Living Up to Expectations: The Good, the Better, and the Best of 2019
This is my annual effort to filter the good, the better, and the best from the rest that cinema has to offer every year. It's an initiative I began back in 2010, and I hope that this year, too, the list will be enjoyable, informative, and up-to-the-mark.
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- DirectorQuentin TarantinoStarsLeonardo DiCaprioBrad PittMargot RobbieA faded television actor and his stunt double strive to achieve fame and success in the final years of Hollywood's Golden Age in 1969 Los Angeles.Tarantino's love letter to Hollywood's golden days is a masterpiece from start to finish.
A masterpiece in direction.
A masterpiece in plotting and executing a screenplay sans the crutch of a story.
A masterpiece in dialogue writing.
A masterpiece in characterization.
A masterpiece in camera panning, angles, and shot taking.
A masterpiece in buildup, tension, and anticipation.
A masterpiece in song placement and BGM.
A masterpiece in making the audience fall in love with every move of the characters.
A masterpiece in making the audience gush over each frame.
A masterpiece in making everything look ultra-cool.
Quentin Tarantino hits it out of the park once again in hitherto his most artistic film minus any compromise on the entertainment quotient.
A masterpiece from head to toe, destined to go down in the annals of cinema as a classic for the ages.
Miss Once Upon a Time in Hollywood at your own peril.
5/5 stars - DirectorBong Joon HoStarsSong Kang-hoLee Sun-kyunCho Yeo-jeongGreed and class discrimination threaten the newly-formed symbiotic relationship between the wealthy Park family and the destitute Kim clan.Deliciously disturbing, profoundly gripping, unpredictably tantalizing, and wildly entertaining — Parasite is one of the year's best films and another masterpiece by Korean Director Bong Joon-ho (Memories of Murder, Mother, Snowpiercer), at once absorbing us into a twisted narrative while also subtly weaving a brilliant undercurrent of materialism and social dichotomy in modern society. The A-list performances from the A-list ensemble cast, including that Korean wonder, Kang-Ho Song, are just the icing on this lavish 10-tier cake. Miss it at your own peril.
5/5 stars (it's extremely rare that I give a full '5' for a movie — only the second film this year to get a perfect score from me) - DirectorTodd PhillipsStarsJoaquin PhoenixRobert De NiroZazie BeetzDuring the 1980s, a failed stand-up comedian is driven insane and turns to a life of crime and chaos in Gotham City while becoming an infamous psychopathic crime figure.Joker is an enchantingly evil portrait of descent into madness, depravity, manipulation, and narcissism, culminating in a deliciously dark, tantalizingly twisted, and seductively sinister masterpiece. Who'd have thought that Todd Phillips — the guy who made The Hangover movies (as funny as they were) — would be capable of pulling this off (the homages to Martin Scorsese's Taxi Driver and the King of Comedy as also the graphic novel Batman: The Killing Joke lay the icing on the cake)? And kudos to Joaquin Phoenix for gradually evolving into the unapologetically psychopathic and brutally vicious fiend that was the hallmark of both Jack Nicholson and Heath Ledger's portrayals, which not only renders it one of the great cinematic acts, but also seamlessly differentiates itself from the two aforementioned performances. As for Robert De Niro...well what do you say about a legend who can still chew every frame even in an extended cameo? If I really have to nitpick, then the only minor grievances I had with the film (purely as a diehard comic-book aficionado) is in its depiction of Thomas Wayne (Batman's father) and the age difference between Bruce Wayne and his future nemesis. Otherwise, this is diabolical art mixed with gloriously absorbing entertainment.
4.75/5 stars - DirectorAnthony RussoJoe RussoStarsRobert Downey Jr.Chris EvansMark RuffaloAfter the devastating events of Avengers: Infinity War (2018), the universe is in ruins. With the help of remaining allies, the Avengers assemble once more in order to reverse Thanos' actions and restore balance to the universe.Watching Avengers: Endgame evoked such a sea of emotions within me that I'd rather dwell on them than pen a conventional review as nothing else really needs to be said for a film that's far more than just a film. It made me feel joyous yet sorrowful. Fulfilled yet desirous. Whole yet empty. Utterly jubilant yet terribly melancholic.
As for the highlights of the film, well, five moments completely stand out: a.) When the Avengers assemble, b.) When the female Avengers assemble, c.) Captain America 's fight with Thanos , d.) The historically epic climax (seriously, how did the Russo Brothers pull that off), and e.) An extremely heartbreaking finale (I really can't reveal more.) There are sequels, and then there's Endgame, which is more of an emotional, spectacular, unforgettable culmination of an odyssey that began 11 years ago with a group of visionaries and many devoted fans whose numbers infinitely rose over this period. It's truly the end of an era, and a might befitting one at that.
4.75/5 stars - DirectorJordan PeeleStarsLupita Nyong'oWinston DukeElisabeth MossAdelaide Wilson and her family are attacked by mysterious figures dressed in red. Upon closer inspection, the Wilsons realize that the intruders are exact lookalikes of them.Turning the home-invasion theme on its head and acting as a quasi-horror-sci-fi hybrid, writer-Director Jordan Peele takes a regular situation, based on an overlooked location, and mangles it into a living nightmare, begging us to ponder what could be lying just beneath our noses, particularly those things and places most of us seldom notice. Extracting ingenuity from such simple scenarios, Peele weaves tension than can be cut with a knife, envelopes us in suspense where we won't budge from the edge of our seats, and hits us with jolting twists and turns, not least of which occur in the finale, where the rug is yanked from beneath our feet.
Add a killer background score and dialogues that are smartly laced with dark humor to offset the tension a bit, and you have a film without a single dull moment. While taking you on a joyride through hell, this is a horror film that also demands your undivided attention to each minute detail, because it is 2019's first horror masterpiece, backed by the year's first Oscar-worthy performance from Lupita Nyong'o. If you thought that Peele made a fine directorial debut with the Oscar-nominated Get Out (another horror film), then Us will knock your socks right off.
4.75/5 stars - DirectorLokesh KanagarajStarsKarthiNarainArjun DasDilli, an ex-convict, endeavours to meet his daughter for the first time after leaving prison. However, his attempts are interrupted due to a drug raid planned by Inspector Bejoy.Gritty, gripping, and bloody damn entertaining — Tamil film Kaithi is a thrilling road movie (like a Desi Mad Max film where a dystopian world is swapped for a rural milieu), highlighted by non-stop tension, direction that keeps you glued to the edge of your seat, and action that's as intense as it's raw (no over-the-top fight scenes here). If Lokesh Kanagaraj's debut film, Maanagaram, made you take notice of his talent, then he hits out of the park with his followup while his leading man, Karthi, once again displays his expertise in delivering a subdued performance that stays with you. This is an instant classic and one of the greatest action films ever made in Indian cinema. Regardless if you watch South dubbed films or not, missing Kaithi would be a grave mistake.
4.75/5 stars - DirectorJake CastorenaStarsTroy BakerEric BauzaDarren CrissBatman, Batgirl and Robin forge an alliance with The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to fight against the Turtles' sworn enemy, The Shredder, who has teamed up with Ra's Al Ghul and The League Of Assassins.Entertaining, exhilarating, amazing — Batman vs. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles unleashes a gush of wonderful memories while knitting a dream crossover that's sure to transport fans of both entities to seventh heaven. Moreover, it does so with a crackerjack script, directed with breathtaking energy, and an audacious style that pulls out all the stops from assembling almost every single one of Batman's and the Ninja Turtles' villains to pitting them against everything from mutated wild animals to half-man-half-dinosaurs, you name it. This has got to be one of the coolest, funniest, and most adrenaline-pumping viewing experiences ever, peppered with surreal animation, insanely choreographed fight sequences, witty one-liners, a killer background score, and moments of awesomeness galore. Easily the best Batman movie since Nolan's Dark Knight trilogy and also serves as brilliant nostalgia for TMNT fans. A "Cowabunga" masterpiece! Don't miss it for the world, and definitely don't miss the post-credit scene.
