Pratik B (PRK)

As an avid movie watcher, I was eager to watch "Lover" (2024), streaming on Disney+ Hotstar and available in 5 languages. Directed by Prabhuram Vyas and starring Manikandan, Sri Gouri Priya, Kanna Ravi, Geetha Kailasam, Harish Kumar, and Saravanan, "Lover" tells the story of Arun and Divya, a couple whose drastically different personalities are connected by their fondness for each other. Dating each other for six years, they find themselves at a crossroads as insecurity and possessiveness threaten to split them apart. The plot revolves around a toxic relationship with a realistic portrayal. Can these two lovers, a young woman who wants to be independent and a boyfriend who is insecure and possessive, manage to remain together? In a world filled with movies portraying "toxic" relationships, like "Kabir Singh/Arjun Reddy," "Animal," and more, "Lover" stands apart. It delves into the complexities of Arun and Divya's relationship and breakup, offering both perspectives without judgment or bias, making it a refreshing take on love and heartbreak, allowing viewers to draw their own conclusions. Just watched the movie and loved it, especially the climax. The movie forges perfect connections, leaving a lasting impact. What a fantastic performance from Manikandan and Gouri Priya. Throughout "Lover," Prabhuram Vyas gives us variations of the opening scene — the fighting, the drinking, the gaslighting, the warning, the apologizing, the patching up — and keeps us engaged with the push and pull of this relationship at a crossroads. The writing tries to be truthful, reflecting the mindset of contemporary 20-somethings when it comes to relationships. We see this in Divya, who loves Arun but has to make decisions that preserve her identity, even at great cost. We see this in her friends, who want to protect her but also let her make her own decisions. We see this in Madan (Kanna Ravi), Divya's new teammate, who finds himself drawn into a clash between two lovers. We also see this in Arun, who, for all his flaws, realizes the error of his ways and turns over a new leaf. The sub-plot involving Arun's parents not only humanizes Arun's nature but also shows how even older adults are all at sea when it comes to dealing with relationship issues. Kudos to the creators and the team behind this cinematic gem. The director has taken his best call and made the film in his own style. To someone in the corner who is broken and overcoming the love they are committed to, watch this—it will surely offer relief. The ultimate goal of love is to accept to let it go, a true trendsetter. LOVE IS A BATTLE, LOVE IS A WAR, LOVE IS A BREAKUP, LOVE IS GROWING UP.

As an avid movie watcher, I was eager to watch "Love Today" (2022) streaming on Netflix. Directed by Pradeep Ranganathan, known for his work in "Comali," this Indian Tamil-language romantic comedy exceeded all expectations. The film stars Pradeep Ranganathan himself in his acting debut, alongside Ivana, Raveena Ravi, Yogi Babu, Sathyaraj, and Radhika Sarathkumar in supporting roles. "Love Today" is a delightful blend of realism, humor, and emotion. Every moment feels genuine and engaging, keeping the audience captivated throughout. Pradeep Ranganathan's performance as the lead actor and director is remarkable, showcasing his immense talent. The supporting cast, including Ivana, Yogi Babu, Sathyaraj, and Radhika Sarathkumar, delivers stellar performances, adding depth and charm to the narrative. The film's emotional finale is reminiscent of the Telugu hit "Arya" (2003), leaving a lasting impact on the audience. One of the film's strengths is its portrayal of social media, particularly Instagram, in various dimensions. The concept of phone exchange is also novel and intriguing. The movie is filled with comedy, humor, and relatable moments that resonate with the youth audience. Beyond its entertainment value, "Love Today" offers valuable life lessons. The analogy of a tree's growth mirroring the development of trust in relationships resonated deeply. The film beautifully illustrates the importance of trust in relationships, highlighting the need to accept each other's flaws and differences. It emphasizes the importance of letting go and moving on, even when faced with heartbreak. Overall, "Love Today" is a must-watch for its realistic portrayal of modern relationships, brilliant performances, and impactful storytelling. Pradeep Ranganathan has created a film that not only entertains but also leaves a profound impact on the audience.

