Prakhyath Rai (MerryBrains)

Gangs of New York (Available in Amazon Prime) is easily one of my favorite Martin Scorsese films, capturing the raw essence of 19th-century America with brutal beauty. The film dives into the tumultuous conflict between native Protestants and Catholic immigrants, giving the timeline a haunting, almost melancholic depth. It feels like being pulled into a dark yet mesmerizing world. At the heart of it all is Daniel Day-Lewis as Bill the Butcher. What an astonishing performance! I’ve reviewed his work in There Will Be Blood, and here again, he’s an absolute force, delivering a chilling and captivating portrayal that dominates the screen. He truly makes this movie his own. There is Caprio, there is Cameron Diaz but this is clearly Daniel day Lewis's movie. The plot is simple: "You killed my father, and I will have my revenge." And while the story may not be groundbreaking, the world Scorsese creates is so vivid, even with all its chaos and brutality, that you can’t help but be drawn in. It’s not perfect, but there’s an undeniable charm to the gritty beauty of it all. Something like KGF that we see. Even after 20 years, Gangs of New York holds up as an incredible piece of filmmaking. It’s a must-watch, especially if you don’t shy away from a bit of bloodshed. Highly recommended!

Katyar Kaljat Ghusali, available on Zee5 and YouTube, is a musical masterpiece that takes you on a journey through rich traditions and heartfelt melodies. Adapted from a beloved Marathi play, this film resonates deeply, especially if you're a music lover. Like Bandish Bandits, Katyar Kaljat Ghusali feels authentic and more, capturing the essence of classical music and culture. Shankar Mahadevan delivers a surprising and memorable performance, while Sachin Pilgaonkar as Khan Sahab brings the story to life with his powerful acting, elevating the film to heights. Subodh Bhave's direction beautifully showcases the Maratha heritage, weaving music and tradition in a seamless narrative. The title, which translates to A Dagger Through the Heart, is apt, as the film pierces through with its emotional depth and musical brilliance. The songs are outstanding, with Shankar's voice shining throughout, but if you listen closely, you'll catch Arijit Singh's subtle presence too. This is unhampered music, recreated in its purest form, and I can only wish for more films like this—ones that bring back the authenticity and cultural richness we crave. If you're ready to be enlightened by music, give this one a close listen. Will you?

Grave of the Fireflies (in Netflix) will break you. It will tear you apart, piece by piece. This is a story about two siblings, Seita and Setsuko, caught in the aftermath of war. Their love and bond are so profound, yet the journey they endure is devastating. This film is trauma in its purest form, and it doesn’t shy away from the truth. Be warned: you will cry, not once but many times. At its core, this is a film about sacrifice. The older brother, Seita, gives everything for his sister. But you are not just watching their struggle for survival—you’re witnessing ghosts. You are grasping for hope in the darkest times, and when it eludes you, it leaves a void that pierces deep into your soul. Have you ever seen a rock cry? And when it does, it surprises you, just as this film does. It reveals emotions you didn’t expect to feel in a war film—vulnerability, despair, and the quiet destruction of innocence. I’ve watched Spirited Away, a masterful work from Studio Ghibli, but Grave of the Fireflies stands in a league of its own. This isn’t just an animated film. It’s a tragic masterpiece. If you’ve ever known someone who cried after watching anime, this is why. The pain is real, and the beauty lies in how it touches the rawest human emotions. Can you believe this is a true story? The original novel was written as a tribute by the brother, reflecting on his own harrowing experiences. Knowing that makes this film all the more unbearable yet essential. I write this review with tears in my eyes, reminded of how fragile life is. What a blessing it is to be alive—yet, at times, what a burden to bear such stories. Grave of the Fireflies is one of those rare films that leaves you forever changed.