4.75/5 stars - DirectorMartin ScorseseStarsRobert De NiroAl PacinoJoe PesciAn illustration of Frank Sheeran's life, from W.W.II veteran to hit-man for the Bufalino crime family and his alleged assassination of his close friend Jimmy Hoffa.You may have seen myriad historical epics, crime classics, and gangster masterpieces, but you'd have never seen an epic-gangster-masterpiece-certified-crime-classic for the ages like The Irishman . It's Martin Scorsese at his legendary best, in a sprawling saga that only the master could have pulled off — 3.5 hrs of pure cinema gold. Camera angles and shot-taking to drool over, a narrative to fawn over, dialogues (by the equally great Steven Zaillian) to gush over, music to swoon over, scenes to ponder over, culminating in a film to love over & over again — right up there with Scorsese's best ever. As for the performances, need I even go there — let's just say that Scorsese brought back the three icons, Al Pacino, Robert DeNiro, and Joe Pesci because he knew exactly what he was doing. I'm only cutting 1/2 a star because the critic in me feels like nitpicking over how the final scenes could have been cut short by 15-20 mins, winning over the movie-buff in me who wishes to give this an extra star.
4.5/5 stars.
P.S.: Please, please, please, & I can't stress this enough, please watch this at one go, or you'll risk not enjoying its true impact. - DirectorMichael DoughertyStarsKyle ChandlerVera FarmigaMillie Bobby BrownThe crypto-zoological agency Monarch faces off against a battery of god-sized monsters, including the mighty Godzilla, who collides with Mothra, Rodan, and his ultimate nemesis, the three-headed King Ghidorah.Godzilla: King of the Monsters is utterly, deliciously, fantastic, or rather, should I say, monster-static. It delivers first-rate enjoyment from first frame to last, without a moment to pause and catch your breath. For those who've closely followed Godzilla and his buddies over the many Japanese films from the 50s to the early 2000s, this'll be nothing short of a sleek, modernized mash-up in seventh heaven, purely because of how closely it follows the Toho classics. As for the others, there's enough of kaiju action, larger-than-life set pieces, and no-holds-barred, sock-em, bash-em monster mayhem, to strap in and have a joyride. Godzilla II: King of the Monsters may not boast high art, a deep narrative, or great character arcs, but it guarantees an A-grade blast of entertainment (literally speaking, in places), and sometimes, that's all you need to have a jolly good time at the movies. Oh, and pay close attention to the various Easter Eggs, not to mention the post-credit scene.
5/5 stars for diehard fans of Japanese-kaiju films
4.5/5 stars for neutral viewers - DirectorRobert RodriguezStarsRosa SalazarChristoph WaltzJennifer ConnellyA deactivated cyborg's revived, but can't remember anything of her past and goes on a quest to find out who she is.Just two months into 2019, and we already have the first cinematic extravaganza, demanding the big-screen experience. Alita: BattleAngel is hands down one-of-the-finest sci-fi films ever made, not to mention being a truly creative story that comes to life on screen after eons — not needing the support of comic books or YA novels to deliver the goods (for a change, it's based on a Japanese manga, and thank goodness for that). No surprises then that it takes James Cameron's magic wand to come up with a euphoric larger-than-life experience (with due respect to Director RobertvRodriguez, this has Cameron's stamp all over it), filled with all his sublime hallmarks — immersive world-building, spectacular visuals, absorbing plot development, fleshed-out character arcs, engrossing backstories, with meticulously executed action scenes and several thrilling moments serving as the icing on the cake.
For all its modern chutzpah, this is surreal old-school sci-fi, deeply rooted in a layered narrative and set against a sprawling canvas, where jaw-dropping action sequences serve as an enhancement tool to an already exciting screenplay, rather than a crutch to make up for what a screenplay might lack, and who better than the auteur Cameron to show the young guns how it's done. In its own Frankenstein meets Rollerball meets Terminator sort of way, Alita emerges every bit as an inventive, imaginative, and intelligent sci-fi masterpiece that also packs the necessary emotional punch and insists to be watched on the big screen. The only haggle one may have is that proceedings appear a tad stretched toward the end, with a few scenes that could have easily been pruned, but that's a minor issue in an otherwise great film.
4.5/5 stars - DirectorSam MendesStarsDean-Charles ChapmanGeorge MacKayDaniel MaysApril 6th, 1917. As an infantry battalion assembles to wage war deep in enemy territory, two soldiers are assigned to race against time and deliver a message that will stop 1,600 men from walking straight into a deadly trap.1917 is simultaneously an astounding technical feat (breathtaking camerawork, razor-sharp editing, meticulous sound mixing) and a vision of creative artistry executed with surgical precision, proving that when technology and creativity unite in an ideal world, more often than not, the result is a visual masterpiece for the ages. It also goes to show how art, when done right, can lead to delightful entertainment just as how 1917 marries haunting imagery and delectable drama with high-stakes tension and umpteen riveting riveting moments. Take a bow, Director Sam Mendes and team — this is easily one of my favorite films of 2019 along with Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Parasite, Joker, Avengers: Endgame, Us, Kaitihi, The Irishman, and Uri.
4.5/5 stars - DirectorAditya DharStarsVicky KaushalParesh RawalMohit RainaIndian army special forces execute a covert operation, avenging the killing of fellow army men at their base by a terrorist group.Besides being gut-wrenching, emotionally stirring, and deeply invigorating, Uri is also quite simply a masterpiece of the war genre, shot with high-caliber cinematography by Mitesh Mirchandani, performed brilliantly by the ensemble cast, and directed with surgical precision by debutant Aditya Dhar. It's extremely well researched, packs a punch right where it matters, and engulfs you with myriad emotions without once resorting to jingoism or xenophobia. Vicky Kaushal delivers the performance of a lifetime (especially observe him in the scene where he fights back his tears while watching his fallen comrades), effectively backed by Paresh Rawal, Kirti Kulhari, and Mohit Raina in a terrific debut. The Indian Army received their long awaited catharsis rendering the 2016 surgical strike. Two years later, it's time for every Indian to feel cathartic by living the experience on the big screen.
4.5/5 stars - DirectorRaaj ShaandilyaaStarsAyushmann KhurranaNushrratt BharucchaAnnu KapoorRom-com Movie, directed by Raaj Shaandilyaa, stars Ayushmann Khurrana who plays a 'dream girl'. In every love story, there is always one trying to win the heart of the other, who could be the 'dream girl'.Dream Girl is the pitch-perfect throwback to Govinda-David Dhawan films of the 90s — an out-an-out laugh riot from start to finish that can be seen with the entire family over & over again, due in no small measure to an avalanche of rib-tickling dialogues, hilarious performances by Annu Kapoor, Abhishek Banerjee, Manjot Singh, Vijay Raaz, Nushrat Bharucha, Raj Bhansali, Nidhi Bisht, and above all, Ayushmann Khurrana's hitherto career-best act (yes, even better than AndhaDhun). It would have been so easy for Khurrana to slip from comedy gold to caricature cringe, but he toes the fine line with effortless ease. The icing on the cake is a simple, beautiful, non-preachy message during the finale. This one will set fire to theaters. It's a sure-shot blockbuster.
4.5/5 stars - DirectorThiagarajan KumararajaStarsVijay SethupathiFahadh FaasilSamantha Ruth PrabhuAn unfaithful newly-wed wife, an estranged father, a priest and an angry son suddenly find themselves in the most unexpected predicaments, each poised to experience their destiny, all on one fateful day.Like a well-oiled machine running on different cogs, Super Deluxe is one of the finest examples of weaving together multiple, non-linear plotlines, leaving clues about how they might merge later on, and then tying everything together in a breathtaking climax of sheer artistry, all against the backdrop of riveting drama, layered emotions, narrative intrigue, unbelievable surprises, and indelible performances, among whom Vijay Sethupathi delivers one of the best ever supporting acts with his transgender persona. The slightly preachy denouement notwithstanding, this is, for all intents and purposes, one of 2019's best movies, and destined to go down as one of Indian cinema's most groundbreaking works.
4.5/5 stars - DirectorAnubhav SinhaStarsAyushmann KhurranaNassarManoj PahwaIn the rural heartlands of India, an upright police officer sets out on a crusade against violent caste-based crimes and discrimination.Hard-hitting, thought-provoking, and above all, very, very engaging — Article 15 is by far Director Anubhav Sinha's best work yet, where the writer-Director weaves a topical subject against a gripping narrative, backed by superlative performances from Ayuahmann Khurrana, Manoj Pahwa, Kumud Mishra, and Sayani Gupta. The romantic track between Khurrana and Isha Talwar doesn't gel well with the rest of the film, and a couple of plot elements are abruptly abandoned midway, but that should take nothing away from what's otherwise a masterstroke of a crime film that asks pertinent, uncomfortable questions while holding your attention down to utmost detail.
