After i read the storyline of this movie on Sony Pix in the Tata Sky 'i' button, i thought it would be interesting to watch it further. And after seeing Richard Gere, i knew this wouldn't be a complete waste. But i was so wrong. It is superb. The box office reports and critics can say anything about this movie, but it is very interesting, eye-opening also.
The plot revolves around an exceptional and successful journalist and the sudden fall of his career. His urge to rise back from obscurity forms the backdrop of the story. Richard Gere plays the role of this journalist working in the most happening news channel and enjoying life's perks to the fullest. He covers the war footage and its aftermath. A photographer and him form the best team in the channel. All of it changes when he goes to cover a war in Bosnia. He is fired and his photographer friend takes over.
After many years of doing small-time jobs, Simon resurfaces and promises a big story to his photographer friend, who is now just as famous as he once was. He claims to have the tip-off on 'The Fox' the most-feared terrorist who wreaks havoc in Bosnia. Simon Hunt (Richard Gere) convinces the hesitant Duck (his photographer friend played by Terence Howard) and Benjamin (news channel's Vice-President's son working as an intern) for the mission and begin their search.
Their adventures and misadventures on the way give the movie its character. And the soul lies in the real reason on why Simon wants to nab The Fox. Thrilling and spine-chilling, this one has the right doses of humour and drama into it. The end is a little dramatic but is entertaining.
i found this movie as an eye-opener because i got to know a few new things about the war-hit areas and the role of government and the politics involved in seizing terrorists.
It is a good watch!
Thursday, 26 November 2009
Wednesday, 25 November 2009
Kurbaan - hackneyed!
Seriously guys, i think film makers should stop glamourising the subject matter of terrorism. And this film says nothing at all that hasn't been said before in better movies like Fanaa and New York. Promoted as a love story with bloodshed, it is so predictable and bland that you can sleep through the movie and not miss anything.
Totally lacks lustre.
i would give credit to Karan Johar's enterprising spirit for changing gears and doing something different than the brand image but the content needs to be new and improved.
Music is okish.
Clothes are okish. (highly disappointing because you expect not just good but fabulous clothes from a Dharma Production movie)
Direction average. But again, as a debutant director, not bad, promising.
Performances regular, not very impressive.
Kareena - Saif's love making scene (yawn)...yea...nothing sizzling.
Over all impression - boring.
Not worth watching in a theater. Watch it on Tata Sky on showcase :)
Totally lacks lustre.
i would give credit to Karan Johar's enterprising spirit for changing gears and doing something different than the brand image but the content needs to be new and improved.
Music is okish.
Clothes are okish. (highly disappointing because you expect not just good but fabulous clothes from a Dharma Production movie)
Direction average. But again, as a debutant director, not bad, promising.
Performances regular, not very impressive.
Kareena - Saif's love making scene (yawn)...yea...nothing sizzling.
Over all impression - boring.
Not worth watching in a theater. Watch it on Tata Sky on showcase :)
Tuesday, 24 November 2009
Dollar Bahu - another of Sudha Murthy's heartwarming book
i like the way books (the ones i am reading) unlike movies don't necessarily end with a happy ending. This one does not have a sad ending but it has a very believable and a practical ending. This is one of the many good things about this book.
Predominantly the voice of Gouramma and Vinuta, the mother-in-law, daughter-in-law duo, it is a poignant description of the everyday workings of an Indian household with the peculiarities of a joint family.
No-nonsense, simple and lucid, you sail through the book without stops. i finished it in just 1 day, in less than 20 hours, almost. Sudha Murthy generally does not resort to improbable twists in the story and says it like it is, but in this one, she pleasantly surprises you.
Chandru's crush on Vinuta, his younger brother Girish's marriage to her without his knowledge, it all sounds very believable with the right dash of spice to it. Gouramma's fascination with the dollar income as a means to fulfill her long-cherished dreams and then slowly the dollar encroaching on her familial happiness is very relative. i like the way Gouramma is introduced to the ways of America. The pluses and the minuses of living in America, described just the way it is, not as a villain or a hero, but as a country full of opportunities, failures, hopes and disappointments. It clearly testifies the fact that America has made despondent lives successful, made people hardened and indifferent, helpless and hopeful, all within its periphery.
i was very impressed with its end.
