Shipon Kundu

Lucky Bhaskar "Lucky Bhaskar" is a heartwarming movie that captures the essence of middle-class dreams with a perfect blend of emotions, strategies, and relationships. As a viewer, I was thoroughly impressed by the way the story unfolds, especially with its surprising twists that keep you hooked till the very end. The movie beautifully highlights the economical strategies used by the protagonist to overcome challenges, showcasing creativity and determination in handling financial hurdles. It's an inspiring reminder of how thoughtful planning and a positive attitude can lead to success. Family bonding and friendship form the emotional core of the film. Lucky Bhaskar’s relationship with his wife and children reflects the dream of every middle-class person—having a loving family and raising kids in a nurturing environment. The way his parents contribute with their wisdom and experience adds a wonderful layer of respect and value to intergenerational relationships. Overall, "Lucky Bhaskar" is a relatable and feel-good story that resonates with the aspirations of many. It reminds us that success isn’t just about wealth but also about the strength of relationships and mutual support within a family. A must-watch for anyone who believes in the power of dreams, love, and unity!

"Animal" (2023) - A Profound Cinematic Journey into the Natural World "Animal" (2023) transcends traditional wildlife cinema with a masterful blend of captivating storytelling and powerful visuals, offering an in-depth look at the intricate bond between humans and animals. This film is both a sensory experience and a profound reflection on humanity's impact on the natural world. From its opening scenes, "Animal" draws audiences into a compelling narrative centered on the delicate balance between human progress and nature. The film dives deeply into the lives of animals within their natural environments, examining the consequences of human actions on these ecosystems. Through this, it provides a thoughtful fusion of heartfelt storytelling and a critical exploration of urgent environmental and ethical issues. Visually, "Animal" is a masterpiece. The cinematography captures the essence of the wild with remarkable precision and artistry. Each frame serves as a stunning representation of untouched landscapes and candid moments in animal behavior, conveying authenticity and beauty. The film’s use of natural lighting and expansive shots pulls viewers directly into the heart of the animal kingdom. Employing a documentary-style narrative, "Animal" strikes an emotional and educational chord. Insightful commentary and expert interviews enrich the story, offering audiences an informed perspective on wildlife conservation and environmental ethics. This integration of information and narrative builds a compelling emotional resonance, encouraging viewers to reflect on their connection to nature and consider impactful changes in their daily lives. The film’s score amplifies this emotional depth, with a soundtrack that aligns seamlessly with the visuals to elevate the viewing experience. The music underscores the film’s core themes, evoking emotions that range from awe and empathy to urgency and hope. One of the most distinctive aspects of "Animal" is its portrayal of animals with genuine empathy and nuance. The film moves beyond surface-level depictions, highlighting the animals' behaviors, their challenges, and the fragile ecosystems they call home. This respectful representation fosters a deeper appreciation for the complexities of animal life and the importance of habitat preservation. In summary, "Animal" (2023) is an extraordinary achievement in environmental cinema, delivering a visually stunning, emotionally charged, and thought-provoking experience. Its seamless blend of storytelling, visuals, and insightful commentary makes it essential viewing for those who care about wildlife and conservation. More than just a film, "Animal" is an invitation to take meaningful action in preserving our planet, leaving a profound and lasting impact on audiences. PAPA.....

