Starring Johnny Depp and Kate Winslet in the leading roles, the movie about the man who created Neverland.
James Barrie works with a theatre manager who runs his plays and invests in him, even though James knows that his plays suck. A meeting at the park with a few boys changes James' destiny.
Now he spends all the time he can with them, shaping their lives and dreams. Among the 5 boys, the most enigmatic one seems to be Peter, who seems to be keeping his distance from him, yet just as the boy is about to warm up to James, Sylvia, their mother, starts showing signs of illness and things seem to be replaying and repeating for Peter, who is tired of his 'childhood'.
Using his inspiration from the family, James starts his story with Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, Captainn Hook and Neverland. When his play is to be played in the theatre, Sylvia falls very ill and is unable to make it, but her lads do. They enjoy and appreciate it. Finally, James brings the play home for Sylvia to see. Although Sylvia dies at the end, James Barrie becomes the guardian for the boys.
A thoroughly entertaining movie, even the ending was very sad. A commendable performance by Freddie Highmore, who was apparently recommended by Johnny Depp to the director, following their movie together in Chocolate Factory. The movie was very naturally played and down to earth. Definitely worth a watch.
Monday, June 25, 2007
Friday, June 22, 2007
Pachaikili muthucharam
Directed by Gautham Menon, music by Harris Jayaraj and leading actors - Sharath Kumar, Jyothika, Andrea and Milind Soman, the movie is an adaptation of the novel entitled 'Derailed'.
Sharath and Andrea are married with a child, who becomes a diabetic. With a child to constantly take care of, Andrea feels responsible and the couple start drifting apart slowly. Sharath meets Jyothika in the train he takes to work daily - they start an acquaintance that leads to a possible illicit relationship.
But just when it is about to happen, a thief, Milind, enters their room - robs him, rapes her and continues to threaten both their lives. Sharath feels responsible and pays off everything that Milind demands. When he has exhausted all resources that he had saved for his son's operation, he decides to tell the truth to his wife. His wife leaves him, when she finds out that he was with another woman.
In the meantime, Sharath takes care of their son and also tries to find out more about Milind. Here is the climax of the movie. After this point, it is him working against the evil forces and trying to regain what he had lost.
A good movie to watch. It is a typical Gautham Menon movie - with loads of violence and his version of very 'realistic' love scenes - that could potentially make you squirm if you sitting with your parents, but they are alright to watch with a bunch of friends.
Sharath and Andrea are married with a child, who becomes a diabetic. With a child to constantly take care of, Andrea feels responsible and the couple start drifting apart slowly. Sharath meets Jyothika in the train he takes to work daily - they start an acquaintance that leads to a possible illicit relationship.
But just when it is about to happen, a thief, Milind, enters their room - robs him, rapes her and continues to threaten both their lives. Sharath feels responsible and pays off everything that Milind demands. When he has exhausted all resources that he had saved for his son's operation, he decides to tell the truth to his wife. His wife leaves him, when she finds out that he was with another woman.
In the meantime, Sharath takes care of their son and also tries to find out more about Milind. Here is the climax of the movie. After this point, it is him working against the evil forces and trying to regain what he had lost.
A good movie to watch. It is a typical Gautham Menon movie - with loads of violence and his version of very 'realistic' love scenes - that could potentially make you squirm if you sitting with your parents, but they are alright to watch with a bunch of friends.
Periyar
With leading roles done by Satyaraj, Jyothirmayi and Khushbu, the movie is about the life of the revolutionary Tamil leader Periyar. He brought many changes to politics and society's thoughts and beliefs. The most famous one was probably bringing in a different type of Tamil writing, known as Periyar Tamil.
Periyar is born in a Telugu trader community. He is not religious, an atheist who tries to bring much sadness to his parents, who are deeply religious and caste conscious. Yet overtime he does things to upset them and eventually leaves the house as a youth. After a long trip (which people would think to be religious), he is found by his father and taken back home.
Now Periyar becomes a big man in his area and starts getting involved in politics, freedom fighting against the British and things as such. He gets his family involved and also makes many enemies. He feels opposition and yet, he continues to strive what he was committed to.
Eventually his dream comes true with the help of multitudes of other Indians. He still continues to hold an important status, until he dies.
I thought the story would be interesting, with well incorporated cheesy dialogues, but it was quite the drag for an unbearably long time and with a character who seemed very hypocritic. I'm not sure if Periyar was truly as he was portrayed, but he seemed like an evil man, more than a good one. He persisted in lying, while he claimed he was fighting against deception in the society. He supported the Indian freedom fighiting with maintaining Indian culture and stuff like that, yet he was against religious things that many people had their faith in. I could have accepted him, if he had been a true leader in using what people had faith in, to teach them good. Such as using the scriptures to apply in present day situation and things as such, instead of openly stamping on them.
A tolerable movie that could have been better. But considering it was financially supported by the current government, it is not surprising that the movie might have been attuned to their beliefs and ideals instead of what the leader truly was.
Periyar is born in a Telugu trader community. He is not religious, an atheist who tries to bring much sadness to his parents, who are deeply religious and caste conscious. Yet overtime he does things to upset them and eventually leaves the house as a youth. After a long trip (which people would think to be religious), he is found by his father and taken back home.
Now Periyar becomes a big man in his area and starts getting involved in politics, freedom fighting against the British and things as such. He gets his family involved and also makes many enemies. He feels opposition and yet, he continues to strive what he was committed to.
