Kick(2009)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Action)

It is one of the few under-rated movies of Surender Reddy, which on the contrary I found to be one of his most entertaining ones. Reddy surely knew what kind of subject should be the next for his much awaited ventures and he intelligently chose his stories with a great futuristic vision. That’s the reason many of his movies were way ahead of their times like Kick. In fact the movie and it’s several sequences became the inspirational source for many Bollywood thrillers and robbing mysteries in the later years.

 The script is full of suspense, anxiety and spine chilling chases. The plot is about a  guy with an abnormal lifestyle tries to find thrill and pleasure in every work he does and finally becomes a thief. The viewer knows him from the start itself and you are made to witness how he robe and manages to escape. It's like you are one of the characters of the movie witnessing every crime happening in front of you. A dark & grim movie, perfect for the lovers of suspense and action. In few words, a not to be missed true Reddian experience.

 

Directed By Surender Reddy

Starring : Ravi Theja, Ilyana, Shyam & More

Swati Kiranam(1992)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Musical)

Nationally acclaimed K.Vishwanath’s thought provoking & extra ordinary movie revolving around a music teacher. The film is considered among the Top 100 movies made Telugu till date. It surely deserves that place in the rating as it both entertains, as well as enlightens the viewer about the human mind and its thought process. The movie would not be a usual normal experience for many as it has its own silent moments and slow proceedings. But if you are interested in studying it as a text book material on film-making then there is lot to learn and follow.

The story is woven around  an egoistic music teacher envious of the extraordinary talent of his prodigious young disciple. The film starts with a shabby old man living as a recluse near a famous temple. When he ventures out into the village, he is beaten by the shepherd who believe that he is the one who was snatching sheep and killing them some time ago.  And as the new truths unfold, you get to see the inside of a human psyche. In simple words, if you can get through its slow pace, then watching this K.Vishwanath Classic will surely prove to be worth your valuable time.

Directed By K.Vishwanath Starring : Mammutty, Master Manjunath & More

Natholi Oru Cheriya Meenalla:A simple comedy from the master of the cinema.(Movie Review By Yoonus Mohyudhin)

V.K Prakash, one of the key names, who represent our Malayalam Cinema in the nation. The man responsible for number of award winning meaningful films tries a different genre this time which is a very simple, easy going and fresh attempt. But it may be too straight and slow for the fast paced young audiences.

For his fans (including myself), this is a welcome change from the master of the medium and the maestro seems to be in a completely different mood this time. As a sincere fan, “Natholi Oru Cheriya Meenalla” is not among best of his works, but it’s entirely a different kind of attempt from him which surely has moments of his golden touch.

The story is about  Preman (Fahadh Faasil)is the caretaker of a flat at Cochin. Everyone in the flat calls him 'Natholi'.  The plot is very thin and there are too many characters roped in. So as a result no particular character comes out shining except the  writer himself. The film starts off easily with a much laid back pace and moves on as each character is introduced. It is more like the good old “Rachana” and impresses as it unfolds stories about each one of them. But some sequences are pretty predictable such as the flat life and the rivalry among the society ladies. 

First half is too simple and slow, whereas the second half picks up and generates more interest. The last 40 minutes of the movie are more entertaining and engrossing and the climax reminds you of Sathyan Anthikkadu kind of cinema. At first it may seem that this is not a movie matching today’s fast pace of life, but as it moves on, it takes you in and after the last few minutes you feel that you liked it.    

Performances wise each and every character shines like a star in the sky and “Fahad Fazil” is like the moon with the stars. Undoubtedly, this is his best performance after “Chappakkurishu” and “22Female Kottayam”. Kamalinee Mukharjee, though has acted well but deliberately speaks like an urban girl, where she gets caught. Rest all have done a fine job but since no other character has an upper edge provided by the writer so everyone is at par with each other. Musically, the title song is good but all the other songs should have been avoided.

In few words, it’s a simple and sweet movie, to enjoy as the gold old cinema from the golden era of Malayalam Movies. It may not be liked by the youth as it has nothing to offer to the Rock Generation. But it has the values which we find missing in the current times.

One Request for the viewers who are new to V.K Prakash Cinema :

If you are watching this as your first V.K Prakash flick then Please don’t make any viewpoint about the master from this movie. This a different genre tried by the master and it’s like he is chilling out after making some very intense and meaningful movies. I insist and request you to watch his “Punaradhivasam”, “Freaky Chakra”, “Phir Kabhi”, “Aidondla Aidu”, “Beautiful”, “Kavya's Diary” before reaching to any unjustified conclusion about V.K Prakash.

