Category Archives: What to Watch

Are you searching for insightful movie reviews? Confused about what to watch tonight? Let me assist you in making the right choice. Before investing your valuable two hours, let’s determine whether a movie is worth your time. So why wait? Begin exploring our comprehensive reviews today and get ready to be entertained and informed!

We thoroughly study and analyze the latest movie releases. But that’s not all – we have a special treat for true movie lovers. Our ‘Unpopular Movies & Uncut Stories’ page reveals hidden gems of the film industry, along with intriguing behind-the-scenes narratives (not gossip!). These are the stories that often go unnoticed in the mainstream, yet they are certain to ignite your passion for cinema and deepen your understanding of this art form.

Discover the latest movie releases, film reviews, and lesser-known masterpieces on our platform. We cover a wide range of OTT releases from popular platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Zee5, Jio Cinema, and more. Get ready to make informed decisions about what to watch and enhance your cinematic experience. Start exploring our reviews today!

What To Watch on OTT: November 1, 2024

What are the OTT releases, on this Friday (Nov 1, 2024)? With so many releases across platforms, here are 3 picks that I think are worth checking out. Lubber Pandhu, Agathokakological & Sattam En Kayil: are my suggestions. Why I pick those; scroll down to read more.

Lubber Pandhu: A Fresh Take on Cricket and Rivalries

Platform: Disney+ Hotstar
Director: Tamizharasan Pachamuthu
Cast: Harish Kalyan, Attakathi Dinesh, Sanjana Krishnamoorthy, Swasika

Plot Synopsis

Lubber Pandhu dives into the world of rubber-ball cricket in small-town Tamil Nadu, where Anbu (Harish Kalyan), a talented bowler, meets Gethu (Attakathi Dinesh), a highly respected batsman. Their rivalry on the field quickly extends into personal life when Anbu’s relationship with Gethu’s daughter, Durga (Sanjana Krishnamoorthy), is revealed. The film explores the ego-fueled rivalry between Anbu and Gethu, both players who are passionate about cricket and loyal to their friends and family.

As the story unfolds, we see how their conflicts also bring in themes of caste and family struggles. Interestingly, the women, including Gethu’s wife Yashoda (Swasika), emerge as the voices of reason, balancing the impulsive nature of their male counterparts.

Highlights

❤️ The film brings a fresh look at caste issues, weaving them into the story in a subtle yet powerful way.

❤️ The cricket scenes are exciting and feel authentic, with details like star-player songs and quirky cricket rituals adding charm.

❌ Some parts, like a forced empowerment angle, feel a bit out of place.

Lubber Pandhu is a feel-good sports drama with a unique twist, blending family rivalry, romance, and cricket. If you love sports films with heart, stream it on Disney+ Hotstar now!

Agathokakological: A Crime Thriller with Mixed Results

Platform: Manorama Max
Director: Venkatesh CD
Cast: Leona Lishoy, Prashant Murali, Maqbool Salman, Vasudevan Unni

Plot Synopsis: Agathokakological

Agathokakological tells the story of Nisha (Leona Lishoy), an architect who lives peacefully with her husband Vineeth (Prashant Murali) and son. Her life takes a dark turn when she receives a threatening call from a stranger who knows a hidden secret from her past. As she starts seeing the blackmailer around, Nisha’s husband decides to report the case to the police, leading Sub Inspector Ajith (Maqbool Salman) to take on the investigation. With each twist, secrets from Nisha’s past and present come to light, connecting the pieces of a dark mystery.

Highlights: Agathokakological

❤️ Leona Lishoy shines in her role, delivering a powerful performance that adds depth to her character’s journey.
❤️ Maqbool Salman impresses as the intense, dedicated cop, adding strength to the film’s emotional undertone.
❌ The story becomes predictable, with twists that lack suspense, leaving thriller fans wanting more.
❌ Weak direction and sluggish pacing reduce the movie’s impact, making some scenes feel unnecessarily stretched.

Viswam: An Outdated Attempt at Action and Comedy

Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Director: Sreenu Vaitla
Cast: Gopichand, Kavya Thapar, Jishu Sengupta, Sunil, Vennela Kishore

Plot Synopsis: Viswam

Viswam follows Gopi (Gopichand), a fierce and loyal man determined to defend his father’s name, who soon finds himself caught up in a web of terrorism, political schemes, and random comedy. The film starts with a terrorist threat but quickly shifts gears, introducing a flood of subplots involving political corruption, romantic tropes, and slapstick humour. Meanwhile, Gopi forms a romantic connection with Samaira (Kavya Thapar), a stylist with dubious motives who eventually turns good after he saves her.

