Reviews

"Amelie" is like a warm hug from a quirky friend-a film that wraps you in its charm and leaves you with a smile. Here's my heartfelt take:

The Enchanting Amelie Poulain Audrey Tautou embodies Amelie Poulain, a wide-eyed dreamer who lives in Montmartre, Paris. She's a waitress at the Cafe des Deux Moulins, where her imagination runs wild. Amelie's childhood was marked by loneliness and eccentricity. Her father, a distant doctor, mistook her excitement for illness. Her mother's tragic death shaped her view of the world.

One day, Amelie discovers a hidden treasure-a tin box filled with a boy's forgotten mementos. This serendipitous find sparks her mission: to spread joy and kindness wherever she goes.

Acts of Whimsy Amelie's escapades are a delightful blend of mischief and compassion:

She plays matchmaker for her quirky neighbors, orchestrating chance encounters and secret admirations.

She helps a blind painter visualize the world by describing bustling streets and vibrant colors.

Amelie even engineers a whimsical scavenger hunt for a reclusive photo booth repairman, Nino.

Paris, Je T'aime The film's Paris is a fairy-tale version-a city bathed in warm hues, cobblestone streets, and cozy cafés. It's the Paris of our dreams, where every corner holds a secret. Jeunet's direction is a love letter to the city. We see the iconic Sacre-Coeur, the Canal Saint-Martin, and the enchanting Amélie skipping stones on the Canal de l'Ourcq. The accordion music, quirky characters, and poetic narration add to the magic. And yes, the famous blue door!

Audrey Tautou's Magic Tautou's Amélie is a mix of vulnerability and determination. Her wide-eyed curiosity draws us in, and her mischievous grin keeps us hooked. We root for her as she navigates love, friendship, and self-discovery. Her interactions with Nino (played by Mathieu Kassovitz) are heartwarming.

"Amelie" isn't just a film; it's a warm croissant dipped in hot chocolate. It reminds us that small acts of kindness can change lives. So, grab your favorite mug, settle in, and let Amélie's whimsy wash over you.

Note: Ignore the critics who demand realism. Sometimes, we need a little magic.

"Life Is Beautiful" unfolds in two distinct acts, each leaving an indelible mark on the heart:

Guido, portrayed brilliantly by Benigni, is a hotel waiter in 1930s Italy. His escapades evoke echoes of Charlie Chaplin-a whimsical blend of slapstick humor and silent comedy. Mistaken for a visiting dignitary, Guido falls head over heels for the beautiful Dora (played by Benigni's real-life wife, Nicoletta Braschi). Their love story dances through the streets, fueled by chance encounters and orchestrated coincidences.

Guido's quick wit and improvisation keep him afloat in a town teetering on the edge of Fascism. His big ears and superb navel become unlikely assets in a world where survival hinges on wit and charm.

The Tears Behind the Laughter The film takes a poignant turn during World War II. Guido, a Jew, and his young son, Joshua, are swept away to a concentration camp. Here, the laughter fades, replaced by the haunting reality of their situation. Guido, ever the protective father, weaves an intricate web of imagination to shield Joshua from the horrors around them. He turns their grim circumstances into a game-a desperate bid to preserve innocence and hope.

The promise of winning a real tank (not a toy!) for accumulating 1,000 points becomes their lifeline. Guido's unwavering love and resilience transform the camp's darkness into a canvas of possibility.

The Power of Imagination "Life Is Beautiful" is a fable, not a historical account. It celebrates the human spirit's ability to find light even in the darkest tunnels. Benigni's performance is a tour de force, balancing endearing charm with heart-wrenching vulnerability.

Whether you find Benigni's antics endearing or irksome, the film's core message remains: love, laughter, and imagination can triumph over adversity. It's a delicate dance on the tightrope of tragedy, and Benigni executes it with grace.

So, my dear cinephile, immerse yourself in this bittersweet symphony-a testament to the resilience of the human soul.

Note: The movie softens the Holocaust slightly to allow for humor, but its essence lies in the triumph of the human spirit, not the historical accuracy of events.