Eventually his dream comes true with the help of multitudes of other Indians. He still continues to hold an important status, until he dies.
I thought the story would be interesting, with well incorporated cheesy dialogues, but it was quite the drag for an unbearably long time and with a character who seemed very hypocritic. I'm not sure if Periyar was truly as he was portrayed, but he seemed like an evil man, more than a good one. He persisted in lying, while he claimed he was fighting against deception in the society. He supported the Indian freedom fighiting with maintaining Indian culture and stuff like that, yet he was against religious things that many people had their faith in. I could have accepted him, if he had been a true leader in using what people had faith in, to teach them good. Such as using the scriptures to apply in present day situation and things as such, instead of openly stamping on them.
A tolerable movie that could have been better. But considering it was financially supported by the current government, it is not surprising that the movie might have been attuned to their beliefs and ideals instead of what the leader truly was.
Tirupathi
Directed by Perarasu, with Ajith and Sada in the lead, the movie's central theme was on abolishing business with pregnant women.
Ajith runs an microphone and sound set company. He frequently runs into mischief maker Sada and as expected, they are in love.
Ajith is very close friends with a rich guy, who is the son of a politician. Enters a new guy, who seems to be throwing bad names at Ajith's friend, but when Ajith tried to bash him up, the politician's son stops and threatens him.
Ajith's brother is in college, studying to become a doctor. His family hope that he would become a socially responsible doctor, but he is thinking of becoming an NRI as soon as he graduates and have fun in his life.
Ajith's sister is pregnant and comes home for festivities. She constantly works around the house instead of taking rest. The reason being that she wants to lessen the medical fees by giving natural birth. At the time of her labour, Ajith's friend calls him away for an assignment. For his friendship, he leaves his sister.
The assignment was money extortion from some rival. Meanwhile, his family is harassed by the doctor, who was the strange man who called Ajith's friend's family names. Even without tests, he asks for money to conduct a caesarian. Even though they manage to bring the money, Ajith's sister dies.
The nurse who took care of his sister mumbles that the doctor would be killing her by the same process, as she is pregnant too. Ajith is enraged and starts hitting the doctor fatally. That's when the truth comes out that the strange man is actually his friend's step - brother. Let down by his friend, Ajith vows to make his friend kill his brother with his own hands.
With some plotting and kidnapping, he achieves it and kidnaps the politician's son, in exchange for bringing a new law to provide medical care for free in all hospitals. Although, he faces some hindrance, the law passes smoothly.
There was absolutely no need for Sada in the movie. By the way, I didn't mention but it can be figured out that Ajith's character was Tirupathi. Lots of cheesy dialogues and elevation of Ajith as a powerful figure. He seems better to be playing some soft characters and characters that need some acting, instead of just idol worship. An OK movie - you won't be missing much by skipping it.
Ajith runs an microphone and sound set company. He frequently runs into mischief maker Sada and as expected, they are in love.
Ajith is very close friends with a rich guy, who is the son of a politician. Enters a new guy, who seems to be throwing bad names at Ajith's friend, but when Ajith tried to bash him up, the politician's son stops and threatens him.
Ajith's brother is in college, studying to become a doctor. His family hope that he would become a socially responsible doctor, but he is thinking of becoming an NRI as soon as he graduates and have fun in his life.
Ajith's sister is pregnant and comes home for festivities. She constantly works around the house instead of taking rest. The reason being that she wants to lessen the medical fees by giving natural birth. At the time of her labour, Ajith's friend calls him away for an assignment. For his friendship, he leaves his sister.
The assignment was money extortion from some rival. Meanwhile, his family is harassed by the doctor, who was the strange man who called Ajith's friend's family names. Even without tests, he asks for money to conduct a caesarian. Even though they manage to bring the money, Ajith's sister dies.
The nurse who took care of his sister mumbles that the doctor would be killing her by the same process, as she is pregnant too. Ajith is enraged and starts hitting the doctor fatally. That's when the truth comes out that the strange man is actually his friend's step - brother. Let down by his friend, Ajith vows to make his friend kill his brother with his own hands.
With some plotting and kidnapping, he achieves it and kidnaps the politician's son, in exchange for bringing a new law to provide medical care for free in all hospitals. Although, he faces some hindrance, the law passes smoothly.
There was absolutely no need for Sada in the movie. By the way, I didn't mention but it can be figured out that Ajith's character was Tirupathi. Lots of cheesy dialogues and elevation of Ajith as a powerful figure. He seems better to be playing some soft characters and characters that need some acting, instead of just idol worship. An OK movie - you won't be missing much by skipping it.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Moulin Rouge
Starring Ewan McGregor and Nicole Kidman, this musical was about a love story in a Bohemian village around 1900.
Ewan is a British man in search of truth, freedom and everything Bohemian and he believes in love. He leaves comforts of his home to a Bohemian village in France. As he sits in his rental room to write a story, a crashing artiste from the roof changes his daily activities in the city. He is now involved in a play and needs to charm a lady, Nicole, from Moulin Rouge - a bar of those times - to be the leading lady in his play.
Nicole believes Ewan to be a duke, who would fund her dreams to becoming an actress, because of a minor mix-up. By the time, the mistake could be rectified, a crazy turn of activities brings the duke to fund the play and Nicole to be part of the play, with Moulin Rouge being transformed to a theatre.
Ewan makes Nicole believe and fall in love. They continue their affair under cover. It comes to light and Moulin Rouge's manager forces her to end it. Nicole falls unconscious and the manager and Nicole's caretaker find out that she is dying. But they hide the truth.