Amidst the chaos, the terror threat resurfaces only occasionally, adding confusion rather than suspense. The film tries to balance humour, action, and emotion, but the blend falls short, feeling scattered and outdated.

Highlights: Viswam

❤️ Vennela Kishore shines in parts with his comic timing, despite limited support from the script.
❌ Overloaded with subplots, the narrative becomes tedious and difficult to follow.
❌ Predictable character arcs and dated tropes make the movie feel stretched and redundant.

Viswam tries to deliver an entertaining mix but fails to keep the viewer engaged with its meandering storyline and worn-out humour. For those who prefer something fresh, it might be best to skip this one. Now streaming on Amazon Prime Video.

Yudhra: No Thrills, Only Kills

Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Director: Ravi Udyawar
Cast: Siddhant Chaturvedi, Malavika Mohanan, Gajraj Rao, Ram Kapoor, Raghav Juyal

Plot Synopsis: Yudhra

Yudhra follows a young, battle-ready hero (Siddhant Chaturvedi), shaped by violence from birth. Raised without parents, he grows up fighting anger issues and is trained by his father’s allies, Kartik (Gajraj Rao) and Rahman (Ram Kapoor), to complete his father’s mission. Alongside Rahman’s daughter, Nikhat (Malavika Mohanan), Yudhra sets out to infiltrate a drug cartel led by the ruthless Firoz (Raj Arjun) and his erratic son (Raghav Juyal).

As secrets emerge, Yudhra’s battle intensifies, but the emotional connections fail to resonate.

Highlights: Yudhra

❤️ Siddhant Chaturvedi impresses with his intense performance, bringing both physicality and style to his role.
❌ The story relies heavily on predictable action scenes, lacking suspense and depth.
❌ The romance and emotional elements feel shallow, reducing the impact of the characters’ journey.

Yudhra is a stylish actioner with potential but falls short on emotional depth and originality. If you’re in the mood for action without expecting too much plot, it’s streaming now on Amazon Prime Video (Rent).

Sattam En Kayil: A One-Night Thriller with Unbelievable Twists

Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Director: Chachhi
Cast: Sathish, Pavel Navageethan, Ajay Raj, Venba, Vidya Pradeep

Plot Synopsis: Sattam En Kayil

In Sattam En Kayil, a suspenseful thriller unfolds over a single foggy night in Yercaud. Gowtham (Sathish), a timid man with a stammer, accidentally kills a motorcyclist and hides the body in his car trunk. When he gets stopped at a police checkpoint, he pretends to be drunk to avoid suspicion.

Things spiral out of control as Gowtham is taken into custody, only to discover that the motorcyclist was already a wanted man. Now he must navigate between two power-hungry cops, Inspector Basha (Pavel Navageethan) and Nagaraj (Ajay Raj), to keep his deadly secret under wraps.

Highlights: Sattam En Kayil

❤️ Sathish impresses as Gowtham, portraying nervousness and gradual confidence with skill.
❤️ Pavel Navageethan and Ajay Raj’s characters bring depth with their intense rivalry, adding excitement to the narrative.
❌ The first half feels slow and somewhat scattered, though the film gains pace in the second half.
❌ Logical flaws, like questionable decisions by Gowtham, weaken the plot’s believability.

In Sattam En Kayil, a strong second half with unexpected twists makes up for a slow start and some predictable elements. If you’re up for a suspense-filled ride, give it a watch on Amazon Prime Video!

The most entertaining theatre release this week: Read Lucky Baskhar review here

What To Watch on OTT: October 25, 2024

What are the OTT releases, this week? With so many releases across platforms, here are 4-5 picks that I think are worth checking out. Do Patti, Aye Zindagi, Swag, Meiyazhagan and Gaganachari❤️ are my suggestions. Why I pick those; scroll down to read more.

Do Patti: A Thriller That Promises More Than It Delivers

Platform: Netflix
Director: Shashanka Chaturvedi
Cast: Kajol, Kriti Sanon, Shaheer Sheikh, Tanvi Azmi, Brijendra Kala, Vivek Mushran

Do Patti Trailer

Plot Synopsis: Do Patti

Do Patti is a movie about crime, drama, and emotions. The story is about two twin sisters, Saumya and Shailee (both played by Kriti Sanon). Saumya is kind and gentle, but she is mistreated by her husband, Dhruv (Shaheer Sheikh). Her twin, Shailee, is clever and competitive. She always tries to be better than Saumya and even tries to ruin her sister’s love life.