It is a quick read that gives you a sneak peek into the lives of a semi-urban family. Interesting.
Predominantly the voice of Gouramma and Vinuta, the mother-in-law, daughter-in-law duo, it is a poignant description of the everyday workings of an Indian household with the peculiarities of a joint family.
No-nonsense, simple and lucid, you sail through the book without stops. i finished it in just 1 day, in less than 20 hours, almost. Sudha Murthy generally does not resort to improbable twists in the story and says it like it is, but in this one, she pleasantly surprises you.
Chandru's crush on Vinuta, his younger brother Girish's marriage to her without his knowledge, it all sounds very believable with the right dash of spice to it. Gouramma's fascination with the dollar income as a means to fulfill her long-cherished dreams and then slowly the dollar encroaching on her familial happiness is very relative. i like the way Gouramma is introduced to the ways of America. The pluses and the minuses of living in America, described just the way it is, not as a villain or a hero, but as a country full of opportunities, failures, hopes and disappointments. It clearly testifies the fact that America has made despondent lives successful, made people hardened and indifferent, helpless and hopeful, all within its periphery.
i was very impressed with its end.
It is a quick read that gives you a sneak peek into the lives of a semi-urban family. Interesting.
Tuesday, 17 November 2009
Love Story - a quick, decent read
After all these years of this book being released, received and raved, i finally read it. It is a timeless classic, but somehow i did not find it that awe-inspiring. One major reason being it has a sad ending. The first sentence itself reads "What do you say about a 25-year old girl who died..." And for a love story, i expect a happy, fairy tale ending.
So, let me explain my reasons for not enjoying this saga of love. There was very little show and tell in this one. More than the language, i found the description of situations and characters a little unimaginative. There was no build up for the first meeting, first kiss, romance, the father-son tiff.
For some time, i even thought that maybe i am reading a mini version when i was actually reading the original version. i was expecting a more elaborate and passionate dramatisation of the situations.
i liked the "love means never having to say, i am sorry" part.
i didn't come away impressed. Had i read it when it first released then maybe, i would have enjoyed it.
So, let me explain my reasons for not enjoying this saga of love. There was very little show and tell in this one. More than the language, i found the description of situations and characters a little unimaginative. There was no build up for the first meeting, first kiss, romance, the father-son tiff.
For some time, i even thought that maybe i am reading a mini version when i was actually reading the original version. i was expecting a more elaborate and passionate dramatisation of the situations.
i liked the "love means never having to say, i am sorry" part.
i didn't come away impressed. Had i read it when it first released then maybe, i would have enjoyed it.
Wednesday, 11 November 2009
Jerry Mcguire - My favourite
i have the DVD of this movie. And today when i watched it again, i was floored again. By the simplicity of the characters, the confrontation with realism, the mission statement and the importance of love.
i am not going to analyse the movie, judge it or make an opinion about it. am just gonna describe how it makes me feel and talk about the parts i loved, not in the order of its appearance.
* The dialogue that Jerry makes when he comes back, looking for his wife. "Tonight was a big night for our company, our little project. But it wasn't complete because i couldn't share it with you, i couldn't hear your voice...You complete me." So thoroughly from the heart.
* "If this is empty, this doesn't matter." Talking about the difference of heart and head.
* i love the way Dorothy conveys her not-okness with their marriage. "It's my fault. i thought the proposal by the car was for real....i have this great guy, who loves my kid, sure does like me a lot and i cannot live like this. i am not built that way."....i had thought my love would be enough for both of us, but it is not" The maturity that she shows by taking responsibility for the debilitating marriage and the steps she takes to rectify it just give you another lesson on love. Wow, your heart just goes out to her. Instead of carrying on silently or fighting for her rightful position, she thinks ahead and does what is right. Kudos.