During the rehearsals of the play, duke has suspicions of the affair and when he gets a confirmation, he threatens to kill Ewan. Nicole, not having a choice, tries to end the affair. Ewan, heartbroken, shows up on the day of the play on the stage. Nicole, unable to bear the torment, tells of her love and they unite backstage, only to be separated by Nicole's death. She asks him to write a story, which he does, during his mourning.
Interesting special effects and story was set in India, with a maharaja!! I couldn't figure out why Bohemian people would turn to Indian culture and Indian artifacts around them. If anything, Indian culture was probably most conservative and mysterious, at the time when they have set the story. Also the 'chamma chamma' song is totally not 1900! The movie was OK as a musical. Although I would have liked it better, if it had been just the story. Definitely a good one, worth the watch.
Ewan is a British man in search of truth, freedom and everything Bohemian and he believes in love. He leaves comforts of his home to a Bohemian village in France. As he sits in his rental room to write a story, a crashing artiste from the roof changes his daily activities in the city. He is now involved in a play and needs to charm a lady, Nicole, from Moulin Rouge - a bar of those times - to be the leading lady in his play.
Nicole believes Ewan to be a duke, who would fund her dreams to becoming an actress, because of a minor mix-up. By the time, the mistake could be rectified, a crazy turn of activities brings the duke to fund the play and Nicole to be part of the play, with Moulin Rouge being transformed to a theatre.
Ewan makes Nicole believe and fall in love. They continue their affair under cover. It comes to light and Moulin Rouge's manager forces her to end it. Nicole falls unconscious and the manager and Nicole's caretaker find out that she is dying. But they hide the truth.
During the rehearsals of the play, duke has suspicions of the affair and when he gets a confirmation, he threatens to kill Ewan. Nicole, not having a choice, tries to end the affair. Ewan, heartbroken, shows up on the day of the play on the stage. Nicole, unable to bear the torment, tells of her love and they unite backstage, only to be separated by Nicole's death. She asks him to write a story, which he does, during his mourning.
Interesting special effects and story was set in India, with a maharaja!! I couldn't figure out why Bohemian people would turn to Indian culture and Indian artifacts around them. If anything, Indian culture was probably most conservative and mysterious, at the time when they have set the story. Also the 'chamma chamma' song is totally not 1900! The movie was OK as a musical. Although I would have liked it better, if it had been just the story. Definitely a good one, worth the watch.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
300
With a different types of colour palette and visuals, the movie is the story of 300 Spartan soldiers against the ruthless invading Persians.
The movie begins with how the current Spartan king and the other soldiers have been trained in Sparta. A Persian messenger comes now to warn the Spartan king of the onslaught he might face. He faces death.
With the counsel of his queen, the Spartan king leaves with the best 300 of his men to fight the Persians at a strategic location. They manage to win most of the onslaughts. However, they need more reinforcements.
With a fellow counsellor, the Spartan queen agrees to speak in front of the counsel. But she gives in to a corrupt official is almost defamed, when making her request. But his true colours are exposed.
Meanwhile, a severely handicapped and refused soldier betrays Sparta to the Persian and now the Spartans are trapped and yet, they fail to bow. This story is told by one of the 300, who was injured in the eye and was told to return to tell the story to the world.
The finale of the movie shows the rest of the Greek army fighting against the Persians.
I loved the colour and visual effects of the movie. A rare Greek story that I hadn't known before. Many of the Hollywood storytellers have exhausted the Trojan war. Even though the theme of the movie was bloody, it wasn't too gory to look at due to the colour scheme.
Although I couldn't understand why there was so much partial and complete nudity, especially the warriors were just walking around with a brief and a cloak - was a little unbelievable. No matter how brave and glorious a Spartan one might be, it seemed silly to me to see 300 of soldiers, walking without an armour, with only a heavy shield that had high chances of slipping off the hand. And some of those piercing arrows could have been stopped with the armour.
Still, an interesting movie worth a watch.
The movie begins with how the current Spartan king and the other soldiers have been trained in Sparta. A Persian messenger comes now to warn the Spartan king of the onslaught he might face. He faces death.
With the counsel of his queen, the Spartan king leaves with the best 300 of his men to fight the Persians at a strategic location. They manage to win most of the onslaughts. However, they need more reinforcements.
With a fellow counsellor, the Spartan queen agrees to speak in front of the counsel. But she gives in to a corrupt official is almost defamed, when making her request. But his true colours are exposed.
Meanwhile, a severely handicapped and refused soldier betrays Sparta to the Persian and now the Spartans are trapped and yet, they fail to bow. This story is told by one of the 300, who was injured in the eye and was told to return to tell the story to the world.
The finale of the movie shows the rest of the Greek army fighting against the Persians.
I loved the colour and visual effects of the movie. A rare Greek story that I hadn't known before. Many of the Hollywood storytellers have exhausted the Trojan war. Even though the theme of the movie was bloody, it wasn't too gory to look at due to the colour scheme.
Although I couldn't understand why there was so much partial and complete nudity, especially the warriors were just walking around with a brief and a cloak - was a little unbelievable. No matter how brave and glorious a Spartan one might be, it seemed silly to me to see 300 of soldiers, walking without an armour, with only a heavy shield that had high chances of slipping off the hand. And some of those piercing arrows could have been stopped with the armour.
Still, an interesting movie worth a watch.