4.5/5 stars - DirectorVetrimaaranStarsDhanushManju WarrierPrakash RajThe teenage son of a farmer from an underprivileged caste kills a rich, upper caste landlord. How the pacifist farmer saves his hot-blooded son is the rest of the story.National Award winning Director Vetri Maaran reunites with Dhanush (post Aadukalam and Vada Chennai) to blend raw and gritty action with a high-stakes revenge drama against the backdrop of casteism to deliver one of 2019's most deeply conscientious yet immensely gripping films, backed by one of the year's finest performances from his leading man. There are multiple shots and moments that'll rivet you to the screen and stay with you long after while the background score is certain to keep ringing in your head. Those who bark about more realistic films needing to be out there for the Indian audience to consume must watch movies like Asuran and Article 15 (from recent memory) to see how if they're made in a commercially appealing manner, they're bound to click with their target audience.
4.5/5 stars - DirectorRuben FleischerStarsWoody HarrelsonJesse EisenbergEmma StoneColumbus, Tallahassee, Wichita, and Little Rock move to the American heartland as they face off against evolved zombies, fellow survivors, and the growing pains of the snarky makeshift family.Zombieland: Double Tap is rib-ticklingky hilarious, gleefully violent, packs some truly tense moments, and carries an unabashedly fun vibe — just like a very good horror-comedy, or in this case, a zom-com should be. Heck, it's one of those rare sequels that's evn funnier, ballsier, and more exciting than the original, as good as that was. 10 years in the making, but the wait was well worth it — pure escapist euphoria at its very best.
4.5/5 stars - DirectorAndré ØvredalStarsZoe CollettiMichael GarzaGabriel RushIn 1968, the night of Halloween brings mayhem in a small town when a group of friends discovers a notebook written by a mysterious girl that foretells terrifying events.Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark weaves an interesting spin on the tried-and-tested ghost story with creepy, chilling results. Deliciously atmospheric, it ranks right up there with writer/filmmaker Guillermo Del Toro's (Pan's Labyrinth, The Shape of Water, Pacific Rim, Hellboy) best works and includes several of his trademarks such as gnarly monsters, edge-of-the-seat moments, and a flair for the gothic. Admittedly, there are influences of Death Note (for those familiar with Japanese anime) mixed with some Harry Potter and Final Destination, but not more than a handful of ideas, which are creatively worked upon in a whole new direction where fairy tales meet supernatural and slasher horror, culminating in a scary, spine-tingling ride, which leave things tantalizingly poised for a sequel that I can't wait to watch.
4.45/5 stars - DirectorAjay BahlStarsAkshaye KhannaRicha ChadhaRahul BhatA celebrated Bollywood director Rohan Khurana stands accused by a female member of his crew, Anjali Dangle of having raped her at his residence.Gripping, riveting, absorbing, and all kinds of amazing — Section 375 weaves one of the best courtroom drama/thrillers in Hindi cinema, raising several valid points, while never loosening its clutches on your attention from first frame to last. But the film is as brilliant as it is as much 4 Ajay Bahl's meticulous direction and Manish Gupta's detailed writing as it is for its performances. MeeraChopra and Rahul Bhat are in top form, debutante Annuup Choudhari shines in a small yet important part, whereas Akshaye Khanna knocks the ball right out of the park, begging the question why we see so less of him on screen. Of course, it helps that he's given many of the best lines. Richa Chadha is surprisingly (she's usually on point) the only drawback, appearing almost disinterested in several scenes, which kind of sticks out like a sore thumb when her legal opposite is on fire. A Bollywood courtroom film right up there with Damini, Kanoon (1960), Jolly LLB, OMG, and Pink —this can't be missed by lovers of serious cinema.
4/5 stars - DirectorJohannes RobertsStarsSophie NélisseCorinne FoxxBrianne TjuTwo sisters diving in a ruined underwater city quickly learn they've entered the territory of the deadliest shark species in the claustrophobic labyrinth of submerged caves.Tense, tense, and more tense — that's the best way to describe 47 Meters Down: Uncaged — the sequel to 2017's 47 Meters Down. The tension remains on a knife's edge through the film, with genuine jump scares galore, leaving you on the edge of your seat, fists clenched, heart pounding, pulse racing, and eyes riveted to the screen. I don't remember the last time I said "fu*k" on so many occasions while watching a movie. Also, what separates this shark film from scores of other ones out there is how it amplifies fear and foreboding manifold by a simple tweak of replacing the surroundings from the open seas to an underwater labyrinth of caves — very smart touch by the makers. Director Johannes Roberts (The Strangers: Prey At Night, The Other Side of the Door, and this film's prequel) thrusts you into the mouth of terror and uses extreme claustrophobia to evoke palpable paranoia. Sure, it may not be Jaws, but then again, no film can be. It's right up there though with other classic shark movies like Deep Blue Sea, The Shallow, The Reef, and Bait. Some, minor questionable plot points aside, this can't be missed by lovers of horror films, especially those who dig creature features.
4/5 stars - DirectorDavid LeitchStarsDwayne JohnsonJason StathamIdris ElbaLawman Luke Hobbs and outcast Deckard Shaw form an unlikely alliance when a cyber-genetically enhanced villain threatens the future of humanity.Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw has a run-of-the-mill plot with a narrative that serves as an excuse for globe-trotting at exotic locations over what's essentially a 2-hour+ chase sequence, but who really cares when the action set-pieces are so meticulously executed, the stunt choreography is deliriously insane, and the fight scenes pack a humongous wallop. To add to the bonkers fun, Dwayne Johnson and Jason Statham share chemistry to die for, embellished with a smattering of laugh-out-loud punchlines. Also, Vanessa Kirby proves to be the ideal foil to their bickering bromance and Idris Elba is perfectly cast as the baddie. Topping it all off are a couple of starry cameos as the icing on the cake. Hobbs & Shaw may defy logic & physics in more ways than one, but it's also the kind of over-the-top joyride that's tailor-made to be carried off by big stars as a big-screen spectacle. So, if u haven't got a giant stick up where the sun doesn't shine, you're guaranteed an extreme dose of no-holds-barred, A-grade entertainment.
4/5 stars - DirectorRian JohnsonStarsDaniel CraigChris EvansAna de ArmasA detective investigates the death of the patriarch of an eccentric, combative family.Embellished with witty dialogue, an all-star cast in scintillating form, and a screenplay that tightens the screws on the clues as the narrative progresses; Knives Out will go down in the annals of cinema as a whodunnit murder mystery that's finer than aged wine yet fresher than ice-cool lemonade. Writer-Director Rian Johnson (Looper, The Last Jedi) is right on the money yet again (barring minor moments in the first half that lag ever so slightly) with a Sterling tribute to the greatest murder-mystery writer of all time, Agatha Christie.
4/5 stars - DirectorFernando MeirellesStarsJonathan PryceAnthony HopkinsJuan MinujínBehind Vatican walls, the conservative Pope Benedict XVI and the liberal future Pope Francis must find common ground to forge a new path for the Catholic Church.Powerful yet poignant, provocative yet pleasant, ballsy yet beautiful, sacrilegious yet soulful — the new Netflix film, The Two Popes juxtaposes it's real-life scandalous subject matter against a warm human drama, on the shoulders of two brilliant performances by Anthony Hopkins and Jonathan Pryce. Regardless if you're Catholic or not, and if you are, then irrespective of whether you believe in the religion or not, this film should be watched by every movie-buff or filmmaker in waiting just to observe how to handle a sensitively religious theme without assuaging the controversy while also being prudent enough to not outrage the faithful among your viewers (at least those with an ounce of rationality). Admittedly, this may not be for everyone, given the pace and treatment, but if you do invest your time, the payoff is really good, and you may actually learn a lot of BTS stuff, no matter how much you'd have read on this topic. This 1 looks ripe to snag a few Oscar nominations.
4/5 stars - DirectorChris ButlerStarsHugh JackmanDavid WalliamsStephen FryMr. Link recruits explorer Sir Lionel Frost to help find his long-lost relatives in the fabled valley of Shangri-La. Along with adventurer Adelina Fortnight, this trio of explorers travel the world to help their new friend.In an age when pure adventure films for the entire family are in short supply, Missing Links comes along as a huge relief and another glorious feather in the cap for the modern champions of stop-motion animation, Laika Studios. Sure, it's slightly derivative and doesn't have as profound an impact as a Spirited Away, Toy Story, or Lion King (the original one), but it's also packed with excitement, camaraderie, thrilling moments, a subtly warm message or two, and a clear quest to do nothing but entertain, and that's all you need to proved wholesome family fun.
