sushantshinde51 Reviews

Mulk (I) (2018)

Freedom. Equality. Fraternity.

[8/10 · 6 September 2018]

Mulk (Country - in English) is a drama film written and directed by Anubhav Sinha who is mostly known for his directorial films Tum Bin (2001) and Ra.One (2011). The film stars Rishi Kapoor and Taapsee Pannu in lead roles.

The film sets in Benaras and revolves around a Muslim family(Don't want to mention these words, but yes, the film is about this only), who are living in harmony in their neighborhood without any communal conflicts. Not so long into the film, the family gets trapped in the dark controversy of law when one of the family members commits the terrible act of terrorism in the name of 'Jihad'. Now, as being the head of the family, Murad Ali Mohammad (Rishi Kapoor) and his daughter-in-law Aarti Mohammad (Taapsee Pannu) must take the responsibility on their shoulders to reclaim lost honor of the family.

The film discusses the very sensitive and important topic in India, which is a Hindu-Muslim communal conflict. And yes, the film brilliantly handles the topic and tries to put in it in a simpler way possible, which can be understood by a common man. Along with it, the film also penetrates the prejudiced thinking of a common man towards an act of terrorism. The film keeps on questioning the false beliefs which are very common among us regarding terrorism, communal and religious conflicts, casteism etc, and the film firmly talks about the true definition of terrorism, which is clearly not related to particular community or religion (every responsible common man should think about). The philosophy and the idea on which the film is based, it is excellent.

The cinematography of the film is very understated and looks real. At some places, there're shaky camera movements, but those are OK. The background score lifts up the thrill component of the film and serves just right. The characters are very well portrayed, kudos to the team, and each of their performances is outstanding, which make an audience feel for them. What a brilliant cast, the actors who can talk with their eyes; along with leads, Ashutosh Rana as the prosecution lawyer Santosh Anand, Prateik Babbar as Shahid Mohammed, Rajat Kapoor as Danish Javed, Kumud Mishra as Judge, Manoj Pahwa as Bilaal Mohammed, and seeing this brilliant cast on-screen is worth having experience.

Verdict : Every thoughtful, understanding and responsible person should watch this without any single biased thought. A brilliant drama film which talks on the sensitive and solid topic.

Soorma (2018)

A decent comeback story

[7/10 · 6 September 2018]

Soorma (Warrior in English) is a biographical sports drama film based on the life of hockey player Sandeep Singh. The film is co-written and directed by Shaad Ali.

The film depicts the extraordinary story of the international hockey player Sandeep Singh (Diljit Dosanjh), through his first step in hockey, his love life, his surprising rise in the world of hockey, and mainly the accidental gunshot injury which paralyzes him and puts him in a wheelchair. This fateful catastrophic event completely breaks him and his dreams, but against all odds, Sandeep gets back on his feet and makes the greatest comeback to international hockey.

Along with Diljit Dosanjh, the film also stars Tapsee Pannu as Harpreet, a really good hockey player, Sandeep's love interest, and the sole reason for Sandeep to learn hockey. Angad Bedi as Bikramjeet Singh, who is playing Sandeep's kind and supportive elder brother. And Vijay Raaz as Harry, Sandeep's stubborn and quirky Coach.

Unlike most other real-life sports films, this one is not just only about a struggle and rise, but it also tells the story of a fateful fall and an epic comeback. The story is good and inspirational but is crunched in the runtime of just two hours. The movie was high on content and drama that it could have been made of at least three hours, which would have let some really crucial moments to breathe and would have been much more impactful to the audience. The first half of the film almost make audiences remember the storyline of Sultan (2016). The film definitely gives Chak de! India (2007) and Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013) vibe to the audience but does not reach that level of maturity and sincerity. The performances by all the actors are really good, no doubt in that. The film definitely inspires throughout its runtime, and finally treats the audience with the India-Pakistan match.

Verdict : The film is worth to watch, has some little flaws but can be neglected.

Sanju (2018)

One Man, Many Lives.

[9/10 · 6 September 2018]

Sanju is an upcoming biographical drama film directed by Rajkumar Hirani, written by Hirani and Abhijat Joshi. The film is jointly produced by Hirani and Vidhu Vinod Chopra.

Sanju is the fifth film by Rajkumar Hirani, after Munna Bhai M.B.B.S. (2003), Lage Raho Munna Bhai (2006), 3 Idiots (2009), & PK (2014). And all the films were massive hits, not just commercially but critically as well. He is well-known for his funny satirical way of narrating the stories on the crucial and sensitive topics with a subtle message encouraging idealism and humanism. His movies like Lage Raho Munnabhai had a strong cultural impact in India, popularising Gandhism. Even his both Aamir Khan starer movies have been raising issues like flaws in our study system & over-dependence of humans on God.

The film stars Ranbir Kapoor as the Indian actor Sanjay Dutt. The film follows Sanjay Dutt's dramatic and enigmatic life, mainly through three stages, during his drug addict phase, his many love affairs, and during the phase of his life when he went to jail under TADA case.

