Yashhraaj Barman

Two Eras, One Heartbeat All of You (2025), an Apple Original Film released on 26 September 2025, is a quietly moving exploration of love, timing, and consequence. Beneath its modern premise of a “soulmate algorithm,” the story echoes an emotion that Indian literature captured long ago in Saraswatichandra. Both portray love tested by duty and conscience — one through digital realism, the other through spiritual restraint. The difference lies in expression: All of You unfolds through a full-blown extra-marital relationship, while Saraswatichandra let the same longing live through letters and silence. Yet both arrive at the same truth — that real love is measured not by possession, but by sacrifice. Beautifully acted by Brett Goldstein and Imogen Poots, with sensitive direction and elegant pacing, this Apple Original balances emotion and realism with rare grace. Rating: 8.5 / 10

When Love and Loss Collide — A Tender Family Drama with Modern Realism Regretting You (2025), directed by Josh Boone and based on Colleen Hoover’s 2019 bestselling novel, is a touching exploration of love, betrayal, and the fragile threads that hold a family together. Adapted for the screen by Susan McMartin, the film blends emotional storytelling with a modern-day sensibility that feels both nostalgic and timely. At its heart lies the strained relationship between Morgan Grant (Allison Williams) and her teenage daughter Clara (Mckenna Grace), whose lives are shattered by a devastating accident that uncovers painful family secrets. What follows is not merely a story of grief, but of rediscovery — of self, of love, and of the people we thought we knew. Josh Boone, known for his delicate handling of human emotions (The Fault in Our Stars), brings a similar sensitivity here. The direction feels intimate and restrained, allowing the emotional moments to breathe. The cinematography beautifully captures the quiet melancholy of suburban life, while the editing ensures a smooth narrative rhythm between past and present. The background score, though understated, complements the film’s bittersweet tone without overpowering the emotions. Performance-wise, Mckenna Grace delivers a standout turn — mature, raw, and at times unrecognisable from her earlier roles, including her uptight brilliance in Young Sheldon. Allison Williams brings quiet strength to Morgan’s emotional turmoil, and the supporting cast, including Dave Franco and Scott Eastwood, add depth to the interwoven relationships. While the romantic flashbacks of the early 2000s evoke a sense of déjà vu — love stories that feel like “old wine in a new bottle” — the film’s strength lies in how it reframes those sentiments for the 21st-century family, where perfection is a myth and resilience is the real romance. Ultimately, Regretting You succeeds as a poignant family drama that doesn’t shy away from imperfections. It’s about learning to love again — not despite the odds, but because of them. Rating: 7/10 — A heartfelt modern romance with emotional depth, graceful performances, and a quietly moving core.

Seeds of Blood, Seeds of Suspense Raktabeej (2023), streaming on Hoichoi and Amazon Prime TV, is a gripping political action thriller directed by the acclaimed duo Nandita Roy and Shiboprosad Mukherjee. The film draws its inspiration from the chilling real-life events of the 2014 Burdwan Blast, an incident that shook Bengal and the nation alike. What the directors deliver here is not just a fictionalized narrative, but an edge-of-the-seat cinematic experience that keeps you invested till the very end. The story unfolds as the President of India (played by Victor Banerjee) returns to his hometown, Khoyragarh, only for a deadly explosion to reveal a sinister assassination plot. Two officials are thrust into a desperate race against time, as they attempt to unmask the perpetrators and prevent a national tragedy. The plot itself is tightly woven, with the screenplay by Zinia Sen and Sarbari Ghoshal leaving little room for slack. Every sequence feels purposeful, building momentum and heightening the stakes as the story progresses. The film is also significant for marking the return of veteran actor Victor Banerjee in a lead role after a long gap. Watching him embody his character with gravitas and screen presence is both nostalgic and rewarding. Alongside him, Abir Chatterjee and Mimi Chakraborty deliver strong, convincing performances that complement the intensity of the narrative. On the technical front, the film scores high. Pratip Mukhopadhyay’s cinematography captures the urgency and tension beautifully, while Malay Laha’s editing ensures that the pace never falters. The background score by Prabuddha Banerjee adds to the suspense, while the songs by Dohar, Anindya Chattopadhyay, and Surajit Chatterjee provide cultural resonance without breaking the flow. What makes Raktabeej stand out is its ability to blend realism with cinematic thrills. The direction is sharp, the screenplay binding, and the overall execution fast-paced and impactful. With its strong performances, engaging story, and polished production values, this film firmly establishes itself as one of the more compelling Bengali thrillers of recent times. A heartwarming comeback for Victor Banerjee and a high-octane ride for the audience, Raktabeej deserves to be seen, not just for its political relevance but also for its sheer cinematic craft. Rating: 9/10 – A taut, thrilling experience that plants its seeds of suspense deep in your mind.