Do Ankhen Barah Haath (Two Eyes Twelve Hands), a 1957 classic directed by V. Shantaram, isn't just a film; it's an experience. It's a poignant exploration of rehabilitation, humanity, and the power of second chances that stays with you long after the credits roll.

The story revolves around Adinath, a jail warden with a progressive vision. Unlike those who see criminals as beyond redemption, Adinath believes in their capacity for change. To test his theory, he takes a bold step: paroling six dangerous convicts and bringing them to a barren farm for rehabilitation.

The film's beauty lies in its portrayal of the convicts' gradual transformation. We see their initial resistance, their struggles to adapt to an honest life, and ultimately, the glimmer of hope that ignites within them. Adinath's unwavering faith in them acts as a catalyst, pushing them to confront their pasts and embrace a better future.

Do Ankhen Barah Haath is more than just a feel-good story. It's a social commentary that challenges us to question our perceptions of criminals. The film argues that punishment shouldn't be the sole purpose of the justice system; rehabilitation should be a crucial aspect as well.

Even decades after its release, Do Ankhen Barah Haath's message remains powerful and relevant. It's a testament to the human spirit's ability to change and the transformative power of compassion. The film is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates classic Indian cinema, social dramas, or stories that celebrate the potential for good in every individual.

Peepli Live (2010) is a scathing social satire that blends humor with social commentary to depict the plight of farmers in rural India. The story revolves around Natha, a debt-ridden farmer who contemplates suicide as a desperate measure to secure financial aid for his family. When news of his plan reaches the media, his village is thrust into the spotlight, transforming into a chaotic circus as politicians and reporters descend upon it.

Peepli Live is a masterclass in satire. It cleverly uses humor to expose the heartlessness of bureaucracy, the sensationalism of the media, and the political maneuvering that often overlooks the struggles of ordinary people. The film doesn't shy away from portraying the harsh realities of rural poverty and farmer suicides, but it does so with a sharp wit that compels viewers to laugh while reflecting on the underlying issues.

The strength of Peepli Live lies in its performances. Om Puri delivers a nuanced portrayal of Natha, capturing his desperation and resilience with equal authenticity. Nawazuddin Siddiqui shines as the ambitious news reporter who fuels the media frenzy. The supporting cast, including the actors portraying Natha's wife and children, add depth and warmth to the narrative.

Peepli Live is not just a critique of social issues; it's also a celebration of human spirit. Despite the hardships they face, Natha's family displays remarkable resilience and humor. The film ultimately leaves a lingering question: will humanity prevail over sensationalism and political expediency?

Overall, Peepli Live is a powerful and thought-provoking film that remains relevant even today. It's a must-watch for anyone seeking a film that entertains while prompting social reflection.

I decided to watch this movie as it was directed by Mira Nair and I am happy that I did. It is based on a real story captured in a book by the same name. While I haven't read the book, the way the movie was made, it doesn't seem the makers tried to go overboard to make to over-dramatic. The story itself is very impactful. The movie takes us to a small fishing village in Uganda and gets us acquainted with Phiona, who along with her younger brother, sells maize in the market to support her single mother, who is trying to raise her 4 kids against all odds. One day she stumbles upon a club where Robert is training kids in the game of chess. He is a part time worker, whose life was changed by chess and he wants to give these kids the same chance. His vision is also supported by his wife, who is a primary school teacher. Phiona has a natural knack for the game and the rest of the story is how she grows proficient in the game, overcoming her obstacles. While it has all the general elements associated with any other movie of showing a child fighting to overcome all the odds and come out as a winner in the end, but the way it is shown makes all the difference. The game chosen here was chess, which is a game of tactics and strategy and it takes a different kind of preparation to be better at it. Thankfully, the movie wasn't about long motivational speeches, but was rather about believing in a better future and working towards it. The biggest obstacle that was shown in off hand remarks was the need to believe that the kids belong to the big league. When they are playing a game, they often think that they can't win because they are from a marginalized background, but once they are able to believe in themselves that they can, then they do it. While most of the actors did reasonably well, I think the most impactful role was that of Phiona's mother. She was shown as a strong mother, who is righteous and keeps fighting her circumstances everyday for her children.

