Category: English Movie Reviews

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Obsession: A gripping psychological horror on consent and the need for space

A roundabout second half does test the viewers patience, nevertheless the film is successful in giving jump scares through the effective atmospherics. The movie has a strong social undercurrent through the supernatural aspect. At times Obsession feels like watching Ram Gopal Varma’s prime particularly the classic thriller Kaun

Starcast: Michael Johnston, Inde Navarrette etc

Genre: Horror

Director, writer and editor: Curry Baker

Cinematographer: Taylor Clemons

Music: Rock Burwell

Producers: James Harris, Hayle Nichlo Johnson etc

Production Companies: Tea Shop Productions, Blum House Productions etc

Running time: 1 hour and 50 minutes

Ever since its release on May 29th Obsession has been breaking records right, light and center. Made on a shoestring budget the film has raked in both numbers and critical acclaim and deservedly so. Obsession is a different space of horror than the usual ghost stories that we encounter. It’s more psychological with a spilt personality. Obsession bears a striking resemblance to the best of RGV work, the likes of Kaun and Bhoot. Like those films here too the horror majorly comes from the solid background score and tension filled situations. Even Inde Navarette seems to be channeling her inner Urmilla Mathodkar from those movies. Keeping the comparisons aside Obsession genuinely succeeds in giving creeps while touching upon relationships

The story of Obsession starts with a nerdy and insecure music store clerk Bear (Michael Johnston). For a long time, Bear has been in love with Nikki (a solid Inde Navarette). But he isn’t able to confess given the introvert nature coupled with insecurity. Instead of directly confessing his love Bear breaks a mystical “One Wish Willow” to make Nikki fall in love with him. But this leads to disastrous sequences as Nikki goes from feisty to emotionally clingy. The final fate of Nikki and the relationship forms the core of Obession.

A strong aspect of Obsession is the significance of the title and the way Curry Baker justifies it. Obsession here isn’t just a random title chosen but represents the core theme. The emotionally clingy nature of Nikki like the terrifying portion of her behavior at a boy’s party is a solid example of this.

In the beginning portions Nikki talks about wanting to be a writer to Bear, she further mentions about writing a romantic story. But after the “One Wish Willow” episode the character takes a huge 360 degrees turn. From being independent Nikki goes into the territory of a psychopathic girlfriend. She even ends up killing Megan Lawless Sarah’s Harper in a fit of extreme possessivness.

The social commentary underneath all this about stripping a woman of her autonomy has come out in a solid manner. Bear may across as a good man in the beginning, but his inner patriarchy comes out clearly in the way he makes the wish.

What also works for Obsession is the technical department. Both the background score and the cinematography deserves a special mention. The scenes where Nikki’s personality goes through a major within seconds is majorly enhanced by the terrifying background score. Taylor Clemen’s cinematography too is in sync with the eerie atmospherics. The night shots especially make for a truly scary experience.

Obsession also benefits from two solid leads. Inde Naverrette goes from loving to scary without missing a single beat. She particularly shines in the portions of the alter ego taking over causing absolute carnage. By the end of Obsession, the viewers feel bad for her and think on how she is going to deal with the future emotional turmoil. Michael Johnston also stands his own especially in the scenes of regret and tension.

Coming to the flaws the second half suffers somewhat from roundabout storytelling. Some of the scenes feel jaded thanks to the repetitive scenarios. Also, a subplot of Nikki’s equation with her father needed more layering, it feels like an add on rather than something substantial.

Final word: Obsession is worth watching for fans of psychological horror with social commentary

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Devil Wears Prada 2: An entertaining take on Journalism’s changing trends

David Frankel does a fine job in exploring the different threads like economic pressures, artistic creativity versus Ai. The treatment may across as hurried given the multiple tangents nevertheless the movie is successful in capturing the current digital spectrum. The movie also raises ample chuckles especially for the ones attuned to journalistic trends. Both Meryl Streep and Annie Hathway successfully take off from the previous installment playing their parts with panache