"Dear Zindagi" is a beautiful and introspective film that explores the complexities of life and relationships through the eyes of its protagonist, Kaira, played brilliantly by Alia Bhatt. The film delves deep into the themes of mental health, therapy, and self-discovery, which are often overlooked in mainstream cinema. Shah Rukh Khan's portrayal of Dr. Jehangir Khan, a therapist who helps Kaira navigate her inner turmoil, is both charming and profound. With his trademark charisma and depth, Khan breathes life into the character of the wise and empathetic therapist. Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, making their scenes together a joy to watch. Indeed, it's hard to imagine anyone else embodying the role of Dr. Jehangir Khan with such grace and conviction. Shah Rukh Khan's portrayal has left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide, with many longing to see him reprise the role in a spinoff or sequel. His nuanced performance not only adds depth to the film but also sparks a desire for further exploration of the character's journey. What sets "Dear Zindagi" apart is its honest exploration of mental health issues. The film tackles topics like anxiety, depression, and the importance of seeking help without sensationalizing or trivializing them. Instead, it offers a nuanced portrayal of the struggles many individuals face, emphasizing the significance of acceptance, healing, and self-love. The narrative is beautifully woven together with moments of humor, poignancy, and introspection. The cinematography captures the picturesque landscapes of Goa, adding a sense of serenity to the story. The music, composed by Amit Trivedi, especially with songs like "Love You Zindagi", "Ae Zindagi Gale Laga Le" and "Just Go To Hell Dil" perfectly complementing the film's narrative complements the emotions of each scene, enhancing the overall experience. The film's direction by Gauri Shinde is top-notch, with beautiful cinematography and a soulful soundtrack that complements the narrative perfectly. The supporting cast, including actors like Kunal Kapoor, Ali Zafar, and Ira Dubey, deliver strong performances that add depth to the story. While some may find the pacing slow at times, the film's sincerity and depth make it a compelling watch. "Dear Zindagi" reminds us of the power of forgiveness, gratitude, and embracing life's imperfections. It's a poignant reminder that our journey towards happiness is often paved with obstacles, but ultimately, it's our willingness to confront our fears and embrace our true selves that leads to fulfillment. Overall, "Dear Zindagi" is a heartfelt and touching film that leaves a lasting impact. It's a must-watch for anyone who enjoys thought-provoking cinema that explores the complexities of human emotions. And while the film may have reached its conclusion, the lingering impact of Shah Rukh Khan's portrayal ensures that Dr. Jehangir Khan will forever remain etched in our hearts. It would be a dream come true for many if Gauri Shinde considers a spinoff centered around Dr. Jehangir Khan. His character has touched hearts and inspired many, and seeing more of his journey would undoubtedly be a delight. Let's hope that our voices are heard, and we get to see more of Dr. Jehangir in the near future in the form of a series or a film series. I believe it would be a great idea for someone to file a petition or write to Gauri Shinde, the director of "Dear Zindagi," to consider a spinoff or sequel focusing on Dr. Jehangir's character. Such a project would not only be a treat for fans of the movie but also a meaningful exploration of mental health and personal growth, much like the original film.