Saturday, June 16, 2007
rendu
Starring Maddy, Reema Sen, Vadivelu and others, the movie is a story of a revenge.
Maddy travels to the city in search of making a livelihood, meets his uncle, Vadivelu and they try together to do something about Vadivelu's business, but their rival, Reema's business seems to be taking everything away from them. Over time, Maddy and Reema fall in love. But this is not liked her uncle, who wants her. When he stops the love birds, Maddy defends her and rigourously pursues him. In the end, Reema sees him kill her uncle.
Meanwhile, the city detective is investigating 2 murders, that was done by the same person. With some background research, the detective finds out who the next victim might be, but unfortunately just witness the murder, like Reema did.
The cops capture Maddy, but the detective believes that there is actually another man, who looks exactly like Maddy. When Maddy is taken to the court, his friends and Maddy 2 put up a drama and rescue Maddy 1. The difference between the two is that Maddy 1 can see and has black eyes, while Maddy 2 is blind and has grey eyes.
Maddy 1 is really mad with Maddy 2, but Maddy 2 begs him to hear his story and so begins flashback.
Maddy 2 is the youngest son of a marriage organizer. He meets the girl of his dreams at a marriage his father organizes. He is the best at everything. Meanwhile, the father of the bride discovers that the deeds to the land owned by the local temple were actually forged and the real documents were now found. The local industrialist wants to keep this a secret and offers money to buy his silence, but he refuses. And in a commotion, the whole marriage house learns of the fraud.
At the same time, the groom's family discovers that the bride has epilepsy and leaves. Maddy suggests an alliance between their families instead. Everyone is happy and as the marriage proceeds, the industrialist's thugs come in and kill everyone to erase every
one who knew about the fraud. Even though they thought they killed everyone, Maddy and one of his friend survive. They are now on a circle of revenge.
Now Maddy 1 and 2, Maddy 2's friend, Reema and Vadivelu all join forces to kill the industrialist. Everything runs smoothly and in the end, Maddy 2 dies with the villain.
Lots of recurring themes from other movies. The way the villain tried to kill everyone in the marriage seemed like the way the village was destroyed in the movie Citizen. The way Maddy 2's love was killed was like Gajini's Asin death (lot's of movies are actually using this type of action sequence). I don't know if this was from Varalaaru or Varalaaru took from this movie about having a second hero with coloured eyes. Either way, both Maddy and Ajith look decently well with coloured irises. I find it so annoying when people are excessively tanned and they try a 'cool' lens colour and they just end up looking more like aliens than humans.
The movie in itself was OK, but the setting of comedy in the beginning of the movie was a bit of a drag and really non-Tamil heroines should think about being more modest. Feminists fight against skin show of women. What about women who don't walk out of a movie because they are asked to show skin? Once a few instances happen, I'm sure skin show will be a thing of the past. Of course all have to co-operate. Anyway, movie is worth a watch.
Maddy travels to the city in search of making a livelihood, meets his uncle, Vadivelu and they try together to do something about Vadivelu's business, but their rival, Reema's business seems to be taking everything away from them. Over time, Maddy and Reema fall in love. But this is not liked her uncle, who wants her. When he stops the love birds, Maddy defends her and rigourously pursues him. In the end, Reema sees him kill her uncle.
Meanwhile, the city detective is investigating 2 murders, that was done by the same person. With some background research, the detective finds out who the next victim might be, but unfortunately just witness the murder, like Reema did.
The cops capture Maddy, but the detective believes that there is actually another man, who looks exactly like Maddy. When Maddy is taken to the court, his friends and Maddy 2 put up a drama and rescue Maddy 1. The difference between the two is that Maddy 1 can see and has black eyes, while Maddy 2 is blind and has grey eyes.
Maddy 1 is really mad with Maddy 2, but Maddy 2 begs him to hear his story and so begins flashback.
Maddy 2 is the youngest son of a marriage organizer. He meets the girl of his dreams at a marriage his father organizes. He is the best at everything. Meanwhile, the father of the bride discovers that the deeds to the land owned by the local temple were actually forged and the real documents were now found. The local industrialist wants to keep this a secret and offers money to buy his silence, but he refuses. And in a commotion, the whole marriage house learns of the fraud.
At the same time, the groom's family discovers that the bride has epilepsy and leaves. Maddy suggests an alliance between their families instead. Everyone is happy and as the marriage proceeds, the industrialist's thugs come in and kill everyone to erase every
one who knew about the fraud. Even though they thought they killed everyone, Maddy and one of his friend survive. They are now on a circle of revenge.
Now Maddy 1 and 2, Maddy 2's friend, Reema and Vadivelu all join forces to kill the industrialist. Everything runs smoothly and in the end, Maddy 2 dies with the villain.
Lots of recurring themes from other movies. The way the villain tried to kill everyone in the marriage seemed like the way the village was destroyed in the movie Citizen. The way Maddy 2's love was killed was like Gajini's Asin death (lot's of movies are actually using this type of action sequence). I don't know if this was from Varalaaru or Varalaaru took from this movie about having a second hero with coloured eyes. Either way, both Maddy and Ajith look decently well with coloured irises. I find it so annoying when people are excessively tanned and they try a 'cool' lens colour and they just end up looking more like aliens than humans.
The movie in itself was OK, but the setting of comedy in the beginning of the movie was a bit of a drag and really non-Tamil heroines should think about being more modest. Feminists fight against skin show of women. What about women who don't walk out of a movie because they are asked to show skin? Once a few instances happen, I'm sure skin show will be a thing of the past. Of course all have to co-operate. Anyway, movie is worth a watch.