Starcast: Meryl Streep, Anne Hathway, Emily Blunt, Stanley Tucci etc

Genre: Comedy/drama

Director: David Frankel

Writer: Alline Brosh Mc Kenna

Producer: Wendy Finerman

Production Company: Wendy Finerman production

Running time: 1 hour and 59 minutes

For those who haven’t seen Devil Wears Prada 1 the plot followed the journey of an aspiring journalist Andy Sachs (Anne Hathway). Andy takes up the job of a junior assistant to the hardened taskmaster Miranda priestly (Meryl Streep). Miranda is the chief of runway fashion magazine. Andy has a tough time in adjusting to the professional demands but soon she gets a makeover. Andy becomes successful in career, but it comes with a certain cost in the personal space. The ethical compromises eventually become too much leading Andy to quit. She not only reconciles with the friends but also secures a job in another newspaper. Some of the major themes in Devil Wears Prada 1 are the transformation of identity under an extreme workplace pressure, the conflict of personal values while dealing with professional demands among other things. Now you have part 2 after a huge gap of 20 years. Devil Wears Prada 2 is just as glossy and at the same time more relevant than part one

The second part primarily focuses on Andy Sach’s return back to Runway in a very different position. Andy is given the role of a features editor cum writer. Her major task is restoring Runway’s credibility after a politically incorrect article. Miranda on the other hand is struggling to get a hang of modern digital media and is forced to embrace the culture of online clickbait. Adding to this mix is Emilly Charton (played by Emily Blunt). Emily Charton was Miranda’s former assistant and is now a senior executive of Dior. The dynamics between Miranda and Charton are laced with undertones of tension and a mutual ambition.

A strong aspect of Devil Wears Prada 2 is how both the director and writer have captured the evolution of journalism in the current digital landscape. This is reflected in numerous portions whether its stories shaped by sponsorships or the data indicators playing a major part in editorial decisions. All this feels very relevant especially in today’s clickbait era. The movie also explores Ai and its algorisms both as a threat and necessary adaption to the modern landscape of journalism. A lot of this is conveyed through some sharp humor making the topic an entertaining ride rather than a lecture mode.

Devil Wears Prada 2 also benefits from the dynamics between Meryl Streep and Anne Hathway. Initially Miranda looks at Andy as a more of a chairman’s latest whim who wouldn’t last for long. A certain tone of indifference to Andy’s presence is perfectly reflective of this. Having said that a time comes when the two have to navigate the tricky scenarios together in order to save Runway magazine.

A subtle sisterhood forms between the two. This particularly comes out in the pre climax scene, both Miranda and Andy discuss about how work gives them a sense of purpose. The vulnerable areas of Miranda have also come out well. For example, there is a portion where Miranda worries about her time of a journalist and an editorial head coming to an end. The scene is brilliantly written and also of course wonderfully enacted too by Meryl Streep.

Mention must also be made of how Anne Hathway’s character has evolved. Anne Hathway plays the self-assured journalist with a quiet conviction. The fighting spirit of Andy even things stagnate comes out in a solid manner through the writing as well as Anne Hathway’s performance. Stanley Tucci as Andy’s mentor figure lends in a lot of warmth making the viewers wish that they too had a person like him.

Among the rest Emily Blunt also makes her presence amply felt in a different characterization. The rivalry of Emily Charlton and Miranda has the right bite thoroughly engaging the viewers.

Final word: Devil Wears Prada 2 is an engaging watch for fans of the lead actresses as well as those who are fascinated with the world of modern journalism.

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Michael: A visually stunning highlights package

Like many biopics Michael too has a curated feel with the cherry-picking of major incidents. Part one of Michael is centered around the rise of the legendary popstar and a significant cultural figure. Director Antoine Fuqua is successful in recreating the aura of Michael Jackson. The dance choreography in particular is enthralling. Jaafar Jackson does an excellent job in portraying the different shades. He is a big reason for the viewers to stay invested.

Director: Antoine Fuqua

Starcast: Jaafar Jackson, Colmon Domingo, Nia Long, Juliano Krue Valdi and others

Genre: Biography

Writer: John Logon

Music: Lion Rosner

Cinematography: Dion Bebee

Producers: Graham King, John Branca and John Mc Clain

Production Companies: Liongate Films, GK Films and Optimum Productions

Running time: 2 hours and 7 minutes

Biopics in general follow a certain template. The dark areas are either sanitized or completely avoided. The likes of Sanju and Azhar are solid examples of this. They mostly play out as a highlights package focusing primarily on the protagonist wins. Michael based on the legendary Michael Jackson is no different at least part one of this saga. The critical reviews of Michael particularly from the west have been rather scathing. The harsh critical reviews are somewhat understandable having said that Michael is definitely a big screen watch. Whether you are a fan or not Michael does give an adrenaline rush. His famous dance steps have been wonderfully recreated. Also, the family dynamics especially the undertones of tension has a distinct desi touch.