Sanju: The Rise, Fall, and Redemption of Bollywood's Bad Boy Direction: Rajkumar Hirani, a director known for his formula-based approach, takes on a new experiment with this biopic on Sanjay Dutt's life. As one of Bollywood's most entertaining directors, known for films like Munna Bhai MBBS, 3 Idiots, and PK, Hirani once again delivers a movie with a hidden message. This time, he touches on the media's role in shaping perceptions, offering an interesting take on the breaking news culture and the "hidden James Bond" within the media houses. Performance: Ranbir Kapoor absolutely steals the show with a mesmerizing performance. Paresh Rawal brilliantly portrays the father figure, showcasing an impressive chemistry with Ranbir. Vicky Kaushal once again proves his talent, particularly in his scenes with Ranbir. Manisha Koirala does an excellent job, looking almost identical to Nargis Dutt. However, Sonam Kapoor needs to work on showing more expressions on her face. Anushka Sharma gives a solid guest appearance, while Jim Sarbh leaves a strong impression as the drug dealer. Unfortunately, Dia Mirza’s role feels completely wasted, while Boman Irani, though only in a small role, brings his usual charm. Karishma Tanna’s role is too brief to leave much of an impact. Script: The script, in my opinion, is where some improvements are needed. Raju Hirani and Abhijat Joshi have done a great job of highlighting the bond between Ranbir, Paresh, and Vicky. The drug issue is handled well, but the involvement of women in Sanjay Dutt’s life is shown to a lesser degree than what was reported. The gun issue was mishandled too, with the incorrect substitution of AK-47 for AK-56. Moreover, portraying a Hindu man as the only underworld don does not accurately reflect the diverse nature of Mumbai's underworld. The script could have been more balanced and precise, as it missed key elements, like the story of Manyata Dutt and Sanjay's relationship, as well as Madhuri Dixit's chapter in his life. Music: Surprisingly, you’ll notice the absence of Shantanu Moitra, which is usually a given in Vidhu Vinod Chopra and Rajkumar Hirani collaborations. This time, music was handled by the duo Roshan-Roshan and Vikram Montrose. However, Vidhu Vinod Chopra wasn’t fully satisfied with their work and brought in A.R. Rahman as a guest music director for the song Ruby Ruby. Personally, I think A.R. Rahman should have been given full control of the music direction, which would have elevated the overall soundtrack. Make-up: The film would be incomplete without make-up artist Vikram Gaikwad’s stellar work. He did a fantastic job of transforming Ranbir Kapoor to closely resemble Sanjay Dutt across all the phases of his life shown in the movie. Box Office: Based on the booking status for the opening day, the first-day collections are expected to be around 30-35 crores. With the positive word of mouth, the collections on Saturday and Sunday are likely to range between 35-40 crores, which means a 100-crore weekend—Ranbir Kapoor’s highest yet. The film could likely surpass 200 crores in lifetime earnings. Final Thoughts: Whether you're a fan of Ranbir Kapoor, Rajkumar Hirani, or cinema in general, this movie is definitely worth watching!

Grave of the Fireflies: A Heart-Wrenching Masterpiece Grave of the Fireflies is not just a film; it's an emotional gut-punch that lingers long after the credits roll. This Studio Ghibli masterpiece, directed by Isao Takahata, is a stark and unflinching portrayal of the devastating impact of war, seen through the eyes of two innocent siblings. The film follows Seita and Setsuko, who are forced to fend for themselves after their home is destroyed in a firebombing during World War II. As they struggle to survive in a world ravaged by conflict, their bond deepens, creating a heartbreaking contrast to the harsh realities around them. What sets Grave of the Fireflies apart is its unflinching realism. It doesn't shy away from depicting the horrors of war, but it does so with a delicate touch, focusing on the human cost rather than the grand battles. The animation, while beautiful, is used to serve the story, creating a haunting atmosphere that mirrors the characters' despair. The performances are nothing short of extraordinary. The young actors who voice Seita and Setsuko deliver performances that are both heartbreaking and inspiring. Their resilience in the face of adversity is both admirable and devastating. Grave of the Fireflies is not an easy watch. It is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll. It is a powerful reminder of the human cost of war and the importance of cherishing the ones we love. If you are looking for a film that will challenge you emotionally and stay with you long after it's over, Grave of the Fireflies is an absolute must-watch.

"Brahmayugan" emerges as a cinematic wonder, an artfully directed masterpiece that leaves an unforgettable mark on its audience. From the beginning, the director's vision is evident, orchestrating a visual and auditory experience that is technically superb. The film, a slow burner, excels in gradually immersing the viewers into its intricate world, ensuring engagement with each scene. Although "Brahmayugan" is meticulously crafted, its distinctive storytelling and intricate political themes may not appeal to mainstream preferences. Nonetheless, for those like me, who delight in this style of filmmaking, the movie becomes an intriguing journey worth taking. What impressed me most were the layered political messages, seamlessly woven within the narrative fabric, giving rise to a sophisticated dialogue with the audience. The film's strength lies in its ability to surprise, shocking the viewer with unexpected plot twists and turns that defy conventional storytelling. The technical aspects of "Brahmayugan" are a testament to the crew's expertise, with stunning cinematography that captures every emotive detail and sound mixing that enhances the already powerful atmosphere. But it's the triumphant performances from the lead actors that crown the film's achievements. In particular, Mamukka's acting in the pre-climax is a spectacle to behold; a showcase of his talent as he masterfully displays a vivid range of emotions, illustrating the complexity of his character in a pivotal moment. "Brahmayugan" is nothing short of an absolute treat for devoted movie lovers. It is a film that warrants repeated viewings, not only to relive the brilliance of its execution but also to unravel further the intricate layers of its multifaceted tale. With plans to watch it again tomorrow, I am convinced that there's even more to appreciate in this compelling cinematic experience.