4/5 stars - DirectorGopi PuthranStarsRani MukerjiShruti BapnaSunny HindujaA 21-year old boy Sunny has a penchant for sexually assaulting and killing girls. He's locked horns with top cop Shivani Shivaji Roy. Will she nab him?Mardaani 2 is not only one of the most raw, real, and edgy thrillers to emerge from Bollywood, underlined by a cerebral cat-and-mouse game between protagonist Rani Mukerji — bringing all her years of experience to nail her part, and antagonist Vishal Jethwa — delivering a performance that's likely to simultaneously send chills and boil your blood as one of Indian cinema's all-time great psychopaths and indubitably, the find of the year. However, what perhaps elevates the film above other Bollywood thrillers is how succinctly it delves into the ingrained patriarchy in our society, especially in smaller towns, where even those in authority see women as lesser beings, ought to be grateful and submissive rather than proud and owning their positions. The only minor issues I had with the film has to do with an unnecessarily coerced preachy segment in the middle and a handful of negligible plot-holes. Nevertheless, this is a very conscientious movie, executed under the garb of an excellent thriller.
4/5 stars - DirectorTyler NilsonMichael SchwartzStarsZack GottsagenAnn PierceDakota JohnsonZak, a man with down syndrome, runs away from a residential nursing home to pursue his dream of becoming a wrestler. Later, he meets with an outlaw who becomes his friend and coach.You'd be hard-pressed to find a film in the recent past that would've made you feel as good, as positive, and as hopeful about everything as the Peanut Butter Falcon does. It's the epitome of a feel-good movie, rising above some minor scripting and narration issues purely on the strengths of its charm, winsome vibes, and heartwarming moments, accentuated further by Shia LaBeouf's welcome return to form and a breakout performance by (feature-film) debutant Zack Gottsagen — the first actor with Down Syndrome in the history of cinema. Road movies embodying such heart, humor, and warmth don't come along too often, so do yourself a favor and strap in for the ride.
3.95/5 stars - DirectorAtleeStarsJoseph VijayNayantharaJackie ShroffMichael gives up his dream of becoming a footballer after his father's murder. However, a friend convinces him to coach a women's football team and turn his life around.Thalapathy Vijay s swag is infectious in Bigil — a thoroughly entertaining gangster/sports/masala film hybrid. Both the star and actor are on fire here, reminiscent of some of the most delightful Diwali crackers. Reuniting with Atlee does make a difference though as there doesn't seem to be a Director at the moment who can straddle Thalapathy Vijay's mass-and-class appeal better, not even A.R. Murugadoss. In fact, there may not be a better masala filmmaker (other than Rohit Shetty) operating right now, and Bigil offers further credence to this.
Be it loud, whistle-worthy moments, erecting adrenaline-pumping mass scenes, seamlessly infusing humor, or juxtaposing all this against an emotional, logical story — Atlee balances every facet of his film both as Director and writer like a juggler in top form. The only drawback of Bigil is its striking resemblance to Chak De India (some scenes and interactions between the characters being too similar to ignore). Otherwise, it's a rip-roaring masala entertainer that smartly balances its mass elements with an emotional story, pulsating sports drama, and hard-hitting gangster dynamics. Watch it if you love masala movies. What it if you're fond of South films. Watch it if you're a diehard Thalapathy fan. What it if you like mass films with a good story and some logic. You know what, just watch it and be entertained.
3.85/5 stars - DirectorTim BurtonStarsColin FarrellMichael KeatonDanny DeVitoA young elephant, whose oversized ears enable him to fly, helps save a struggling circus, but when the circus plans a new venture, Dumbo and his friends discover dark secrets beneath its shiny veneer.Dumbo unleashes all the wonder, awe, and magic that we expect and love about Disney movies. It pays rich tribute to the animated classic, with several nods to some of the more memorable moments of the 1941 film (even the timeless song, Baby Mine, plays twice in the background) while also taking the story forward in necessary, noble directions. More importantly, the entire film revolves around humans needing to respect animals, acknowledge their rights, and understand that they, too, are sentient beings capable of profound emotions. The climax could have played out better, but Director Tim Burton (rediscovering his form after eons) still conjures a lovely spectacle for the entire family to lo and behold, along with infusing a beautiful lesson for present and future generations.
3.75/5 stars - DirectorDavid YaroveskyStarsElizabeth BanksDavid DenmanJackson A. DunnWhat if a child from another world crash-landed on Earth, but instead of becoming a hero to mankind, he proved to be something far more sinister?What if Superman — the most powerful superhero we know of — used his powers for unimaginable evil? This question is answered with chilling results in Brightburn — a film that subverts the superhero genre with an efficacious mix of shock value, gory scenes, and, at times, blood-curdling moments. Even though it might not fully reach its ominius potential, this first ever superhero-horror movie still proves to be a dark treat for both horror fans and those looking for a sinister streak to go with superpowers. What's more, it also plays as a terrifically grim origin story, set up brilliantly for future parts.
3.75/5 stars - DirectorCharles Martin SmithStarsAshley JuddJonah Hauer-KingEdward James OlmosA female dog travels four hundred miles in search of her owner throughout a Colorado wilderness.A Dog's Way Home checks all the boxes as it leaps its way into the pantheon of heartwarming animal-based family films. A loving family? Check. An adorable furry buddy? Check. Affable characters along the way? Check. A meanie creating problems for our furry buddy? Check. But what helps to it stand is how it makes Bella (the dog) the center of attention, with every human character playing a periphery part in her adventure. It also helps that said adventure pans out in a non-outlandish, mostly organic way that the entire family can relate to. Plus, Bryce Dallas Howard does a swell job of voicing Bella. Though not without a few loopholes and parts where suspension of disbelief is required, if you're an animal lover, then A Dog's Way Home would be right up you're alley. If you're not, then the film is likely to convert you into one as it wins you over with warmth, sincerity, and a canine friend who steals your heart. Also, don't forget to carry some tissue, especially for the climax. It's a real tearjerker.
3.75/5 stars - DirectorAlexandre AjaStarsKaya ScodelarioBarry PepperMorfydd ClarkA young woman, while attempting to save her father during a category 5 hurricane, finds herself trapped in a flooding house and must fight for her life against alligators.Gnarly, grisly, gruesome — Crawl packs major bite with plenty of tense, heartpounding moments and a well-crafted narrative that doesn't rely on the aforementioned moments alone to keep you on the edge of your seat for most of its compact runtime. It also helps that Kaya Scodelario and Barry Pepper share amazing chemistry as a father-daughter duo coming to terms with their fractious relationship while trying to survive through a life-threatening ordeal. There are a few instances where you might question the wanton homicidal display as well as the size of the gators (particularly if you're aware of the difference between them and crocs), but those serve as nothing more than minor footnotes in an otherwise terrific horror film. Together with 47 Meters Down: Uncaged (slightly better than this in terms of tension, but only just), Crawl goes a long way to rejuvenate creature features in Hollywood.
3.75/5 stars - DirectorMatt Bettinelli-OlpinTyler GillettStarsSamara WeavingAdam BrodyMark O'BrienA bride's wedding night takes a sinister turn when her eccentric new in-laws force her to take part in a terrifying game.Ready or Not takes the best tropes of slasher horror, and turns them on their head with a wickedly innovative setting, where you're constantly kept on edge as much from the unpredictable nature of the plot as from the shocking twists and turns, buoyed in no small part by the star-making act of Samara Weaving and a game ensemble supporting cast, including veterans like Henry Czerny and Andie MacDowell (great to see her in a commercially successful film after long). Director-duo Matt-Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett finally come into their own as a force to watch out for in the horror genre, crafting a gleefully gory, salaciously sinister, and deliciously dark tale offset by intermittent moments of fiendish fun. Honestly, it's no small task to extract humor in the midst of grotesque mayhem, yet they do so with effortless ease. The denouement does feel a tad hurried compared to the smooth flow preceding it, but that doesn't take away much from a sinfully good slasher showcase that also ingeniously injects a bit of supernatural with all the slice-and-dice thrills.