In brief the plot begins from the early life of Michael Jackson and how he turned into a visionary artist. Parrel to this is the father and son subplot. Colmon Domingo as Joseph Jackson is authoritative father living off on his son’s success. Joseph is also the manager of Michael. Michael is vexed with his father’s authoritarian ways wanting to create his own path independent of the family’s brand. At one point he even sends a firing letter to his own father. This is the story in a nutshell.

The biggest strength of Michael is the technical department. The portions of Jaafar Jackson’s dance performances in particular deserves a special mention. The famous moonwalk in particular will drive the diehard fans into a frenzy. The way it has been choreographed coupled with the dance of Jaafar Jackson alone makes for a big screen viewing. Cinematographer Dion Rebbe does an excellent job in capturing Michael Jackson’s larger than life aura as well as the 80’s setting. The production design is also solid successfully transporting the viewers to that era.

The music of Lion Rosner is also bang on. The tunes especially the portions of stage performance makes for a fantastic viewing and also a good listen. Apart from the technical department the father and son subplot also deserves a special mention. The bossy and patriarchal attitude of Joseph Jackson is shown in an unfiltered manner. This is one area where the film doesn’t gloss over.

Michael quest for creative freedom while staying connected to the family has a distinct desi touch. Most Indian families will definitely relate to the protagonist inner dilemmas. Colmon Domingo plays the authoritative father in a strong manner. Mention must also be made of Nia Long as the helpless mother eventually finding spine. A special mention must be made of her act in the portion when she finally gives it back to the husband. The brothers and sisters though get a raw deal. Michael’s equation with the siblings is touched upon in a superficial manner. In fact, Michael’s sequences with a pet chimpanzee Bubbles is much better written.

Also, the movie doesn’t give an explanation on how Michael turned out to be special. Whether he had any influences or it was just a case of him being a natural is never dealt with. You just get the simplistic explanation of him being differently created.

In the titular role Jaffar Jackson does an excellent job in capturing the different nuances. He imbibes the spirit of his late uncle in a wonderful manner. The swag is spot on but more importantly he is also very effective in the vulnerable moments.

Final word: Michael is a treat for Michael Jackson diehard fans. As a movie though it could have been more effective with a less sanitized approach. Here’s hoping that the second part deals with Michael’s dark chapters in a more honest manner.

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Project Hail Mary: A moving tale of unexpected bromance

Project Hail Mary headlined by Ryan Gosling has a standard sci fi story. But the difference lies in the treatment of Phil Lord and Christopher Miller. The movie has a hopeful tone regarding the environmental crisis. The heart touching friendship between the protagonist and an alien takes the viewers on a roller coaster ride

Starcast: Ryan Gosling, Sandra Huller and others

Genre: Science fiction/drama

Based on: Novel Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir

Directors: Phil Lord and Christopher Miller

Screenplay: Drew Goddard

Cinematography: Grieg Fraser

Music: Daniel Pemberton

Producers: Ryan Gosling, Phil Lord, Aditya Sood etc

Production Companies: Pascal Pictures, Lord Miller Productions etc

Running time: 2 hours and 36 minutes

The treatment of extra-terrestrial creatures has often bordered on dangerous entities. They are treated as humankind’s worst enemy with zero redeeming features. Of course, exceptions like Rakesh Roshan’s Koyi Mil Gaya are there. Though inspired from the west the film was a solid emotional drama with Hrithik Roshan’s Rohit developing an unlikely bond with an alien named jadoo. There is a hugely poignant moment when the time for farewell comes. The writing coupled with Hrithik’s performance was first rate. Project Hail Mary takes this notches above by mixing environmental crisis with themes of perseverance and a friendship that is sure to strike a chord.

The story of Project Hail Mary mainly focuses on Ryan Gosling’s Grace. He is a biology teacher. The movie begins with him waking up from coma on a starship. Through various flashbacks the viewers understand how Grace landed here and his mission of saving earth. There is a microorganism called Astrophage dimming the solar system. In this process Grace befriends an alien called Rocky voiced by different artists Ray Porter and Meryl Streep. This is the plot in brief.