Particularly a must see is “Punaradhivasam” where you will find most of the cast of “Natholi Oru Cheriya Meenalla” doing a completely different act with the utmost conviction.

In the current trend of loud comedies, “NOCM” might be too simple and slow for the young viewers but it has its moments to enjoy. Rating : 2.5 / 5

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

It was only due to the brilliance of a master film maker, Roger Donaldson, which made this film possible . It was really a brave attempt on Donaldson’s part to opt for such kind of subject and that is the reason, why he is one of the most loved film makers all over the world.

The film revolves around Martine offers Terry a lead on a foolproof bank hit on London's Baker Street. She targets a roomful of safe deposit boxes worth millions in cash and jewelry. But Terry and his crew don't realize the boxes also contain a treasure trove of dirty secrets - secrets that will thrust them into a deadly web of corruption and illicit. scandalSporting complex consequences for a relatively straightforward plot, The Bank Job remains intriguing throughout as each set-up leads to ever more suspenseful twists for the likable group of ragtag antiheroes.

 Over-thorough character introductions cause a slower build in the early stages of the heist, but such complications likely arise from fewer liberties taken with the "based on a true story" events, and the result is a fascinating look at criminals, the corrupt, and those least guilty. And then he makes you sit straight waiting for some extraordinary and unexpected scenes to follow. Few sequences in the movie are quite brutal and bold in execution, which are strictly not recommended for minors. But at the same time, the narration and ambience created by the director is highly entertaining too. The most innovative and well written scene of the movie is its climax, which is worth watching, leaving an open end for the viewers to think it over. Though there are mixed responses towards its experimental end but the movie still remains a real masterpiece by Roger Donaldson, definitely finding its place among his Top 5 Films.

 

Directed By Roger Donaldson Starring : Jason Statham, Saffron Burrows & Richard Lintern

Paap(2004)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Drama)

While watching this all time classic I was amazed to see the grandeur and huge canvas on the screen, visualized by its makers at that time . It really must have taken a lot of courage to even think of making such a spectacular movie in 2004. No doubt, that is the reason for its being there in the Top 10 All Time Great Movies list by all critics and lovers of indian cinema. A well conceived movie with majestic touch. It revolves around the life span of a  young girl, Kaaya (Udita Goswami), living in the beautifully serene valley of Spiti, waiting to join a Buddhist monastery, an idea which has been fed to her since childhood by her father (Mohan Agashe) and one which she has never questioned. The huge sets in the climax were really unimaginable and a true experience to watch. Frankly speaking, I was more convinced by its direction and magnificent treatment of the movie than its content and storyline. It’s not a thorough entertaining stuff for the normal cine lover, but technically it has all the qualities of a great movie if viewed from the eyes of a film-maker. Hence go for it if you are keen on studying the art of film-making in a grand style.   Directed By Pooja Bhatt Starring : John Abraham & Udhitha Goswami

Papilio Budha:Kudos to the fresh talent with new thoughts in Malayalam cinema(Movie Review By Yoonus Mohyudhin)

First of all I wish to thanks “Prakash Bare” for being a unique producer who has the guts to back up projects like “Papilio Budha”. Secondly, Kudos to writer & director “Jayan K.Cheriyan”, who brings a fresh & new tide in the vast ocean of Malayalam Cinema.

“Papilio Budha” is not a big movie, but it is many times powerful than all the 50-70 crores projects being talked about in the news. It’s a movie which shows the signs of intelligence and the art of film making flowing in the veins of our young directors. It’s a movie made with courage, with conviction and with a strong point to raise in favor of a common man.

Without giving away the main plot, the story is about  the atrocities committed against Dalits, women and the enviornment. In simple words it’s like fire between two stalwarts of our Malayalam Cinema and they both make it just worth watching. I remember seeing two giants together on the screen last time in “Vida Parayum Munpe” (Prem Nazir & Ravi Menon) and way back in ”Naayattu” (Prem Nazir & Jayan). And like those two movies, this one too satisfied my expectations to a large extent.

