"Nowhere" (2023) is a Spanish-language survival thriller that follows Mia, a pregnant woman who escapes a war-torn country by hiding in a maritime container aboard a cargo ship. After a violent storm, Mia gives birth to her child while lost at sea, where she must fight to survive. The film is anchored by a committed performance from Anna Castillo, who plays Mia. It's tense and claustrophobic atmosphere makes you anxious and on edge.
The survival drama genre is extremely repetitive when it's about the storyline, but the motivation to create such stories with a fresh environment that's challenging is a commendable work by the makers. Overall, "Nowhere" is a gripping and intense survival story that explores themes of motherhood, guilt, and grief.
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The First Omen" is a chilling and atmospheric horror film that effectively pays homage to the original while presenting a fresh and unsettling perspective, with standout performances and direction that will leave viewers on edge.
The First Omen is a prequel to the Omen Franchise which started with The Omen in 1976. The film's atmospheric tension, creepy moments, and effective storytelling makes is a worthwhile horror flick. The film's highlight is its unique approach to horror, recalling the best elements of the 1976 original without feeling derivative. Director Arkasha Stevenson's debut film impresses with its confident direction and storytelling, featuring a standout performance by Nell Tiger Free. She literally has given a performance to remember.The film's slow pace can irritate a few viewers, as well as the unexpected ending tying it to the original of 1976 can be questionable, but overall, the film shines in its ability to evoke a haunting atmosphere and deliver scares without relying on cheap jump scares or gimmicks. A worthy prequel.
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"A Gritty South Korean Thriller with a Compelling Body Swap Premise."
Devils is a gritty South Korean thriller following detective Jae-hwan and serial killer Jin-hyuk who swap bodies. The film delivers intense violence and a compelling body swap premise, but falls into genre clichés and lacks character depth. Despite this, it offers a raw depiction of urban crime networks and showcases strong performances, particularly from Jang Dong-yoon. Director Kim Jae-hoon's debut shows promise in Korean genre cinema, though it requires some suspension of disbelief. While not flawless, Devils is a bold and engaging entry in the thriller genre, hinting at a bright future for its director.
Watch or Not?
If brutal killings, terrifying torture scenes are okay for you then this is a extremely edge of that seat thriller. The performances are excellent and you might really enjoy the plot shifts during he short runtime. A great korean thriller.
A Darkly Captivating Thriller with Intriguing Twists.
The 8 Show is a dark comedy thriller based on Bae Jin-soo's webtoons, masterfully directed by Han Jae-rim. This series features a star-studded cast and revolves around eight participants in a deadly game where the line between cooperation and conflict determines survival or death. The intricate screenplay brilliantly weaves mystery and power dynamics, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The seemingly happy show spirals into chaos, violence, and unexpected twists, making you root fervently for your favorite characters.
The fantastic performances by the cast significantly enhance the gripping narrative. With its unique and intriguing premise. The 2nd half of the show somewhat looses some steam but picks up eventually before the episode closes out. The 8 Show is a must-watch for fans of thrilling K-dramas, offering a blend of mystery, danger, and psychological tension that captivates from start to finish.
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A Thrilling Prequel in the Mad Max Saga
Furiosa is a relentless, adrenaline-pumping actioner from George Miller, the visionary behind the Mad Max saga. Set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland, the film showcases Miller's unique directorial conviction. The action sequences are brutal, exciting, and innovative, featuring engaging set pieces and characters. Despite a somewhat thin premise, the action remains a standout.
Chris Hemsworth delivers a shockingly compelling performance, his intimidating presence suggesting the potential for a spin-off origin film for his character. Anya Taylor-Joy is commendable, bringing sufficient depth to her role. However, the subplot exploring Furiosa's origins feels weak and underdeveloped.
Overall, Furiosa serves as a worthy prequel, rooted in the infamous wasteland with unparalleled action choreography and set pieces. The climax, however, may feel off and stretched to an extent beyond salvation, potentially disappointing fans expecting a stronger ending.
Watch or Not?
If you liked Mad Max Fury Road, then go for this, action lovers go for this. Keep expectations at bay.
A Delightful Crime Comedy which is likeable due to its frivolous and cinematic escapism.