Koodal nagar
In double roles, Bharath with Bhavana and 'Kadhal' Sandhya come together in this racy flick.
Bharath and Bharath - Surya and Chandran are twins. They lost their father at a young age. Their mother brought them up. To allow Suri to pursue his education, Chandran starts work at an early age in a mortuary.
Now Suri still works at the same place, while Chandran has a book store of his own. Both guys get their loves. Suri is in danger as he loves the girl of a big local thug. When he starts suspecting of the affair, he orders to kill Suri.
And when the lovers were planning on eloping, Suri is killed. Chandran knows the truth, but pretends that he knows nothing about it, lures the villain and kills him.
Even though the storyline is short, the way the movie was carried is racy and well paced. It keeps you glued to the TV, especially the twist in the last scene is worth watching.
Good performance by Bharath. He is definitely one of the most talented upcoming new stars, with variety of down to earth roles. The ladies don't have much to do, but are tolerable. Movie definitely worth the watch.
Bharath and Bharath - Surya and Chandran are twins. They lost their father at a young age. Their mother brought them up. To allow Suri to pursue his education, Chandran starts work at an early age in a mortuary.
Now Suri still works at the same place, while Chandran has a book store of his own. Both guys get their loves. Suri is in danger as he loves the girl of a big local thug. When he starts suspecting of the affair, he orders to kill Suri.
And when the lovers were planning on eloping, Suri is killed. Chandran knows the truth, but pretends that he knows nothing about it, lures the villain and kills him.
Even though the storyline is short, the way the movie was carried is racy and well paced. It keeps you glued to the TV, especially the twist in the last scene is worth watching.
Good performance by Bharath. He is definitely one of the most talented upcoming new stars, with variety of down to earth roles. The ladies don't have much to do, but are tolerable. Movie definitely worth the watch.
Cheeni Kam
Cheeni kam meaning less sugar is the story of love between a 64-year old chef and a 34-year old woman.
Starring Amitabh Bachchan, Tabu and Paresh Rawal, the story is set in London and New Delhi. Buddhadev is the chef of a leading Indian restaurant in London. He is pretty tensed and a bachelor at 64 years. One day, he is appalled by a dish making its way back into the kitchen. And he treats the customer rudely.
The next day he receives the same dish from that customer, the way it is actually supposed to be made. In an effort to say sorry, he ends up spending much time with the Neena and they fall in love. Now, it is the difficult time of making their parents agree. Although Buddha's mother agrees, Neena's father seems like a tough nut to crack.
Not only does Neena's father keep pointing out the fact that Buddha was actually older than him, he even fails to recognise Buddha's signs of a marriage proposal. But somehow the proposal is put forth and Neena's father is disgusted and tries hard to make his daughter change her mind. After some tough talking and tears, Neena's father agrees.
The movie was pretty well paced, decent (something that could be watched with family, except for the appalling concept, itself). The songs were composed by Ilaiyaraja - they were pieces from his 80s Tamil movie compositions. Comedy was down to earth and lively. My favourite character in the movie was the cancer ridden little girl - Sexy. Very well performed, especially as a child. Movie definitely worth multiple watches..
Starring Amitabh Bachchan, Tabu and Paresh Rawal, the story is set in London and New Delhi. Buddhadev is the chef of a leading Indian restaurant in London. He is pretty tensed and a bachelor at 64 years. One day, he is appalled by a dish making its way back into the kitchen. And he treats the customer rudely.
The next day he receives the same dish from that customer, the way it is actually supposed to be made. In an effort to say sorry, he ends up spending much time with the Neena and they fall in love. Now, it is the difficult time of making their parents agree. Although Buddha's mother agrees, Neena's father seems like a tough nut to crack.
Not only does Neena's father keep pointing out the fact that Buddha was actually older than him, he even fails to recognise Buddha's signs of a marriage proposal. But somehow the proposal is put forth and Neena's father is disgusted and tries hard to make his daughter change her mind. After some tough talking and tears, Neena's father agrees.
The movie was pretty well paced, decent (something that could be watched with family, except for the appalling concept, itself). The songs were composed by Ilaiyaraja - they were pieces from his 80s Tamil movie compositions. Comedy was down to earth and lively. My favourite character in the movie was the cancer ridden little girl - Sexy. Very well performed, especially as a child. Movie definitely worth multiple watches..
Thursday, June 14, 2007
American Pie 5
After looking at the original Stifler, the baby brother of Stifler, part 5 of this movie series explores the life of the cousin Stifler - the one who isn't a 'true' Stifler, considering the history in the other movies.
Stifler is not able to 'get laid' or attract girls like his other relatives had. He has a nice girlfriend, who is not ready to have 'it'. Even though they try it once, they fail miserably at it. Finally, Stifler's girlfriend gives him a guilt free weekend to the prestigious Naked Mile.
Very happy, Stifler leaves for the party, which starts off with a 'run' after which there is a party. During the party, Stifler is almost about to get laid, but he realises the only one he loves is his girlfriend and he makes the trip back to get her. Seeing his love, his girlfriend agrees and things end happily ever after.
The party and the Naked Mile itself was so annoying and it seemed like this was one of the few American Pie movies that had some sort of story in it. Anyway, I'm done with the Pie movies for a while now.