 Seeing a faded portrait of Comrade EMS along with a childhood photograph of Shankaran (Sreekumar) on the wall, the lepidopterist along with him (David Briggs) cannot hide his curiosity and inquires as to who "the guy with the baby" is! When asked by Shankaran as to why he hasn't chosen to take the portrait down, despite having severed ties with the Communist movement long back, Kariyan sighs and remarks that Gods have a tendency not to disembark from the lofty positions that they are once hailed to. We are alarmed to see that Shankaran is yet to come to terms with his Dalit blood, despite having been educated at the JNU, and regardless of his incessant interactions with a movement that has been raising its voices against oppression of the marginalized.  The script is strictly to the point and that takes the viewer to the edge of his seat with every passing minute. Many movie buffs may judge the main twist post interval but even after you have cracked it, the movie still has the grip to keep you glued to your seats.

Performances have many surprises in store for the viewer. First of all, Prakash Bare is completely convincing and once again impressive in his act of an angry young police officer.The four Adivasis and the entire supporting star cast has done a commendable job which makes you believe the unexpected happening on the screen. Cinematography and Background Music both completely support the vision of the director.

 He is appalled at his invisibility even in broad daylight, and when his efforts to merge in seamlessly with the rest of the world meet a dead end, he walks back into the arms of a dear companion, dejected and absolutely crestfallen. Drenched in the rain that batters over the forests, Shankaran seeks the light of a glow worm to steer himself back home. 

The last 20 minutes need a special and standing ovation for both the director and the actors. The long, strong and impressive explanation by Sreekumar about his reasons is a kind of landmark in Malayalam Movies. You will find each word, completely justifying our day to day experiences in life. You will feel that whatever may be the outcome, this man (Sreekumar) is somehow saying the right thing, which you may have felt at some moment in your life.

The worth praising fact about the movie is that it doesn’t take sides for any religion or its followers. There are references to some Hindu & Muslim characters, but they do not indicate any partiality on behalf of someone particular character. At many times, the silence of the actors, just says it all.

And the best part is that the director refuses to tell the real name of the man causing all troubles in the end. And the narration says that “If a name is given then it will lead to un-necessary conclusion, so let it be a common man who chose to fight for his own safety”. And that, in my opinion is the most unexpected and original climaxes you may have seen in a Malayalam movie. A well written and fantastically executed climax scene, when both Thamby Antony & Prakash Bare shake hands and cross each other is simply excellent.

The two volcanoes of talent, Thambi & Prakash Bare have nothing to prove about themselves, but they do prove one thing.....that we are not making much films which can tap the talent available in the state.

Imagine Thambi in “In Gost House Inn....” & Prakash Bare in “Friday” after watching “Papilio Budha”. You will surely understand what I am trying to say. I also remember “Murali” & “Thilakan” together in “Ekantham” in the same context.

Coming back to the movie, “Papilio Budha” certainly takes its place among the Top10 movies of both Thambi Antony & Prakash Bare. And the director “Jayan K.Cheriyan” is a talent to watch out in the coming future.

An essential Watch, even at the cost of a holiday from your work. Rating : 4.5 / 5

Kizhakku Kadalkkarai Salai(2006)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Action)

Life is completely unexpected and the whole beauty of our existence lies in this simple truth. This is the main theme of this well made movie by S.S Stanley featuring Bhavana with Shrikanth. The movie is about those unseen circumstances of life in which new relationships are formed but they have to be ignored for the sake of other important people in our lives. It talks about those tender moments where we have to remember our priorities and have to control ourselves before crossing the social limits.

The story revolves around A petrol pump employee falls in love with a snobbish woman, the sister of a wealthy advocate.The movie begins with an orphan Santosh (Srikanth) coming in search of a job at a petrol bunk in ECR. He manages to win the goodwill of the petrol bunk owner and gets a job there.  The ease with which they have enacted their difficult roles is indeed commendable.  Don’t miss it as it will be worth your valuable time.

Directed By S.S Stanley Starring : Bhavana & Srikanth Music By Paul J

Again Kasargod Khadar Bhai(2010)&its inspiration

Thulaseedas’ "Again Kasargod Khadar Bhai"  seems to be inspired . Its main plot is very much close to the one in Laal’s film “In Ghost House Inn” . Chek out the form discussion at : http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1732659/

Banking Hours10to4(2012)&Flypaper(2011)

The suspence flick Banking Hours10to4's suspense plot & the climax location is inspired from Rob Minkoff's “Flypaper”.  The fight at the top floor of a building with a huge clock mechanism is the same as used in the Rob Minkoff classic. 