When Saumya says that Dhruv is trying to harm her, a tough cop named Vidya Jyoti (played by Kajol) steps in to investigate. As the story moves forward, secrets are revealed about the troubled relationships between the sisters and Dhruv, leaving the audience wondering who is telling the truth.

The movie begins with lots of twists and interesting moments, showing the rivalry between the sisters and Saumya’s struggles with her husband. But as the film goes on, the story slows down, and the fight for justice feels too long by the end.

Highlights: Do Patti

❤️ Kriti Sanon delivers an impressive double role, portraying two distinct personalities with depth and flair.
❤️ Kajol shines in moments, playing a no-nonsense cop with hints of vulnerability.
❌ The screenplay falters towards the end, stretching the narrative and losing its earlier momentum, with a lot of scenes having no significance to what the makers actually intend to say.
❌ In my experience, music is the biggest problem here; it lacks impact, especially at some key emotional moments.

Gaganachari: A Sci-Fi Comedy with a Nostalgic Touch

Platform: Amazon Prime
Director: Arun Chandu
Cast: K.B. Ganesh Kumar, Gokul Suresh, Aju Varghese, Anarkali Marikar

Trailer: Gaganachari

Plot Synopsis: Gaganachari

Gaganachari is a quirky sci-fi film set in a dystopian Kerala of the 2040s. The story follows Victor (K.B. Ganesh Kumar), a former national hero known for hunting aliens, now hiding in a bunker with his eccentric companions, Alan (Gokul Suresh) and Vaibhav (Aju Varghese). Life takes an unexpected turn when an alien named Eliyamma (Anarkali Marikar) arrives at their bunker, forcing them to avoid authorities and stay out of trouble.

The film uses humour and nostalgia to explore life in a post-apocalyptic Kerala, mixing in references to 80s and 90s Malayalam cinema. As Victor participates in a documentary interview, we glimpse the struggles of Kerala’s citizens—where governments monitor people, right-wing activists patrol the streets, and synthetic ‘geef’ replaces beef. Gaganachari cleverly balances light-hearted moments with deeper themes like climate change and authoritarianism.

Highlights: Gaganachari

❤️ K.B. Ganesh Kumar delivers a hilarious performance as Victor, bringing charm and energy to the role.
❤️ Gokul Suresh surprises with excellent comic timing, while Aju Varghese adds to the fun with his witty lines.
❤️ The nostalgic references to Malayalam cinema are a treat for fans, adding a unique flavour to the story.
❌ Some jokes may feel too niche, limiting appeal for those unfamiliar with Malayalam culture.
❌ The plot can feel scattered at times, with moments that slow down the film’s pacing.

Meiyazhagan (Sathyam Sundaram): A Soulful Journey into Emotions

Platform: Netflix
Director: C. Prem Kumar
Cast: Karthi, Arvind Swamy, Rajkiran, Sri Divya, Devadarshini, Jayaprakash

Trailer: Meiyazhagan

Plot Synopsis: Meiyazhagan

Produced by Jyothika and Suriya under 2D Entertainment, Meiyazhagan follows the emotional journey of Arulmozhi Varman (Arvind Swamy) as he returns to his home town. A one day visit for his cousin’s wedding in 2018 takes an unexpected turn when Arul encounters a distant relative (Karthi) he struggles to recognise. What begins as a reluctant reunion blossoms into an unlikely bond, full of warmth, nostalgia, and a little humour.

While it may not resonate with audiences as deeply as 96, Meiyazhagan stands out as a reflective character study. It brings together two remarkable actors in a film that feels both intimate and grand, making it a must-watch for those seeking a heartfelt cinematic experience.

Why You Should / Should not Try Meiyazhagan (Sathyam Sundaram)

Highlights:
❤️ The chemistry between Arvind Swamy and Karthi shines, giving life to a story about rediscovery and relationships.
❤️ Karthi’s mischievous character and Swamy’s transformation make for heartwarming performances.
❌ At 178 minutes, the film feels a bit stretched, its ending may seem predictable, and it doesn’t hold a universal appeal (as in ’96’) in the second half because of deep Tamil centric narratives.

Hitler: An Old-Style Vigilante Movie That Falls Short

Platform: Amazon Prime
Director: Dana SA
Cast: Vijay Antony, Gautam Vasudev Menon, Riya Suman, Charanraj, Redin Kingsley

Hitler Trailer

Plot Synopsis: Hitler 2024

Hitler follows Selva (Vijay Antony), who balances a new romance with Sara (Riya Suman) while getting involved in a political crime spree. Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Shakthi (Gautam Vasudev Menon) investigates a series of murders linked to a corrupt politician, Rajavelu (Charanraj). As expected in any vigilante script, the story brings together these two seemingly unrelated plots with a predictable twist.

