Inland Empire (2006)

Attempt of Experience Through a Mastermind.



Written and Directed by: David Lynch.

Starring: Laura Dern and Justin Theroux.

4 Years ago I watched a movie. In that movie when Naomi Watts wakes up and her neighbor calls her name as Diane, which previously was Betty and Diane is living in a filthy barren house wearing a dirty stinky bathrobe instead of a fancy silkish red bathrobe worn by Betty while living in a fabulous LA apartment during first half of the movie. It is important to mention that both Diane and Betty were played by Naomi Watts and all these changes in the story were without any warning, and that is when I realised I have to watch this movie again. So I watched it immediately after it was over, then again and again and again trying to figure out what is the basic plot. It played in my mind for months and this became the movie I have viewed THE maximum number of times ever. I spent hours and days watching it and theorizing it. In the end I gave up when I realised that this movie is all about the experience of watching it. The name of the movie was Mulholland Drive (2001).

Enter stage 10 of a hollywood studio where 'On High in Blue Tomorrows' is in production. Laura Dern (as Nikki) is playing Susan and Justin Theroux (as Devon) is playing Billy. The director of the movie during rehearsals reveals a fact about the movie that it was in production before. There was something 'in the story' that stopped the earlier production by previous filmakers. Now baffled as they can be, both Nikki and Devon get intrigued. The production of 'Blue Tomorrows' continues and strange things start to happen. First one is suspicion of invasion of privacy on stage 10 during rehearsals. Devon follows the 'sound of footsteps' but finds no one. Then follows a series of scenes of a lady watching a movie, a group of whores, shooting of Blue Tomorrows, a cold and gloomy street where people talk Polish, three Rabbits and Nikki and Devon. These scenes are connected to each other either by same dialogues, same characters, same gestures, same ambience or a watch. Because Lynch creates these images which require your attention, it furthur helps to get confused and curious as to ask question what happened next? This realization of connection and curiosity happens at every single point of the movie. Not to mention there is non-linearity as well. Now to explain how scenes are possibly connected will spoil the movie.

Now after writing these two paragraphs I am sure I got you confused as to ask me what is Inland Empire all about. The tagline says "A Woman In Trouble". David Lynch summed the whole story up in this one line. Because there in no way anybody can write a review of any David Lynch movie. His movies do not conform to any other movies that have a plot and a set of characters that play what they are meant to be. Lynch always defies these rules and has his own vision. If you are looking for a plot or an explanation then rather do not bother. Because Inland Empire is about 'the experience of watching and its effects on the viewer'. In his autobographical book Lynch on Lynch, where the author interviews him about his movies and paintings. When they talk about Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me (1992) Lynch said that he recieved hundreds of letters from the girls who saw this movie and who had some personal experience of physical abuse from parents at some point during their lives. All those girls asked Lynch 'how could he create an exact feeling of what they went through?'. This itself says that his movies create a particular emotion that can only be felt and experienced. He takes you on a ride and you just see all those strinkingly unforgettable images, feel those emotions, hear those extraordinary series of sounds and come out of the theatre realising that even the front door of the auditorium looks different than when you came in. This is the effect due to 'Lynch-stinged' mind.

My Rating: 9/10.

Grindhouse (2007).

Greatest homage to dead exploitation genre.

From Wikipedia:
Grindhouses were the cinema halls known for non-stop programs of B movies, usually consisting of a double feature where two films were shown back to back.

About 10 years ago I remember going to a B-grade movie theatre in India with my cousin and my brother in law to watch a sexploitation flick. I remember looking away from the screen for some shocking scenes. Today I sat through Grindhouse and yes I did look away because of some ugly and disgusting scenes. I guess Tarantino and Rodriguez pretty much brought everything back in Grindhouse, a two-movies-back-to-back feature film.

Planet Terror.

Written and Directed by: Robert Rodriguez.
Starring: Naveen Andrews, Rose McGowan.

This is the first offering of the "Grindhouse" directed by Robert Rodriguez. This is a Zombie movie. They always have a doctor whose experiment goes wrong and people walk who were assumed dead. They either have slashed faces or some skin irritation the size of coconuts. They always march together and always have a thirst for human blood. So some good looking women who never got lucky enough to get to the Big Banners, always wear exotic clothes bought from a Dollar Store and carry machine guns along with some legendary B-grade actors with shotgns on a killing rampage. This time there is a slight twist that the chick has lost a leg and apparently her co-star has found a way to use the "leftover" to install a gun that can be used to point and fire so as to add a factor of action to the sleazy body. Wow, now that is a sensational innovation that can be sold which fits an exploitation cinema's definition. There are some scenes that can make you sick to the stomach but at the same time are hillarious.

Death Proof.

Written and Directed by: Quentin Tarantino.
Starring: Kurt Russell, Zoe Bell.

This is the second offering after few fake movie trailers. This redneck car-chase genre movie is directed by Quentin Tarantino. This one actually is a lot better than the first offering. Tarantino does make this one look like a B-grade, but at the same time he does not forget to use hiw own styles and techniques. May it be 'this-converstation-has-got-something-to-do-with-the-next-half-hour' screenwriting technique, very typical Tarantino, or high pop culture references. Death Proof IS a Tarantino movie. The camera angles by QT himself during the car chase are quite fascinating. Last 20 mintes or so are the peak of sensational values. Zoe Bell's stunt is the key aspect of this chase. For these minutes the movie is recommended.

Both the directors have 'aged' the reels purposely. They also added 'missing reel, sorry for inconvenience-thetre manager' slides during the movies. In Death proof at one point the camera starts to zoom out and in a second starts zooming in as if to specify "unskilled cameraman". Go Enjoy this movie. Oh yeah, I strongly remember not taking any females with me during my visit to a Grindhouse in India.