Lisammayude Veedu:A weak second movie after a strong debut by Babu Janardhanan,the director(Movie Review By Yoonus Mohyudhin)

As it was a movie directed by Babu Janardhanan of “Bombay1993March12” fame, i was expecting much more than served. The promos were lacking the pull and so was the movie. It started off as a regular crime drama as the sequel to the2006film'Achanuranghatha Veedu'.

Achanurangaatha Veedu (2006) told the story of a father's suffering as his under-aged daughter Lisamma is kidnapped and is forced into a sex racket. In Lisammayude Veedu, the young girl Lisamma (Meera Jasmine) has grown up and seems to have adjusted to her past.  And thats it, no other novelty is there in the plot and there are   the same old sub plots of love and emotions seen several times before on the silver screen.

It is strange why the director selected this script, which had nothing new to offer and had no experimentation which was seen in his first movie “Bombay1993March”. Subjects on Politics and Communism seem to be the favorites of Babu Janardhanan. But this time he has not given even half of what was there in “Bombay1993”.

Though the performance of Meera Jasmin needs special mention but that goes unnoticed as the film fails to generate any interest. She shows improvement in her act as an extension to what she played in “Calcuta News”. But an entire talented starcast is just doing nothing in the film. Rahul Madhav looks ravishing but has no characterisation to work on. Salim Kumar, Jagatheesh, Baiju, Gopu Nair are simply there doing their act unconvincingly. There are no relief moments as both Jagatheesh & Gopu Nair are given intense characters for a change, which sadly does not work.

Music also has the same feel of being unimpressive and Vinu Thomas has just given a regular score for the movie. Action is good but the viewer gets an overdose of bloodshed. In the recent times, similar kinds of subjects have been seen earlier in “Ente” and many more. So there in very less to offer this time by the talented director as his script lets him down. Rating : 1.5 / 5

Shutter:Brillainly potrays the impact of sexual anarchism, not it's cause.(Movie Review By Yoonus Mohyudhin)

There are numerous movies made on the cause of prostitution and about the people behind the inhuman acts. But here comes a movie which emphasizes on impact of these happenings on people from different parts of life, rich and poor, brave and strong, young and old. And the sensitivity with which the consequences have been captured by the director is indeed commendable. Joy Mathew's first Malayalam venture is a praise worthy effort, which shows you the aftermath of sexual anarchismand amazes you in the two hours of its narration.

There is a new trend catching up fast with the filmmakers in Malayalam Cinema, to take up 5-6 stories together and then telling the story from different angles with different characters.  K.G George tried this in his  directorial venture, then Arun Kumar  successfully adapted this in his “Eeyadutha Kaalathu” and you may recall many more movies made in the recent times with the same multi-plot structure.

But “Shutter” stands apart from these all both in quality and content. There are moments in the movie which are immensely realistic and the viewer can relate to characters he is close to. The script has some sequences which you may have thought of while watching the tragedies and their victims on news channels in your secured homes.

Like the story of Sajitha Madathil, which thoughtfully showcases the psyche of societies and family men, when they want to cash on each new tragedy and mis-happening on their surroundings. You may have also thought sometimes that how a prostitute can ask a person who has lost his entire family about “How is he feeling?”. It’s simply human to have such courage to ask such question to the victims. This question is answered when there is a twist in the story and the prostitute Sajitha Madathil herself becomes the victim. She loses her fiancé in the pasts and then another man asks her the same question. That’s a brilliantly executed sequence with feel, depth and questions unanswered.

The best of the 5 main characters is Laal, giving one of his finest performances as a gulf labourer retiring in few days. Along with Riya Saira as his assistant both emote and act as real life characters on the street. They superbly show the pain and discomfort caused by the faulty system in their own different ways. Worth watching performances by both.

Vinay Fort, can be seen in his best ever cameo in a movie. People who may not be his appreciators would find it hard to ignore his fine act . Many would have faced the same trauma in days after.

The two masters Shreenivasan & Augastin are again at their best and they prove once again why they are considered the top among the old generation. Shreenivasan is a treat to watch as a poor person . Augastin gives a unforgettable performance as a strong person. After that day, Laal finds hard to trust any other person  and the sequence of his transformation has been canned impeccably.

Though the movie has its loose ends and it also has a Kozhikkod ambience which some may find tough to relate to. But still you cannot afford to miss it, if you love this medium of expression.

Together Laal, Shreenivasan, Augastin, Vinay Fort & Sajitha Madathil make this movie worth watching for every single person who feels for his family. A treat for lovers of cinema. A must watch in Malayalam Cinema after a long time.