Land (2021) Movie Review: I watched Land on JioCinema, but you can also rent it on Amazon Prime. If you've seen Into the Wild, you might feel a familiar vibe right from the start. The protagonist here is dealing with deep pain and trauma, likely from a tragic accident, and chooses to isolate herself in a remote wilderness, facing her suffering head-on. The cinematography is stunning—capturing the serene, yet haunting beauty of the landscape. Throughout the film, the song "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" reappears, almost as if echoing the character's internal struggle. Robin Wright takes on multiple roles as the lead actress, director, and executive producer. Her performance is heartfelt, and the film itself carries a gentle, peaceful tone. However, despite its emotional depth, Land feels somewhat ordinary. Into the Wild still stands out as the superior film, more relatable and impactful. While Wright's acting is commendable, the direction leaves something to be desired. The movie is beautifully shot, but it falls into predictability, making it less engaging than it could have been. Overall, Land is a thoughtful film, though it could have benefited from stronger direction. The scenery alone is breathtaking—a perfect choice for a screensaver. It’s not the most original film, but it’s a touching story about finding hope. If you’re in the mood for a movie that’s gentle and slow-paced, Land is worth watching, even if it’s not groundbreaking cinema.

Capharnaum (Available on Amazon Prime Video) "Capharnaum" plunges you into the harsh realities of extreme poverty and chaos, seen through the eyes of Zain, a young refugee. This Lebanese film is a poignant portrayal of life on the margins, featuring a cast largely made up of real refugees, adding an authentic depth to the narrative. Imagine your childhood being stolen, with justice and emotions unraveling before you through Zain's perspective. The direction is masterful, especially in capturing the vulnerability of the children. This film embodies extreme realism, starkly illustrating the cruelty of the world. We often think we are the ones suffering, but this movie reveals people who endure unimaginable hardships, often without fully realizing their plight. "Capharnaum" is a heart-wrenching experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll. The lead actor, a Syrian refugee who once lived on the streets, delivers a performance that is both raw and deeply moving, reflecting a story that feels almost too real. The title, "Capharnaum," is loaded with meaning. In Arabic, it signifies chaos and miracles. Biblically, Capernaum was a place where Jesus was both rejected and performed many miracles, a paradox that resonates throughout the film. This film isn't just a story; it's a powerful meditation on compassion and responsibility. Nadine Labaki, the director, excels in drawing out the truth in the eyes of her actors, filming in real locations to enhance the documentary-like authenticity of the experience. "Capharnaum" is not made for entertainment in the conventional sense. It’s a raw, unflinching exploration of a harsh reality, demanding that you watch, absorb, and reflect. The film is so hard-hitting that you’ll find yourself rooting for Zain to succeed. And when he finally smiles, you might cry—not out of sadness, but because you leave the film with a deeper sense of compassion.

"The Zone of Interest" is a powerful Oscar winning film, available with English subtitles on Amazon Prime. Loosely based on Martin Amis's novel, the movie departs from the book's slightly fictional approach to deliver a brutally honest portrayal. This film employs a unique directorial style, juxtaposing the idyllic daily life of a family with the horrific suffering and cries happening in the background. It questions how such a stark contrast can coexist so closely. One particularly striking scene features a black-and-white infrared sequence, serving as a symbolic reversal. The constant eerie background noise enhances the unsettling atmosphere, creating a beautiful yet haunting soundscape. The film is rich in contrasts: flowers blooming in a garden beside the shadow of death, each gunshot in the background marking a life lost, and smoke wafting ominously. "The Zone of Interest" is crafted in a way that leaves you changed, provoking deep reflection on the coexistence of beauty and horror.

OldBoy – Available on Amazon Prime Video OldBoy is a devastating piece of incredible cinema that is both gross and tough to watch. Despite its disturbing content, it stands out as one of the best movies I have ever seen—though I will not watch it again. The film is disgusting and depressing, yet undeniably incredible. Having given you guys my fair share of warning, this movie delves into the human obsession with truth, highlighting how forgetfulness can be equally important. It suggests that the truth doesn't always set you free; sometimes, it can be a prison. Ignorance, as the movie portrays, can truly be bliss. "Laugh and the world laughs with you; weep and you weep alone." This line encapsulates the movie's powerful exploration of human emotions and isolation. The ending is abstract and open to interpretation, leaving much to the viewer's perception. And the plot twist is probably the best ever I have ever watched. P.S: While there is a Hollywood remake, the original Korean version is pure cinematic class.