"Merry Christmas" (2024), now streaming on Netflix, was always on my list, but due to a limited number of shows, I couldn't watch it in theatres. I was eagerly waiting for its OTT release. When you hear the name Sriram Raghavan and see Katrina Kaif and Vijay Sethupathi in the lead roles, you're bound to have high expectations. This movie is for die-hard fans of Sriram Raghavan and the classic murder-mystery thriller genre. "Merry Christmas" is a 2024 Indian mystery thriller film directed by Sriram Raghavan and starring Katrina Kaif and Vijay Sethupathi. It was filmed simultaneously in Hindi and Tamil, based on Frédéric Dard's French novel "Le Monte-charge" (Bird in a Cage). The paths of two lonely souls, Albert (Vijay Sethupathi) and Maria (Katrina Kaif), cross on a Christmas Eve in the 1990s when Mumbai was still called Bombay. They are drawn towards each other before a chain of horrific events threatens to derail their lives forever. The film begins with coincidences—Albert and Maria talk, end up in Regal cinema, and share a moment after a movie. As they walk together, chatting, Maria invites Albert for a glass of wine at her house, which he accepts. But as viewers, we sense something isn't right. Are these really coincidences? Is Maria's daughter truly mute? Why is Maria acting mysteriously in her own house? The film keeps us on edge, questioning the characters' motives and pasts, typical of a Sriram Raghavan film, all unfolding in just one night. Sriram Raghavan, known for films like "Johnny Gaddar," "Badlapur," and "Andhadhun," has once again delivered a masterpiece. His direction and thought process keep audiences guessing until the end. "Merry Christmas" is a typical Raghavan movie, where you have to think about what will happen next. The movie unfolds on a gripping Christmas Eve, with Vijay Sethupathi and Katrina Kaif delivering standout performances in this engaging thriller. The slow-paced first half builds suspense, making viewers wait until the interval for the story to fully unravel. The chemistry between Sethupathi and Kaif adds depth to the narrative. The supporting cast, including Vinay Pathak, Sanjay Kapoor, Ashwini Kalsekar, Tinnu Anand, and Radhika Apte, deliver strong performances that complement the lead actors' roles. As the plot progresses, "Merry Christmas" surprises with unexpected turns and revelations, keeping the audience guessing and invested in the storyline. The screenplay seamlessly weaves romance and thriller elements, creating a tapestry rich with tension and emotion. The background score further elevates the suspense, playing a crucial role in maintaining the film's intense atmosphere. "Merry Christmas" may have a slow build-up, but the well-crafted storyline, stellar performances, and unexpected twists make it a thrilling and memorable Christmas movie that keeps you hooked till the very end. A must-watch for all classical thriller movie lovers, "Merry Christmas" is a clear winner for its stellar cast and direction, transforming a classic romantic setup into a thrilling cinematic experience. Well, ladies and gentlemen, "Merry Christmas" has just served up one of the best dinners ever... Bon Appétit!

As an avid movie watcher, I was eagerly looking forward to watching "Killer Soup" (2024) streaming on Netflix. When you see the casting of Manoj Bajpayee, Konkona Sensharma, Sayaji Shinde, and the great actor from the South, Nassar, you are intrigued and bound to have lots of expectations. "Killer Soup," a 2024 Indian Hindi-language black comedy crime thriller streaming television series by Netflix, is co-written by Abhishek Chaubey along with Harshad Nalawade, Anant Tripathi, and Unaiza Merchant, and directed by Abhishek Chaubey. It is loosely based on the 2017 case of Swati M of Telangana for her husband's murder, hiding a sinister plan. "Killer Soup," an eight-course delectable experience served up by Netflix, is a deliciously cooked blend of dark humor and mystery. Swathi (played by Konkona Sensharma), a novice cook with dubious cooking skills and dreams of owning a restaurant and equally questionable morals, finds herself in a literal pickle when her misadventures with her husband's doppelganger, Umesh (played by Manoj Bajpayee), go awry. Prabhakar's discovery of Swathi's affair also leads to his demise, upon which Swathi decides to swap him for Umesh with a slight adjustment to Umesh's configurations. How the two then try to fulfill their ambitions while at the same time attempt to cover their tracks fraught with moral and ethical dilemmas serves as the basic premise of the series. The story's strength lies not only in the leads but also in the supporting cast, which contributes significantly to the film's overall impact. Manoj Bajpayee, in a double role, manages to maintain a delicate balance, but the performance might feel different from what audiences have come to expect from the versatile actor. However, this show undeniably belongs to Konkona Sensharma, who portrays Swathi with calmness and poise, effortlessly navigating through the complexities of her character's motivations. There is neither any desperation to shift from middle-class life nor any hue and cry after a murder has been committed. Nassar, playing the role of senior police inspector Hassan, steals the show with a stellar performance, especially when dealing with the death of a rookie officer, ASI Thupalli, portrayed by Anbuthasan, who showcases remarkable acting skills that deserve recognition. Sayaji Shinde, as Arvind Shetty, Prabhakar's elder brother, delivers another memorable performance, reaffirming his status as a go-to choice for characters with Marathi/South Indian don shades. Anula Navlekar, as Apeksha "Appu" Shetty, surprises with her acting prowess, adding a delightful twist to the movie. The series ably keeps the viewers guessing regarding what will transpire. However, like a cook in haste, it does muck up a few details. Some of the progression, especially that of Inspector Hassan, seems quite convenient. The constant appearance of Thupalli as a guiding voice of Hassan will ultimately get to your nerves. I liked the way the title "Killer Soup" appears differently in each episode and also the use of some Western Classic songs appropriately. But joining threads would be difficult for you if you don't go for a binge-watch. Overall, "Killer Soup" is a worthwhile mix of thrill, dark humor, and mystery. It does become a slow simmer on a couple of occasions, but you will be satiated in the end. It may not be everybody's cup of tea but will delight any dark humor enthusiasts. Dark humor and crime thriller enthusiasts will find the movie to be particularly noteworthy as it makes them wonder why more stories like this aren't explored in the larger cinematic canon.