Rating : 4.5 / 5

Celluloid-The Next Step by the young brigade(Movie Review By Yoonus Mohyudhin)

You may not feel the way you felt after watching ”Harishchandraji Factory” but you are sure to feel good and contented to have something new on the Malayalam Celluloid. “Celluloid” may not be a trend setter but it will surely act as a path opener for the budding film-makers.

Film mania or Film style of living have very limited takers in our part of the country. And that might be the reason the director doesn’t follow the hardcore film styles but opts for a soft film feel in the movie. But he does a fine and competent job. Kamal comes up with a movie which has a fresh appeal, a perfect script with perfect character sketches which are capable to hold even the viewers who don’t know what “celluloid” is.

 The film is a biopic based on the life story of J.C. Daniel, the father of Malayalam cinema,^[1] the making of his filmVigathakumaran and the story of Vigathakumaran's heroine P. K. Rosie.  Apart from the direction, the revelation comes from the acting department as almost every person in the movie has given a soulful and energetic performance, highly enjoyable and entertaining.

Prithviraj Sukumaran as J.C Daniel  comes up with a lovable and superlative act with his own unique serius touches. Sreenivasan as Chelanghattu Gopalakrishnan surprisingly gives a controlled & subtle performance, which is really appreciable. Sreejith Ravi gives the best shot of his career, as Sundararaj and he is surely going to surprise people who called him wooden faced. Critics would find it tough to criticize him this time around.

And now the man who was way above the expectations, Ramesh Pisharadi. Before seeing the movie I was having the opinion that Ramesh has just tried one movie for fun and he was only satisfying his passion for mimicry and acting with this opportunity which came his way. But he proved me wrong. Ramesh is hugely impressive and convincing in his act of Pillai. He acts easily with no hassles at all and he is exactly like he was seen in the comedy shows he anchored. You may feel as he is your friend next door, having mood swings like we all have and nothing filmy at all.

The icing on the cake is the raw voice structure Prithviraj has and his singing style. It seems that he simply doesn’t care about the details to be taken care of .  And that’s the beauty of his un-comparable and fantastic realistic approach. At times he looks arrogant but that’s how his character is in the script. On the whole, with this fine attempt Prithvi moves miles ahead in his career and would surely win many more fans than he had .

Chandni gives an impressive and lovable debut performance. She is sure to go places as she works harder on her looks and styling. Mamtha Mohandas in her short role is sweet. Every other supporting actor in the movie provides the required strength to the narrative and is worth praising. Director Kamal raises the bar of expectations and now his next venture will be highly awaited.

The movie is very close to being perfect with only few point of the minus side. Firstly, there is no Camera man in the band, who is considered as the backbone of a film. But that is only for the people who know the film Requirements, otherwise this can be ignored. The only point where it lacked something is its music and lyrics. A musical movie with a film background certainly needed more good & hummable songs with some more youthful and energetic lyrics. The concert song “Kaatte Kaatte” is good but the “Enundodee” lacked the depth. You don’t remember any particular song from this musical movie while walking out. The only thing you remember is the surprising Prithviraj act and to some may be Chandni.

In my opinion as “M.Jayachandran” also have a good & healthy relationship with “K.J Yeshudas”. They could have brought Yeshudas in, as he has the experience of being the lead singer of a film industry and has performed in the music concerts for several years. May be he could contribute in the score and helped.

But keeping these thoughts aside, “Celluloid” is a new and fresh experience for our Malayalam Viewers. It is a must watch for every youngster as it teaches the importance of your passions in life and the strength of a good team. It will give you power to follow your own paths and be responsible for them. Rating : 4 / 5

Inside Man(2006)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Crime)

The world renowned master filmmakerSpike Lee’s famous movie (English)  has a definite place in A good bank robbery films List made anywhere in the world till date.Inside Man tells the story of a man named Dalton Russel, who leads a daring bank robbery that turns into a hostage situation. Now he's dealing with disgraced hostage negotiator Keith Frazier, who is attempting to get to the bottom of things. When the shady CEO of the bank and a woman he's hired to help him protect certain interests arrive, he begins to discover that there's more to this bank robbery than it would seem. This is the only Spike Lee movie I've ever seen, but trust me, I'll see more, since this was a very intriguing film.
What I liked about Inside Man was the style it was made. It is choppy, but not so choppy that it's annoying (cough, Domino, cough, Man on Fire), so you get a sense of tension, and it seems very high paced. The plot is good, and very intriguing. There are some things you have to figure out throughout the film, which makes it more interesting. My only problem was that after the bank robbery was over, the film continued for another half hour, and it started to drag a bit. The dialogue in the movie is very cool. There's some humorous and some awesome lines that come out of the character's mouths.
The acting is very good. Denzel Washington is good as always as Det. Keith Frazier. Clive Owen gives a solid performance as Dalton Russell. I liked Willem Dafoe and Christopher Plummer. Jodie Foster wasn't as good as she usually is, but she's not in the movie a whole lot.