Crew is a delightful crime comedy that follows three air hostesses - Geeta (Tabu), Jasmine (Kareena Kapoor Khan), and Divya (Kriti Sanon) - who get caught up in a gold smuggling racket. Despite its frothy exterior, the film offers an interesting take on the upper middle class and their relationship with money, ethics and dead-end jobs.
The movie boasts a terrific first half with fast-paced humor stemming from the characters' unabashed approach to life. Tabu and Kareena deliver electrifying performances, with Kareena oozing oomph and substance as a lonely hustler. Kriti adds to the chutzpah but has a rather smaller stake compared to the others.
While the heist bit is not particularly clever, it works because the film doesn't pretend to be. The climax gets a bit convenient and far-fetched, but the movie remains an entertaining watch overall.
Watch or Not ?
Crew's comedy may not be extremely funny, but the film delivers on what it set out to be - a light-hearted madcap comedy worth diving into for its frivolity, humor and glam with three sizzling ladies of Bollywood.
A Gripping Dystopian Thriller Reflecting on Divisive Extremism
"Civil War" (2024) is a gripping dystopian thriller directed by Alex Garland, following journalists racing across war-torn America to reach D.C. before rebel factions. Kirsten Dunst's haunting performance as battle-scarred journalist Lee encapsulates the film's somber tone, exploring the media's role in shaping narratives amidst societal collapse.
Garland balances the overarching narrative with intimate moments, while Hardy's cinematography contrasts brutal realities with fleeting beauty. Even if the visuals and action seems excruciatingly real and original, the pacing issues and soundtrack were uneven for the pulse of the film. The film basically caters to our imagination of a country in civil turmoil.
Watch or Not?
"Civil War" serves as a somber warning of a country torn apart by divisive rhetoric and political extremism. Not all cinema lovers will embrace the film based on war journalism and the deep meaning it intends to pass. If you are interested in media and journalism during wars, give it a try.
This was so average.. Wasn't necessary to make stretch it for 87 mins Netflix..
A Grisly Zombie flick for the genre fanboy in you
The film "Yummy" is a grisly low-budget zombie entertainer, that doesn't take itself seriously. It has some humorous moments, but the gore and creativity in zombie kills are what make it worth watching. The acting is average, and the cinematography and music are fine. The screenplay is fast paced and keep moving without breaks.
There is literally no character development for you to sympathise with , making it a great movie for escapism. The film could have explored themes like body modification and plastic surgery without being preachy. Despite its shortcomings, "Yummy" is still worth watching for its short runtime and gore, making it a good choice for fans of the genre.
The Marvels is filled with cheap thrills but no meat.
The Marvels" is a fun, action-packed superhero adventure that brings together Captain Marvel, Ms. Marvel, and Monica Rambeau to save the universe. While the film has some positive moral elements like family and doing the right thing, it falls very short of the standards Marvel had set till Endgame. Often falling into the categories of cringe and unnecessary drama. You never really care about the Characters as the writing is extremely mediocre and has minimal emotional depth.
The character interactions, visuals, and humor might still make it a popcorn-worthy entertainer, but be informed that the story is messy, the villain is uninteresting, and the pacing is uneven throughout. Performances are strictly over the top. However look out for that mind blowing post credit scene integrating Marvel to whole new world.
Overall, "The Marvels" is a decent entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, especially for fans of the individual characters but will stay a huge disappointment for the ardent Marvel fans from before.
Mr. and Mrs. Mahi shines with the performances but is let down by average execution.
"Mr. and Mrs. Mahi" is a feel-good and uplifting sports drama that follows a cricket-loving newlywed couple as they navigate their journey to excel in the sport. The lead actors deliver praiseworthy performances, but the script and direction are average. The tone is inconsistent, veering between overly sentimental and juvenile scenes. The cricket sequences and thrills during the game are forgettable. Rajkummar Rao and Janhvi Kapoor's natural chemistry and authentic performances make the film stand out. The music is a highlight, making a lasting impression. Despite its potential, the film offers nothing new, but the genuine performances, music, and emotions throughout the film might allow it to have a great run at the theaters.