Hitler feels more like a nostalgic nod to vigilante classics of the past than an original action thriller. It borrows heavily from familiar templates, resembling films like Gentleman, which ironically starred Charanraj too. The attempt to add intrigue with misdirections and subplots doesn’t hold, as the narrative struggles to find fresh ground.

Highlights of ‘Hitler 2024’

❤️ Riya Suman’s character is well-integrated into the plot, going beyond a mere love interest.
❌ The plot feels outdated and predictable, offering little excitement.
❌ Vijay Antony’s inconsistent portrayal of Selva fails to create emotional resonance.

SWAG: A Bold Experimental Satire on Gender Dynamics

Platform: Amazon Prime
Director: Hasith Goli
Cast: Sree Vishnu, Ritu Varma, Meera Jasmine, Goparaju Ramana, Daksha Nagarkar

SWAG Trailer

Plot Synopsis: SWAG

In Swag, Hasith Goli brings a non-linear narrative that traverses between the 1550s and the present, tackling themes of gender, power, and identity.

Back in 1551, Queen Rukmini Devi (Ritu Varma) ruled a kingdom that followed matriarchal traditions, where baby boys were not allowed to survive. One of her decisions brings a curse on future generations, leading to a treasure hunt in the present.

In today’s world, Bhavabhuti (Sree Vishnu), a clever police officer, tries to claim the family’s treasure but lacks the needed proof of his lineage. He is joined by Singareni, a social media star, and Anubhuti (Ritu Varma again), a civil engineer, as they all compete to inherit the treasure. As the story develops, we uncover family secrets and see how gender roles have shifted over time.

Swag is more than just a satire on the battle of the sexes—it’s an exploration of gender equality, told through quirky characters and complex storylines.

The film’s experimental approach, blending farce with theatre-like absurdity, might not be for everyone, but it ultimately rewards those willing to stay with it.

Why You Should / Should not Try SWAG

❤️ Sree Vishnu’s dynamic portrayal across multiple characters is a major highlight, particularly a surprising role revealed just before intermission.Ritu Varma and Meera Jasmine add emotional weight with their performances.
❤️ This is not a typical Tollywood movie; it’s an outside-the-box thought process and will be a different experience for most film enthusiasts.
❌ The multi-layered narrative can feel confusing, especially with several timelines and characters to track.
❌ The second half has moments that drag, testing viewers’ patience.

Aye Zindagi: A Heartfelt Tale with Missed Opportunities

Platform: Zee5
Genre: Drama, Heartfelt
Cast: Revathy, Satyajeet Dubey, Shrikant Verma, Mrinmayee Godbole, Hemant Kher

Aye Zindagi Trailer

Plot Synopsis: Aye Zindagi

Based on a true story, Aye Zindagi follows the journey of Vinay Chawla (Satyajeet Dubey), a 26-year-old software engineer battling liver cirrhosis. He travels to Hyderabad for treatment, where he meets Revathi Rajan (Revathy), a grief counsellor whose role is to convince families of brain-dead patients to donate organs. As Vinay confronts his illness, an unexpected bond forms between him and Revathi, touching on themes of hope, second chances, and survivor’s guilt.

Set in a time when liver transplants were rare and organ donation was still gaining traction in India, the film seeks to explore the emotional complexities of illness and loss. However, the narrative falters in delivering the depth the story deserves.

Highlights: Aye Zindgi

❤️ Revathy delivers a moving performance, carrying the emotional weight of the film.
❤️ The themes of hope and renewal are well-intentioned, though not fully realised.
❌ The plot feels disjointed, with several illogical decisions and underdeveloped characters.
❌ Satyajeet Dubey’s performance lacks the emotional impact needed for his role.

Other OTT Releases

The Legend of Hanuman – Season 5

Platform: Hotstar
Cast: Sharad Kelkar, Damandeep Singh Baggan
Release Date: October 25
Genre: Mythology, Animation, Adventure

In the last season of The Legend of Hanuman, we saw the heroic Hanuman battling Kumbhakaran and Indrajit, saving Rama and Laxman from Patal Lok. This season, Hanuman returns in his Panchmukhi Avatar, taking on five powerful forms representing different Gods and directions. As new challenges arise, Hanuman embarks on a deeper journey of self-discovery, facing trials that test both his strength and wisdom.