A Relentless March into Fear and Survival The Long Walk (2025), directed by Francis Lawrence, is an unsettling blend of horror, sci-fi, and dystopian thriller that asks a haunting question: how far would you go, and is it really worth it? Adapted from Stephen King’s 1979 novel written under the pseudonym Richard Bachman, the film carries forward the author’s raw and uncompromising vision but introduces a few fresh angles that make it stand apart from the source material. The story centers on a brutal contest where teenagers are forced into a life-or-death march. The rules are terrifyingly simple—keep walking, or be executed by the military escort shadowing their every move. Cooper Hoffman takes on the role of Raymond Garraty, with David Jonsson as Peter McVries, and both deliver grounded performances that capture the emotional and physical toll of this relentless ordeal. The supporting cast of young actors also does justice to their roles, though it’s the intense premise that truly drives the film forward. Interestingly, the movie does not stick entirely to King’s bleak, solitary meditation on survival. Instead, it explores themes of love, sacrifice, and rebellion against oppressive authority. This shift might divide audiences—purists may miss the unrelenting despair of the book, while others may find the added emotional arcs more relatable and cinematic. One cannot ignore the eerie similarity to Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games. In fact, this adaptation makes it even clearer that King’s novel might have been a twisted inspiration behind Collins’ dystopian saga. From a technical standpoint, the film holds steady. Lawrence’s direction ensures that the pacing never falters, and J.T. Mollner’s screenplay balances brutality with emotion. The cinematography captures both the vast, desolate landscapes and the suffocating intensity of the march, while the editing and background score add to the film’s oppressive atmosphere. Though performances are fairly good, it’s really the mood and narrative weight that carry the film. Overall, The Long Walk is gripping, gruesome, and deeply emotional. While not flawless, it succeeds in making viewers question endurance, humanity, and the cost of survival. For thriller and dystopian fans, it is worth the watch. Rating: 7/10

A Terrifyingly Satisfying Conclusion The Conjuring: Last Rites (2025) arrives as the ninth chapter in the acclaimed horror franchise, and it proves to be both terrifying and rewarding for longtime fans. Directed by Michael Chaves and written by Ian Goldberg, Richard Naing, and David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick, the film revisits the infamous Smurl haunting in 1986 Pennsylvania, with Ed and Lorraine Warren once again stepping into a family’s darkest nightmare. The movie succeeds first and foremost in its ability to scare. Rather than leaning heavily on jump scares, it builds an atmosphere that crawls under the skin, enhanced by well-timed editing, a chilling background score, and immersive cinematography. It’s a horror film that not only unsettles but also intrigues, keeping the viewer invested in both the mystery and the terror. Performances elevate the material further. Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga continue to carry the series with remarkable presence, portraying Ed and Lorraine Warren with grace, conviction, and emotional depth. Their chemistry is as compelling as ever, grounding the supernatural in human connection. Mia Tomlinson and Ben Hardy add to the ensemble effectively, but it’s Wilson and Farmiga who remain the emotional anchors. On the technical side, the film delivers strong direction, crisp editing, and a screenplay that balances suspense with storytelling. There are a few minor snags — a couple of predictable moments and some pacing dips — but these are outweighed by the film’s overall effectiveness. By the end, Last Rites feels both fulfilling and memorable, offering a chilling ride that meets expectations and, at times, exceeds them. For fans of the franchise, this entry will not disappoint. It stands as a worthy continuation and a satisfying piece of supernatural horror.

A Soul-Stirring Masterpiece Resurrected After a Decade There’s a remarkable story behind Dhumketu even before the opening credits roll. Originally completed in 2015, the film remained unreleased for ten long years due to an unfortunate fallout between the co-producers. In 2025, when it finally saw the light of day, what emerged wasn’t just a long-lost film—it was a hauntingly powerful piece of cinema that proves art, when sincere, is timeless. Kaushik Ganguly’s direction breathes life into this emotionally rich narrative set in the misty hills of North Sikkim. Dhumketu follows Bhanu (Dev), a former tea plantation supervisor-turned-fugitive, who returns to his hometown under the weight of a suicide mission for an extremist group led by Chief (Chiranjit Chakraborty). But before surrendering to that fate, he seeks quiet closure—visiting his wife Rupa (Subhashree), his ailing parents (Dulal Lahiri and Alokananda Roy), and finding shelter at the official residence of his childhood friend Jogesh (Rudranil Ghosh), a local postman. What unfolds is a deeply layered, intimate drama that captures the quiet turmoil of a man torn between duty and love, past and present. Dev delivers one of the finest performances of his career—restrained, soulful, and unforgettable. But what truly elevates Dhumketu is the collective strength of its cast. Every supporting role is nuanced and real, adding emotional weight to the story. A special mention must go to Rudranil Ghosh, whose portrayal of Jogesh is nothing short of extraordinary. His expressions, dialogue delivery, and heartfelt presence lend a rare emotional intensity that lifts the film to another level. Ganguly’s storytelling never rushes. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the silence, the landscape, and the unsaid to do their magic. The writing is rooted in truth and realism, making every scene linger in your memory long after it ends. Dhumketu is not just a comeback story for a shelved project—it is a meditative, artful experience that resonates with authenticity. It’s a rare kind of cinema that touches the soul. Rating: 10/10