It goes without saying that Project Hail Mary’s biggest strength is the strong on-screen brotherhood between Ryan Gosling and the Alien. Their scenes together have a fantastic mix of comedy and drama. Talking about the lighthearted bits a specific mention must be made of the early portions with Grace’s attempt of communication.

Initially Grace gets a shock of his life upon seeing the alien. But soon he warms up as the two gradually open up about their lives. The alien gets into the spaceship of Grace as well. Here too there are some chuckle worthy moments with the commentary of Grace.

Soon though things take a very different turn as Grace and Rocky together set out to solve interstellar problems. In this process the two strike an emotional bond leading to numerous poignant moments. Since I have not read the novel I cannot say how the brotherhood plays there but as far as the movie is concerned its the movie’s beating heart.

The flashback portions are another plus for the movie. Sandra Huller plays Eva Stratt. Eva is the head of an international task force representing the project. Eva comes across as a hardened soul especially in her methods of sending Grace to the spaceship. At the same time there are also scenes of warmth making the viewers think that there are some sparks.

The numerous back and forths also do a good job in establishing Grace personality. Grace is not a protagonist with a natural inclination for saving the day. He is someone who rather prefers teaching science to children and this trait helps in the viewers rooting for the protagonist more. The climax with Grace teaching on Rocky’s planet serves as a perfect conclusion. Ryan Gosling pulls off the different shades with ease whether its the lighthearted bits or moving the viewers. He is one of the major reasons for the movie being so engaging.

The cinematography of Graig Feser coupled with the production design has a lived in in feel. It adds to the immersive experience. A special mention must be made of the scenes involving Grace’s daredevil stunts amidst danger.

Final word: Project Hail Mary is definitely a big screen watch even if you are not into science fiction much.

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The Bride: Feminism wrapped in a gothic romance

Maggie Gyllenhaal’s The Bride is a touching story of two outsiders finding companionship with each other. The movie also examines the monster within us with sharp social commentary; this comes out well in the scenes of monsters having more humanity than human beings

Starcast: Jessie Buckley, Christian Bale and others

Genre: Horror/romance

Director, writer and producer: Maggie Gyllenhaal

Based on: Frankenstein; or the Modern Prometheus by Mary Shelly

Additional producers: Talia Kleinhendler, Osnat Handelsman- Keren etc

Cinematographer: Lawerence Sher

Production Companies: First Love Films and In the Current Company

Running time: 2 hours and 6 minutes

The character Frank created by Mary Shelly has influenced numerous filmmakers with a range of stories. This includes something as recent as the 2025 one. The different shades of this creature coupled with a deep desire for love makes it a fascinating personality. The 2025 movie for example looked at the monster’s deep desire for human connection and the suffering he faces due to the physical appearance. On the other hand, creator Viktor Frankenstein is portrayed a flawed master. The latest movie influenced by Mary Shelly’s work upgrades this with socially relevant themes.

Frankenstein 2025

The story of The Bride is set in the 1930’s. In simple terms the plot focuses on Dr Euphonious radical social experiment she brings back to life a dead woman. The purpose is to find a companion for Christian Bale’s Frank. However, this leads to a huge catastrophe beyond the imagination of Dr Euphonious.

A strong aspect of The Bride is the juggling of different social themes. Yes, the storytelling at times gets into an incoherent zone. Still the treatment makes an impact for a large part. Among the themes mention must be particularly made of comparisons between the monsters and so-called normal people.

The actions of some men towards Jessie Buckley’s Ida are a solid example of this. In comparison Frank comes across as a more empathetic human. How true monsters often turn out to be humans has come out in an impactful manner.

Mention must also be made of the female agency. The transformation of Ida from a constructed object to an independent and volatile being has a good feminist touch. The film highlights the need for women to be a whole in themselves and their identity not being tied to someone’s else’s name.

The female rage is very visible in Jessie Buckley’s fiery monologues. References to important social movements has been smartly integrated as well. The performances of the two central players is exemplary to say the least.

As the monster/creature craving for companionship Christian Bale is top notch. Of course, the film belongs to Jessie Buckley in a double role, but Christian Bale makes his presence amply felt with a strong act. Jessie Buckley gets the fiery spirit bang on convincingly portraying the transformation. Apart from Ida she is also seen as author Mary Shelly and here too she gives a strong act. The feminist monologues in particular are a delight.