My Rating: 8/10.

Eklavya:The Royal Guard (2007).

A guard's quest to fulfill his religion.

Directed and written by: Vidhu Vinod Chopra.

Starring: Amitabh Bachchan, Saif Ali Khan, Boman Irani.

Enter a royal mansion of Rajasthan, India that is filled with secrets. The royal guard Eklavya (Amitabh Bachchan) is humble, sincere and ruthless. He is guarding the king Rana Jayawardhan (Boman Irani). Like one of the characters Eklavya from the epic Mahabharata, who cut his thumb off as a gesture of respect when his Archery teacher asks him to as fees for the teaching, this royal guard is also determined to protect his king so as to consider this job as his only Religion. What secrets this mansion is hiding? What happens when one tries to blow off the lid off these secrets? Will Eklavya be able to follow his religion? Well the questions are answered, except for one which you will see at the end.

After giving Khamosh (1985), Parinda (1989) and 1942-A love story (1993) Vidhu Vinod Chopra comes back with his own screenplay and his own vision blended in a big screen art piece. Like those other films he still has his cutting knife as sharp as it was before. Little rugged tip though. Mr Chopra has created a dark sequence that can only be understood from voices in the background. He has created a scene where camera is panning over the entire entrance way towards the mansion that reminds Kubrick and Fincher's fluid-track camera. He has created a thrilling sequence involving a car standing close to a running train along with sprinting camels in one of the deserts of Rajasthan. He has created a dark and glooming atmosphere throughout the entire movie which will keep you glued to your seat. He has a vision and he has stick to it all the way almost till the last 10 minutes of the movie. Actually he did give a sign of a grand finale with Harshwardhan's (Saif Ali Khan) gesture which if Mr Chopra has stayed with then this tale would have made sense and fit to all of the character's intentions. But unfortunately Mr Chopra goes a little further which will steer away this car ride out on a gravel road where the scenery is hazy due to the dust. At this point perhaps he could not decide if he can still continue to be an artist or rather make money out of this? Its upto you how hard you take those 10 minutes. Personally Mr Chhopra was already impressive enough to give an exhilarating experience through his quality cinema.

Mr Bachchan as the royal guard has a style and attitude that would take his character where you believe him completely. When he stands next to the bed where queen Suhasini devi (Sharmila Tagore) is lying, he has the eyes that will negate the possibilities of any words from the screenplay. The sequence of chopping off the bells tied to a flying dove's feet is at first seems little cheesy but sometime later helps you understand how unique his talent is. Though his expressions are not new but still he performs with utter honesty.

Saif Ali Khan as the prince charming lights the screen with his persona. His performance is the second memorable followed by Boman Irani as the king and Vidya Balan as Harshwardhan's lover Rajjo. Jackie Shroff makes a comeback to commercial cinema after quite a while. Seems like Mr Chopra wanted to bring Shubhankar from 1942-A love story. He is little more older, tired and less believable. Sanjay Dutt and Raima Sen contribute a little to the story.

Cinematography by Nataraja Subramanian is quite stunning which requires an auditorium viewing.

Eklavya asks a question that how far can you go to be RELIGIOUS? This movie is a great attempt which deserves applause.

My rating: 7/10.

300 (2007).

Comic book with a soundtrack.

Directed by: Zack Snyder.

Writing credits: Frank Miller (Graphic novel).

Starring: Gerard Butler, Dominic West.

300 is a transformation of the Frank Miller's graphic novel of the same name published in 1999 into a digital movie with a techno soundtrack. This is a tale of 300 Spartans who fought about a million Persians at Thermopylae in 480 B.C. Led by King Leonidas these 300 soldiers fought for the glory by making a phalanx at the entrance of a mountain pass over three days.

300 is quite a graphic film directed by Zack Snyder who previously created Dawn of the Dead. Some of the scenes like the one when Leonidas rejects the offer of earth and water or the blinking of a wolf's eyes in the dark or the rhino killing sequence are directly creditable to Mr Snyder. But then his direction tries to make an epic but fails at the urge of creating an actual portrayal of Frank Miller's vision on a big screen. When I saw The making of 300 the filmmakers evidently mentioned the idea to make a movie almost similar to the comic book images used as story boarding for quite a few scenes. That limited the scope of not just directing but also screenwriting for Zack Snyder and Kurt Johnstad. While watching the movie there seemed no sympathy to the urge of glory of the 300 Spartans. Not to ignore cheesy romantic dialogues between Leonidas and Queen Gorgo. Key scenes have limited words. Mr Miller himself has claimed to have changed the history to make it look cooler. The battle scene dialogues between fellow Spartans sound like conversation between a bunch of college kids watching a Monday Night football game at a local Hooters. Also there is quite a fascination with flesh exposure in the movie. There is squirting of blood throughout. But what is missing is a solid story-telling. This would make this a mediocre movie watching experience.

Acting department doesn't have much scope. Everyone required to be on an adrenaline rush which is probably why they scream their 'glorious' dialogues, say for instance 'Tonight we dine in hell' or 'This is Spartan'. Rather one thing the actors were expected to have was 'six-pack abs' and they all count six each. Well if you just expect about 2 hours of entertainment then this is a movie that looks and sounds cool.

Do not go to the theatres. But do watch it on an HD pay-per-view to experience the fascinating use of colors and sound.

My rating: 4/10.

Zodiac (2007).

Search for the Zodiac.