3.75/5 stars - DirectorDestin Daniel CrettonStarsMichael B. JordanJamie FoxxBrie LarsonWorld-renowned civil rights defense attorney Bryan Stevenson works to free a wrongly condemned death row prisoner.Thought-provoking, touching , and made all the more topical by the troubling factual nature of its subject matter; Just Mercy is at once a supremely fine courtroom drama and an inspiring take on the early days of avant-garde lawyer and Civil Rights activist Bryan Stevenson — despite the slight predictability of its plot — peppered by two great performances from Michael B. Jordan (one of my favorite upcoming Hollywood stars) and Jamie Foxx. It's a travesty that this didn't snag a single Oscar Nominations while that copied snoozefest, Marriage Story, bagged six.
3.75/5 stars - DirectorRobbie GrewalStarsSikandar KherJohn AbrahamJackie ShroffPrior to the India-Pakistan war of 1971, an Indian banker is recruited by the Research and Analysis Wing for a covert operation deep inside Pakistan.An uneasy, demanding watch that ends up rewarding you abundantly — Romeo Akbar Walter tests your patience to the limit (the first half is quite slow), but wading through it is well worth the effort, with several hidden clues being uncovered later on. It takes guts to make such a difficult and slightly controversial film. This is India's answer to John le Carré's serious, gritty spy novels — a far cry from Ian Flemming's escapist Bond novels. Raazi, which released last year and is based on a similar premise, may be the better spy film (if not for the slow first half and incongruous placement of songs, this could have been as good, if not better than the Alia Bhatt starrer). But, Romeo Akbar Walter poses the tougher questions and presents the uneasier moments while also offering a welcome message on the true sense of patriotism in these confounding times of hyper-nationalism vs the privilege to remain apathetic toward your country's interests. A line uttered by Jackie Shroff sums it all up beautifully: " He chose motherland over mother."
3.75/5 stars - DirectorJesse V. JohnsonStarsTony JaaTiger Hu ChenIko UwaisWhen a billionaire's daughter intent on bringing down a major crime syndicate is targeted by a group of professional assassins, a team of mercenaries must stop them before they kill her.Triple Threat is an orgasmic paradise for diehard action lovers, offering added incentive for marital-arts aficionados, with various fight forms coming together for some exceptional hand-to-hand-to-leg-to-hand combat scenes. And just to spice things up, some exciting shootouts and chase sequences are also thrown into the mix. The plot is pretty run-of-the-mill stuff, but when the current Gods of Action are gathered under one roof, with copious thrilling scenes and exhilarating moments to boot, the result is a joyride through kickass kingdom. Perhaps the best thing about the film is how the stakes are raised by dividing its stars who can actually fight equally among the heroes and villains. Those accustomed to watered-down superhero film may not get what the big deal is all about, but fans of raw, old-school, hardcore, violent action movies will totally dig this.
3.75/5 stars - DirectorJérémy ClapinStarsHakim FarisVictoire Du BoisPatrick d'AssumçaoA story of Naoufel, a young man who is in love with Gabrielle. In another part of town, a severed hand escapes from a dissection lab, determined to find its body again.Quite far-fetched, but if you're willing to suspend disbelief, Netflix 's French animated film, I Lost My Body, boats quite an innovative, and certainly unprecedented concept, narrated with a good mix of edge-of-the-seat thrills, adventure, and romance. It may not be the best animated film 2019, but it more than deserves its Oscar nomination and to be checked out.
3.65/5 stars - DirectorJon FavreauStarsDonald GloverBeyoncéSeth RogenAfter the murder of his father, a young lion prince flees his kingdom only to learn the true meaning of responsibility and bravery.Disney's live action adaptation of The Lion King embodies the core essence, sprawling sense of adventure, peppy music, beautiful life lessons, Shakspearean ethos, and (dare I say it) Bollywood-esque lost-and-found-styled family drama, which made the 1994 animated original a classic for the ages. However, owing to the ingenuity of Director Jon Favreau and writer Jeff Nathanson, the plot is tweaked with more excitement, better action, some additional scenes, deeper characterization of the supporting players, and wonderful symbolization of the film's profound messages sans ever succmbing to preachiness, making it a far cry from by-the-numbers, copy-paste fare like Aladdin, Cinderella, and Beauty and the Beast. It may not be as good as the original in the vein of remakes such as The Jungle Book (another one that benefited from Favreau's smarts), Maleficent, and Dumbo, but it comes pretty darn close.
3.65/5 stars - DirectorNikkhil AdvaniStarsMrunal ThakurNora FatehiRavi KishanIn 2008, a violent shootout with terror suspects leaves one police officer struggling to hunt down the fugitives and justify the police action.Gritty, serious, with a no-nonsense approach — Batla House goes down as one of the better Bollywood cop films, shedding light and offering clarity (the extensive research is evident) on an extremely controversial and pertinent chapter in Indian policing history albeit and thankfully, with its commercial elements intact so as to not alienate the general audience. Admittedly, the film could've been even better, or rather more gripping, particularly a few portions in the first half, but the second half, and especially the courtroom scenes during the climax, more than make up for it, marking a welcome return to form for Director Nikhil Advani while also showcasing how John Abraham improves as an actor with each film.
3.65/5 stars - DirectorJohn Lee HancockStarsKevin CostnerWoody HarrelsonKathy BatesThe untold true story of the legendary detectives who brought down Bonnie and Clyde.Netflix's The Highwaymen is a gritty, old-school-styled crime film of the true story behind the lawmen who brought an unavoidably violent end to two of America's most notorious outlaws, Bonnie and Clyde. Veterans, Kevin Costner and Woody Harrelson are both in top form, and kudos to Director John Lee Hancock (The Blind Side, Saving Mr. Banks, The Founder) for presenting a distinct and much-needed de-glamorized touch in sharp contrast to erstwhile romanticized accounts of the murderous-marauding duo. A few portions are weighed down by a slightly pedestrian feel (especially for those with decent knowledge on the criminals' infamous exploits) and a bit of focus on the ruthless pair wouldn't have hurt, but, all in all, this makes for an absorbing cat-and-mouse tale, particularly if you're interested in real-life crime stories.
3.65/5 stars - DirectorZoya AkhtarStarsRanveer SinghAlia BhattSiddhant ChaturvediA coming-of-age story based on the lives of street rappers in Mumbai.Gully Boy is a very well-made, immersive underdog story, boasting dialogues that stay with you long after the film's done and fine performances from each and every member of its cast (the actors even succeed in elevating the film whenever the pace lags or narrative threatens to dip). However, it just falls short of being a classic on account of Director Zoya Akhtar being unable to curb her pretentious instincts in a few scenes and a slightly underwhelming denouement.
3.65/5 stars - DirectorTaika WaititiStarsRoman Griffin DavisThomasin McKenzieScarlett JohanssonA young German boy in the Hitler Youth whose hero and imaginary friend is the country's dictator is shocked to discover that his mother is hiding a Jewish girl in their home.A tightrope balancing act embellishes Jojo Rabbit with a refreshing surrealism juxtaposed against harsh realities. The humour sways between eliciting bell-aching laughter and mild chuckles, always keeping us engaged, never crossing a sensitive line. That it all takes place against a gruesome portrait, brimming with peril, fanaticism and violence, yet never finds itself missing the satirical spot, speaks volumes of writer-Director Taika Waititi's vision. This is a timely satire of an archaically brutal time that's as relevant today as it was then. It asks the right questions and presents some beautifully funny answers to them. It may bear some minor cracks in a few places (Waititi could have dug deeper into Nazi propaganda, which would have further played out Jojo's dilemmas, and the climax also feels too hurried), but they're the sort of flaws I'll welcome with open arms in the face of such an engrossing film.
3.5/5 stars - DirectorKyle NewacheckStarsAdam SandlerJennifer AnistonLuke EvansA New York cop and his wife go on a European vacation to reinvigorate the spark in their marriage, but end up getting framed and on the run for the death of an elderly billionaire.Netflix's new film, Murder Mystery — a thriller comedy hybrid is what one would describe as just plain good ol' fun. Sure, neither is its murder-mystery element, set against age-old tropes of a whodunnit, presented in the most novel fashion, nor is its humor completely fresh, but veteran stars Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston, and a game supporting cast bring all their experience and energy to the table to make this a breezy joyride from start to finish, where all you need to do is sit back, relax, and have a good laugh. Unless you're a prude or snob; then this film is certainly not meant for you.