"The father tells her desolate daughter, that the challenges they face is not because of her willingness to pursue her dreams, it is because of the small mindedness of the society, and that should not pull them back."

I would want to watch this movie again and again just for Danish Hussain's performance as the father that silently stands as a rock beside her daughter. He says as much with his silence as he says with words. The debutante playing his daughter supports him with an equally honest performance. The bond between the two is so beautifully portrayed.

The incidents and set backs are not shown just to accentuate the struggle of the protagonist, but to highlight the closed minds of a society that thrives by stereotyping. Yes, the movie doesn't have a very high production value, but it more than makes it up with the honesty with which it conveys the message.

Contrary to the flow of the movie, the climax was probably a little over-dramatic and maybe not as impactful. However, the dance performance was very innovative and well executed.

I was excited to see this new offering from the director after watching his previous movie "Ajji". This one however, is not as impactful.

It shows another old silent protagonist, Bhonsle, a Marathi constable who has retired from the police service and is terminally ill. He lives a mundane life doing his daily chores and is trying to get an extension on his service by a couple of years. Not much is said about his life to build up his character. He is just shown as being a respectable figure amongst the residents of the chawl where he lives.

The chawl has some non-marathi dwellers and a wannabe political worker, Vilas, who wants to break away from his life as a taxi driver, tries to entice the marathi residents of the chawl to push out the non-marathi residents. He is doing this on behest of a local politician. He keeps failing in achieving his objectives through his wrongdoings.

A young bihari nurse moves into the room adjacent to Bhonsle. She and her brother slowly befriend Bhonsle by helping out Bhonsle with his ailing health. He in turn starts caring for them.

When another attempt of Vilas backfires and he ends up being humiliated, he decides to take revenge and that enrages Bhonsle to finally stop his menace.

The director generally makes short films and I think he decided to make a feature film with the script of a short film. He stretches the narrative with his long shots and has made this into an arthouse film. It could have been much more effective as a half an hour long short film.

This is an adaption of a Marathi play, but it feels more like a teleplay than an adaption. As a movie it doesn't really add anything to make full use of the medium.

The whole movie is shot within a single living room of two friends who have been living together for 25 years. Aparna as Aruna and Shabana as Dolon, are two very different personalities that stick together while still be irritated with each others ways of doing things. Dolon is the happy go lucky banker, whereas Aruna is the very conscious Sanskrit professor. Also, a frequent visitor to their home is the Subhardra played by Lillete Dubey.

As the evening infolds in that room, they discuss and talk about what they think about each other, justify themselves and accept and care for each other, no matter what. It is a beautiful watch, but probably better as a play than as a movie.

Before watching the movie I didn't know that it was based on a book. It seems to be an extraordinary story and one that keeps you engaged through out. Dhanush brings the much needed energy into the movie as the protagonist. He travels from the slums of Mumbai to Paris, falls in love with someone at the first place he visits, before being transported in a truck to London, only to be extradited in a flight to Spain, from where he escapes to reach Italy trapped in a cargo. There he becomes a millionaire, who flies off in a hot air ballon to land on a pirate ship that takes him to Libya and then from there he comes back to Paris and then back to India.

The twist and turns that make this extraordinary journey possible are not logical at times but still make the plot interesting and keeps the viewers engaged. Some parts like the romantic relationship that he pursues seem a little unconvincing, but other than that it is a fun movie, which is entertaining for most parts.

Life changes and throws us in a disarray and we need to accept and live through it. This movie shows how decisions taken to care of loved ones end up straining the same relationships. But one needs to live through it to accept it and let the love prevail.

The movie is about 2 best friends, Rewa (Tabu) and Sia (Sushmita) who want different things from life. Rewa gets married to Dhruv (Sanjay Suri) and wants to have a child, whereas Sia wants to focus on her photography career and keeps resisting the proposal from the enchanted Saahil (Palash Sen).