For more updates on movies and theatrical releases, click here.

Saripodhaa Sanivaaram: Vigilante or Vendetta?

What I like most about Trivikram Srinivas is how he connects mythological stories with mass masala movies. He often places his heroes in the roles of Vishnu, Rama, or Krishna, making them feel like incarnations of these divine figures. In Saripodhaa Sanivaaram, Vivek Athreya followed a similar approach.

Have you heard the story of Narakasura?

Narakasura was a powerful and evil demon king, the son of Bhudevi (Mother Earth) and Varaha, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. Despite his divine origins, Narakasura was notorious for his wickedness and cruelty. He ruled the kingdom of Pragjyotisha, where he terrorized people and killed many innocents.

His power and arrogance grew so immense that even the heavens were disturbed by his actions.

Finally, Lord Krishna decided to fight Narakasura. However, Narakasura had a boon that only his mother could kill him. Krishna, knowing this, allowed Satyabhama, who was an incarnation of Bhudevi, to take the lead in the battle.

Plot: Saripodhaa Sanivaaram

Saripodhaa Sanivaaram begins with this story, and throughout the movie, Naani keeps referring to it. In a way, S. J. Suriyah represents a modern-day Narakasura, Sokulapalam is a modern-day Pragjyotisha, and Surya and his girlfriend Charulatha can be seen as Krishna and Satyabhama.

Nani vs S J Suriyah Face Off from Sanivaaram

But there is one difference, Krishna empowers others to take action against injustice but Suriya is different, when he witnesses injustice, he does not let it go.

Why You Should Try This Movie

This movie is packed with all the elements that make for commercial success in Tollywood and Kollywood: mother sentiment, father sentiment, sister sentiment, and a hero saving a community from oppression or vigilantism. A hero introduction setup where he fights against injustice. You’ll experience intense cat-and-mouse games between the villain and the hero.

But what’s most impressive is that Vivek Athreya proves you don’t need to rely on showing the actress’s navel, a mass item song, or a foreign set song to create a mass action flick. Even though it’s a mass entertainer, Vivek Athreya keeps a minimalist approach, ensuring that you won’t get bored with cliches. In one line, Saripodhaa Sanivaaram is a middle-class Chathrapathi or a Vikramarkudu on a low budget.

A Domino Game and Athreya’s 6 Chapters

I feel like Vivek Athreya, as a writer, took inspiration from films like Tamil Maaveran and various Hollywood movies. He segmented Saripodhaa Sanivaaram into six chapters: the prologue, the turn, the knot, the crossroads, hide and seek, and redemption. It’s almost as if Vivek Athreya is trolling mass-action fans, sarcastically asking us, ee formula Saripodhaa? (Isn’t that enough?).

He established Suriyah (Nani) with subplots, Charulatha (Priyanka Mohan) with an open-ended past, and Daya (S J Suriyah) laced with dark humour and a dysfunctional family plot, all of which set the stage for a fire show.

The way Vivek wrote the script is like a domino effect—each event triggers the next, and each character drives an event. It’s beautiful to witness the script evolve so rhythmically.

Performances & Cast

When it comes to performances, Abhirami’s portrayal of the mother was deeply touching and reminded me of Simran in Kannathil Muthamittal, especially those moments at the beach, and some elements from Bhanupriya of Chathrapathi.

Sai Kumar, the millennium’s angry young man, plays a father struggling to pacify his angry young son. There wasn’t much for a veteran like Sai Kumar to do, aside from a few bass voice narrations.

S. J. Suriyah and Nani played their characters brilliantly, convincingly portraying their utterly chaotic and distressed lives. Both are going through pain triggered by siblings—one suffering because of his brother, the other troubled by his sister.

Murli Sharma and Ajay Ghosh’s characters were icing on the cake with the perfect touch of humour to the film with their mannerisms and timing.

S J SUriyah speech at Saripodhaa Sanivaaram pre-release event

However, Priyanka Mohan’s character didn’t quite convince me. As S. J. Suriyah mentioned during the pre-release event of Saripodhaa Sanivaaram, Priyanka was too cute even as a constable. Her makeup, costume, and body language felt more like a hero’s pillion rider. I wish she had played a more prominent role, similar to what we see in the Narakasura story.

Jakes Bejoy: The Master of Elevation

Last but not least, Jakes Bejoy is the one who ensures you won’t dig too much on logic. Instead, you’re completely sucked into Athreya’s world, where no poor man uses social media or mobile cameras. For every question that pops into your head, Vivek’s writing will push you to another event, and Jakes Bejoy’s BGM will scream loud, and shut your curious mind, keeping you on track.