* The talk between Rod and Jerry about Rod's football performance. Jerry says, "Can i say something to you as a "friend"? You know why you haven't got your Arizona dollar contract because you play with your head not your heart. It's always about who didn't talk with you, what are you not endorsing, how is everybody behaving with you. And it shows on the field. And people don't like to see that. When you are on the field, just play with all you have. Then you'll have the kwan"
* Rod pinching Jerry about his personal relationships. The way he understands and sees the tension between Jerry and Dorothy's relationship is intelligent. Here is this footballer who is not in the prime of his career, but has such a clear understanding about human relationships.
* Jerry's good at friendship, bad at intimacy nature. He can't stay on his own and he finds it difficult to accept it. So real.
* Ray's unbeatable did you knows. "Did you know that the human brain weighs 8 ounces". Sweet. That little man takes your heart away.
* The first 'You complete me' in the elevator.
* Haa...funny thing, when Rod appears on the TV screen of Monday Night Football, his young son says, "that's my Mo_ _ _ _ F_ _ _ _ _" So literal. :) His mother of course, tells him very politely not to use that word.
* What is interesting about the last scene is that Jerry and Dorothy aren't shown kissing or stuff. The realisation that love exists between them is truly the beginning.
* Rod saying, "i am not going to cry on your show.....i am missing out on somebody. Jerry Mcguire, my agent. Man, you are my ambassador of Kwan."
* "Less clients, less money, more personal attention."
* Show me the money and kwan
i am not going to analyse the movie, judge it or make an opinion about it. am just gonna describe how it makes me feel and talk about the parts i loved, not in the order of its appearance.
* The dialogue that Jerry makes when he comes back, looking for his wife. "Tonight was a big night for our company, our little project. But it wasn't complete because i couldn't share it with you, i couldn't hear your voice...You complete me." So thoroughly from the heart.
* "If this is empty, this doesn't matter." Talking about the difference of heart and head.
* i love the way Dorothy conveys her not-okness with their marriage. "It's my fault. i thought the proposal by the car was for real....i have this great guy, who loves my kid, sure does like me a lot and i cannot live like this. i am not built that way."....i had thought my love would be enough for both of us, but it is not" The maturity that she shows by taking responsibility for the debilitating marriage and the steps she takes to rectify it just give you another lesson on love. Wow, your heart just goes out to her. Instead of carrying on silently or fighting for her rightful position, she thinks ahead and does what is right. Kudos.
* The talk between Rod and Jerry about Rod's football performance. Jerry says, "Can i say something to you as a "friend"? You know why you haven't got your Arizona dollar contract because you play with your head not your heart. It's always about who didn't talk with you, what are you not endorsing, how is everybody behaving with you. And it shows on the field. And people don't like to see that. When you are on the field, just play with all you have. Then you'll have the kwan"
* Rod pinching Jerry about his personal relationships. The way he understands and sees the tension between Jerry and Dorothy's relationship is intelligent. Here is this footballer who is not in the prime of his career, but has such a clear understanding about human relationships.
* Jerry's good at friendship, bad at intimacy nature. He can't stay on his own and he finds it difficult to accept it. So real.
* Ray's unbeatable did you knows. "Did you know that the human brain weighs 8 ounces". Sweet. That little man takes your heart away.
* The first 'You complete me' in the elevator.
* Haa...funny thing, when Rod appears on the TV screen of Monday Night Football, his young son says, "that's my Mo_ _ _ _ F_ _ _ _ _" So literal. :) His mother of course, tells him very politely not to use that word.
* What is interesting about the last scene is that Jerry and Dorothy aren't shown kissing or stuff. The realisation that love exists between them is truly the beginning.
* Rod saying, "i am not going to cry on your show.....i am missing out on somebody. Jerry Mcguire, my agent. Man, you are my ambassador of Kwan."
* "Less clients, less money, more personal attention."
* Show me the money and kwan
Tuesday, 10 November 2009
Inglourious Basterds - my first of the Tarantino films
i was very unsure of what to expect from this film. Mainly because it is set in the World War 2 era, whereas i am a big fan of contemporary, urban films.
This was the first film i saw of the illustrious Quentin Tarantino films. i can easily say that i enjoyed it.
The performances are of the best calibre. Brad Pitt, in his heavy accent,is ruthlessly smart, funny and witty. So are all the other artists.