Sanju is the most awaited and highly anticipated film of the year, and yes, after watching it you'll realize that why there is so much buzz around it. A story that teaches you to face your hardships with courage and be unapologetic for who you are. One may think that this is the film about controversial persona, and what it possibly could have to serve, but believe me, without a question it's worth to watch.

Totally moved by watching it, a remarkable film, salute to Rajkumar Hirani, Abhijat Joshi, and Ranbir Kapoor excels. A surprisingly versatile and notable performance by Vicky Kaushal. Paresh Rawal's character as Sunil Dutt, a righteous and all-good father of Sanjay Dutt also stands out, he's just flawless. A heart touching film narrated and directed brilliantly. Sanju is definitely one more gem which has been added to Raju Sir's brilliant filmography.

In an interview with Rajeev Masand, Hirani disclosed that the story-telling procedure was "challenging as it's not a story of an achiever" as most biopics are based on a heroic personality, yet Dutt is known for his tragedies and losses. He noted that "you can't really tamper" and that the main scripting challenge was fitting "a very anecdotal story in a structured format". Writer Abhijat Joshi also revealed that there was no "deliberate" attempt to make Dutt's character sympathetic to the audience. Instead, the team realized having listened to all the anecdotes conveyed by Dutt that it's a "very engaging, incredibly fascinating" story based on a "conflicted person, a flawed person" who "deserved empathy". Hirani then confirmed that he has "put out the truth" which includes "good things and bad things".

Verdict : Have faith in Rajkumar Hirani, and Just Go For it. Simply Extraordinary.

Kaala (2018)

Karikaalan : The god of death

[8/10 · 6 September 2018]

Kaala is a Tamil-language action drama film written and directed by Pa. Ranjith and produced by Dhanush. The film stars Rajinikanth (Super Star) in the lead role. It is the 2nd time when Pa. Ranjith is working in collaboration with Rajinikanth after Kabali (2016).

The film revolves around the people who had migrated from Tirunelveli District in Tamil Nadu are living in the Dharavi slum. The film follows Karikaalan/Kaala (Rajinikanth), a family man, the leader of oppressed people of Dharavi, serving justice to his people by exercising criminal methods. Haridev "Hari Dada" Abhayankar (Nana Patekar), the union minister, previously a gangster who had carried out many attacks in Dharavi, tries to evict the people and seize their land. Over the years Hari Dada becomes a minister and plans to clear the area of Dharavi to construct buildings using his construction company in the form of government scheme with the help of his supporter Vishnu Bhai (Sampath Raj). Now, Kaala, must stand and oppose it to protect the area and his people.

Having Rajinikanth and Nana Patekar in one movie is enough reason to watch this film. The film is filled with many exciting moments, especially the confrontation scenes between Rajni and Nana are mind-blowing, and when these two charismatic characters come face to face, it's just a total blast. The story of the film is completely new, but still, there are some similarities like any other south Indian film, like family dynamics, super cool action sequences, and of course revenge stories. Along with the lead characters, Easwari Rao as Kaala's wife Selvi also steals the show.

The only thing which may hamper the film is its almost three hours of runtime, which could have been made half an hour shorter. The film is grounded, darker and funny at the same time. The film also talks about the revolutions of oppressed people against the cynical government, politicians, and builders. The artistic representation of the significant moments in the film is applauding. Watching it in a movie theatre full of fans whistling and shouting is just another level experience.

Verdict : Rajinikanth is in his full form, a great watch on this weekend. Do not miss this epic face-off of Rajni & Nana at any cost.

Veere Di Wedding (2018)

A roller-coaster wedding

[7/10 · 6 September 2018]

Veere Di Wedding (Veere - Friends in English) is a female-led adult comedy-drama film directed by Shashanka Ghosh.

The film follows four happy-go-lucky childhood friends Kalindi (Kareena Kapoor), Avni (Sonam Kapoor), Sakshi (Swara Bhaskar), and Meera (Shikha Talsania); who are now grown-up and engaged in their own lives. Until one day, when Kalindi decides to get married to her long-term boyfriend Rishabh (Sumeet Vyas). Now, Avni, Sakshi, and Meera must reunite to participate in the celebrations of Kalindi's big marriage. Rest of the film follows the fun ride of ups and downs through which all these friends must go to find best in them.

The film, at its core, talks about the importance of having friends and families in life, and the little moments of joy and fights which they share with each other. The film also discusses the significance of appreciating good things while accepting the flaws and moving on. Besides, the film is also filled with swear words, slapstick moments, and some hilarious one-liners, and it hold back on nothing. The film is hilarious in a first half, and in the second half, it goes for some deeper character arcs. The aspect of friends and family dynamics had already been explored in some really good films, so nothing new to serve in this one, but characters are refreshing and alive, plus the flavor of adult comedy.

Verdict : It's definitely not the best film but a good one time watch.

Bhavesh Joshi Superhero (2018)

Raw, Edgy, and Unexpected tale of a Superhero

[7/10 · 6 September 2018]

Bhavesh Joshi Superhero is an Indian action-drama film written and directed by Vikramaditya Motwane who is well known for his edgy storytelling style. In the film, Harshvardhan Kapoor is playing a lead role.