Among the rest a specific mention must be made of Peter Sarsgaard and Penelope Cruz. Peter Sarsgaard’s police/ detective has a past connection with ida and this gives a good emotional touch. A crucial reveal with Peter Sarsgaard letting his guard down has been solidly written and enacted. Penelope Cruz as the assistant also makes her presence amply felt. Her character comes with the ambition of moving up the ranks. In this subplot too the feminist touch is visible.

The cinematography of Lawerence Sher is of a very high order especially in the scenes of Jessie Buckley’s double act. The production design adds to an immersive experience creating a lived-in gothic world.

Final word: The Bride is a solid watch for the sheer audacity of Maggie Gyllenhaal coupled with some excellent acting

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Avatar 3 (Fire and Ash): A strong anti-colonial message in a cliched template

James Cameron’s eye for visuals especially in the staging of action is undoubtedly noteworthy. But the third part doesn’t have much novelty relying on overused tropes. Oana Chaplin as a new entrant steals the thunder with her villainous act.

Starcast: Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Oana Chaplin and others

Genre: Science fiction

Direction, story, screenplay and producer: James Cameron

Additional screenplay and story: Rick Jaffa , Amanda Silver etc

Music: Simon Franglen

Cinematography: Russel Carpentar

Production Company: Lightstorm Entertainment

Running time: 3 hours and 15 minutes

The first Avatar movie released on December 18th, 2009, had some novelty particularly the world building. The movie had socially relevant themes making it much more than just a science fiction. Some of the issues explored were greed versus nature, clash of cultures and colonialism among others. The story followed the journey of an ex-marine Jake Sully (Sully Worthington). He is sent to infiltrate a blue skinned tribe called Navi. How his world view changes after intermingling with the Navi tribe formed an important part of Avatar 1.

Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldana

The second part of Avatar called The Way of Water released in 2022. A huge gap of thirteen years. This was more of a family drama beginning with the establishment of Jack Sully’s domestic life. But this happiness doesn’t last long with the return of General Frances (Edie Falco) and Colonel Miles Quaritch (Stephen Lang). They make a comeback to the world of Pandora with the intention of destroying Jack with his family. Left with not much choice Jack Sully along with the wife and children seek refugee with a clan called Metkayina. This clan is also a Navi but they stay beside a huge ocean. Unlike the first part the second one had less social commentary: nevertheless, humanity’s disdain towards other life forms came out in a thought-provoking manner.

Now you have the third part which feels more like a continuation of part two. Avatar 3 is basically about the newer challenges faced by Sam Worthington’s Jack Sully and Zoe Saldana’s Neyitri. There is an aggressive new tribe led by Oana Chaplin. The old enemies are also waiting to strike back. Once again, a huge battle ensues for the survival of both family as well as Metkayina.

A strong aspect of Avatar 3 is undoubtedly the visual aesthetics. The cinematography of Russel Carpenter is in perfect sync with James Cameron’s vision. Three action sequences in particular are definitely big screen worthy. A major shutout though should be given to the big action stretch of pre climax and climax. The way it has been captured with the raw intensity is a delight to watch.

The world building of Pandora with its different dynamics continues to be a major highlight of Avatar movies. The viewers often feel like they are travelling with these characters making the film visually appealing.

The themes explored in part three are similar to the first two. The issues of power struggles and colonialism is an important part of Avatar 3. The battle of Jack Sully and co against Colonel Miles Quaritch is very reminiscent of real word indigenous struggles. There is also humanity’s ever ending need for resources. The theme of Ash is represented through the cynical nature of destruction and hope. Newer themes are also present like futility of war and burden of family legacy.

All these subplots have its share of impactful dialogues, but very loose editing coupled with the repetitive nature of sequences makes it a hard slog. Also, the characters in the third part don’t get much of an upgrade. The trio of Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldana etc are competent in their respective parts but a sense of staleness has crept in the overall design making it difficult to care.

Oana Chaplin though gets a solid role lifting the movie’s energy with her sheer presence. Her character is completely unhinged, and the actress chews the scenery. Apart from being a convincing antagonist Oana Chaplin also makes for a great seductress. There is a certain sensuality in the way she sweet talks Colonel Miles Quaritch.

