invisible, immortal angels who populate Berlin and listen to the thoughts of the human inhabitants and comfort those who are in distress. 

A solid movie with powerful scenes and brilliantly written dialogues. Interestingly everyone is trying to outshine each other with their performances and that makes it a worth watching effort. Though it was not a major hit at the time of its release, but it’s now considered as true example of class cinema with two stalwarts of American Film Industry. The female character Solvieg Dommartin  also make their presence felt along with the two giants on the screen. Incidentally Curt Bois is also there in few scenes as Homer,the aged poet. Strongly Recommended for intense drama lovers.

Directed By Wim Wenders Starring : Bruno Ganz, Otto Sander, Solvieg Dommartin & Curt Bois Music By Jurgen Knieper

Shaothru(2011)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Action)

There cannot be a movie lover all over the Bengal who is not familiar with “Shothru” . And there cannot be a Bengali actor either who has not seen these movies (specially the first part) numerous times. Considered as one of the Top 10 All Time Hit Movies in Bengal, the trilogy indeed is a remarkable work by Raj Chakroborthy, along with impressive performances by Jeet, Nusrath Jahan and more.

Copied from Kollywood movie'Singam' this is a dark and bold movie based on gangsters and gang wars. Though I consider Tamil as the best pick of the three but quality wise all the parts are considered as cult movies now. The punchy one liners from the movie are still quoted in many new flicks even today. In simple words, the three movies are text book material for budding film-makers, actors, writers and students of cinema.

 Dialogue pe dialogue, dialogue pe dialogue...and what one liners they are! Wah wah, wah wah. Care for some teaser? 'Ekhane kendriya sarkar chole na, rajya sarkar chole na. Ekhane khali ektai sarkar chole, Arjun Sarkar'. 'O ki PM na CM je hate somoy nei. Ek thappor mere ghorir kata thamiye debo, tarpor khali somoy tai thakbe'. 'Or ami khichbo khal, after the interval'. 'Ek ekta chor pochish mon. Porle jabi Brindabon'. "Shatru" is a killer, all thanks to Dibakar Singha and his deadly fists that become super 'hot', what with fire running through them. 

 

To sum up,  Shothru is a must see for every movie lover as a compulsion.   

Directed By Raj Chakroborthy Starring : Jeet, Nusrath Jahan & More

Spirit-A Hit Plot Of Alcoholism Overshadowed By The Love Angle(Movie Review By Yoonus Mohyudhin)

Ranjith always are the first on making movies on the most controversial and current topics. With the alcoholism, they now return with a movie based on the plot of the increasing habits of alcoholism inKerala along with an elaborate angle of an intense love affair.

The film starts promisingly and ends brilliantly but in the mid it loses pace and interest as the narration stresses more on the love angle than on the interesting betting plot. The first one hour of the movie is exciting and highly enjoyable. Watching it you feel like seeing something new and an unexplored plot. The  subject and examines what happens when a person, however intelligent, falls prey to an addiction, any addiction for that matter scenes in the first half are brilliantly directed by the  director Ranjith. And when you are expecting more of similar stuff coming later the director changes tracks and takes on the love angle as his main theme.

If the film would have been strictly on the alcoholism plot then it was a confirm Hit. But unfortunately there is more of sacrifice and love story angle which is quite expected and becomes tiring after a certain point. Though director shows promise in his  movie but he should have stuck to one plot only.

Mohan Lal is competent and gives a good performance. It can be counted as one of his finest. Kaniha looks fresh and ravishing. She has got the talent which will become polished with more of her movies. Shankar Ramakrishnan as Meera's husband shows class and he shines bright in his role. A very unexpected act is given by Nandhu as the alcoholic plumber. He is excellent in his small part and is an actor to watch for.

Ranjith definitely have a good ear for music and lyrics. His movies always have some good numbers with meaningful lyrics. Spirit also has got hit music by Shahabaz Aman. The songs don’t interrupt the narration and have got the soothing melodies. That’s the reason audio companies fought with each other for the music rights of this movie.

If you are a non-alcoholic and expecting a lot of preaching, advicing and anti-alcoholism in the movie then you might be taken back. The movie has the main plot of alcoholism but the story revolves more around the alcoholic and his girlfriend. That’s the main drawback of the movie. The other weak point is that the background of Mohan Lal and Kaniha are not explained in details. Sprit is not flawless but is recommended for the sincere effort by the cast and the crew. Spirit belongs to Mohanlal who brings to the table a kind of vulnerability hidden behind the arrogant exterior. There are occasions when the mask of arrogance falls away and Mohanlal has the expertise to handle such situations with élan.

As per his tradition Ranjith this time follow a similar plot as in “My Hero But Big Zero” (2005) directed by Abdul Azis. But this time its only an inspiration and not a version. 

One of the highlight of “Spirit” is its climax, which is unexpected and has a shock for the viewers. After witnessing the climax sequence you feel that the film is good enough for a one time watch. As it has a new plot, good performances and soothing music.

Rating : 3 / 5 (it should have concentrated only on the alcoholism plot)

Trance(2013)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Psychological)

Danny Boyle’s intense and solid movie about a an art auctioneer who has become mixed up with a group of criminals partners with a hypnotherapist in order to recover a lost painting. Moving away from the normal trend at this time, Danny Boyle bravely came with this powerful thriller, about the life of painters, their hypnotherapist and the package.

Inspired from a true incident, “Trance” was an unconventional and ahead of this time movie on an unexpected off beat subject. It was completely rejected by the viewers when it was released in 2013. But now, it is remembered for its power packed performances and is considered to be a milestone in the careers of all the actors involved with it.

The clashes between James Mcavoy & Vincent Cassel are the best part of the movie, well written and thoroughly enjoyable. Ironically at that time, they were both professional rivals in the business, which also clearly shows in their confrontation scenes. Rosario Dawson is there between them with his own stylish attitude as Elizebath. It is simply a treat to watch James, Vincent & Rosario together on the silver screen looking rock solid against each other. Another highlight of the movie is its brilliant climax, which shows the mastery of Danney Boyle on the medium. Arguably, one of the toughest climax sequences of American Films. In few words, “Trance” is a brilliantly scripted and well directed movie, strongly recommended to all passionate movie lovers.

Directed By Danney Boyle Starring : James Mcavoy, Vincent Cassel, Rosario Dawson, Danny Sapani & More Music By Rick Smith

Rasaleela(2012)&Similar Themes

“Rasaleela” was surely a poor movie in Malayalam Cinema which had an old and loose script, directed poorly by Majeed Maaranchery. Keeping the criticisms of this widely criticized venture intact, here are few movies with a similar theme, which may have been an inspiration for the writers of this bore project.  Rasaleela (1975)  In this flick also,Unni Maya (Jayasudha), a widow in a big tharavadu, develops a fondness for Devan (Kamal Hasan), who has accompanied a godman, who has been called in to get rid of the bad omens that surround the family. Unarchigal (1976)  In this project, Selvam (Kamal), an 18 year old simpleton who works in a small village is sexually harassed by his landlord's sister, a widow.    But despite of all the above references having similar subjects, “Rasaleela” will be remembered as a week movie which marks the coming together of the next generation of talents—-Sanjay Chowdhary (son of composer Salil Chowdhary),Vayalar Sarath Chandra Varma (son of lyricist Vayalar Rama Varma) and Vijay Yesudas (son of singer K. J. Yesudas).  .