Directed by: David Fincher.
Writing Credits: Robert Graysmith (novel), James Vanderbilt(Screenplay).
Starring: Jake Gyllenhaal, Mark Ruffalo, Robert Downey Jr.

Two teenage lovers on a date take a little detour in Vallejo,CA. . While sitting in the car they see a black car come close and stop nearby and just drive off. Not so soon it vanishes in the dark they hear tires screeching and the car comes back. It stops and a dark figure gets out and walk towards the couple with a flashlight just like a cop. When the boy is about to say anything we hear the shot and the guy falls on the seat in a slow motion. Next is the girl. When the dark figure finishes off we hear an emergency call over a pan shot of California made to a nearby police station supposedly by the killer himself to report two dead bodies in a car.

Zodiac is a story about a cartoonist Robert Graysmith (Jake Gyllenhaal) of the San Francisco Chronicle. One day the 'Chronicle' receives a letter about a guy who calls himself as Zodiac. Letter mentions few details about the murder of two teenagers sitting in a car which cops missed out during the investigations so to prove writer's identity. While Robert's curiosity is raised with a code given in the letter received by the Chronicle, he continues to decipher it. Then over the next few months follows a series of murders and letters which baffles everybody. Inspector Toschi (Mark Ruffalo) shows most interest and the urge to find the killer. The problem is since the murders occurred in different counties of California the mutual coordination of different jurisdictions is slowed down due to limited sources of communications of the '70s. Zodiac receives advantage of this. Not to mention lack of physical evidence from the crime scenes.

From all the given evidence and piled-to-the-sky confusions forms a tale of a serial killer. But this is more like a tale of Robert's persistence to find Zodiac. Mr. Robert Graysmith, a real life SF Chronicle cartoonist, wrote a novel titled Zodiac. Though James Vanderbilt wrote the screenplay, actually the tell-a-tale of all the events and a possible pointing of the finger to one suspect by Mr Graysmith is quite interesting. At first the tale made every attempt to confuse the audience just to put in the position of the cops who did not have a clue themselves. It was nearly halfway thru the movie when Robert starts his own investigation is when the fog starts to clear up. From the codes written by Zodiac at the crime scenes to the phone calls he made, Mr Graysmith created enough suspicion to one suspect for this thriller. This is a good attempt to create a picture of the '70s San Francisco turmoiled by Zodiac.

David Fincher, who previously directed the cult classics like Seven (1995) and Fight Club (1999), comes up with yet another dark creation. Though there were no usual tricks of Fluid-Track camera, he did use his experience and knowledge to create shadows and paced the heartbeats of the viewers in the suspenseful moments. He gives a touch of his dark world that would remind the video of Janie's Got a Gun. But unfortunately this is not a Fincher movie to expect an unexpected ending. Maybe the book is written like that.

On the acting note Jake Gyllenhaal still reminds teenager Donnie Darko (2001) making it hard to believe that his character in Zodiac has a daughter. But he is able to convey the persistence of his obsession with Zodiac. Mark Ruffalo is rather convincing as a frustrated cop. Robert Downey Jr still gets his bits of punchlines with an icing of little humor. Though the expectations from Chloe Sevigny were limited she still makes a mark. '70s style soundtrack adds a little flavor to this tale.

On a final note, this movie is worth one viewing. But you can wait for the DVD release.

My rating: 6/10.

Jackass: Number Two (2006).

Sickly Brilliant.

Starring: Johnny Knoxville, Bam Margera, Steve-O, Chris Pontius, Preston Lacy and Jason 'Wee Man' Acuna.

Director: Jeff Tremaine.

Writing credits: Johnny Knoxville.

When was the last time you felt like being a teenage again? When was the last time you wanted to play a prank on your friend? When was the last time you wanted to feel craziest ever? When was the last time you wanted to witness something that would not be afraid of death? If that day is today, go rent Jackass: Number Two and get a couple of tissue papers to wipe your tears off because you are going to laugh till you drop.

Enter a zone where blindfolded Knoxville gets knocked out by a randy bull, or he sits on a big red rocket on the way to moon, or Bam Margera makes a ski slide in his own house so that he can tear off the front door, or Wee man sits on a stool butt-naked where he gets hit by a professional playing card thrower, or where all the performers gather at a skate park and their goal is to not to get hit by sandbag while riding a bike or skateboards. When I saw Jackass: the movie (2002) I was surprised at the extreme stunt ideas especially the butt x-ray. I did not think that Knoxville and the crew can ever top that but apparently they did. The last stunt of the taxi-cab prank was just hilarious and actually very intelligent. When Johnny and Bam Margera come up with ideas for stunts then it raises a question of why do we need a director. May be to select which scene to go first and for editing. Rest of it is just pure adrenaline and self-humiliating acts. Some times it really tests the limits of how much one can take as an audience. Some are brilliant stunts and some acts will make sick to the stomach.

In the end its creditable how Johnny Knoxville, Bam Margera and the rest of the crew formed the shock values throughout the movie. This movie is something for a Jackass fan.

My rating: 7/10.

The Departed (2006).

Infernel Boston Affairs.

Starring: Jack Nicholson, Matt Damon and Leonardo DiCaprio. Directed by: Martin Scorsese.

Screenplay by: William Monahan.

Oh my god. Here we go. One more time Academy is lagging far behind to praise someone's talent. This time this 'lag' is the only thing that is going to get Mr. Martin Scorsese an Oscar nod. Not his movie The Departed.