3.5/5 stars - DirectorJosh CooleyStarsTom HanksTim AllenAnnie PottsWhen a new toy called "Forky" joins Woody and the gang, a road trip alongside old and new friends reveals how big the world can be for a toy.Toy Story 4 basically rehashes all the best bits of its predecessors, which is still saying a lot, given how almost everything about those films screams classic. One toy gets lost — check. One or more toys set out to rescue lost toy — check. Said toys encounters one or more new toys with nefarious intentions — check. A finale that tugs at your heartstrings — check. But that's not to say that the film doesn't have its moments, of which there are quite a few due to how debutant Director Joshua Cooley , and writers Andrew Stanton and Stephany Folsom go about telling their subject. The narration has heart, the jokes are fresh, eliciting roars of laughter, and the denouement is pretty emotional. If this is (and it should be) the conclusion to the Toy Story franchise, then it indeed is a worthy one.
3.5/5 stars - DirectorVasan BalaStarsAbhimanyu DasaniRadhika MadanMahesh ManjrekarIt is a story of a young boy Surya who has a rare condition of Congenital Insensitivity to pain meaning he can not feel pain, and he sets out to learn martial arts and hunt down muggers.Those who love old-school, martial-arts action movies made famous by Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan; fondly recall larger-than-life Hindi-film villains of the 70s, 80s, and 90s; and generally like their cinema with a dash of quirk and zaniness will totally dig Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota — a film that serves as a perfect marriage between madcap energy and enduring characters against an electrifying martial-arts backdrop. Abhimanyu Dassani (son of yesteryears' actress Bhagyashree) makes a smashing debut (literally speaking). Radhika Madan proves to be as convincing in action as she's in dramatic scenes. And Gulshan Devaiah 's brilliance is finally unearthed with a bang by Director Vasan Bala who has made a very enjoyable action movie, without forgoing the importance of a strong plot and characters.
It could have even better though had he resisted the urge to give into his pseudo predilections by alternating between mainstream and art territory. Either make an out-an-out mainstream film or an artistic indie one, which could be just as much fun. But switching between both worlds runs the risk of confusing a section of the audience, which is what happens at times with MKDNH. Leaving that bit aside though, it's still a lot of fun.
3.5/5 stars - DirectorJonathan AugustinStarsMoin KhanNyla MasoodSagar KaleThe Lift Boy is a coming of age story of a 24-year-old vagabond who is forced to work at a posh building in Mumbai as a Lift Boy when his bread-winning father falls ill.Writer-Director Jonathan Augustin's Hinglish film, The Lift Boy, is one of the most naturally portrayed and organically felt coming-of-age dramas to emerge from Indian cinema in a long time, full of warmth, maturity, simplicity, laidback humor, and sentiments just done right. Centered on four engaging principal characters, and anchored by two effective central performances courtesy Moin Khan and Nyla Masood, the film keeps you genuinely interested in the journey of its protagonists, and leaves you feeling more appreciative about life's little things along the way.
3.5/5 stars - DirectorSam LiuStarsElyes GabelDiane GuerreroKevin ConroyThe Justice League battles the Fatal Five, (Tharok, Emerald Empress, Validus, Mano and the Persuader). Based on the characters created by Jim Shooter.Justice League vs The Fatal Five, the latest in DC's animated DTH (direct-to-home) movies has a pretty interesting premise, taking one of the rarer comic-book story arcs, where the Justice League is pitted against a bunch of its most fearsome foes (from the future), and adapts it to film with good results. There are few issues with continuity and flow, and sometimes you get the feel that the action, which is certainly mind-blowing, is a tad overdone to compensate for the bits where the script remains undercooked. Overall though, it's quite an entertaining movie, more so for superhero fans. Not a patch on the recent Batman vs Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (another DC-animated product), but easily one of the better such films in recent times.
3.5/5 stars - DirectorPrithviraj SukumaranStarsMohanlalVivek OberoiManju WarrierA political Godfather dies and a lot of thieves dressed up as politicians took over the rule. Question arises regarding the successor of the God, unfolding few names, along with the God's most beloved angel, Lucifer.Intelligent Malayalam masala entertainer set against the sprawling canvas of political intrigue that could have easily been abridged by at least half an hour. The mass moments, too, seem a tad less. All in all though, Prithviraj makes a confident directorial debu with Lucifer, giving both Mohanlal fans and neutral viewers a pretty engaging film for most part. Vivek Oberoi and Manju Warrier are also very good in their roles.
3.5/5 - DirectorVijay KumarStarsVijay KumarVismayaSudhakarLenin Vijay, a young man, secures a job at a factory, along with two other friends. However, when he learns that the place is flouting environmental norms and causing deaths, he seeks justice.A gripping political thriller from start to finish — Tamil film Uriyadi 2 lays bare the corruption, casteism, vote-bank politics, apathy of those in power, and helplessness of the low-income stratum in India. The pre-climax scene is a bit stretched and the climax itself feels a tad unsatisfying compared to the intensity of the rest of the film, but otherwise, the narration and treatment by writer-Director-lead actor Vijay Kumar are just right for a socially conscious film that's also high on entertainment. Watch out, in particular, for two riveting sequences on either side of the interval. Almost as good as 2016's Uriyadi, and the best thing is that it can be enjoyed even without having watched the previous film.
3.5/5 stars - DirectorSuman MukhopadhyayStarsMahie GillSayani GuptaRagini KhannaBased on true events, the story revolves around a psychologically disturbed mother who coerces her daughters into a life of crime. Their case becomes a national sensation in India, overnight, these women are monsters personified.ZEE5 's web film, Posham Pa, is dark, disturbing, twisted, and all kinds of engaging, but what really elevates it is the potent ensemble cast, especially, Mahie Gill, Sayani Gupta, and Ragini Khanna, who fire full throttle on all cylinders. The final 15-20 mins dip when compared to the gripping narrative that precedes them, and the big twist at the end can be seen coming, at least to the discerning eye, but a subject that would've been nigh unbelievable had it not been true, and the aforementioned performances keep you hooked through the film.
3.5/5 stars - DirectorBrad AndersonStarsSam WorthingtonLily RabeLucy CapriA couple stops at a gas station, where their 6 y.o. daughter's arm is fractured. They hurry to a hospital. Something strange is going on there. The wife and daughter go missing.Despite a plot that's been around the bend more than a few times, and a few loopholes in the script notwithstanding, Fractured benefits handsomely from nifty execution, rendering it a seriously tense thriller with some neat twists and a narrative that keeps the guessing game on to the very end. Full marks must be given to Director Brad Anderson (Transsiberian, The Machinist, Session 9) for brining all his expertise and dexterity in the genre to the table. It also helps that Sam Worthington has one of his better days before the camera. This one makes for a very engrossing watch.
3.5/5 stars - DirectorPrabhu DevaStarsSalman KhanSudeepSonakshi SinhaChulbul Pandey encounters an enemy from his past, and his origin story as the fearless cop unfolds.Dabangg3 is 'mazedaar', 'dhamakedaar', 'dumdaar', 'zordaar', and above all, full-on 'masaledaar', just like a Salman Khan or a mass movie should be. Chulbul Pandey is unstoppable in the massy entertainer of the year. This is a proper Salman mass film after some time and looks good to be an out-and-out blockbuster. Theaters across the country, especially single screens, should be set on fire.
3.5/5 stars - DirectorCharlie BeanStarsTessa ThompsonJustin TherouxSam ElliottThe romantic tale of a sheltered uptown Cocker Spaniel dog and a streetwise downtown Mutt.Lady and the Tramp is yet another frame-by-frame (almost) live-action CGI-fueled retelling of an animated Disney classic that again ticks most of the boxes by getting its heart in the right place and making efficacious usage of the groundbreaking technology at its disposal, yet falls just short of the greatness of the original due to the lack of something special that no one has really managed to put a finger on.
3.5/5 stars - DirectorAli Abbas ZafarStarsSalman KhanKatrina KaifSunil GroverAt the cusp of India's birth as an Independent nation, a family makes an arduous journey to freedom at a cost. A young boy Bharat, makes a promise to his Father that he will keep his family together no matter what.Bharat brings back Director Ali Abbas Zafar and superstar Salman Khan for a third outing, one that’s certainly more emotionally charged than their earlier two films, Sultan and Tiger Zinda Hai — both immensely enjoyable features. And while Bharat may lack a tad in the entertainment section, it’s filled with moments that stay with you and scenes guaranteed to open your tear ducts. Some sequences in the film really stand out, with the Arabian-mining and ‘Mere Apne’ TV show segments being the highlights. These parts alone are worth a trip to the theater as are Salman and Katrina Kaif’s performances. The former pitches in hitherto his best, even better than the one in Bajrangi Bhaijaan — nobody will be able to point a finger on Salman’s acting credibility with a straight face after watching Bharat — while the latter keeps improving by leaps and bounds.