Saripodhu Ee Sanivaram

Finally, it’s technically a Vivek Athreya vigilante story, but I believe it’s actually a Vivek Athreya revenge story—a revenge against the Telugu audience who made his Ante Sundaraniki a flop. Now, he’s screaming loud to you: Saripodhaa Ee Sanivaram! (Is this Saturday enough??) I believe people are saying a big yes! Ee saari assalu bore kottaledhu.

Related Articles

8 Movies Which Explain the Ancient Greeks’ Four Types Of Love

The history of Valentine’s Day dates back to the fourth century, when Pope Gelasius 1 declared February 14th as St. Valentine’s Day. So let me introduce the four types of love from Greek philosophy.

1️⃣ Experience: Four Types of Love

Without experiencing the many forms of love, we’ll always feel a little empty.

The ancient Greeks possessed a complex understanding of love that still holds relevance today.

Their lexicon included four distinct types of love: Agape, Eros, Philía, and Storge.

Examples for Four Types of love — Movies Which Share The Experiences

Four Types of Love: Greek Philosophy

❤️Agape denotes a selfless, unconditional love that extends beyond personal desire and encompasses the well-being of others.

It’s selfless, puts others first, and doesn’t expect anything in return. Imagine helping a stranger without expecting thanks, volunteering, or donating to a cause. I hope you have seen the movie Schindler’s List or Malyalam movie 2018.

2018 Trailer

❤️Eros, on the other hand, represents a passionate, romantic love driven by physical attraction and desire.

The “butterflies-in-your-stomach” experience. It’s passion, intense attraction, and physical desire. Think that first crush, the romantic spark, or the thrilling excitement of new love. Think of a movie like Chunking Express or Njan Gandharvan.

Njan Gandharvan teaser

❤️Philía describes a deep, platonic love rooted in mutual respect, shared interests, and genuine friendship.

Experience that “best friend forever” companionship . It’s built on friendship, shared interests, mutual respect, and understanding. Think movie nights with your buddies, deep conversations with an old friend, or the camaraderie of a sports team. Hope you have seen When Harry Met Sally or kannada movie Katheyondu Shuruvagide.

Katheyondu Shuruvagide Trailer

❤️Finally, Storge denotes a familial or parental love that is instinctual and unconditional.

Think the bond between parent and child, the unconditional love you have for your siblings, or the close connection with your grandparents. Hope you have seen the animated movie CoCo (2017) or tamil movie Peranbu.

Peranbu Trailer

Experiencing all these four types of love is vital for a fulfilling life, as it nourishes and enriches our emotional well-being.

Beginning of a Lifelong Romance

We should strive to evoke these emotions in others and elevate them for one another to create a more loving and empathetic society. These four types of love explains the nuances of love. By understanding the nuances of love, we can cultivate stronger, more meaningful relationships that enrich our lives and the lives of those around us.

So, go forth and experience the four types of love — agape, eros, philía, and storge — and embrace the diversity and depth that life has to offer. And remember, if all else fails, a little laughter can go a long way in matters of the heart.

As Oscar Wilde once said, “To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance.”

So, experience all four types of love, evoke it in one another, and elevate it for one another. That’s the key.

2️⃣ Pain & Redemption

At the core of any transformative experience is the element of pain and suffering. Love, in particular, is known for its ability to inspire profound changes in individuals.

The reason for this is simple: transformation requires the shedding of one’s old self, and this shedding process can be painful. In fact, some of the most significant changes we experience are born out of great suffering.

This is why love demands that we surrender ourselves to a little bit of suffering. Whether it’s the pain of rejection, the agony of heartbreak, or the discomfort of vulnerability, these experiences are necessary to spur on the kind of transformation that love offers.

Suffer For It

And it’s not just romantic love that requires this level of surrender. If we truly love our work, our art, or our craft, we must be willing to suffer for it. We must be willing to endure the long hours, the uncertainty, and the setbacks that come with any creative pursuit.

But it’s not just about enduring suffering for the sake of transformation. We must also take the time to reflect on our journey, to understand why we’re here, who we are, and why it matters. Only by embracing the transformative power of love, and by surrendering to the suffering it demands, can we hope to unlock our full potential.

Redemtpion

And so, as we embark on this journey of love and transformation, let us remember that it is not a path for the faint of heart. But if we are willing to take that deep breath and plunge headfirst into the abyss, we may just emerge on the other side, transformed and ready for whatever comes next.

And as the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche once said, “What does not kill me makes me stronger.”