The Departed is about two undercover employees. Undercover cop Billy Costigan (Leonardo DiCaprio) breaching in Frank Costello's (Jack Nicholson) gang while Frank has sent Colin Sullivan (Matt Demon), whom he trained since his childhood, to become a Boston state detective. Soon enough Frank and the Boston police department know about these two respective rats and then begins the search of who is who.

Adapted from Hong Kong action flick Infernel Affairs (2002) this is a pretty fast paced crime drama with lots of blood and extensive language which was good to see in a movie other than SAW franchise. I have not seen the original but seems like Departed has picked up the ambiance decently. Story is quite interesting showing two sides of the same job of being undercover. Screenplay is quite humoristic with some punch lines. For instance 'a cop or a mafia when facing a gun, whats the difference?'.

Acting department is highly creditable. Mr Nicholson is quite brutal and ruthless. His ability to make the characters he plays more interesting is still quite evident. Damon perhaps pulls the best performance. DiCaprio is also convincing in the portrayal of the undercover cop. Alec Baldwin, Martin Sheen and Mark Wahlberg are short lived but memorable.

The problem is that in the beginning the movie is quite slow. It took almost an hour during the "who's the rat?" search when it became interesting. The screenplay makes an honest attempt to keep you glued in the first few minutes but I was waiting for Mr Scorsese to pull some of his classic tricks to create accurate picture of the character's feelings on the actor's face. But the wait was broken by Mr Monahan when he wrote some dialogues and put in the character's mouth. The screenplay is witty but at the same time its tempted to be commercial by its strong language usage. May be perhaps that's the reason Departed has been approved by masses. Not necessarily it has any reason to do so. But yes this time it feels like Mr Scorsese will finally win the statuette and shut all the media activity surrounding his zero Oscars. Unfortunately Academy missed him during Taxi Driver (1976) and Raging Bull (1980). Even though Mr Scorsese did make homages to his own cult classic Taxi Driver twice. The stick-up scene in the convenient store and the porno theatre reminded Travis Bickle and his mystic smile.

One thing very refreshing during the movie was the use of Comfortably Numb by Pink Floyd. It actually fits to the situation between DiCaprio and Vera Farmiga. The ending minutes of the movie not necessarily have justifying explanations. What happened to DiCaprio's envelope that he gave to Farmiga? Only assumptions will give the answer.

My Rating: 6/10.

Little Miss Sunshine (2006)

A Fresh Breeze of Rain.

Directed by: Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris.

Screenplay by: Michael Arndt.

Starring: Abigail Breslin, Steve Carell, Alan Arkin.

Ever since Mr Robert Redford founded Sundance film festival 25 years ago young and budding talents have had a stage to express their thoughts. The expression of these thoughts were termed as Independent Movies. Every year there is something new to see and listen to from Sundance. But no matter how much the way of expression of thoughts has changed some rules are very basic and cannot be changed for ever to cinema. Rule one: Originality of Vision. Rule number two: Focus. There have been very few movies, not just from Sundance but also from Hollywood, CA that can handle both of these together. But when a movie handles both then you realise it is definitely good. This is exactly what has happened with Little Miss Sunshine. Right from the opening scene when Olive's (soon to be 11, Abigail Breslin) glasses reflect a Beauty Peagent's results declaration on the TV she is watching this movie keeps you glued to your seats. Olive rewinds and plays it over and over and then tries to mimic the winner's first expressions. You cannot look away from the screen.

Little Miss Sunshine is about a family residing in New Mexico. This family has all the ingredients of 'Dysfunctionality'. Drug addict grandfather, typical American mother (Toni Collette) fighting through everyday wars say for instance ignoring criticism over buying chicken bucket everyday for the dinner, a father (Greg Kinnear) giving lectures on how to be a winner, a brother (Paulo Dano) who has Nitzche as his idol and has taken a vow of silence, a homosexual suicidal uncle (Steve Carell) and a van with the stick that operates only past 1st shift. Ofcourse the most important character is Olive who is a budding artist with a dream to win a child prodigy contest "Little Miss Sunshine" to be held in Los Angeles. What is her talent we won't know till the end but she is getting training from her grandfather.

This family, after few hitches, sets off on a road trip to LA to support Olive's performance. Before even they set off the movie proved its potential. Thanks to Abigail's scream as she listens to the message confirming her chance to enter the peagent. This movie promises fun and stand right to the very core of the fun. The funny moments are interwined together smoothly. Nowhere you feel a demand from the directors, Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris. They have done a great job presenting this story nicely written by Micheal Arndt, who also is not so far from any accolade.

First person to be remembered is Olive, Abigail Breslin. She is the sunshine that gives all other family member a reason to stay together in the van. The scene in the Motel where the family takes a hault overnight where Olive is talking to grandpa is just beyond any words. This actress has no limits. This performance is seen very rarely. Her innocence, strength and determination is unbelievably put together with very simplicity. She doesn't seem to have any barrier. This is an Oscar worthy performance but I will be surprised since Academy did not bestow Leonardo DiCaprio when at the age of 17 he played mentally challenged Arnie in Whats Eating Gilbert Grape (1993). Just Marvellous.

Steve Carell is the next person who is memorable. Troubled from past relationship and unhappy with professional rival's success he meets his friend at a gas station and the change in the facial expression is amazing. He is the most hilarious 'runner' among all. You will know what I am talking when you will watch this. He deserved an Oscar nomination as well. But other actor who received the nomination is Grandpa played by Alan Arkin. Just listen to the way he is expressing his thoughts. Rest of the member of the family also make every attempt to make you laugh.

On a final note, I mention again that this movie is just about having fun and it stands to its promise. This is definitely one of the top movies of 2006.

My Rating: 9/10.

Babel (2006)

Interesting but not innovative.