Bade Miyan Chote Miyan is a deliberate snooze fest which aimed to captitalize in scale and star power but fails miserably
"Bade Miyan Chote Miyan" is a disappointing action film that fails to deliver despite its ambitious scale and star-studded cast. The movie lacks substance and relies on tasteless humor and chaotic action to cover up its shortcomings. The script is unimaginative, borrowing heavily from "Mission Impossible" and Marvel movies, and the plot twists are unexciting and predictable. The fan service attempts by director Ali Abbas Zafar feel forced and plastic, particularly in the dialogue delivery by the leads, Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff. The movie's action sequences lack conviction, and the performances by the female leads are underwhelming. Overall, the film falls flat, making it a forgettable and disappointing experience.
"Blackout" is an entertaining yet flawed film with a decent balance of humor and action, thanks to the commendable direction by Devang Bhavsar. The performances by Vikrant Massey and Sunil Grover are what keeps you engaged, and the music by Vishal Mishra is catchy and engaging. The plot follows Lenny, a crime reporter, as he navigates a series of unfortunate events during a city-wide blackout. While the film is enjoyable, its predictability and lack of substance prevent it from being truly great. Inclusion of Karan Sonawane and Saurabh Ghadge makes it a fun one timer. Overall, it is a fun and engaging movie worth watching, especially for fans of comedy crime thrillers. Easy one time watch.
A commendable addition to the Maddock Horror Universe blending genres with humour
Munjya directed by debutant Aditya Sarpotdar is more of a creature comedy drama than a real horror comedy. Munjya means unmarried Brahmij in Marathi, Just like Kantara and Tummbad, Munjya take up a this folklore and bakes it with situational humour, eerie atmosphere and uncanny characters. Even if the creature CGI is mid, the films' entertainment quotient hardly drops. It keep you hooked. Abhay Verma is solid, displaying innocence and fear brilliantly. Sharvari Wagh is adequate if not excellent. The spooky elements , fantastic music and freshly curated humour elements definitely makes it a great watch over the weekend. Don't miss the mid credit scene.
This parallel world film is a dissapointing reboot and is a wasted opportunity.
My Rating : :star::star: (45/100)
Bird Box : Barcelona is a big bumer in terms of converting a promising plot to an engaging screenplay. Having a strong fanbase from the first part, this film was greenlit by Netflix to get it a notch higher. But the film doesn't even has a single scene which hooks you to it gives you a moment to take back. Mario Casas and Georgina Campbell as criminally underused and are given disposable characters whom you donot even connect with. The writing is leading us to new direction when some folks can see the entity but doesn't necessarily kill themselves. This opens up more possibilities for more spin offs and parallel netflix stories but how far can they stretch unexciting screenplays this time will tell. For now if you dont have anything to watch then you might try this.
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Despite a promising debut by Avneet, Tiku weds Sheru is a baffling and collosal fiasco and tests your patience.
My Rating : :star: (13/100)
Tiku Weds Sheru is a startling disappointment of the year. No wonders why Kangana produced this film , this film doesn't even make sense just like the producer for the most part. Story with two messed up imperfect characters had the potential of being an engrossing premise in the rom-com drama genre but is completely destroyed by the writing and direction. Baring the fantastic debut by Avneet Kaur and the usual brilliance of Nawaz this film's story is dismaying. Filled with utter randomness , excessive profanity and illogical writing, Tiku Weds Sheru tests your patience and makes you agitated with the team who created this. Nawaz and Avneet deserved better writers and a director. This one is a hard pass. Watch it at your own risk.
Overall, the music is somewhat likeable, and the earnest performances might make you feel sorry for the actors but the entire screenplay is a towering failure. It's easy recommendation to skip this.
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A Competent Drama which explores the events leading to the rise of social networking giant.
A startling & disturbing true story of shakereh khaleeli which shook the nation
Dancing on the grave is a shocking tale that explores the life of Shakereh Khaleeli, the grand daughter of then Diwan of Mysore,
Sir Mirza Muhammad Ismail. A hard-hitting crime docuseries spanning close to 2 hours split between 4 episodes talks about her early life uptil her death. A royal life murdered in cold blood and the consequences faced by the accused is primary highlight if the show. The facts are presented with great care and sensibility , putting forth both sides of the story which is commendable. The old statements, the interviews of the folks involved, the footages of the past all make us feel for Shakereh Khaleeli undeserving death which became a sensation during the early 90s. At times the interviews felt repeatative and dragging, this is coming from someone who watches a lot of crime documentaries. Overall, if you are a true crime documentary fanatic, you will definitely like it. If you haven't watched one yet, then this is one to start with.