Overall, the movie lags toward the end, but it's intriguing and has an awesome plot.

 

 

Screenplay & Directed By Spike Lee

Music : Terence Blenchend

 

Featuring Denzel Washington, Keith Frazier, Clive Owen, Willem Dafoe, Christopher Plummer, Jodie Foster and more.

 

50First Dates(2004)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Romantic)

You may not have heard of this movie, even if you are in India and a big movie fan. Because here in our part of the world such deep and thought provoking cinema still gets a low profile and low promotion budget. And moreover English movies,  in India are still not a hot project for the  distributors. This is a similar kind of experimental movie which was well appreciated in the festival circuit and by the thinking viewers.

Directed by the actor, director Peter Segal, the movie brings out the hidden secrets of our society, the truth about our bitter relationships and the false identities of people within the families itself. The story revolves around Henry Roth is a man afraid of commitment up until he meets the beautiful Lucy. They hit it off and Henry think he's finally found the girl of his dreams, until he discovers she has short-term memory loss and forgets him the very next day. The film stars Adam Sandler as a woman-chasing veterinarian and Drew Barrymore as an amnesiac, along with Rob Schneider, Sean Astin, Lusia Strus,Blake Clark, and Dan Aykroyd. I really liked the liberties taken in the script about description of the human psyche. A very entertaining and enlightening movie about ourselves and our phony lifestyles. For all who love insightful movies with a novel concept, this would surely be a surprising but pleasant experience.

Directed By Peter Segal Starring : Adam Sandler, Drew Barrymore, Rob Schnieder & Sean Astin Music : Teddi Castellucci

Snake&Ladder(2012)-Inspired from V.K Prakash&Hrithik Roshan

V.Menon strikes again with a family movie featuring Kalabhavan Mani in the role of a quadriplegic multi millionere. But he keeps his inspirational history intact as this failed attempt of his is also inspired from more than one source. First one is V.K Prakash’s “Beautyful” (2011) where intense bonding of two friends, one quadriplegic and other a musician.    Chek out at : http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2133191/   Second is Olivier Nakache’s “Intouchables” (2011) where after he becomes a quadriplegic from a paragliding accident, an aristocrat hires a young man from the projects to be his caretaker. In fact this was a version attempted by Olivier Nakache himself of his own documentry film .   Chek out at : http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1675434/plotsummary?ref_=tt_stry_pl   Third is Hrithik Roshan’s “Guzarish” (2010)  which is said to be inspired from the 'The Sea Inside' cinema.  Here the paralyzed Magician-turned-Radio Jockey files a Petition in Court seeking permission to end his life.But this movie also has one more plot which is copied in “Snake&Ladder”. Here Hrithik Roshan appointed a lady as a home nurse. Due to this act, under some sudden circumstances Hrithik becomes fell in love with her.  Quite similar to “Snake&Ladder”.   Chek out at : http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1438298/plotsummary?ref_=tt_stry_pl

Annayum Rasoolum-Rajiv Ravi,the George Cukoor of Mollywood(Movie Review By Yoonus Mohyudhin)

It's a proven fact now that there is only one person in Malayalam Cinema, who can give you much better “Romantic movies” than the “Vinayan” kind of cinema made some decades back. Gone are the days when “Romance” meant just cute faces and some Skin show incorporated deliberately. At present viewers are more interested in seeing genuine Romantic movies based on original themes. Here RR comes  with a topic with his debut.

More than 15 years ago, when I saw “Thoovanathumbikal”, I felt missing such person is there in Mollywood who knows his work and also understands the “Romantic” genre. But then malayalam films going behind the action and comedy films. And now Mollywood is back with same kind of sparks in “Annayum Rasoolum”. Though “Annayum Rasoolum” is quite repetitive in story but it works due to its treatment and brilliant performances from a  lead pair.