Directed by: Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu.

Written by: Guillermo Arriaga.

Starring: Brad Pitt, Cate Blanchett, Gael Garcia Bernal.

Babel is the third installment by Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu that connects multiple stories by one accident. Story number one is Brad Pitt and his wife Cate Blanchett’s tour of Morocco. Story number two is about a deaf-dumb Japanese girl’s (Rinko Kikuchi) trapped-in-teenage years and her relationship with her father. Story number three is about Brad Pitt’s kids which he left behind in California while on the trip to Morocco. Story number four includes a poor Middle Eastern family. The movie starts with an unknown Middle Eastern guy walking through deserted place in the middle of somewhere carrying a bag. He walks to this shepherd and hands over the bag. The shepherd’s got two kids who hike the sheep. Then we see the accident. Things happen. It’s for you to find out how and why.

Mr. Inarritu has a pretty sharp picture here. But I had to compare it with the brilliant Amores Perros and a little less interesting 21 Grams. His direction is perhaps the best thing that happened to Babel. he still fascinates with those images and ability to surprise even when you see it coming. Few of his traits, if you have seen previous films, are very evident. Guitar based soundtrack ignites memories of Amores Perros. Babel’s writer, Mr. Arriaga, this time has connected lives spread over the earth. Quite interesting the way connections are made. In the times of terrorism the accident has its own effects over the world. This tale has done a good justice to authenticity of the after effects.

Gael Garcia Bernal was impressive as usual. It was a good experience to see him after The Motorcycle Diaries (2004). Brad and Cate make a good pair trapped in agony. Least makeup helps them with a different look. Rinko Kikuchi's' don’t-give-a-damn teenage girl was also very effective. Very good performance. the facial expressions were pulled together nicely. Inarritu did a good job to put the audience in her shoes, say for instance the scene in the club.

In the end this did arouse some curiosity but the explanations by the writer might give a little jitter as to, hm ok I have seen that before in writer director Stephen Gaghan's Syriana (2005).
Rating: 5/10

Kabul Express (2006)

A film for India's SUNDANCE.

Written and Directed by: Kabir Khan.
Starring: Arshad Warsi, John Abrahm.

Kabul Express starts with two men, Suhel (John Abraham) and Jai (Arshad Warsi) being dropped off a chopper on a deserted place middle of somewhere in Afghanistan. First thing they come across is a question, how to get to Taliban? They are two reporters on an assignment from India to interview Taliban. A guy in a military uniform, Khyber, sees them and calls for help. Help arrives in the form of an army tank which is the first conveyance that gives Suhel and Jai the ride to their destination. Well as per the popular saying "its about the journey". They come across things that they have not read about in news papers. Or may be they did but to have a face-to-face experience shocks them. Do they find Taliban? Do they get a chance to interview them? Well like I said its about the "journey".

Kabir Khan has penned and picturised an interesting tale. Right from the title it has interesting moments. Like the scene where they come across military men eating chocolates. This is the cinema for the changed-mind-audience of India. May be they want to see something else other than Chick Flicks and songs. This is for the Indian SUNDANCE film festival. But if you are aware of independent and experimental cinema then you are aware that being experimental doesn't necessarily make it a quality cinema. Same goes with Kabul Express. In the end it is possible to face yourself with the question that Ah Ok, so what? Because this tale has parameters that may not be seen or heard in news papers but those parameters don't create a flow.

Arshad Warsi is perhaps the only thing that keeps you glued to your seat. He may not have the best lines all the time but he delivers them honestly. His scared and disagreeable with people attitude has been performed nicely. Thanx to him.

Linda Arsenio as Jessica, another reporter but from USA, is a candy for sour eyes. She is a good actress. But I dont know what Kabir Khan was proving when there was a peek-a-boo. If I will see him I am gonna ask if that peek-a-boo was another cliche he picked up from the independant movies he saw say for instance Transamerica (2005) or Masked and Anonymous (2003). John Abraham is a mistake. He is just a model that flaunts jeans, jackets and t-shirts. Khyber and Imran Khan are good as characters. Few moments are interesting as the scene with Imran's daughter. This movie raises questions but the first one I had was how can they keep on driving for 2 days without refuelling the Kabul Express?

Kabul Express is a good attempt but don't get excited. Expectations will surely ruin your movie watching experience.

4/10.

Vivah (2006).

Another Arranged Marriage but with a fresh new couple.
Starring: Amrita Rao, Shahid Kapoor.
Written and Directed By: Sooraj Barjatya

Poonam (Amrita Rao) is a pretty, beautiful, sweet, honest, obedient and a "I-want-a-daughter-like-her" typical Indian country girl. She is the sunshine of her father's (Alok Nath) eyes. A family friend notices her as a perfect fit for one of his friend's (Anupam Kher) son. Well who is this chosen groom? Well his name is Prem (Shahid Kapoor). He is also obedient, good looking, honest, educated blah blah. I guess you get the point. Of course he is instantly attracted to Poonam when he looks at her picture. A typical Indian private meeting is arranged. The candidates approve each other and then begins the journey from engagement to marriage. This is a new installment by the king of family movies Sooraj Barjatya.