What prevents the film from being as good as Zafar’s two erstwhile collaborations with his star headliner are a few slow portions, which impede the pace, some up-and-down narration in the second half, and a couple of silly bits that come across as cartoonish in what is otherwise a fairly serious film that rides high on emotional content. Bharat should’ve also been about 20 mins less as the film’s high point comes 20 minutes or so before its denouement, and could’ve easily been ended there. Kudos to Zafar though for adapting it very well to an Indian milieu, only retaining the essence of Ode to My Father (I’ve seen that film), and completely bringing his creativity to the fore. All in all, Bharat is a pretty good film, with many touching moments. The single-screen audience may feel a tad don’t disappointed by the lack of “Bhai moments”, but everyone will unanimously applaud his career-best performance bar none.
3.5/5 stars - DirectorMichael EnglerStarsStephen Campbell MooreMichael FoxLesley Nicol1927. The Crawleys prepare to host King George V and Queen Mary at Downton Abbey.Downton Abbey may not rise to the upper echelons of costume dramas, but it certainly holds its own both as a charming throwback to a bygone era and as fulfilling closure to its legion of fans out there. It also offsets the starched outfits and starchier moods of such period pieces with an air of effortless humour and breezy charm, helping it to strike out and carve its own space. Moreover (barring a few reference points), you can perfectly enjoy it regardless if you've seen the six seasons of the TV show that preceded it. However, despite each of the vast eclectic assortment of characters appearing meaningful and having sufficient dramatic interplay, a sub-track or two could've been avoided, plus the film could've been trimmed by 10-15 minutes. That being said, the sharp wit in the dialogues, crackling performances, royal shenanigans, and overall pleasant vibe, makes this a satisfying watch for both fans and neutral viewers.
3.5/5 stars - DirectorGail MancusoStarsJosh GadDennis QuaidKathryn PrescottA dog finds the meaning of his own existence through the lives of the humans he meets.A Dog's Journey is as sweet and sentimental as 2017's A Dog's Purpose, but just as its predecessor, the sequel, too, errs on the side of contrived schmaltz at times, marring its sincere sentimentality with a pinch of unnecessary saccharine, which just about prevents it from an occupying a seat with the best #animal based family films out there. Nevertheless, the emotional moments still resonate, the cuteness overload manages to work its magic, and by the end of the film, you may be tempted to take home a furry buddy with you.
3.5/5 stars - DirectorChristopher LandonStarsJessica RotheIsrael BroussardPhi VuTree Gelbman discovers that dying over and over was surprisingly easier than the dangers that lie ahead.Though not as fun and unexpected as its predecessor (partly due to our familiarity with the concept), Happy Death Day 2 U still packs a lot of entertainment, retains the freshness of its slasher/sci-fi-hybrid tone, and further showcases the range of its lead star, Jessica Rothe. The one aspect where the sequel falls short of 2017's Happy Death Day is in not ratcheting up enough tension by diverting from slasher territory and making the mistake of entering the teen-comedy zone. After all, fans are still coming to witness and exciting horror film with a vicious killer in that creepy baby mask. Also, the big twist in the finale isn't as shocking as that of the first part. Still, there's enough here to satisfy slasher fans and the makers also leave things well poised for a third installment on a bigger scale.
3.25/5 stars - DirectorJake KasdanStarsDwayne JohnsonJack BlackKevin HartIn Jumanji: The Next Level, the gang is back but the game has changed. As they return to rescue one of their own, the players will have to brave parts unknown from arid deserts to snowy mountains, to escape the world's most dangerous game.Jumanji: The Next Level is more or less the same as Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle minus some of the wide-eyed novelty and wonder, not to mention a less impactful villain, than its predecessor or even that of the 1995 original. It still features cracking wit and chemistry between the A-list cast, and packs plenty of thrills, excitement, fast-paced action, and exotic enchantment to suffice as a fun family adventure. Plus, the miniature sneak peek into the next installment offer all the more reason to look forward to the next horizon of this franchise.
3.25/5 stars - DirectorLijo Jose PellisseryStarsAntony VargheseChemban Vinod JoseSabumon AbdusamadA portrait of a remote village where a buffalo escapes and causes a frenzy of ecstatic violence.Malayalam film Jallikattu is another good example of how effective Director Lijo Jose Pellissery is in crafting rural-themed thrillers with simplistic characters, played by unassuming actors, from seemingly innocuous situations. However, this time, the auteur falls just short of his erstwhile classics like Angamaly Diaries and Ee.Ma.Yau as opposed to the organic mayhem of those films, Pellissery is too focused on the chaos this time around, making it seem somewhat coerced and failing to extract enough creativity from the clamor. Nevertheless, it's still a worthy addition to the filmmaker's repertoire, and shouldn't be missed by his fans.
3.25/5 stars - DirectorAkiv AliStarsAjay DevgnTabuRakul Preet SinghA 50-year-old single father faces disapproval from his family and his ex-wife when he falls in love with a 26-year-old woman.De De Pyaar De has a decent first half, but the important thing is that it picks up big time in the second half, with several punchlines and gags hitting the mark, and many emotional moments also hitting the right chord. There are portion where the screenplays drags and the narrative dips, but that's where the brilliance of the actors come in.
Ajay Devgn is a portrait of humorous helplessness, stuck in the middle of a combustible scenario. Plus, kudos to the #superstar for taking a backseat and letting the ladies have a field day post interval, where Tabu chews every frame (especially watch out for two stunning scenes toward the end) and Rakul Preet finally gets to showcase her talent in Bollywood , going tooth-and-nail at her senior costar in various comical confrontations.
If you don't go in expecting another Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety or Pyaar Ka Punchnama (producer Luv Ranjan 's earlier films that he also directed, unlike this one), you'll be well entertained. Moreover, though being a family film, the progressive nature and subtle complexities of the script demand a more matured approach.
3.25/5 stars - DirectorBehzad KhambataStarsSunny DeolKaran KapadiaKaranvir SharmaA suicide bomber loses his memory and has a bomb attached to his heart. It is up to the police officers to prevent this bomb from taking innocent lives.Despite a screenplay and ensuing narrative that skirts amateurish and melodramatic territory at times, not to mention a few loopholes, Blank manages to hold up as a pretty engaging thriller while it lasts, with some interesting twists and turns, and the grizzled-pro, Sunny Deol, once again, in good form, playing against type; though he still packs a mighty punch when the plot demands it. Plus, at just under two hours, the film doesn't overstay its welcome. However, debutant Karan Kapadia has miles to go in terms of expressions, body language, dialogue delivery, or basic onscreen charisma is he's to make it as a Bollywood hero.
3.25/5 stars - DirectorMichael BayStarsRyan ReynoldsMélanie LaurentManuel Garcia-RulfoSix individuals from all around the globe, each the very best at what they do, have been chosen not only for their skill, but for a unique desire to delete their pasts to change the future.In true Michael Bay fashion, the new Netflix film, 6 Underground, is a bonkers-crazy action movie, which somehow manages to be entertaining enough due to the existence (however flimsy) of what most Bay directorial lack — a plot. It's as over-the-top, explosively loud, and filled with a fair share of narrative loopholes as any Bay film is, but unlike the Transformer sequels, this veers more to the side of The Rock, Armageddon, and the first Transformers movie in terms of engagement and entertainment while also, thankfully, making good use of its likeable cast, especially leading man Ryan Reynolds.
3.15/5 stars - DirectorTim MillerStarsLinda HamiltonArnold SchwarzeneggerMackenzie DavisAn augmented human and Sarah Connor must stop an advanced liquid Terminator from hunting down a young girl, whose fate is critical to the human race.Terminator: Dark Fate is a significant improvement over Salvation (T4) & Genisys (T5), even if it never reaches the lofty standards of the first two films. An analogy with Rise of the Machines (T3) is apt and that should suffice for long-term fans. Arnold Schwarzenegger again steals the show despite a supporting part and it's a joy to see Linda Hamilton back as Sarah Connor. However, the world-building that the series is famous for shoots itself in the foot over here as things take an eternity to be established in places, and we're left waiting for the narrative to kick on. Additionally, there are several portions, including the crux of the plot, that's derivative of the 1984 & 1991 films, so much so that the action and effects, too, while vry good, don't appear to have moved on from what we gaped at with awe in Judgment Day. Dark Fate may not exactly be the huge boost the franchise needed to be awakened from more-than-a-decade-long slumber, but it does enough to make us hopeful of newer horizons the Terminator series could explore while also standing it's ground as a solid sci-fi film on its own. It may appease diehard fans more through as the film can get difficult to follow for franchise virgins.