Shocking, Unsettling and Heartbreaking
Sky Borgman's latest crime docuseries Sins of our Mother is yet another scintillating story of real life incidents which are unsettling and startling. A mother, a wife and also a daughter is involved in a series of murders which ruptures the peace in her big family. With a good mixture of archival footage, old images and interesting revelations, Sins of our Mother may not reach the levels of Sky's previous work Girl in the Picture, but definitely serves as a tear-jerking story which needs a telling. The haunting and blinded faith on the Jesus, the whitewashing of brains and a sinful man proclaiming himself the jesus of new Jerusalem forms the crux of the intense and highly dramatic turn of events which are still active in US Trials. A fascinating character study which deserves your time.
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A brilliant & wicked dark comedy which explores an immoral & vicious character
Mukundan Unni Associates is a fantastic, highly irreverent dark comedy which takes us into a journey of a vicious, unsparing individual and tries to make us understand his diabolical conscience. A wonderfully written, inhuman tale of an advocate who no matter what wants to win at all cost. The screenplay is irresistably satisfying with an unique & crisp narrative backed by a marvelous and towering lead performance by Vineeth Sreenivasan. His barbaric performance deserves a lasting standing ovation. Kudos to the debutant director whoes promising & unforgiving direction makes this film ones of the finest dark comedies I have seen. Overall, if you are a fan of dark comedies which shows the immoral side of desperate individual then Mukundan Unni Associates is a fantastic treat for your eyes.
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This korean cyber thriller is engaging, intense & arresting.
Unlocked is a deliciously crafted cyber thriller which takes an extremely relevant premise in today's social space. Its a terrifying fusion of hacking, stalking and a sociopath story which keeps on getting intense as the film progresses. The screenplay is a bit underwhelming at times which makes it look slow, but other wise kudos to exceptional lead performances, creative editing, engaging sound design and a haunting premise. Debutant Director Kim Tae-Joon's direction is commendable and deserves applause. Yim Si-wan's extremely cold performance is terrifying and disturbing. Chun Woo-hee is fantastic as well. Overall a very smartly packed psycho thriller which is definitely worth a watch.
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Chris and Ana's latest is formulaic, unimaginative yet quite fun
Ghosted is unimaginably generic, mostly nonsensical but still is refreshing by virtue of the two extremely good looking leads who however dumb this film might be , have a magnetic screen presence. Its possible that this film's script could have been taken from the ChatGPT coz this ones is has the most cliched premises of a rom-com actioner. The music is somehow likeable, but the action and vfx is completely mediocre. The likeable thing in this film is the chemistry between Chris and Ana, however fake and forceful it may look, these two have astounding screen presence and light up the screens in every frame. Some special appearances are great. Overall, Ghosted is a dumb, extremely self-aware film which provides sporadic cute moments and good looks all over it in each frame.
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A fantastic blood filled thriller which provides the gore and fun it promised.
Evil Dead Rise is primarily a gore fest rather than being a horror film. Personally from someone who hasn't experienced an evil dead film before, this edition is a scary thriller with lots of bloodshed, brutal and innovative deaths, creepy single location setting and fantastic editing to create a novel horror atmosphere which keeps you on edge of what's next. The screenplay is fast and has some cliches which defines horror film routines. Alyssa Sutherland steals the show with one of the creepiest performances in horror films off late and Lilly Sullivan is damn brilliant on the other end. The show stealer is probably the kid Nell Fisher whose presence makes this more engaging. Overall, its a treat for the fans of this franchise with loads of ingenious elements, and a creepy, gory thriller for everyone else which is fun while it lasts.