The director has brought in all the usual flavors of romance to this treat. A pair of fiancee that will be approved by every audience member, their romance that is expressed with first-hesitant-then-cheesy-confident looks, conversations through smiles, choosing the matching dresses, secret rendezvous and almost every single thing that has seen and heard till today. As per the trademark there are also the family parameters into this equation. Father daughter relationship reminiscent of Maine Pyar Kiya (1989), girl loss of her mother at young age seen previously in Hum Aapke Hain Koun (1994), teenage romance from maine pyar kiya, rural lives and nature's beauty and family values perhaps tackled in almost every other movie of Barjatya. In and all this is a perfect rated-PG family movie that is bound to be approved by everybody. And just like every Barjatya movie it starts with goody-goodies and has a little twist near the end that would be a probable reason that might jeopardise the "build-up-too-much-cheesy-romance" relationship. But everyone knows that this movie was made for those two people and they would end up being together forever and ever. Of course they do so.

But I must warn you that this movie has an ending that was rather unnecessary. The first-night scene might have been important by Barjatya but that rather made this tale a total turn down. This is something like going to the smokey mountains, enjoy the scenery, breathe the fresh air and then slip from the highest cliff and fall in the valley. Sooraj had the recipe. But I guess he was hallucinatng the success of the movie already and right when he was finishing cooking "Vivah" he added salt thinking it is sugar.

On another plus side the couple looks good on screen. Amrita, if I may say so, has done a better portrayal of a wannabe rural girl than Shahid's urban boy portrayal. Songs are good. Some scenes such as Prem's first gift to Poonam, their meeting on the roof, their chemistry has been picturised well. In the end I can say that if you want to enjoy a weekend with your family then take them to this movie.

Rating: 6/10.

Casino Royale (2006)

Bond is back.

Starring: Daniel Craig, Judi Dench, Eva Green.

Directed by: Martin Campbell.

Screenplay: Neal Purvis, Robert Wade.

"Name is Bond, James Bond".
For almost half a century this line has been a victim of praise and criticism. Starting from Dr No (1962) starring Sean Connery Bond movies have always been on the lists of top action flicks. New movie's arrival is always awaited. At the same time signing up of a new bond has never escaped controversy. Daniel Craig is no exception to the "New James Bond" controversy. If you have heard, during the golden era of Hollywood, that included screwball comedies and Frank Sinatra, the actors were popular for their grace and their image among the audiences. Perhaps acting department was not on their to do list. Then came Marlon Brando in On the Waterfront (1954). He was never worried about how he looked or his social image among the viewers. Not only people accepted him but he was honoured with his first Academy Award. What Daniel Craig has done for James Bond is exactly what Marlon Brando did for the movies. Until Daniel Craig all the actors who played bond used their grace and style to play the character. But Daniel's presence in the action and the acting department has given this new Bond a really never before seen look.

Is this new Bond capable of what we think? Well as the story advances we come to know that Craig's promotion makes him James Bond but there are no gadgets and just one leather dashboard Ashton Martin (well let's give him one). We never know clearly till the end what his job is. All we know vaguely that he has to stop a banker from winning a casino Hold 'em tournament and suposedly funding a terrorist organization. Well the first few sequences not just prove that Daniel is capable but he is rather the only bond who is convincing in his job as a secret agent, ever. Daniel has changed all the parameters of James Bond which makes this movie a must see.

Although there are times when the movie drags a little bit, feels like a holiday romantic movie. But that's not what you remember when it ends. The screenplay is filled with humor, pace, romance and one liners. Perfect for an action thriller. As per the original myths and conventions two ladies add to the story. Not to mention swimsuits and cocktail dresses. In the movie the writers almost were going to reveal M's real name but it ended up being another humorous addition. On a final note I would like to mention that last year Batman Begins (2005) portrayed Bruce Wayne's quest to become the superhero. In Spiderman-2 (2004) Peter Parker's character study was done. Seems like James Bond has gone under the same treatment of character study. Thats why this is a must see.

Rating: 7/10.

Don - The chase begins again (2006).

Farhan Akhtar's comeback after Dil Chahta Hai.

Starring: Shahrukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra, Boman Irani.

Written and Directed by: Farhan Akhtar.

Story: Salim Khan, Javed Akhtar.

"Ek Baat Samajh lo. Don ko pakadna mushkil hi nahi namumkin hai".

When translated, "Remember. It is not just difficult but rather impossible to catch Don".

As Don (Shahrukh Khan) says his famous line to Kamini (Kareena Kapoor) it ignites memories of Mr Bachchan's 1978 portrayal of Don. Don is an international mafia boss who is fast, agile, tough and most importantly intelligent. He has been on the most wanted list of Malaysia, India and almost every other country including UK. He acquires illegal drugs and similar substances from India and Pakistan and sells them in UK. He has two other main companions Singhania and Wardhan. Though Singhania and Don's profile with picture is on the records, Wardhan is still a mystery. One day cops get a tip on Don. Cop D'Silva (Boman Irani) is on a high speed chase with Don and Don gets injured in a car crash. In the hospital Don dies. D'Silva remembers a guy, Vijay, who looks like Don. With an idea and a plan he manages to get new Don into the hostile territory. Will Don be able to help D'Silva? What happens next? Who is Wardhan? Well Farhan Akhtar (director) has all the answers.

Though it is hard not to compare Shahrukh's Don to Mr Bachchan's I guess you can always appreciate Farhan's contribution to this remake. Farhan has kept the original script by Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar. He has added a little tinge of citrus that not only adds a little flavor but also it smells different. Few sequences as the one with Kamini,were unchangeable. Farhan has written the closing scene and this is a classic example of character study. Very intelligent and to the exact point. No writing contribution from Farhan for Lakshya (2004) was very evident. Farhan totally went with his Father's (Javed) script on Lakshya. This time for Don he took over and his attempts are evident and are an essential part of the movie. Brilliant!

Sharukh Khan has done a great job in portraying the ruthless Don and the average Joe Vijay. Shahrukh knows that he cannot escape comparison with the original Don. But he has managed to get the attitude. Good job.