Stifler is not able to 'get laid' or attract girls like his other relatives had. He has a nice girlfriend, who is not ready to have 'it'. Even though they try it once, they fail miserably at it. Finally, Stifler's girlfriend gives him a guilt free weekend to the prestigious Naked Mile.
Very happy, Stifler leaves for the party, which starts off with a 'run' after which there is a party. During the party, Stifler is almost about to get laid, but he realises the only one he loves is his girlfriend and he makes the trip back to get her. Seeing his love, his girlfriend agrees and things end happily ever after.
The party and the Naked Mile itself was so annoying and it seemed like this was one of the few American Pie movies that had some sort of story in it. Anyway, I'm done with the Pie movies for a while now.
American Pie 4
The movie sequel returns with a new crew to see the development of the baby brother of Stifler into the classic Stifler that we have seen in the first 3 parts of American Pie.
Stifler brings in trouble during the graduation ceremony by spraying the instruments with pepper spray. As a corrective punishment, he is forced to go to the band camp. Again, he resumes his retarded pea-brain ways. But to get a girl in the band camp, he tries to act nice, but even after the stupid stuff he does, he realises he likes the girl. So Stifler tries to be nice to give the girl what she wants.
A movie without losing the flavour of American Pie. It seemed to be a better chick flick that the ones before this.
Stifler brings in trouble during the graduation ceremony by spraying the instruments with pepper spray. As a corrective punishment, he is forced to go to the band camp. Again, he resumes his retarded pea-brain ways. But to get a girl in the band camp, he tries to act nice, but even after the stupid stuff he does, he realises he likes the girl. So Stifler tries to be nice to give the girl what she wants.
A movie without losing the flavour of American Pie. It seemed to be a better chick flick that the ones before this.
Girl with a pearl earring
Starring Scarlett Johansson and Colin Firth, the movie shows the history behind the portrait of the girl with a pearl earring.
With famiy problems, Griet leaves to work in a different house. Fortunately, she ends up working in the house of a painter. But her helping the painter and working with him only causes her more trouble. With her beauty, she falls prey to the financier of the painter. The painter's wife is maddened and angered by her husband's preference. The painter's daughter (personally, I think she was a brat) breaks her personal articles and brings her trouble.
The only consolation or love she sees is in the eyes of a butcher, from whom she buys meat for the family.
Finally, the painter asks her to pose for a painting, with his wife's earrings. This pulls the final thread for the wife, who, now disposes of the girl.
An interesting story. Although I didn't like Johansson's performance (seemed a little underplayed) and Firth's unhygienic looks, the overall production was good to watch. Sometimes, I felt as though I was lost, but it is usual with stories that deal with people's emotions, as you can't see what people are thinking. Movie worth a watch.
The only consolation or love she sees is in the eyes of a butcher, from whom she buys meat for the family.
Finally, the painter asks her to pose for a painting, with his wife's earrings. This pulls the final thread for the wife, who, now disposes of the girl.
An interesting story. Although I didn't like Johansson's performance (seemed a little underplayed) and Firth's unhygienic looks, the overall production was good to watch. Sometimes, I felt as though I was lost, but it is usual with stories that deal with people's emotions, as you can't see what people are thinking. Movie worth a watch.
Centre Stage
With a whole set of new faces, Centre Stage is the story of students at a ballet school.
Jodie is not a great ballet dancer, but she makes it into the most prestigious school, because she seemed happy to be dancing. She reaches the ballet school to meet some varying personalities as her roommates.
Eva, the girl with the attitude, who claims she doesn't care but gets hurt, when she doesn't get selected. Maurina, the perfect ballet girl, whom Jodie is so jealous of.
She meets nice guys too. Charlie, her friend, who tries to make her happy all the time. Eric, the nice guy who doesn't mind being in tights. Sergei, the Russian who came to America to learn ballet. Finally, Nielson, the awesome dancer, who has an eye on Jodie.
Jodie gets involved with Nielson and gets hurt. Maurina starts going out and starts getting sick with the pressure to be thin. Eva gets on a bad start with the top person in the school. Charlie asks Jodie out, but is turned down. Eric sprains his ankle and is unable to perform in the grand show.
Things take a little bit of a turn in the end, with all getting what they wanted. Although the movie was old wine in a new bottle, it was fast paced and quick moving. I can't identify much with ballet, but it seems to be a graceful enough dance for those people to be passionate about. But the movie is worth the watch for the twist and drift of emotions.
Jodie is not a great ballet dancer, but she makes it into the most prestigious school, because she seemed happy to be dancing. She reaches the ballet school to meet some varying personalities as her roommates.
Eva, the girl with the attitude, who claims she doesn't care but gets hurt, when she doesn't get selected. Maurina, the perfect ballet girl, whom Jodie is so jealous of.
She meets nice guys too. Charlie, her friend, who tries to make her happy all the time. Eric, the nice guy who doesn't mind being in tights. Sergei, the Russian who came to America to learn ballet. Finally, Nielson, the awesome dancer, who has an eye on Jodie.
Jodie gets involved with Nielson and gets hurt. Maurina starts going out and starts getting sick with the pressure to be thin. Eva gets on a bad start with the top person in the school. Charlie asks Jodie out, but is turned down. Eric sprains his ankle and is unable to perform in the grand show.
Things take a little bit of a turn in the end, with all getting what they wanted. Although the movie was old wine in a new bottle, it was fast paced and quick moving. I can't identify much with ballet, but it seems to be a graceful enough dance for those people to be passionate about. But the movie is worth the watch for the twist and drift of emotions.