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A Heart-rending anti-war film which is compelling & doninant in its storytelling
All Quiet on the the Western Front is a brutal & relentless reminder of how tragic and harrowing the war was. Its truly admirable how Edward Berger has captured the true horrors and gore even after more than 100 years of its inception. The opening shot sets the tone of the film which primarily is an unflinching account of all the inhumanities of war. Stunning production, brutal long takes of action sequences, exceptional sound design and the humane relationship built between Paul and his comrades are presented with unfiltered honesty and authenticity. Edward has taken a lot of care in building the small things apart from the war, to make this film a lasting memory by including stong human desires such as food, family, human touch and a comforting pillow. Felix Kammerer is truly the soul and revelation of this film. His performance is unwavering and truly phenominal. This is truly an unbiased anti-war film made with lot of earnestness and care.
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A fantastic dark comedy which gives you enough moments to stress and humour
Vaalvi is an exceptional dark comedy from the Marathi film industry which shines due to its smart writing, excellent performances from the leads and a wonderfully placed screenplay which felt like a breeze. With hardly any dull moments, Vaalvi effectively keeps your attention while the linear role play acts along. Swapnil Joshi is a veteran he has a cake walk, Shivani Surve is magnificent as the irritating 2nd lady and Subodh Bhave adds a fine performance as the equally important lead. The comedic moments are unintentional and hillarious. The score could have been a bit impactful considering the pace of the film to elevate the important tense moments. Nevertheless, Vaalvi is a sure shot banger which every film lover will appreciate for its uniqueness and thrills.
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A heart-rending real life episode which leaves you in catharsis
Ayothi is a heartfelt, moving real life incident which serves as tear-jerking cinema. Writer Director Manthira Moorthy uses conventional tropes of melodrama to evoke emotions which could have been more organic and natural, apart from this its the earnest performances, a fulfilling story and elevation of right moments with a stimulating score by Raghunanthan make Ayothi a truly powerful film. Yashpal Sharma suits his character admirably, Sasikumar except his dumb introduction is primarily understated in his role. Preethu Asrani's performance is truly promising as the naive girl in shock. Overall, Ayothi is one of those strong, stirring emotional dramas which forces you to shed a tear while also being a rewarding experience.
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Aditya Roy's formidable performance makes this an engrossing and earnest remake.
Gumraah is an arresting thriller which is packed with layered writing and character development which successfully holds your attention if you haven't watched the original. Baring some unecessary dance numbers and comic gags, this is easily an engaging ride with dazzling performancess from Aditya Roy Kapoor and Mrunal Thakur. Aditya is criminally underrated as an actor and here he proves it yet again. Mrunal is exceptional as the investigating cop and delivers a natural performance. Overall, Gumraah is solid thriller which is earnest in its storytelling, has great direction but watch this one only if you are a fan of any of these actors or have skipped the original.
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A sharp, stylish assassin story with glistering action and drama
Kill Boksoon is stylishly shot, smartly written assassin story which may seem repeatable considering the genre, but kudos to the brilliant cinematography, vibrant production design, breathtaking action blocks and solid performances by the entire cast that leaves you stunned by the end of it. The pacing is slow as more time is given to make the mother-daughter relationship organic and relatable, but as soon as action starts you push yourselves to the edge of your seats in excitement. Highlight of the film for me is the captivating camera work and that Jeon Do-yeon is half a century old. Hot Assassin , Lesbian daughter and Men getting killed is the perfect recipe to tempt you watch this.
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A wild ride which takes anger management to a whole new level
Beef is a highly engrossing dark comedy which gets wilder with each episode. Two depressed characters feuding over a road rage incident and pushing to extremes is a savage concept which is beautifully handled by immaculate writing, dark humour, carrier defining lead performancess by Steven Yeun and Ali Wong. The screenplay is a bit stretched but is likeable for the most of it. Overall a show which is diabolical but has lot of heart, which not everyone will decipher. Its unique, messy but still worth your time.
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Gerard Butler shoulders this fast paced aviation actioner to land it safe
Plane is fast paced , taut aviation thriller with solid Integration of hostage drama. The storyline isn't expansive but the engaging elements keep it exciting such as the action sequences and rescue operations. The screenplay always keep you intrigued and for the most part of it the film stays plausible but we never really point out the flaws as long as it keeps your adrenaline pumping. Gerard Butler as usual with a cake walk performance as lead supported efficiently by Mike Colter. Overall, a thrilling film with short runtime , which can be your perfect weekend movie.
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