The film starts with two friends (I'm avoiding taking names to avoid spoilers), who are drawn towards sensitive issues like dirty politics and corrupt government. A question, as an individual, what are the possible ways to tackle these problems, which they keep on asking themselves, which ends up them making the online channel called 'INSAAF' (justice in English), which will become a stand against oppression. As they start working on the ground level, soon they realize that the system is very powerful and things can go lethal. While working on one of the issues reported by a user of their channel which could uncover the bigger conspiracy, things go wrong, and it results in the death of one of the friend. Now, the other friend must take a stand and must do the right thing, which will eventually bring the superhero out of him.

The film is a totally unexpected tale of a common man becoming a superhero. The film throughout is very raw and edgy. The story of the film is so simple yet impactful. The film is relevant in times that we live in. The only disappointment with the film is it's slow-burning and unnecessarily lengthy. The film is not fully action-packed as per the trailers has hinted, but these action scenes were shot very beautifully. In terms of performances, Harshavardhan Kapoor does not shine as he should, better luck next time, rest all the other performances are best. The film is good in its own way but the audience may miss the excitement factor in it. As an origin story of a hero, it's worth a watch.

This origin story of superhero almost reminded me of Ben Affleck's Daredevil (2003). Even in the last scene of the film, the superhero and the main villain are standing face to face, with totally dark and stormy weather outside with some lightening (When the Daredevil and the Kingpin stands face to face).

Verdict : As an origin story of a hero, it's worth a watch.

Race 3 (2018)

Be Selfish, Don't watch it!

[5/10 · 6 September 2018]

Race 3 is an action thriller film directed by Remo D'Souza and produced under Salman Khan Films. The film stars Anil Kapoor, Salman Khan, and Bobby Deol in the prominent roles. It is the third installment of Race film series.

As per the story is considered the film has no connection to its previous installments. It is the standalone film which revolves around a 'Singh' family that deals in worldwide arms dealings and crimes. Shamsher Singh (Anil Kapoor), the head of the family, a ruthless boss, runs this business with his twin children Sanjana (Daisy Shah) and Suraj (Saqib Saleem), and his nephew Sikander (Salman Khan). Being older among these siblings, Sikander always gets all the work delegated to him and gets all the appreciation from Shamsher, which eventually makes Sanjana and Suraj feel envious and jealous against Sikander. Bobby Deol plays the role of Yash, a loyal and dangerous henchman of a 'Singh' family. And Jacqueline Fernandez plays the role of Jessica, a woman with secrets, and Sikander's love interest. What follows next in the film is a game of love, deception, greed, and revenge.

First of all, the absence of Saif Ali Khan from the film totally takes away the feel of previous Race films. The film is the unwanted and unnecessary installment in the Race film series. The film is filled with a nonsensical storyline, a lot of plot holes, totally useless songs, some over the top action sequences, shirtless Salman Khan, and yes, shirtless Bobby Deol as well. Jacqueline and Daisy are just the eye candies in the film. There is nothing notable in the film, except the climax of the film and Anil Kapoor's performance. The film is a polished hyper-realistic dumb film. It's just like overpriced petrol where filmmakers are literally looting audience.

Verdict : Does not even worth a single watch. Watch it at your own risk.

Stree (2018)

She is coming...

[8/10 · 6 September 2018]

Stree (A Woman - in English) is a comedy horror film directed by Amar Kaushik and produced by Dinesh Vijan and Raj and D.K. The film is based on the Indian urban legend about a witch who knocks on people's doors at night.

The film sets in the strange and small town of Chanderi, which is haunted by a ghostly woman named 'Stree', who abducts men during the nights of the festive period. The film opens with a tagline saying, "The film is based on the ridiculous phenomenon", and yes, as the topic of the film is completely fresh and unusual, it successfully delivers the same. The film revolves around Vicky (Rajkummar Rao), a skilled tailor in a town, who falls for the mysterious girl (Shraddha Kapoor), who also only appears during festival season. As the festival starts, Vicky's close friends start disappearing, which makes him set out and confront the 'Stree' and bring his abducted friends back, with the help of librarian Rudra bhaiyya (Pankaj Tripathi), who has analyzed the myth of evil spirit 'Stree'.

As the film's trailer had suggested the film is the really good combination of its comedy and horror aspect. This type of combination was previously seen in Go Goa Gone (2013), a brilliant horror comedy film, which was directed by Raj and D.K, and Amar Kaushik was on the assistant director's team, so the same flavor of comedy can be seen in Stree. The film is a mixture of satire, dark comedy, and ample but impacting horror. Along with all these elements the film also talks about a common woman's condition in India and gives a clear message that all women should be empowered and respected and should be considered as a powerful human being as men.

There are some jump scares in the film, which with the screeching background score and subtle visual effects works really well. The performances are top notch, every single character in the film gives the outstanding performance. Rajkumar Rao and Pankaj Tripathi are among the proven talent pool of the industry and they actually steal every scene they are in. It's not a perfect film, the film feels a bit longer at some places, and there are some flaws and loose ends, but those can be expected in its scheduled sequel.