3/5 stars - DirectorMudassar AzizStarsKartik AaryanBhumi PednekarAnanya PandayChintu Tyagi is an ordinary, middle class man who finds himself torn between his wife and another woman.With hardly any similarities to the 1978 original barring the basic premise, the two biggest winners in Pati Patni Aur Woh are the dialogues and performances. Kartik Aaryan, Bhumi Pednekar, Aparshakti Khurana are in top form, with Bhumi being the show stealer, and Ananya Panday, too, surprises us with a cutely charming act. Despite its hilarious moments, especially during the final 30-40 minutes, there are portions, particularly sizeable ones in the first half, where the slapstick scenarios either don't hit u well enough or could've been milked more. Additionally, the narrative doesn't feel as fresh as it needed to with several moments looking more as been borrowed rather than inspired from superior similar products like Masti, Saajan Chale Sasural, and Biwi No. 1. It's still a lighthearted, breezy affair and a decent crowd pleaser (especially 4 Kartik Aaryan fans) that intermittently tickles your funny bone, but had the potential to be a real laugh riot.
3/5 stars - DirectorSandeep Reddy VangaStarsShahid KapoorKiara AdvaniNikita DuttaAn exalted but short-fused surgeon plunges into a spiral of drugs, alcohol and rage after his intense relationship with his girlfriend turbulently ends.KabirSingh is a carbon copy of Arjun Reddy, so, obviously, a good film from a cinematic perspective. Shahid Kapoor does a commendable job of an obsessed, alcoholic lover on a path of self destruction. However, he falls just short of recreating the depth and trauma of Vijay Devarakonda's superlative eponymous act. Kiara Advani, on the other hand, is actually slightly better than Shalini Pandey as the demure, reticient girl, unable to make her own decision after being thrust in a overwhelming situation. Arjan Bajwa and veteran Suresh Oberoi also lend good support.
The message is still horrible though as just like the original, the remake, too, doesn't shy away from glorifying male entitlement, chauvinism, bullying, and domestic abuse. And when writer/Director Sandeep Reddy Vanga (who also helmed the original) doesn't glorify these traits, he makes exasperating excuses for them. The talent is there for all to see as despite several uncomfortable moments of misogyny, his skills to grip your attention and make his characters engaging shine for the entire duration of almost three hours. You just wish that he uses this talent on a better subject the next time he puts pen to paper and calls the shots on a film set.
3/5 stars - DirectorJim JarmuschStarsBill MurrayAdam DriverTilda SwintonThe peaceful town of Centerville finds itself battling a zombie horde as the dead start rising from their graves.The Dead Don't Die is a quirky, unique addition the cluttered zombie/horror-comedy genre, complete with a fair share of fresh ideas and subtly played dark humor. However, in order for it to have slotted in with the very best or even better entries in the sub-genre, it needed to have been more brazen with those quirks, more experimentative with its freshness, more consistent with its dark humor, and, more than anything, should have had a better denouement and made far better use of its superlative ensemble cast. A perfectly enjoyable zom-com entry even if it isn't a perfect one.
3/5 stars - DirectorVincenzo NataliStarsLaysla De OliveiraAvery WhittedPatrick WilsonAfter hearing a young boy's cry for help, a sister and brother venture into a vast field of tall grass in Oklahoma but soon discover there may be no way out...and that something evil lurks within.Helped by strong performances, especially from the experienced Patrick Wilson (Conjuring films); In the Tall Grass is a pretty creepy horror film that also alludes to a bit of sci-fi like traveling between parallel dimensions, including vague references to time travel, all while keeping an aura of mystery intact. However, Vincenzo Natali would've only done himself more favors had his script and direction offered some clarity (the difference between slowly peeling the layers or leaving them obscured) so as to have made the film better accessible and enjoyable to a larger demographic of viewers. Or he'd have been better served by simply being more faithful to Stephen King and Joe Hill's source material. This is quite engaging stuff, provided you're able to wrap your head around its deeply veiled subtexts.
3/5 stars - DirectorPaul FeigStarsMadison IngoldsbyEmma ThompsonBoris IsakovicKate is a young woman subscribed to bad decisions. Working as an elf in a year-round Christmas store is not good for the wannabe singer. However, she meets Tom there. Her life takes a new turn--that seems too good to be true.Last Christmas is a decent enough rom-com/Christmas movie (whatever you'd prefer calling it), which can make for a mildly pleasant watch despite never reaching it's potential. Honestly, it's the charm of the ensemble cast — especially Emilia Clarke, HenryGolding, Emma Thompson, and MichelleYeoh — and surprisingly not Director Paul Fieg (usually on the money) who help the Christmas lights stay on in this one.
3/5 stars - DirectorM. PadmakumarStarsMammoottyUnni MukundanAchuthan B. NairDuring the Mamangam festival held at the banks of Bharathappuzha in Thirunavaya, soldiers from various places used to come together to wager battle.Mamangam is one of those rare Indian film, irrespective of the industry they stem from, which justifies its mammoth budget. The action sequences, stunt choreography, VFX, and production design are all done to perfection. There are copious nods to samurai-fashioned fight scenes fused with traditional Keralite Kalaripayattu that are praiseworthy as is the script that carves its own identity after paying rich tribute to Akira Kurosawa's Rashomon-styled screenplay. However, the film falters in engaging us right through its interminable runtime and the lapses are more than a few to ignore. Plus, as justified as Mammootty's stifled appearance in the first half is, the second half could certainly have done with more frames for the legend. All things considered, Mamangam gets the big-screen visual spectacle and superstar-driven outing just about right. If you can endure the film's length and some of its wobbly sections, there's enough here to merit a trip to the theatre.
3/5 stars - DirectorMichael ChavesStarsLinda CardelliniRaymond CruzPatricia VelasquezIgnoring the eerie warning of a troubled mother suspected of child endangerment, a social worker and her own small kids are soon drawn into a frightening supernatural realm.The Curse of La Llorona is a pretty effective horror film that could have been better had it reasoned why a few plot points occur the way they do and also if it hadn't deviated from some of the rules it had built for its spooky world. Nevertheless, it serves as a decent (if not derivate) spooky watch while it lasts.
3/5 stars - DirectorRaj Kumar GuptaStarsArjun KapoorSudev NairPreet BhullarA group of intelligence officers embark on a top secret mission to track down a wanted international criminal.Rat-a-tat-tat goes Rajkumar Gupta 's direction in India's Most Wanted. It's fast-paced, sharp, and tight. However, the film is let down in portions by jarring editing, especially during the climax, and in scenes showcasing archival footage of bomb-blasts across the country , and also suffers from some up-and-down scripting in the second half (Gupta the writer isn't in as good form here as Gupta the Director ). A more-convincing performance from leading-man Arjun Kapoor, too, wouldn't have hurt. Nevertheless, it's a film that highlights an important albeit relatively unknown chapter in India 's recent history, and it does so in a reasonably entertaining way.
3/5 stars - DirectorSoumik SenStarsEmraan HashmiShreya DhanwantharySnighdadeep ChatterjiThe movie focuses on existing malpractices in country's education system, the whole concept of buying your way through education, jobs and earnings. Even with an evolving education system, the country faces scams like SSC and HSC paper leaks, CBSE re-examination, Vyaapam, etc. The movie tries to shift the attention of people to understand the vulnerability of hardworking and gifted students who get left out.Both from a script and narrative point-of-view, Why Cheat India has quite a few things going for it, and quite a few that don't. But what it does accomplish is painting a brutally disturbing picture of its subject matter, exposing the disgusting truth of the unholy nexus of elements eating away at our country's education system inside-out and from top to bottom. Plus, whenever the film flounders, there's Emraan Hashmi, forever preventing your attention from wavering, and once again elevating a decent film to more-than-watchable territory with his A-game.
3/5 stars