A Love That Transcends Time “Somewhere in Time” (1980) is more than just a film—it is an experience that lingers in the heart. Directed by Jeannot Szwarc and adapted by Richard Matheson from his own novel Bid Time Return, it tells the story of playwright Richard Collier (Christopher Reeve), who becomes entranced by a photograph of actress Elise McKenna (Jane Seymour) and, through self-hypnosis, journeys back to the early 1900s to find her. Christopher Reeve, known worldwide as Superman, gives one of his most tender and human performances here. His portrayal of Richard is vulnerable, romantic, and unforgettable. Jane Seymour is radiant as Elise, her elegance and emotional depth perfectly matching Reeve’s sincerity. Together, they create a timeless love story that feels destined. Christopher Plummer provides excellent contrast as Elise’s controlling manager, adding tension and depth. The film is visually poetic, with Isidore Mankofsky’s cinematography and Jeff Gourson’s editing weaving an atmosphere of beauty and nostalgia. Yet, the soul of the film is John Barry’s score—sweeping, haunting, and utterly unforgettable. His music elevates the emotions to pure magic, making the film impossible to forget. I first discovered Somewhere in Time in 2005 after Christopher Reeve’s passing, unaware such a gem even existed. Watching it again today, for the third time, on Plex TV, it remains an all-time favorite. Few films capture love, longing, and destiny so perfectly. For me, Somewhere in Time is flawless—an eternal classic that deserves its place among cinema’s greatest romances. A perfect 10/10.

Absurdity Reloaded The Naked Gun series makes a chaotic return in 2025, with director Akiva Schaffer delivering the fourth entry in the beloved parody franchise. This time, Liam Neeson steps into the lead as Lt. Frank Drebin Jr., the son of the legendary cop, tasked with saving the Police Squad from closure by cracking a high-stakes case. At just 1 hour 25 minutes, the film feels brisk, though the opening minutes stumble with a slightly delayed comedic spark. Once it finds its rhythm, it fully embraces the franchise’s trademark absurdity — physical gags, exaggerated action, and jokes that thrive precisely because they ignore logic. Neeson, best known for his action-drama roles, takes a few scenes to adjust to the ridiculous tone, but his deadpan delivery eventually clicks, lending unexpected charm to the chaos. Pamela Anderson, returning to the big screen after a long hiatus, sparks nostalgia, even in a limited role. The supporting cast — Paul Walter Hauser, Kevin Durand, and Danny Huston — keep the energy high, each leaning into the parody with enthusiasm. Stylistically, the film sticks to its roots: bright visuals, outrageous stunts, and comedic setups that seem ripped from a cartoon. Some jokes miss the mark, and the humor will feel dated to those unfamiliar with the original trilogy, but for fans, it’s a welcome throwback. With a $42 million budget and Paramount Pictures backing, The Naked Gun (2025) never tries to be more than what it is — a light, silly, and unapologetically illogical comedy. If you’re here for deep storytelling or subtle humor, you’ll be disappointed. But if you’re ready to suspend reason and enjoy the nonsense, you’ll leave grinning. Rating: ★★★☆☆ (7/10) – Best enjoyed by fans of the franchise or anyone craving pure, logic-free fun.

Saiyaara Shines Bright – A Poetic Journey of Love and Loss “Saiyaara” (2025), meaning Wandering Star, is a heartfelt romantic drama that gracefully blends music, poetry, and raw emotion. Directed by Mohit Suri and produced under the Yash Raj Films banner, this film marks an impressive debut for Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, both of whom deliver powerful and emotionally resonant performances. Set against a soulful musical backdrop, the film follows the story of Krish Kapoor, a troubled musician, and Vaani Batra, a shy poet. Their chemistry is electric, and their love story unfolds like a haunting melody — filled with euphoric highs and aching lows. As the couple navigates their emotional rollercoaster, the film explores themes of passion, vulnerability, and the fragility of human memory. The music, composed by a talented ensemble including Faheem Abdullah, Vishal Mishra, Mithoon, Sachet–Parampara, and Tanishk Bagchi, is one of the film’s strongest assets. Each track is deeply woven into the narrative, elevating both mood and storytelling. Mohit Suri’s direction brings a tender yet mature sensitivity to the plot, complemented by excellent cinematography, crisp editing, and stirring background music. While the storyline is loosely adapted from the Korean classic A Moment To Remember, Saiyaara takes its own unique path — and while there are minor deviations in the narrative that might raise questions (avoiding spoilers here), the emotional payoff is rewarding. The supporting cast adds strength to the film, anchoring the central performances with warmth and realism. Final Verdict: “Saiyaara” is a must-watch for lovers of the romance genre. With strong performances, stellar music, and cinematic finesse, it leaves a lasting emotional impact. Rating: ★★★★½ (9/10)