Ocean's Twelve
The cast from Ocean's eleven come together to re-create the magic.
Benedict is vengeful about the previous heist and tracks down each one of the eleven and warns them to return the money with interest. With not enough money, the team decides to go for its next heist to Amsterdam.
On their very first try, they are defeated by the NightFox. They are disappointed, but they meet up with him and realise that he was the one who had tipped off Benedict. It was because of his ego and rivalry, when his mentor refused to mention NightFox was the best in a conversation.
They set up the challenge to be the Faberge egg, that is soon to be transported to the museum. Ocean's twelve fail to capture the egg, because of an Interpol detective who is smartly knowledgeable about their activities. Even though she captures all of them, they escape when one of the team member's, Linus', mother. By this point, we can see that the team has something up the sleeve.
Danny and Tess wait for the Night Fox to hear his side of the story. After he explains his story, he realises Ocean and Rusty had actually met with the master of thieves, LeMarc and got the secret of the egg. Ocean's twelve win again.
The story started to drag a bit in the middle with the cycle of vengeance and the feeling of how the team is going to fail. But the movie was worth it after the end story of how Ocean's twelve did it was told. Movie worth the watch.
Benedict is vengeful about the previous heist and tracks down each one of the eleven and warns them to return the money with interest. With not enough money, the team decides to go for its next heist to Amsterdam.
On their very first try, they are defeated by the NightFox. They are disappointed, but they meet up with him and realise that he was the one who had tipped off Benedict. It was because of his ego and rivalry, when his mentor refused to mention NightFox was the best in a conversation.
They set up the challenge to be the Faberge egg, that is soon to be transported to the museum. Ocean's twelve fail to capture the egg, because of an Interpol detective who is smartly knowledgeable about their activities. Even though she captures all of them, they escape when one of the team member's, Linus', mother. By this point, we can see that the team has something up the sleeve.
Danny and Tess wait for the Night Fox to hear his side of the story. After he explains his story, he realises Ocean and Rusty had actually met with the master of thieves, LeMarc and got the secret of the egg. Ocean's twelve win again.
The story started to drag a bit in the middle with the cycle of vengeance and the feeling of how the team is going to fail. But the movie was worth it after the end story of how Ocean's twelve did it was told. Movie worth the watch.
Ocean's Eleven
With a huge star cast, the movie is about the planned robbery of a Las Vegas casino.
Ocean, just released from jail, meets his friend to tell him of his plan. They gather their teammates together and plan their moves. As the plan proceeds, Rusty discovers, Benedict (casino owner) is dating Tess (Ocean's ex-wife). He is not pleased as now it seems like a private battle between Ocean and Benedict. With his out of the crew, everything proceeds. After some interesting twists and turns, the casino is robbed and plan is executed successfully.
A very interesting and well done movie. I loved the quick dialogues. It almost reminded me of Mani Ratnam's movies. Also after seeing the movie, it seemed like Dhoom and Dhoom 2, might have got their inspiration from this movie. Anyway, good performance by all the cast and Clooney and Pitt were in the movie together. What more could I ask for :)?
Ocean, just released from jail, meets his friend to tell him of his plan. They gather their teammates together and plan their moves. As the plan proceeds, Rusty discovers, Benedict (casino owner) is dating Tess (Ocean's ex-wife). He is not pleased as now it seems like a private battle between Ocean and Benedict. With his out of the crew, everything proceeds. After some interesting twists and turns, the casino is robbed and plan is executed successfully.
A very interesting and well done movie. I loved the quick dialogues. It almost reminded me of Mani Ratnam's movies. Also after seeing the movie, it seemed like Dhoom and Dhoom 2, might have got their inspiration from this movie. Anyway, good performance by all the cast and Clooney and Pitt were in the movie together. What more could I ask for :)?
Friday, June 8, 2007
The Da Vinci Hoax
Having seen a viewpoint with the Holy Blood, Holy Grail and the Da Vinci Code, I was interested to see what the opponents would have said about the venture and this new question that has gripped many people. Written by Carl E. Olson and Sandra Miesel, the Da Vinci Hoax does not entirely refute what the Holy Blood, Holy Grail claims, but only points out errors from the bestselling novel.
Even though Dan Brown claims that the history in the novel is all factual, these writers claim that some of it was misconstrued.
My favourite argument in the book was that if the Church really intended to wipe out the truth about Mary Magdalene, why even involve her in the Bible at all? Since the people had the power, then to re-write history, they could have well chosen to eradicate a character than twist her truth, which would have resulted in lesser questions and controversy - which seemed like a valid point.
The second major argument that was interesting was that both the Da Vinci Code and the Holy Blood, Holy Grail claim that Jesus Christ was for feminism, according to the Nag Hammadi documents, but there is a passage or paragraph in those documents that claim to 'make' Mary into a man, so that she could join the others.
And finally, it was interesting to see another viewpoint that it was actually Mother Mary, who could be the holy grail, since she was the one to carry the royal blood, i.e. Jesus Christ.
The book was definitely a good read. Again, apart from some deep dives into the history, which I can't retain, most of it seemed to make a good argument against the claim of Brown and Baigent, instead of just trying to make a point for the sake of religion.
Even though Dan Brown claims that the history in the novel is all factual, these writers claim that some of it was misconstrued.