Besides being a remake this movie makes a lot of homages. The Fast and the Furious, Kill Bill, Mission Impossible, Entrapment and Matrix. Thanks to Farhan for that as well. Boman Irani is believable as a tough cop after cheesy roles of Munnabhai series. Priyanka Chopra as Roma is a good fit for her beauty. She does some fight sequences as well. Not bad. Arjun Rampal as Jasjeet should have been reconsidered. Shankar-Ehasaan-Loy's music is good to the ears. Their contribution to the basic tunes is appreciable. Overall this movie is quite above the average bollywood movie. Should be viewed at least once.

My rating: 7/10.

SAW III (2006)

Feed Your Screams.

Starring: Tobin Bell, Shawnee Smith.

Directed by: Darren Lynn Bousman.

Written by: Leigh Whannell.

There was a time when Hitchcock shook the theatre with Janet Leigh's scream in Psycho (1960). People were unaware of the gore and gritty atmosphere of Hitchcok's creation. Perhaps this was the movie that created a new trend in the Horror/Thriller genre. Then it was The Exorcist (1973) when Linda Blair walked down the stairs on her hand and feet while lifting her body in a backward arch. This was the beginning of yet another trend. I believe then came SAW (2003) to create something you have never sen before. A serial killer with a gift of forgiveness only when his victims escape the traps he sets up. SAW has created a whole new meaning to Horror/Thriller. This movie fed to the new generations' needs of pure gore. SAW III stands to its expectations of blood, gore, cracking of bones, hacking of flesh, peeling of skin and crushing of skulls. I seriously do not believe how this movie escaped NC-17 rating. The last NC-17 movie I saw was Haute Tension by Alexandra Aja, another member of "The Splat Pack" along with Darren Lynn Bousman. The opening scene in this movie has similarity to one of the scenes from SAW I. But it has a "little" more outcome than it had in SAW I. With that little more I mean a sound effect and when it happened everybody in the auditorium went AWWWW. It was a "Ladies and Gentlemen your attention please".

The acting department? I would be highly insensitive to comment on acting. Nobody expects acting from SAW franchise. What I can do is perhaps compare with SAW I. There is a flaw in the direction. Darren may not make you glued to your seat. The traps are new but they are designed for something else other than just for the victims to try and escape. I would say Darren has managed to make those 1hr 40 minutes interesting enough for a thriller with a non-linear screenplay by Leigh Whannell and the gore content.

The twist is little unexpected. But it is something that only a few people would care for. At least SAW franchise has no ghost stories, UFOs or witches that create something supernatural. This is a movie that could come up with some explanations to stand for. Thats why I would choose this one over The Grudge or Silent Hill any day of the week.

So if you are having a bad day and want to go and scream your guts out then I suggest go watch this. This will feed your emotions.

Omkara (2006)

The Indian Neo-Noir Director's gloriously dark creation.

Starring: Saif Ali Khan, Ajay Devgan, Konkana Sen-Sharma.
Written and Directed by: Vishal Bharadwaj.

There was one thing on my mind when I was on my way to Omkara, "can't get Maqbool out of my head yet".

Omkara starts with two men sitting on a small hill talking in the "local dialect" on a sunny day. By the time you realize what is going on, you just have a kick start to the movie. This was an introduction to Saif Ali Khan's character Langda Tyagi who works for Omi (Omkara). Omkara is in love with Dolly, played by Kareena Kapoor. As story unfolds we get introduced to Vivek Oberoi, who is also working with Omkara, Konkana Sen-Sharma wife of Langda, and the Sabse-Bade-Ladaiya" Omkara's "skepticism". For those who have read Othello, what I have heard is it is very similar. I do not want to spoil the story anyway.

Vishal Bharadwaj deserves good credit. Very few directors can create a dark movie and still be glorious. Vishal shows his potential as the only Indian Neo-Noir director. There is one scene in the movie at night. Its about a conversation between Omi and Langda in front of a train that was stopped earlier on purpose and its raining. Drneched silhouettes are magnificent. The only light that has been used is the headlight on the train. It is executed to the perfection. I had faith in Vishal and he stands "almost" up to his status. I said almost because I actually was waiting for another mind blower like Maqbool. But it wasn't. The screen writing is highly appreciable. But during the end of the movie I guess at may be 1 or 2 occasions it looses its string. I wanted to see a little more conversation between Omi and Dolly but doesn't happen. May be Shakespeare never wrote any. One more thing about the script that, for me at few occasions local dialect was quite hard so actually I used to read the subtitles. So subtitles are recommended but not required. But other than that script is beautiful. Kudos to Vishal.

The whole experience of watching Omkara was made amazing by Langda Tyagi. Saif Ali Khan has proved again that he is one of the most talented actors who is privileged to get signed by commercial movie makers as well. His performance actually reminded me of Satya. In satya the character that you remember is not Satya but Bhiku Mhatre. same goes with Omkara. Saif delivers the hard local dialect with nothing but simplicity. His whole attitude throughout the movie makes this one a must see.

Next up would be the player of Omkara. Ajay is good. He makes justice to his character very well. His struggle between power and his own personal life is achieved very finely. Good performance.Konkana Sen-sharma stands out as well. Her ability to get under the skin of the character makes me curious about her next movie. Her role is short but she makes it stand out. Kareena is alright. At least not the usual she plays, for instance Chup Chup Ke. But I had hopes from her as well. Unfortunately she doesn't have much to accumulate. Except for the last line she says hugging Omi. Music is good. In the constraints of the movie it fits admirably. Especially "naina thag lenge". Vivek has the same face that he had for past 18-20 of his movies. Not much to say.