The movie has its moments to enjoy, but you may also feel less supplied to you in respect to info about the subject. The explanatory factor is missing in the script and it only stresses at showing the results of the romantic Spell on the lovers. The climax where in a “Lovers” disconnected by fate is same as you have seen earlier in “Romio and Juliot” & “Sethu”.

In “Romio &Juliot” there was John Barrymore, Sivakumar played the role in “Sethu” and there is “Sunny Wayne” in “Annayum Rasoolum” giving the top most performance of his career. He plays the role of Ashley and he has acted superbly. Not once the viewer can think that he is acting as he looks so real in his get up and act. Thats the reason he is seen in almost all newgeneration films and its time others in the industry also use this talented artist more often.

The lead pair, Fahad & Andrea Jeremiya both impress with their top rate performances. Fahad is surely a great discovery. He has some resemblance to Mohan Lal but has acted like an experienced performer. Soubin Shahir makes an impact as Collin. Ranjith as  Usman manages to give you shocks but also crosses the border in certain scenes. The actress playing Fazila gives the required romantic touch to the movie. The project is a collective & commendable effort by the whole team.

One observation, I would sadly like to mention here. I think Malayalam Audiences come to see “Romantic Movies” in the theater not to enjoy the theme and subject, but only to relax and feeling imotional intentionally. Moreover during the whole movie you can hear laughters and giggles in the cinema. May be this is another way of enjoying a “Romantic Flick”, but certainly not as it should be. I hope the subject of Romance needs a silent and intense watch and I fear “Romance” is not taken as another form of “Comedy” by our dear viewers.

Though you may feel similarities with Tamil new generation flicks at times but still the movie is worth a watch if you love this genre of cinema.

Rating : 3.5 / 5

Boadyguard(2010)&Kuch Kuch Hotha Hain(1998)

“Boadyguard”, may be one of the most appreciated movies of the recent times but it is still not an original work by the director. It is now widely known that the original source for “Boadyguard” was "Kuch Kuch Hotha Hain”. But I couldn’t find any reference or acknowledgement to the Hindi movie by any actor or director of the Malayalam adaptation. Though Dileep & Nayan Thara did a fine job in the movie as the lead, but I liked the amazing act of the Child Artist more than anybody else. The only regret is that they should have given credit to the original makers too.    Chek out at : http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0172684/

ENTRY-Neither an action nor a thriller(Movie Revie By Yoonus Mohyudhin)

Its more difficult to make a good thriller than a action  or an emotional drama. The reason being that there is a very thin & minute line between a good thriller and some cheap sequences trying to make you thrill. The present movie should be considered in the second category where you keep waiting for the expected thrilling moments but nothing comes and the film ends just like that.

The story idea of a “biker” getting involved with “police” was good but its lacks the required punchy execution for a thriller. The script fails to entertain and also could not make use of the talented starcest it had. Both the plots get confused with each other, which results in a movie going in an unknown direction. Cheap imitations of real life characters is not tastefully done.

Baburaj is completely wasted and in my opinion apart from his other roles, the comedy movies are the one which he should choose with utmost care. After his past successes in comic roles, people now go for a movie only for him. But the writer neither gave him good scenes nor good dialogues to deliver. I suppose he was more concerned with showing Ranjini Haridas and her silly affairs with everyone in the story.

While watching you wonder what Bhagath Manuel & Ashokan are doing in the movie. They are just playing their role because they have signed the movie. Ashokan doesnt seem interested anywhere in the 2 hours and Bhagath looks like just enjoying doing a light thriller for a change. Ranjini Haridas is over possesive about her “anchor” image.  Musically there is nothing to comment upon as its just another musical score for a movie with nothing exceptional. In the end, I can only say that the movie is not entertaining enough with even Baburaj being there as the lead. I was expecting at least some good moments but sadly couldn’t find enough to recommend the movie to others. Rating : 1 / 5

Clean Slate(1994)-(Movies To See Before You Die-Comedy)

The movie is about  a private investigator who is the key witness in a murder case.  The master filmmaker Mike Jackson’s only comedy moviewith Dana Carvey and Valeria Golino playing the lead characters .

 

A brilliantly directed movie well supported by Michael Gambon, James Earl Jones, Bryan Cranston, Kevin Pollack and more.One of my favorite comedies."Clean Slate" is a funny movie.  Remarkably shot by Mike Jackson in a unique and highly enjoyable style, the movie is not at all boring as it seems from its subject. In fact it’s quite difficult to choose this kind of story for a movie project and only Mike Jackson could have done it with such an excellence. A pure cinematic gem, for the thinking viewers.