Rewa is in distraught after she suffers a miscarriage and comes to know she will never be able to become a mother again. Seeing Rewa's desire to have a child, Sia volunteers to become a surrogate mother for Rewa and Dhruv's child.

As time goes by, Rewa is jealous of Sia for all the attention and support she is getting because she is bearing a child. This coupled with the strain in Sia's relationship with Saahil because of her decision to become pregnant, complicates the interpersonal relationships between the main characters.

But they all go through the period and face their own emotions as well of each others and by the time the child is born, their love and care for each other pulls them through. Rewa is more appreciative of what Sia has done for her and Sia is more appreciative of how much Saahil's love mean to her.

This is a movie with the heart at the right place. The emotions and turmoils that each of the character faces is the essence of the film. It is beautifully shot and has excellent cinematography. Even after almost 2 decades the movie doesn't look dated. Lyrics from Gulzar are great but the songs aren't very impactful, even the background music is not complimenting the storytelling style.

The sloppy editing makes it difficult for the viewer to stay engaged, but the story just about saves the day. Also the characters of Sia and Saahil seem a little inconsistent and under developed. All the actors on their end play their parts earnestly.

Sunlit Night is about a journey of an aspiring artist to the northern edge of the world where the sun never sets, even at night (during the summer months she visits).

The movie starts with an young artist Frances's work being ridiculed by three pompous critics. In the next few scenes, we see her whole life being thrown into a disarray. As she questions her future as an artist, her boyfriend dumps her. When she visits her parents home (which doesn't have much space for her and her sister), she finds out that her sister is getting married and her parents are splitting up. Also, the artist residency she was applying for has been rejected. Thus, she is has no place to stay (except for sharing an airbed with her dad in his cramped up studio). Her agent tells her that there is an opportunity to be an assistant to an artist in oblivion (she even assumed he was dead) in Norway. With nowhere else to go, she decides to take up the opportunity.

She makes the journey to Lofoten to meet the artist Nils Auermann, an artist whose work hasn't received much acclaim and he now leads a secluded life in a fish-factory converted into a place where he lives alone. He is trying make his mark by painting a whole barn yellow and get it recognized as one of the highlighted piece of art in Norway. He has a month to complete the work and it would be then inspected by the Norwegian Art Institute. He brushes of all the attempts by Frances to create a connect and tells her that there is long hours of hard work ahead of her in the coming days as this project is very important to him. Over a period of time he realizes her effort is helping him meet the deadline and despite a having very different personalities, they compliment each other well.

The barn is in a modern viking village which has a viking museum and a viking community that try to live a traditional viking life. Frances tries to explore this community and ends up meeting Yasha, a baker from US who is here for his father's burial (who wished for a traditional viking burial). As she spends the moment where he comes to term with the grief of losing his father, she realizes the how a painting captures such a strong emotion, something she has never painted.

The work at the barn is done and she is working alone at the barn the night before inspection. Yasha comes over to tell her that he is leaving the next day. They end up having a passionate night and are lying there naked when the folks from the institute come in for inspection.

Frances realizing how she messed it all up for Nils, flees from the scene and then leaves for back home without meeting Nils. When back home, she gets a mail from Nils informing her that the barn has been accepted and releases her of her guilt. In a turn of events, her parents too decide not to split.

The movie ends with her showing some paintings she did while she was in Norway, to the same critics, who now think she is making progress. As she tries to summarize her experience in Norway, she contemplates if she was running away from her life, was she running towards it, did she mess up or did she make most of it or if she got where she needed to go? She is not sure what to make of it.

The movie was beautifully pictured, capturing some wonderful landscape and the music was complimenting well and the acting was reasonably good. The screenplay was adapted from a novel and didn't do justice to the story, probably providing too little a context for viewers to associate with. It looked patchy in places as one couldn't associate why some plots were shown in much detail and other weren't explored enough, especially the relationship that Frances has with Nils and Yasha were not sufficiently developed. It's aesthetically beautiful to watch and has the heart in the right place. Just wish the screenplay was a bit more comprehensive.