What more can i write for this award-winning film?
Watchable but requires an acquired taste.
This was the first film i saw of the illustrious Quentin Tarantino films. i can easily say that i enjoyed it.
The performances are of the best calibre. Brad Pitt, in his heavy accent,is ruthlessly smart, funny and witty. So are all the other artists.
What more can i write for this award-winning film?
Watchable but requires an acquired taste.
Paa - trailer toh jhakaas hai
When the kids in the trailer are cheering for Auro, i also go - Auro, Auro.
Amitabh Bachchan is going to shine so bright in his role as Auro that he's gonna shadow every actor in the industry. i find his entire get-up very cute and lovable.
i am afraid that this film might aggravate the living-up-to-his-Dad's-standard situation for Abhishek.
This father-son son-father story seems too interesting. i checked out the website and it is too cool. i am sure it'll live up to the expectations.
Anyways, it is the most awaited film for me. Can't wait for 4th of December.
Can't wait to talk about the movie here.
Amitabh Bachchan is going to shine so bright in his role as Auro that he's gonna shadow every actor in the industry. i find his entire get-up very cute and lovable.
i am afraid that this film might aggravate the living-up-to-his-Dad's-standard situation for Abhishek.
This father-son son-father story seems too interesting. i checked out the website and it is too cool. i am sure it'll live up to the expectations.
Anyways, it is the most awaited film for me. Can't wait for 4th of December.
Can't wait to talk about the movie here.
Sunday, 8 November 2009
Ajab Prem Ki Gajab Kahaani... hehe
Sweet film. Funny, though did not create the magic of Andaz Apna Apna.
APKGK is a lighthearted romantic comedy. A love story, every cinegoer is aware of has been spiced up with comedy, star power and clean fun.
Ranbir Kapoor is Muaaahh......
Katrina Kaif as usual beautiful and lovable. Actually, she inspires me to lose weight. Very pretty she looks.
Music is very nice. Not path-breaking but very hummable. And there are lots of songs in it.
The comparison with AAA is obvious because the makers themselves have referred to it heavily and that reminds you of that A-1 comedy. So, you look for that same magic, and don't get it.
Could have been better with more solid funny moments. Having said that, can't rob the movie of its due credit. Not to forget, Salman Khan's special appearance as himself was the smart one.
My take away from the movie is, Katrina's fantastic clothes and Ranbir's charms.....
Yea watchable for some good laughs.
APKGK is a lighthearted romantic comedy. A love story, every cinegoer is aware of has been spiced up with comedy, star power and clean fun.
Ranbir Kapoor is Muaaahh......
Katrina Kaif as usual beautiful and lovable. Actually, she inspires me to lose weight. Very pretty she looks.
Music is very nice. Not path-breaking but very hummable. And there are lots of songs in it.
The comparison with AAA is obvious because the makers themselves have referred to it heavily and that reminds you of that A-1 comedy. So, you look for that same magic, and don't get it.
Could have been better with more solid funny moments. Having said that, can't rob the movie of its due credit. Not to forget, Salman Khan's special appearance as himself was the smart one.
My take away from the movie is, Katrina's fantastic clothes and Ranbir's charms.....
Yea watchable for some good laughs.
Friday, 6 November 2009
Up - Good Stuff
This animated movie is from Pixar and so you don't expect anything less than perfect.
The theme of adventure and living beyond everyday routine is in itself an interesting plot. And to top it, the characters are so well etched-out, you just can't stop getting mesmerised in this ballooony world :)
Sleek editing and smart direction keeps you glued to your seat. Everything from Kevin's sense of humour and Dug's small acts make you enjoy it thoroughly.
All in all, it is a sweet movie with a wonderful message.
Watch it please!
The theme of adventure and living beyond everyday routine is in itself an interesting plot. And to top it, the characters are so well etched-out, you just can't stop getting mesmerised in this ballooony world :)
Sleek editing and smart direction keeps you glued to your seat. Everything from Kevin's sense of humour and Dug's small acts make you enjoy it thoroughly.
All in all, it is a sweet movie with a wonderful message.
Watch it please!
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