Directed By Mike Jackson Starring : Dana Carvey, Valeria Golino, James Earl Jones & Michael Gambon Music By Alan Silvestri

Rathi Manmathan(1977)-A Well Made Inspired Musical

Impressed by the entertaining musical “Rathimanmathan”, I really wanted to believe that this time, it’s an original attempt by the director , Shashikumar. But instead, he continue to stick with their inspirational tie ups and again follow a Tamil musical from the other part of the India.
This time its “Kumari Penn” released in 1966, directed by Ramanna. A story of Shyamala's grandfather wants her married before he dies, everything is quite similar to RATHI MANMATHAN.

But as usual, Shashikumar again come up with a fast paced and highly entertaining inspired movie which was declared a major Hit of 1977. But I only wish it was an ORIGINAL.

Check this out : http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0317859/?ref_=nm_flmg_act_36

NEE KO NHA CHA-A new angle in the love triangle but not youthful(Movie Review By Yoonus Mohyudhin)

New generation  camp is moving on a tough road since last few months and they hope to move on to the highway again with Nee Ko Nha Cha. But the journey may not be that easy as the movie is intense, mature and also has repetitions at a very slow pace. It lacks the youthfulness of “Rthu”, so you may not get the result as expected looking at the young and peppy promos.

Excitement of watching “Nee Ko Nha Cha” goes down the moment movie starts with the main title song. 

The story is about the lives of three friends played by Sunny Wayne, Sanju and Praveen Anidhil.The story is about a killer lover boy “Sunny” who goes on betraying his girlfriends and regrets his past when he himself is dumped by a girl. The two girls he hurts are Rohini Mathew & Merin. 

If you feel that it’s an original story idea then you must see John Cusack’s “High Fidelity” in which he also tries to find out why his affairs were not successful in his youth. And then goes back to his girlfriends asking them the reasons of their breakups. The only difference is that here Sunny goes back to say sorry for his deeds to his past girlfriends.

First half of the movie hugely resembles “Forgetting Laura Marshal” . This part bores you as you know every scene which is coming one after another. It features Poojitha Menon, who looks cute in some and aged in few scenes. There is no novelty in this part of the movie.

The second part is a bit bold as it shows a live-in relationship between Sunny & Rohini Mathew. Rohini gives a very subtle performance in this part and looks ravishing in her revealing outfits. She acts well in the scene when she is left by Sunny on the wedding day.

The third part has a fresh and gorgeous face of Poojitha who dumps Sunny . In fact Poojitha takes the highest numbers in the looks department as compared to the other two. She has the minimum footage but has a descent dress sense and impresses the viewers in the few scenes she has.

Post interval Sunny goes back to Rohini & Merin to ask for their forgiveness. Out of the two, Rohini sequence is the best one, which is also highly influenced by “Bluff Master” and “Neuvi Rianas”. Sanju as his muslim friend looks perfect and has also acted brilliantly. This part of the script is well written and executed. Merin sequence is too fast and looks hurried up a little.

The second half is bit slow in parts and that makes you hear noises in the theater. There are some intense dramatic scenes which are heavy for the young audiences and they may miss the youth factor in the movie.

The persons who impress you most on the whole are Sunny, Sanju and Poojitha Nair. Though Rohini & Merin get more footage but Poojitha scores over them with her powerful screen presence. Rohini acts well but her limitation is that she has to play the role of a supermodel (which is a reality too).

Sanju looks great and equally acts his part with competence. His getup proves that being from Muslim themselves, new generation camp knows how to portray a Muslim in films (much better than Priyadarshan).

Sunny has a very camera friendly face and he is brilliant in his act of a person at different stages of his age. No doubt a far better attempt from “Second Show”. Both Sunny and Poojitha dont look like doing their second movie. Together they look the best in the movie and you will surely enjoy watching them together.

Director Gireesh, is excellent in some sequences and knows his job well. But the screenplay makes the movie slow at times which proves a handicap for the director.

In my opinion if only the Rohini–Sunny-Sanju story was adapted for the complete movie then it may have resulted in a more entertaining flick. The conclusion is that it is a mature and intense film lacking the youth factor which was expected. It is slow paced at times and will face mixed responses at the box office. Musically its a hit but at the ticket window, it will face a rough road. Rating : 2.5 / 5