In and all Omkara was a good experience. I would recommend you guys to watch it at least once. If you haven't seen Maqbool then I would say watch it after Omkara. You will enjoy that as well.

My Rating: 9/10

The Prestige (2006)

Christopher Nolan's brilliant MAGIC act.

Starring: Christian Bale, Hugh Jackman, Michael Caine.

Written and Directed by: Christopher Nolan.

"Every great magic trick consists of three acts. The first act is called "The Pledge"; The magician shows you something ordinary, but of course... it probably isn't. The second act is called "The Turn"; The magician makes his ordinary some thing do something extraordinary. Now if you're looking for the secret... you won't find it, that's why there's a third act called, "The Prestige"; this is the part with the twists and turns, where lives hang in the balance, and you see something shocking you've never seen before." - Christopher Nolan.

The above quote is yet another example of a case of delicate and extraordinary screen writing. Guess what, this movie stands to its expectations raised in first few minutes. This is not just about magic but the life behind the acts. As Cutter (Michael Caine) narrates above quotes we see a magician performing on stage. A strange thing happens during his act (which of course I am not going to spoil) which takes you right to the core of what this story is all about. That opening scene creates a lot of questions. But interesting as it has been it makes you create your own theories. Its for you to find out what happens next.

This is a story about Robert Angier(Hugh Jackman)and Alfred Borden (Christian Bale) who are working as assistants for a magician Michael Caine. Every single act they watch of their own master and other magicians, they become curious about the acts and try and break those in their heads. As the story continues the situations arise when they rival against each other. That turns into a quest. A quest for the creation of the greatest magic act ever. All you have to do is just sit back and enjoy this unbelievable ride into the world of MAGIC.

First accolade for the movie goes to Christopher Nolan, who was my immediate favorite the day I watched "Following". He has an uncanny ability to present. He is a master story-teller. The movie has a lot of pace. Though I saw the twist an hour earlier but it rather made me look for an explanation and Nolan has one that fits right in. He gives yet another fantastic screenplay after Memento and Batman Begins. Non-linearly written, based on Jonathan Nolan's short story, this saga glues you to your seat.

The performances were fine. Especially Christian Bale. His acting gives this project a real life. This movie shows us his talent beyond the action scenes of Bruce Wayne' other half. Hugh Jackman wasn't far behind him. He delivers his performance with much intensity as well. Their rivalry keeps you guessing and thinking all the time. Next up is Michael Caine. He fits quite admirably in the character of Cutter. Singing legend David Bowie is memorable in his short performance as Tesla. Scarlett Johansson looks stunning as usual.

This movie is dark, tricky, illusionary, intense and of course has something that I have never seen before. Applause to Mr Nolan.

Rating: 10/10

Dor (2006) Review

Interesting flight with some turbulence and a bad landing.

Starring: Ayesha Takia, Shreyas Talpade, Gul Panag.

Written and Directed by: Nagesh Kuknoor.

I watched Dor last night and I would say that this is one of Kuknoor's other movies where his attempts are genuine but still you feel something missing. This is a story about Meera (Ayesha Takia) and Zeenat (Gul Panag) total strangers to each other. After showing their stories in parallel for first 20 minutes they are connected by an event. This event makes Zeenet to go search for Meera. On her journey Zeenat meets a Behrupiya (Shreyas Talpade). The journey has a known destination but the route is hazy. What happens next is always a question. Does Dor have an answer to it? Well I never got one.

Nagesh Kuknoor has come up with interesting storylines almost everytime. Dor's storyline is interesting enough to keep you glued. The authenticity is well maintained in the locals, environment and the costumes. What is missing is a point to the movie. I was pulled back to 3 Deewarein so many times due to its slow pace. 3 Deewarein gave a shocker in the last 1/2 hour. unfortunately this time Kuknoor never comes up with an ending that works. Instead the last scene of the movie is as dramatic as the last scene of DDLJ when Kajol runs for Shahrukh on the train platform. It was totally unnecessary. Before this "dramatic" finale there was no convincing answer to Meera's decision. Also there was no need to show the usual rural woman's plight which has been shown a million times already.

On a positive note the best thing that happened to Dor is Ayesha Takia. I admired her beauty in her previous "teen" flicks. But this time she has proved that she is the beauty with the brains. Her portrayal of Meera is a complete surprise. I atleast want to thank Kuknoor for choosing her. Her daring to take this job is applaudable. She not only is comfortable with the character she is playing but she takes her character to the next level which I believe even Kuknoor would have appreciated. If only Kuknoor would have come up with a better ending, this package would have been a fantastic ride.

Shreyas Talpade mimicking bollywood stars is the next thing to look for. He almost sounds and acts like those stars. He was very funny and it was a good experience to hear him talk after his previous deaf-n-dumb character Iqbal obsessed with cricket.

Gul Panag couldn't have asked for a better role than Zeenat, a young and confident woman with a wish to go to any extent to save someone she loves. I am afraid she appeared to have just stand and say her lines instead of playing the character. Gul was a total turn down.
From time to time Kuknoor has shown his directorial skills including this one. The department that I wanted him to work was the script. It is slow paced with few interesting moments. Do not want to mention about the end again.

Girish Karnad is good. It was good to see Pratiksha Lonkar after a long time. Unfortunately she doesnt have much scope. The cinematography gives this movie a nice look. Salim Sulaiman has come up with yet another impressive music score. One star each for cinematography, basic plot, music score and Shreyas Talpade and two stars for Ayesha Takia. So my rating 6/10.