"Maamla Legal Hai" emerges as a delightful addition to Netflix's lineup, offering a refreshing departure from the typical crime dramas that dominate the OTT space. Directed by Rahul Pandey, and written by Kunal Aneja and Saurabh Khanna, the series picks on the salient points of real-life cases (‘satya durghatnaon pe aadharit’), some funny, some plain bizarre, with a couple of poignant elements thrown in, all things that make us human. The team delivers an OTT version of ‘Jolly LLB,’ infusing the narrative with puns and light-hearted moments. As an avid viewer, I was eagerly anticipating the release of "Maamla Legal Hai" after seeing its star-studded cast, including the likes of Ravi Kishan, Naila Grewal, Nidhi Bisht, and Yashpal Sharma. The series certainly lives up to expectations, presenting a mix of real-life legal cases, some funny, some bizarre, and infusing them with poignant moments that resonate with the human experience. Led by Ravi Kishan and supported by a talented ensemble, the show takes place in the fictional Patparganj District Court, introducing audiences to a cast of quirky characters and lawyers navigating through peculiar legal dilemmas. Drawing inspiration from real-life headlines, the series weaves these cases into its narrative with finesse, delivering thought-provoking issues alongside comedic relief. What sets "Maamla Legal Hai" apart is its ability to find humor in the absurdity of real-life legal situations, all while remaining relevant and entertaining. The inclusion of bizarre cases, such as a trial involving a foul-mouthed parrot, adds to the show's charm and showcases the writers' creativity. Furthermore, the series doesn't shy away from addressing pressing social issues, subtly incorporating them into its narrative. The true hero of "Maamla Legal Hai" is its writing, which is witty, irreverent, and unexpectedly thought-provoking. The freedom given to the media is judicially utilized in this web series, with the creators handling sensitive issues with tact and humor. Scenes like the one involving conjugal visiting rights of prisoners, where gender identity and pronouns are cleverly explored, stand out as gems in the series. Overall, "Maamla Legal Hai" is a must-watch for fans of courtroom dramas and comedy alike. Its blend of humor, drama, and social commentary make it a standout addition to Netflix's lineup. As for the eagerly awaited season 2, one can only hope that the powers that be grant an early release, as the petition for its return is surely already underway among fans.

"Starfish" (2023) appeared in my Netflix feeds, courtesy of a recommendation algorithm nudging me towards it, likely due to my previous interest in "Dear Zindagi." With no particular expectations, I dove into this cinematic voyage directed by Akhilesh Jaiswal, adapted from Bina Nayak's novel "Starfish Pickle." Unfortunately, what unfolded on screen was a narrative journey fraught with turbulent waters, leaving me with a sense of dissatisfaction and missed potential. The story follows Tara Salgaonkar, an extraordinary diver haunted by her past, on a quest to uncover the truth about her mother's death. Her journey takes her to Malta, where she becomes involved in a dangerous rescue mission. Despite its ambitious premise, the film's narrative is hindered by choppy editing and a screenplay that lacks finesse. The initial chapters of the film offer a glimpse into Tara's world, but the impulsive edits disrupt the flow, making it difficult for the audience to fully immerse themselves in the story. While Jim Edgar's cinematography captures breathtaking underwater scenes, , which add a sense of ethereal beauty to the narrative, is often overshadowed by erratic editing, diluting its impact. Amidst the enchanting backdrop of Malta, Tara's struggles with PTSD and her life as a diver are stifled by a lazy screenplay. Themes of moving on versus confronting the past feel watered diluted, failing to leave a lasting impact. Relationships with Aman (Tushar Khanna) and Neel (Ehan Bhat) suffer from predictability, lacking the emotional depth intended. On a positive note, the cinematography serves as a captivating travelogue of Malta, Sicily, and southern Italy. The underwater sequences evoke memories of the Bollywood film "Blue" (2009). Unfortunately, just like Blue, "Starfish" rests on a wafer-thin plot that just doesn't go anywhere. Positives include the unique premise, exploration of themes like self-discovery and mental health, and the meaningful dialogue between Milind Soman's and Khushalii Kumar's character in Goa, adds a layer of depth to the film, exploring complex emotions and relationships in a poignant manner. However, the negatives outweigh these highlights: a confusing plot, underdeveloped characters, inconsistent pacing, lackluster special effects, and an unsatisfying ending which leaves many questions unanswered and feels unsatisfying. In conclusion, "Starfish" fails to deliver a seamless cinematic experience. Its turbulent currents, represented by a choppy narrative and impulsive editing, may leave viewers adrift in confusion. Regrettably, the film lacks the compelling elements needed to make the journey worthwhile, ultimately rendering it a disappointing viewing experience.