The major issue with Avatar 3 (Fire and Ash) is the lack of wow factor. The movie isn’t exactly unwatchable but needed more high moments. The music too falls significantly short. The background score is generic and needed more intensity.

Final word: Avatar 3rd part is a feast for fans of visual spectacles. The best way to watch it is by avoiding comparisons especially with the first part.

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One Battle After Another: A strong cocktail of politics, thrills and drama

Director Paul Thomas Andreson delivers a khichdi of genres in a seamless manner. The best part of Paul Thomas Andreson narration is how he manages to find humor in even the direst of circumstances. The movie’s socio-political commentary- like the angle of racial discrimination- doesn’t feel force fitted at any point. There is a natural blend to the way events unfold

Starcast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, Chase Infiniti, Teyana Taylor and others

Genre: Action thriller/drama

Director and writer: Paul Thomas Andreson

Based on: The Book Vineland by Thomas Pynchon

Producers: Adam Somner, Sara Murphy and Paul Thomas Andreson

Production Company: Ghoulardi Film Company

Cinematography: Michael Bauman

Music: Jonny Greenwood

Running time: 2 hours and 50 minutes

The best way to describe One Battle After Another would be a chaotic ride in the best manner. The movie takes the viewers on a roller coaster of a journey from the beginning itself. The plot doesn’t waste any time in establishing a revolutionary group called French 75. A scene stealing Leonardo DiCaprio along with a fierce Teyana Taylor are a part of this French 75. A revolutionary group taking on a fascist regime.

There is a daring rescue operation involving the immigration detention center. Sean Penn plays colonel Steven Lockjaw. He is absolutely smitten by Teyana Taylor’s Perfidia Beverly Hills. The first half an hour establishes the motives of French 75 and the mayhem they cause. However once incident changes everything leading Leonardo DiCaprio’s Bob and the young child played by Chase Infinti to go underground. Perfidia Beverly has already left her husband and daughter due to a certain friction. Bob is leading a quiet life with the grown-up daughter but the past returns back to haunt and soon the movie turns into a race against time.

A strong aspect of One Batlle After Another is the entertainment quotient. The movie raises many chuckles at regular intervals: this in spite of the tense situations. A lot of credit for that goes to Leonardo DiCaprio’s comic timing. When his daughter suddenly disappears, he knows that she is in peril and tries to contact his old comrades. However, the person on the phone insists on their secret code answers which Bob cannot recollect due to the overuse of drugs and alcohol in all these years. This keeps repeating generating a lot of comedy.

The portions of Bob as a father and how he interacts with the daughter’s friends specially the scene where she is going to a party is hilarious to say the least. Leonardo simply brings the house down. In the emotional scenes also, he does a fine job. The desperation is palpable making the viewers root for him. In short Leonardo is first rate.

Mention must also be made of the impactful socio-political commentary. The political violence led by colonel Steven Lockjaw in how the immigrants and the black community are treated has a contemporary touch. The result of extreme authoritarianism and how this leads to rebellious groups like French 75 has been well written and enacted.

The movie also pays a nod to Hitler’s dictatorial ways in a sequence resembling a gas chamber. Sean Penn makes for a suitably despicable antagonist even though the character becomes a mere caricature as the plot progresses.

The character of Chase Infiniti has been well crafted. There is a strong inner strength to the role and a certain street-smart nature. She isn’t someone waiting for her to dad rescue her. There is an important sequence where she bumps off an assassin after he fails to answer an important code question. Chase Infiniti more than holds her own opposite Leonardo.

The cinematography of Michael Bauman is also eye filling. The vast landscape specially in the tense chase sequence makes the movie a visual delight. The background score of Jonny Greenwood also adds to the drama.

Final word: I am sure that a person who is familiar with American political context would understand the film more comprehensively.