"Panchayat" is a web series from Amazon Prime that masterfully blends comedy with an authentic portrayal of village life. In the first season, the series humorously navigates various aspects of rural existence, from rumors about a ghostly tree to village politics, the local economic system, the village hospital, and the deep bonds among the villagers. Central to the narrative is the growing connection between the village secretary, Sachiv Ji, a city boy, and the warm-hearted villagers. Season two shifts focus to the complexities of village politics and the evolving relationship between the Gram Panchayat Pradhan's daughter and Sachiv Ji. The season also introduces a poignant subplot involving a soldier, the son of the Up-Pradhan, who sacrificed his life for the country. By the third season, "Panchayat" transitions seamlessly from its comedic roots to a more action-packed storyline. It delves into the dynamics of village election politics, contrasting a patriotic party with one driven by a thirst for power. This shift adds depth to the series, enriching its narrative with new layers of drama and action while maintaining its inherent charm. "Panchayat" remains my favorite web series of all time. Kudos to TVF for creating such a delightful and engaging show!

There's no doubt in my mind that Anurag Kashyap is poised to become the next big thing in Bollywood. He's arguably the finest Indian director since the legendary Satyajit Ray. Despite initial skepticism surrounding his controversial debut with "Paanch" and "Black Friday," Kashyap delivers a masterpiece with "No Smoking." "No Smoking" defies convention—it's not aimed at mainstream success, as most viewers would likely find it baffling and tedious. Yet, it stands as one of the most profound addiction narratives in Indian cinema. The film delves deep into the concept that every addiction stems from the soul's consciousness, requiring purification for liberation. Through the protagonist, K, played by John Abraham, we navigate a complex journey of moral discernment and self-realization. The treatment administered by Guruji, portrayed by Paresh Rawal, is entirely psychological, aimed at cleansing the soul rather than emotional manipulation. The surreal sequences and symbolic imagery throughout the film underscore its allegorical nature, culminating in a profound revelation for K as he confronts his inner demons and achieves spiritual redemption. The missing fingers, a seemingly torturous aspect of the treatment, symbolize the relinquishing of addiction, completing the soul's journey to purity. "No Smoking" is not just a film; it's a profound exploration of the human psyche and the quest for transcendence.

"Sam Bahadur" offers a compelling glimpse into the life of India’s first Field Marshal, Sam Manekshaw, a legendary figure who served the Indian army for over four decades and played pivotal roles in five wars. Vicky Kaushal's portrayal of Sam is nothing short of mesmerizing, echoing his stellar performance in "Uri: The Surgical Strike." His dedication and charisma shine through once again, as he seamlessly embodies the nuances and mannerisms of Brigadier Sam. Sanya Malhotra delivers a commendable performance as Sam's wife, devoid of unnecessary romanticization. While Fatima Sana Shaikh's portrayal of Indira Gandhi is visually striking, it falls short of capturing the strong persona of the former Prime Minister. The movie is punctuated with memorable dialogues, including a poignant Gurubani recited by Sam, reflecting the valor of a warrior. Scenes such as Sam asserting security protocol and introducing a lieutenant to a politician add depth to the narrative. Meghna Gulzar and her team deserve accolades for shedding light on the contributions of a military strategist often overlooked in mainstream culture. The movie's soul-stirring soundtrack complements its narrative beautifully. In conclusion, "Sam Bahadur" is a heartfelt tribute to India’s beloved soldier, offering a compelling cinematic experience that fills viewers with pride. Highly recommended for its authenticity, "Sam Bahadur" is a must-watch for all."

Aman's Journey : "Jawan," Shahrukh Khan's latest film, follows the dedicated soldier Aman's missions and his unexpected love story with Meera, adding depth to the plot. Captivating Performance : Shahrukh Khan impresses with his portrayal of Aman, capturing the complexities of a soldier's life and the vulnerability of love. Directorial Debut : The promising newcomer director skillfully balances action and emotions, creating engaging storytelling. Emotional Impact : "Jawan" delivers a touching message about soldier sacrifices and the importance of love and compassion, leaving a lasting impact. Memorable Music : The soulful music enhances the film's emotional resonance, while Shahrukh Khan's dance moves add Bollywood glamour. Powerful Plot : The movie explores themes of courage, love, and patriotism through Aman's unwavering commitment to serving his country. Supporting Cast : The supporting cast adds authenticity to the film with commendable performances. In summary, "Jawan" is a heartwarming Bollywood film that skillfully combines captivating performances, engaging storytelling, and a powerful message about love, patriotism, and sacrifice.