As an avid movie watcher, I was eagerly looking forward to watching Khufiya (2023) (streaming on Netflix). Khufiya is a Hindi-language spy thriller film written, produced, and directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, based on Amar Bhushan's espionage novel "Escape to Nowhere." When you see the casting of Tabu, Ali Fazal, Wamiqa Gabbi, Ashish Vidyarthi, Atul Kulkarni, Navnindra Behl, Shataf Figar, Azmeri Haque Badhon, and Alexx O'Nell, helmed by Director Vishal Bhardwaj, you are bound to be intrigued and have lots of expectations. Khufiya is Vishal Bhardwaj's unique adaptation of Amar Bhushan's "Nowhere to Escape," with his slow-burn storytelling. It is a well-written film with intelligent writing and dialogues by Vishal Bhardwaj. The film delves into the shadowy world of espionage, offering a gripping narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The central theme of dual identity adds depth to the character, showcasing the toll that such a life can take on an individual torn between duty and personal attachments. The strength of Khufiya lies in its taut and well-crafted plotline. The suspense builds steadily, masterfully intertwining the personal struggles of the protagonist with the broader mission at hand. The performances in Khufiya are stellar, with Tabu delivering a nuanced portrayal, effortlessly transitioning between the various facets of her character. Wamiqa Gabbi's performance is exceptional, blending naughtiness with intense emotion. The supporting cast, including Navnindra Behl, Ashish Vidyarthi, Shataf Figar, Atul Kulkarni, Alex O'Neil, and Azmeri Haque Badhon, deliver great performances in their roles. Direction by Vishal Bhardwaj is raw and realistic, with great locations adding to the film's authenticity. The cinematography captures the gritty realism of the world of espionage, and the film's pacing is tight, ensuring that there's never a dull moment. Twists and turns abound, keeping the audience guessing and elevating the viewing experience. The music and songs are beautiful, adding to the film's emotional depth. In conclusion, Khufiya is a top-notch espionage thriller that combines a compelling narrative with standout performances. For fans of the genre, this film is a must-watch, and even those new to spy thrillers are likely to find themselves thoroughly engaged.While it may not reach the heights of Bhardwaj's Shakespearean adaptations, it still stands as a testament to his directorial prowess. So, if you're in the mood for a gripping spy thriller, don't miss Khufiya—it's a perfect choice for your weekend matinee.