The Silence of the Lambs - Amazon Prime The Silence of the Lambs presents a chilling exploration of identity and transformation, centering on the complex characters of Buffalo Bill, Clarice Starling, and Dr. Hannibal Lecter. Buffalo Bill is painted as the villain, struggling deeply with his base identity and manifesting his self-loathing through his gruesome actions. His desire for transformation is evident, but it is a dark, negative metamorphosis akin to the moth—a stark contrast to the butterfly, which symbolizes positive change. 🦋 Clarice Starling is an embodiment of resilience, navigating a male-dominated world while grappling with her past traumas. She stands out as one of the strongest female characters in cinematic history, a testament to the perseverance and strength of women. Dr. Hannibal Lecter, with his intelligence, wit, and playful nature, emerges as one of the most intriguing characters. Despite his sinister disposition, he exhibits a peculiar care for Clarice, enjoying their interactions and developing a strange attraction to her. The film's motif of transformation is underscored by the symbolism of the butterfly and the moth, representing positive and negative change, respectively. Clarice's journey is one of growth and empowerment, whereas Buffalo Bill's is a descent into further darkness. The recurring theme of the lambs' silence encapsulates the haunting quest for peace and resolution. As Clarice confronts her inner demons and faces the horrors around her, the question remains: Have the lambs stopped screaming? 🐏🐏🐏🐏🐏

"Manchester by the Sea" on Amazon Prime is a poignant and beautifully crafted film that delicately weaves a tapestry of memories, grief, and redemption. Oh man, Casey Affleck delivers an outstanding performance, showcasing his remarkable talent for understated emotion and raw authenticity. His portrayal of Lee Chandler is not only compelling but also deeply moving, capturing the essence of a broken man struggling to piece his life back together. But yes, you will have to read between the lines to understand it all. The movie's pace is deliberate, especially in the first 30 minutes, but this slow build is a critical part of the storytelling. It creates an atmosphere of quiet introspection, allowing you to feel the weight of the characters' experiences. Trust me, this pacing is essential; it sets the groundwork for the emotional journey that follows. As the narrative unfolds, the film skillfully employs flashbacks, revealing the tragic events that shaped the characters' lives. The backstory emerges unexpectedly, hitting you with a powerful emotional punch. The performances throughout are subtle yet powerful, a masterclass in nuanced acting that adds to the film's authenticity. Again, the flashbacks or switchbacks without warning is another skill. Every frame of "Manchester by the Sea" is meticulously crafted, reflecting the care and thought that went into its production. It's a rare gem for true drama and real cinema lovers. If you're looking for a movie that resonates with emotional depth and genuine storytelling, "Manchester by the Sea" is an absolute must-watch.

"Maestro," now streaming on Netflix, intricately weaves a paradoxical love story between Felicia and Lenny, two individuals from contrasting worlds—introvert versus extrovert, yet existing simultaneously. The film delves into themes of queer acceptance within the realm of conducting, portraying a double life where summer's silence speaks volumes. Interestingly, "Maestro" celebrates Felicia more than the titular Maestro himself, adding layers to the narrative. However, the film's non-linear storytelling might require multiple viewings to fully grasp its clever intricacies. While not straightforward, "Maestro" challenges viewers to decipher its disjointed yet compelling narrative, making it a worthwhile watch for those seeking depth and nuance in storytelling. "Maestro" is a film that certainly sparks contemplation and discussion, touching on the lives of numerous famous artists. While it's not without its flaws, with moments that might feel slow or dull, it still manages to deliver a compelling narrative. Though I wouldn't say it captured my heart entirely, its exploration of artistry and identity makes it a worthwhile watch for those intrigued by the complexities of the human experience.