My favourite argument in the book was that if the Church really intended to wipe out the truth about Mary Magdalene, why even involve her in the Bible at all? Since the people had the power, then to re-write history, they could have well chosen to eradicate a character than twist her truth, which would have resulted in lesser questions and controversy - which seemed like a valid point.
The second major argument that was interesting was that both the Da Vinci Code and the Holy Blood, Holy Grail claim that Jesus Christ was for feminism, according to the Nag Hammadi documents, but there is a passage or paragraph in those documents that claim to 'make' Mary into a man, so that she could join the others.
And finally, it was interesting to see another viewpoint that it was actually Mother Mary, who could be the holy grail, since she was the one to carry the royal blood, i.e. Jesus Christ.
The book was definitely a good read. Again, apart from some deep dives into the history, which I can't retain, most of it seemed to make a good argument against the claim of Brown and Baigent, instead of just trying to make a point for the sake of religion.
The Holy Blood and the Holy Grail
Written by Michael Baigent, Richard Leigh and Henry Lincoln, the book provides the factual basis for the international best seller The Da Vinci Code, by Dan Brown.
Story began the little village of Rennes-le-Chateau, its chapel, the father and his housekeeper. Most of the first half is trying to establish the lineage and the history behind Jesus' dynasty. Some parts elaborated and went in depth with the history. Information on Knights Templar, Paganism, Emperor Constantine are brought forth to set the stage for the second half. Although they ended every chapter with the question 'why?' the authors didn't explain further details until part two of the book.
The second half of the book delved into the relationship between Mary Magdalene and Jesus Christ. It, for the most part, reiterated what Dan Brown had explored in the Da Vinci Code. But it went further on explaining the excavations and things forth. It spoke of the efforts taken by the church to eradicate all records. And lots of other details, delving deeper into the mysteries that were unknown before.
I'm not a great fan of history. But I didn't suck at it either. There was definitely too much detail for me to absorb. The descendants and lineage and marriages between families was definitely an overkill for a reader looking just for the basic evidence. Yet, it was a good attempt as what I read, I understood, just couldn't retain. An interesting book to read to see a different viewpoint on history and religion.
Story began the little village of Rennes-le-Chateau, its chapel, the father and his housekeeper. Most of the first half is trying to establish the lineage and the history behind Jesus' dynasty. Some parts elaborated and went in depth with the history. Information on Knights Templar, Paganism, Emperor Constantine are brought forth to set the stage for the second half. Although they ended every chapter with the question 'why?' the authors didn't explain further details until part two of the book.
The second half of the book delved into the relationship between Mary Magdalene and Jesus Christ. It, for the most part, reiterated what Dan Brown had explored in the Da Vinci Code. But it went further on explaining the excavations and things forth. It spoke of the efforts taken by the church to eradicate all records. And lots of other details, delving deeper into the mysteries that were unknown before.
I'm not a great fan of history. But I didn't suck at it either. There was definitely too much detail for me to absorb. The descendants and lineage and marriages between families was definitely an overkill for a reader looking just for the basic evidence. Yet, it was a good attempt as what I read, I understood, just couldn't retain. An interesting book to read to see a different viewpoint on history and religion.
Chennai 600028
With many new faces and production under S.P.B.Charan, the movie is an effort to re-create the magic of Lagaan, without the magic.
For as long as history can remember, the Sharks and the Rockers cricket teams have been on the opposite sides of the fence and they never could make peace.
Because of his father's job, a player (let's call him Vijay considering he is almost a lookalike) on the Rocker's team, moves into Sharks neighbourhood. As expected, there is constant friction and fights.
Due to the distance from his old place, Vijay is not able to attend Rockers' practice on time and is replaced by another player. Insulted by his team, he feels it OK to be playing in the Sharks team. He does a favour, unknowingly to the Sharks' team captain and stays in everyone's good books.
With the declaration of a new cup, both the teams are eager to win it. But Sharks' team faces hurdles as their team breaks apart due to differences and at the last minute, their captain is greviously injured. But beyond everything, as expected, the teams meet in the finals and emerge victorious.
The beginning of the movie, where Vijay moves into the new neighbourhood was amusing to watch, especially the scene where he proudly struts into the bathroom, just to cry about his fate, was hilarious. But after those few scenes, the rest lacked any class or style. The acting was bland and the story was so cheesy, that you were sighing more than feeling what the actors were trying to portray. A movie below average - maybe worth a watch, if you really have nothing better to do.
For as long as history can remember, the Sharks and the Rockers cricket teams have been on the opposite sides of the fence and they never could make peace.
Because of his father's job, a player (let's call him Vijay considering he is almost a lookalike) on the Rocker's team, moves into Sharks neighbourhood. As expected, there is constant friction and fights.
Due to the distance from his old place, Vijay is not able to attend Rockers' practice on time and is replaced by another player. Insulted by his team, he feels it OK to be playing in the Sharks team. He does a favour, unknowingly to the Sharks' team captain and stays in everyone's good books.
With the declaration of a new cup, both the teams are eager to win it. But Sharks' team faces hurdles as their team breaks apart due to differences and at the last minute, their captain is greviously injured. But beyond everything, as expected, the teams meet in the finals and emerge victorious.
The beginning of the movie, where Vijay moves into the new neighbourhood was amusing to watch, especially the scene where he proudly struts into the bathroom, just to cry about his fate, was hilarious. But after those few scenes, the rest lacked any class or style. The acting was bland and the story was so cheesy, that you were sighing more than feeling what the actors were trying to portray. A movie below average - maybe worth a watch, if you really have nothing better to do.
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