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The Long Walk: A haunting dystopian tale in the post Vietnam America

The Long Walk directed and produced by Francis Lawrence has a distinct hangover of the Korean web series Squid Games along with Jennifer Lawrence’s Hunger Games: but this movie has bromance with the participants being supportive of each other. The movie isn’t for those who are in the mood for grim stories. For fans of dystopian dramas with socio political commentary, The long Walk is a must watch

Starcast: Cooper Hoffman, David Jonsson, Garrett Warieng and others

Director and Producer: Francis Lawrence

Genre: Thriller/drama

Based on: Stephen King’s novel The Long Walk

Screenplay: JT Mollner

Producers: Francis Lawrence, Roy Lee, Cameron MacConmy and Steven Schneider

Cinematography: Joe Willems

Music: Jeremaih Fraites

Running time: 1 hour and 48 minutes

The backdrop of Francis Lawrence’s The Long Walk is a future of extreme fascism. In a brutal test numerous young men participate in a walk by the same name. In this competition they must maintain a minimum walking pace with no option of slowing down or giving up. If either of the two happens the soldiers would bump them off. Only one winner remains.

The broad themes covered by The Long Walk are false hopes, government dictatorial/fascist ways, economic hardships resulting in numerous men participating and finally resilience of human spirit along with a certain optimism.

A strong aspect of the movie is the haunting dystopian world created by Francis Lawrence along with cinematographer Joe Willems. The atmospherics are truly scary given the current political atmosphere. Francis Lawrence makes the viewers contemplate on how our near future will look like if the fascism continues.

In spite of a mostly bleak picture mention must be made of a strong sense of brotherhood among the men. This specially comes out in the companionship portions featuring Cooper Hoofman’s Ray Garraty and David Jonsson ‘s Peter Mc Vries. For Ray, Peter Mc Vries becomes an important anchor given his emotional turmoil and his reasons for joining the walk.

Inspite of the premise being rooted in capitalist machinery the men are unexpectedly supportive of each other. They urge each other keep on walking no matter what. The conversations have a philosophical tone

Through these men the movie explores different kinds of masculinity starting from Ray. The concept of American dream has also been used well to critique a dystopian society which offers false hope of success.

The actors also do a very fine job in making the viewers feel for them. The ones who stand out though are Cooper Hoofman and David Jonsson. They get the emotional graph of the roles spot on.

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F 1: A thrilling adrenaline ride specifically for racing buffs

Brad Pitt and Damson Idris

F1 directed by Joseph Konsinki has all the staple elements of an underdog story mixed in a sports template. However, what makes the movie work is the packaging, the car racing sequences have the right amount of thrills keeping the viewers on the edge. The behind-the-scenes chaos also adds a certain amount of gravity to the proceedings. Brad Pitt and Damson Idris lead the acting department

Starcast: Brad Pitt, Damson Idris, Kerry Condon, Javier Bardem and others

Genre: Sports

Direction and story: Joseph Konsinki

Screenplay: Ehren Kruger

Producers: Joseph Konsiki, Brad Pitt, Jerry Bruckheimier and others

Production Companies: Apple Studios, Dawn Apollo Films etc

Cinematography: Claudio Miranda

Music: Hans Zimmer

Sports movies across the world follow a certain template an individual rising out of ashes after a major incident and a team which is down and out. How the protagonist puts the team back on the map forms a major core. F 1 pretty much follows these rules however the way Joseph Konsinki uses the sport of Formula one racing makes a big difference. The movie perfectly fits the tag of popcorn entertainer something to be enjoyed on the big screen. Not surprisingly the film has been smashing records right, left and center.

The plot of F1 revolves around Sonny Hayes (a charismatic Brad Pitt). Sonny Hayes was a popular Formula one driver however a devastating crash turned the life of Sonny Hayes upside down. He is now working as a taxi driver in New York and also competing in underground races, things take a major turn when the Formula one team owner and friend Ruben Cervants( Javier Bardem) offers a comeback. Sonny now has a chance at beginning life fresh on the circuit, at the same time he is tasked with mentoring a rookie but talented Joshua Pearce (Damson Idris). This is the story in brief.

A standout aspect of F1 is the realistic racing sequences, as a viewer you are sucked into the world of racing even if you aren’t into watching Formula one races. The intense competition between the racers as one tries to outdo the other has been shot in a thrilling way. It gives goosebumps thanks to the wonderful cinematography of Claudio Miranda. Hans Zimmer’s background score also adds to the immersive experience; it contributes significantly to the high-octane thrills.

F1 also benefits from the portrayal of behind-the-scenes chaos coupled with the corporate politics among other things. These aspects add a compelling layer specifically for those who aren’t much acquainted with the world of racing.

The portrayal of the underdog team also makes the viewers root for Sonny Hayes, Joshua Pearce etc. How they take on the big giants like Ferrari, Mercedes and Red Bull relying on strength of will power is a treat to watch.

