Thushar Kuckian

The Family Man" is an engaging Indian web series that blends action, drama, and humor seamlessly. With a gripping storyline and stellar performances, it keeps viewers hooked from start to finish. The show explores complex themes like family dynamics, societal issues, and the moral dilemmas faced by its characters. Overall, it's a must-watch for fans of suspenseful thrillers with a touch of Indian flavor.

Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story" is a critically acclaimed Indian web series directed by Hansal Mehta, based on the book "The Scam" by Sucheta Dalal and Debashis Basu. It narrates the rise and fall of stockbroker Harshad Mehta, brilliantly portrayed by Pratik Gandhi. The series excels with its gripping narrative, precise direction, and meticulous attention to the complexities of the financial markets. Gandhi's performance, along with a strong supporting cast, adds depth to the story. The authentic recreation of late '80s and early '90s Bombay through effective cinematography and production design further enhances its appeal, making it a must-watch for its insightful depiction of one of India's biggest financial scandals.

"Annabelle" (2014) is a prequel to "The Conjuring," exploring the backstory of the eerie doll. Set in the early 1970s, it follows a young couple, Mia and John, who experience terrifying events after acquiring the doll. The film draws on themes of satanic cults and possession but often relies on horror clichés and jump scares rather than developing deeper suspense. Despite a few effective scenes and unsettling visuals reminiscent of James Wan's style, the film struggles to stand out and feels predictable and unengaging at times

"Interstellar," directed by Christopher Nolan, is a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating sci-fi epic that follows former pilot Cooper (Matthew McConaughey) on a mission to find a new habitable planet as Earth faces environmental collapse. The film masterfully combines complex scientific concepts, such as wormholes and time dilation, with deeply emotional storytelling, particularly highlighting the bond between Cooper and his daughter. Supported by strong performances from Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain, and Michael Caine, the film features groundbreaking visual effects and an evocative score by Hans Zimmer. While some critics found the plot dense and exposition-heavy, "Interstellar" is celebrated for its ambition, emotional depth, and spectacular visuals, making it a landmark in modern science fiction cinema.

"Dunki," directed by Rajkumar Hirani, stars Shah Rukh Khan and Taapsee Pannu in a heartfelt narrative about the challenges faced by immigrants. The film explores the journey of friends who seek a better life in England, only to encounter harsh realities and stringent visa regulations. Khan delivers a powerful performance, supported by Pannu and a notable cameo by Vicky Kaushal. The movie balances humor and emotion, portraying the sacrifices and struggles of the diaspora realistically. Despite some criticism about the screenplay, "Dunki" stands out for its emotional depth and soul-stirring music​

Ice Age (2002) is a delightful animated comedy set in prehistoric times, directed by Chris Wedge and Carlos Saldanha. The film follows an unlikely trio—Manny the mammoth (Ray Romano), Sid the sloth (John Leguizamo), and Diego the saber-toothed tiger (Denis Leary)—as they embark on a heartwarming journey to return a human baby to its tribe. With clever humor, engaging character dynamics, and a running gag featuring the hapless squirrel Scrat, Ice Age offers both slapstick comedy and witty dialogue. The film's animation is vibrant for its time, and its themes of friendship, trust, and unity resonate well, making it a timeless family favorite and a commercial success that spawned a beloved franchise.

Amazing show. 6/5 stars if possible. A slow burn leading up to a nail-biting final act, bolstered by fantastic acting from Konkona Sen Sharma, Manjoj Bajpayee and frankly the whole cast. It is a feat to make such a gripping story with an ensemble of generally unlikable characters with shady motives plotting even shadier machinations. Strong direction and editing make sure all the different storylines are given enough time to develop, which adds true depth to the characters and their morally gray actions.

"Stranger Things" masterfully captures the essence of friendship, loyalty, and the struggles of adolescence amidst a backdrop of supernatural mysteries. The talented cast, led by Millie Bobby Brown and Finn Wolfhard, delivers compelling performances that draw viewers into the captivating world of Hawkins, Indiana. The series' impeccable blend of horror, sci-fi, and nostalgia makes it a standout hit that appeals to audiences of all ages.

Aavesham (transl. Excitement) is a 2024 Indian Malayalam-language action comedy film directed by Jithu Madhavan and produced by Nazriya Nazim and Anwar Rasheed under Fahadh Faasil and Friends and Anwar Rasheed Entertainments. It stars Fahadh Faasil in the lead role, alongside Hipzster, Mithun Jai Shankar, Roshan Shanavas and Sajin Gopu, while Midhutty and Mansoor Ali Khan appear in supporting roles. The music was composed by Sushin Shyam, while the cinematography and editing were handled by Sameer Thahir and Vivek Harshan.

"Lover" is a romantic drama that explores the complexities of relationships and the journey of love. It delves into the emotional nuances of its characters and offers a poignant portrayal of human connections. The film's cinematography and performances are commendable, but some viewers may find its pacing slow. Overall, "Lover" is a heartfelt portrayal of love's trials and triumphs, worth watching for fans of the genre.