As an avid movie watcher, I was eagerly looking forward to watching Jaane Jaan (2023) streaming on Netflix. The casting of Kareena Kapoor Khan as a single mother involved in a murder, alongside Saurabh Sachdeva as ASI Ajit Mhatre, a corrupt policeman, Jaideep Ahlawat as a brilliant mathematics teacher, and Vijay Varma as Inspector Karan Anand, the Chief investigating officer of Mumbai police, intrigued me and raised my expectations. Jaane Jaan is a perfect Indian Hindi-language mystery thriller film written and directed by Sujoy Ghosh, adapted from the 2005 Japanese novel The Devotion of Suspect X by Keigo Higashino. The movie is a perfect crime thriller with plot twists and surprises, although the storyline isn't entirely new. However, the engaging and mind-bending screenplay by Sujoy Ghosh makes it enjoyable. Ghosh's direction is brilliant and realistic, especially in portraying Darjeeling and Kalimpong. Jaideep Ahlawat's makeup is outstanding, and his performance is phenomenal, particularly in his role as the mathematics teacher. Kareena Kapoor impresses, especially in the beginning, delivering a rocking performance. Saurabh Sachdeva's performance is also brilliant, although he has limited screen time, evoking anger for his mistreatment of his wife. Vijay Varma delivers his usual brilliant performance, and the supporting cast, including Naisha Khanna and Karan Tapaka, is outstanding. The cat-and-mouse game between the three main characters is well-paced. The plot takes unpredictable turns, especially regarding the Teacher character. The stellar performances hold your attention, and you wouldn't want to miss a second of the brilliant acting by these top-notch actors. The writing and dialogues are well-crafted, providing unpredictable plot twists and surprises reminiscent of movies like Drishyam and Badla. Sujoy Ghosh's mastery in surprising the audience with plot twists and surprises shines through, making this a perfect crime thriller in Bollywood. The cinematography perfectly complements the unfolding of the story within the exotic hill locales of Darjeeling and Kalimpong. In conclusion, Jaane Jaan is a must-watch for those who love thrilling mysteries, and even for those who simply want to binge on a good movie. The curious ending hints at a possible second edition, adding to the anticipation. Sujoy Ghosh's Jaane Jaan completes a trilogy of his greatest mystery movies(Kahaani 1 and 2, Badla, Teen ), showcasing his skill in crafting engaging and suspenseful narratives.

As an avid movie-watcher, I was eagerly looking forward to watching Bhakshak (2024), produced by Red Chillies Entertainment and streaming on Netflix. With a cast including Bhumi Pednekar, Sanjay Mishra, and Aditya Srivastava, my expectations were high. "Bhakshak" is a dark, stark, and very realistic, albeit fictionalized, retelling of the infamous 2018 case of child sexual abuse at a girls' shelter home in Muzaffarpur, Bihar. The film sheds light on a heinous crime that shook the nation's collective consciousness, brought to light by a social audit conducted by Mumbai-based TISS. The story exposes the crimes of a purported NGO owner who ran the shelter home, financed by the Social Welfare Department of Bihar. In a case that led to the sentencing of Brajesh Thakur and 18 other convicts to life imprisonment, the movie portrays a fictionalized account of a local TV journalist, Vaishali Singh, played with great intensity by Bhumi Pednekar, based on social activist Nivedita Jha. The film masterfully depicts a society where such atrocities are often ignored or left unaddressed. Often, our parents say to keep doing your work no matter what, but ironically, if we have a scarce portion of honesty, empathy, and sympathy towards the evilness prevailing in our society, we need to raise our voice. It urges us to have the courage to speak up against evil, even if the consequences are daunting. The script, dialogue, and acting, especially Aditya Shrivastava's surprising negative role, showcase the depth and versatility of the cast and crew. His performance in this role, different from his iconic role as CID Inspector Abhijeet, truly surprises and impresses. Also, I should mention that Aditya Srivastava has me convinced that he's a Bhakshak. Bhumi Pednekar and Sanjay Mishra deliver stellar performances, and the film keeps viewers engaged from start to finish. We must not forget the Banrakas of Panchayat 2 named Durgesh Kumar for his impactful satirical performance once again. The movie is well paced, well directed, and the message it wants to send is loud, clear and much needed. The concluding monologues of Vaishali -“दूसरों के दुःख में दुखी होना बंद कर दिया है क्या आपने” make the audience deeply introspective, urging us to stand up for those in need. "Bhakshak" is a must-watch for its raw portrayal of corruption, sexual harassment, exploitation, and the urgent need for societal change. In conclusion, Bhakshak is a must-watch for its portrayal of ground realities such as corruption, sexual harassment, exploitation, and red-tapism. It is a gem in Bollywood that creates awareness and prompts reflection on the state of our society. This movie is a stark reminder that with power comes corruption, and with corruption comes the power to exploit, leading to the creation of inequality.