The dynamics between Sonny Hayes and Joshua Pearce from starting off on a not so friendly note and eventually becoming the perfect team has also been wonderfully written and enacted. The performances led by Brad Pitt and Damson Idris is first rate too. Brad Pitt’s Sonny Hayes is a mixture of cockiness and emotional depth, the actor nails both the shades. A particular mention must be made of his performance in the scenes with Kerry Condon playing an APXGP technical director. Damson Idris is equally compelling as a new age talent trying to strike a perfect balance between the demands of social media while focusing on his ambitions. Kerry Condon also stands her ground as a female proving her worth in a male bastion. Lastly Javier Bardem as the desperate team owner also makes his presence amply felt.

Final word: F1 is an edge of seat experience and perfect watch for those who want big screen spectacle.

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Materialists: A sharp social commentary on the complexities of finding true love

Dakota Johnson as matchmaker Lucy

Under the guise of a romantic movie director and writer Celine Song looks at the various factors which play a part in choosing a life partner and also the dating culture where the older women have a tough time given the specific requirements that some clients have

Starcast: Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, Pedro Pascal and others

Genre: Romance

Director and writer: Celine Song

Producers: David Hinojosa, Pamela Koffler etc

Production Companies: 2AM and Killer Films

Cinematography: Shabier Krichner

Music: Daniel Pemberton

Running time: 1 hour and 49 minutes

The depiction of love stories has come a long way in movies across languages, from simple rom coms to more complex stories. The Materialists is a very good example of that. Through a story set in the context of today’s dating apps the movie’s plot explores how finding the right partner is so difficult given the many factors both economic and social.

At the heart of Materialists is Dakota Johnson’s Lucy. A failed theatre actor turned matchmaker. She deals with clients of different types everyday with hidden vulnerabilities of her own. Among her numerous clients Zoe Winter’s Sophie is a special one. Sophia is 39 years old and is desperate to find a loving man. Things take a dramatic turn when Lucy falls for the charm of Pedro Pascal’s Harry. Initially she thinks of setting up Harry as a client for the dating website however Lucy ends up falling for him. Harry has many desirable qualities, he is rich, chivalrous, kind and belongs to a happy family. In Lucy’s words he is a unicorn, soon enough Harry convinces Lucy about a potential union between them. Things start to look up at one point but life soon comes to crossroads due to a certain turn of events. One of the other important characters is Chris Evan’s John. A struggling theatre actor trying hard to make ends meet, he is also Lucy’s ex. This is the story in brief.

Dakota Johnson and Pedro Pascal

A big strength of Materialists is how the movie seamlessly integrates the professional and personal life of Lucy. Through the characters of some clients Celine Song does a fine job in touching upon the biases and how men are obsessed with certain physical features like a particular height and BMI (body fat). There is a scene in the movie where a client talks about how it shouldn’t exceed over 20.

Similarly the movie also dwells into the issues faced by older women due to ageism. Most men even if they are 50 want someone younger and not their age. The aspect of sexism has come out in a strong manner through the character of Sophia, she goes through many heartbreaks and assault as well. Zoe Winter as Sophia is excellent in making the viewers feel Sophia’s pain.

Mention must also be made of how Celine Song has dealt with the love triangle. The eventual path taken by Lucy isn’t unpredictable but the path to get there has been written and enacted wonderfully. The practicalities of what sustains a relationship whether it is love or financial security has come out beautifully.

The characterization coupled with the acting performance of Dakota Johnson is another plus for the movie. There is an unapologetic nature to Lucy on wanting a wealthy life partner, there is a scene in the movie where she says marriage is more of a business deal. At the same time Lucy is also clear about wanting love. Dakota Johnson plays the complicated role of a strong woman dealing with low self esteem at the same time in an excellent manner. The men also give solid support specifically Chris Evans. As an optimist with deep love for Lucy Chris turns in a memorable act, he makes the viewers fall in love with the character of John.

Chris Evans as John an optimist with deep love for Lucy

Daniel Pemberton’s songs have a poetic feel uplifting the emotions at many places. Shabier Kirchner cinematography is of an excellent order too. He succeeds in capturing both the glossy nature along with the emotional vulnerabilities underneath the sheen.

Final word: Materialists is a perfect watch for those who like complex love stories