So, let us suffer a little, and emerge stronger, wiser, and ready to love again.

I recommend you watch Masaan (2015) , Tamasha (2015), La La Land (2016).

3️⃣ Slow & Steady: Mean it

Love is not a commodity that we can buy, nor is it a game that we can play. Love is something that we give, and it’s a reflection of who we are.

Most importantly, it’s a verb, not a noun, it’s an action.

As the ancient Greek philosopher Plato once said, “At the touch of love, everyone becomes a poet.”

Love inspires us to be creative, kind, and compassionate, and it can elevate our lives to new heights. However, if we don’t mean it, we risk losing it all.

Fake it ’til you make it

There’s a famous saying that goes, “Fake it ’til you make it,” but when it comes to love, that’s a dangerous game to play. You can’t fake love, and you can’t substitute it with anything else. As the American author H. Jackson Brown Jr. once said, “Love is when the other person’s happiness is more important than your own.”

If we don’t mean it, we risk hurting ourselves and the people we care about.

So, how can we mean it?

Well, it starts with being honest with ourselves and others. We need to be clear about what we want and what we’re willing to give.

We need to be vulnerable and open to the possibility of rejection, knowing that it’s part of the process.

And we need to be patient and persistent, knowing that love takes time to grow and blossom.

Remember, genuine love is not something that we can fake or substitute. It’s a precious gift that we give and receive, and it requires us to be true to ourselves and others.

As the American singer-songwriter John Legend once said, “Love is not just a verb, it’s you looking in the mirror.” So, let’s be honest, vulnerable, patient, and persistent, and let’s mean it.

I would recommend movies like The Lunchbox (2013), Call Me by Your Name (2017).

Read about How you should read the film: The Lunchbox

So love your Partner. Love your friends, Love your family, Love your life, Love your job.

Your Love liberates your inner strength, and that’s the beauty of it.

So, how was your Valentine’s Day?
Me?
I had a busy day doing some Ad shoot and campaign management for the marketing.
But tonight, after seeing multiple stories and statuses in my SM feeds, I decided to write something on this.

❤️None of us belong here and there’s not enough time. Let’s Live. Love. Learn and Liberate❤️

Animal Explained: Dissecting the Hidden Philosphies and Patriarchal Ideologies

Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Animal is streaming on Netflix with 3 hours and 24 minutes of adrenaline pumps. This is not a review, but rather an analysis of the propaganda art and politics of Animal. So, this blog contains spoilers, and if you haven’t watched it yet, skip this.

After Arjun Reddy (2017) and Kabir Singh (2019), two films about a sexually desperate misogynistic doctor with anger issues and Preeti obsession, director Sandeep Reddy Vanga returns with Animal. This time, it’s about a toxic patriarchal chain-smoking engineer obsessed with his father.

Animal movie explained — Animal Movie Poster

The crux of the story is a son protecting his father from animals in an animal park. Despite the script being imbued with his palaeolithic view of human instincts, Sandeep Reddy Vanga managed to infuse it with high adrenaline action, music, and a bloodbath. In essence, the hero is a carnivorous animal in human form, devoid of sin, vision, or empathy, driven only by instincts.

I thoroughly enjoyed the film, although I disagree with a few of Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s perspectives. This film is a commendable mass entertainer.

How Sandeep Ignites the Adrenaline Rush With Animal

Sandeep Reddy Vanga brilliantly incorporates elements that have recently succeeded in commercial movies. Bringing in a weapon dealer, adding a massive gunfight scene, and retro songs like Roja, Punjabi DJ songs & Jamal Jamaloo, created high moments in theatres and on Instagram as well.

The cold-blooded revenge arc, fatherly sentiments, and nationalism (the weapons are made in India scenes) are well-placed. Surprises, such as the bystander-turned-traitor twists and the double climax, the 2-hour (so-called) street fight in the end (a reminiscent of Thallumala) the list is long. The high-adrenaline music is another highlight. Kudos to the long list of music directors from Harshavardhan Rameshwar, Jaani, Vishal Mishra, Shreyas Puranik, Manan Bhardwaj to last but not least: A. R. Rahman.

Forgot to add, the climax scene, inspired by Rolex, is particularly notable. Fans of Leo, Jawan, Pathan, and Arjun Reddy will find Animal a high-adrenaline theatre experience.

Animal’s Anthropology Class & Thrills from the Start

The movie begins with a narration, swiftly moving to a school episode of Ranvijay (Ranbir Kapoor) showcasing his love for his father. One of my favourite scenes follows, filled with A.R. Rahman’s Roja background score, where Ranvijay is now a college boy. The film transitions seamlessly to love at first sight.

Sandeep Reddy Vanga acts like an anthropologist, sharing perspectives on the evolution of poetry. These insights could be used to promote a whey protein brand or a fitness centre. He then progresses Ranvijay’s character arc to highlight his prejudiced and narcissistic nature.

Sandeep Reddy & His Art of Crafting a Predatory Protagonist

Sandeep Reddy Vanga meticulously wrote this character. Ranvijay cries only once in the entire movie. He never shows his vulnerabilities; even when he informs his sister about her husband’s death, he immediately consoles her by suggesting a remarriage. He consoles his wife by stating that happiness is a choice, and there’s a scene where he enjoys biryani made from human flesh (though Sandeep Reddy Vanga doesn’t explicitly show this). With all these elements, Sandeep tells you how umpathetic Ranjvijay is.

I appreciate Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s meticulous crafting of dialogues for Ranbir Kapoor. Ranbir’s dialogues always reflect an animal mindset, like his comments on business expansion or his various lectures. When Ranbir talks about patience and his fights with schoolmates, it reminds me of predators on Animal Planet. Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s portrayal of his hero as a tiger is contrasted with a more dog-like loyalty, treating others as subservient. Sandeep Reddy Vanga has a knack for highlighting character flaws, like Ranvijay’s.

The Subservient Female Roles in Animal Explained

Sandeep Reddy Vanga doesn’t give much importance to female characters like Geethanali, Zoya, or even Reet. They are portrayed as subservient to their male counterparts. Geethanali’s quick fall in love with Ranvijay, perhaps influenced by watching Arjun Reddy, is an example of this. Similarly, Zoya is depicted as submissive to Ranbir’s character. What is most disturbing is that Zoya is even ready to lick his feet for his love.

Rashmika Mandanna & Ranbir Kapoor from Animal

Unfortunately, Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s skill seems solely invested in building the character of Ranvijay. When it comes to the character arc, it only moves in one direction, continually ascending. I believe actions should have consequences, but nothing Ranvijay does in Animal seems to have any.

Sandeep’s Reply for Concerns Around Sexuality, Violence, and Gender Equality

Sandeep Reddy Vanga also tries to counter criticisms of male chauvinism. He addresses consent by having Ranvijay touch Geethanali’s feet and give a lecture on the importance of women in the Paleolithic era.

Ranbir kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna from Animal

If there’s a problem with him slapping her, this time let her slap him. If there are issues with domination and masculinity, let her come to his home, kiss him in front of everyone, and let him praise her physique. He addresses body shaming by giving a spiritual lesson on pubic hair.

If there’s a problem with adult content and gory scenes, let’s have a three-hour blood bath with nudity and discussions of sexual fantasies.

What I really like is the idea of recording the moanings of their first lovemaking and using it to calm his angry wife, that was truly a wow! what an idea moment 🙂 .

So, in simple words, this movie entertains the majority with ease. I was expecting a Tarantino style but got an ultra-mode RGV style. Raw violence, sex, and obsession await you in this movie, sprinkled with a few good father-son sentiments.

The climax scene, with two sons fighting for their father’s honour and love, battling with emotions, and a background song echoing their family connection, made the whole theatre dark and silent without any mobile screen light or murmurs. That’s the power of bringing raw emotions to the screen.

From Ranbir to Tripti Dimri: Explaining Performances from Animal

Ranbir Kapoor, Bobby Deol, Rashmika Mandanna and Anil Kapoor from the Animal movie.

Regarding performances, Ranbir Kapoor establishes himself as a superstar with Animal. Sandeep Reddy Vanga did justice to Bobby Deol fans, though I expected more from Bobby Deol. My surprise was Tripti Dimri, whose screen presence was mind-blowing despite limited screen time. Charu Singh and Anil Kapoor did their parts as Ranbir’s parents with ease. Saurabh Sachdeva delivered a killing performance as Bobby Deol’s brother, especially in the climax. Rashmika gave a decent performance, possibly her best since Kirik Party

Why is it Animal ? Animal Explained

Let me explain my views on why the film is called Animal by Sandeep Reddy.

The film explores the more primal, instinctual aspects of human nature, as shown in how Ranbir celebrates his heart surgery and how Abrar releases his pain of loss. In Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Animal park, the lead male characters operate based on the pleasure principle, seeking immediate gratification. The climax fight is reminiscent of the survival of the fittest theory, living in a world where the law of nature prevails.

In this movie, after Papa, SWASTIK is the most highlighted word. It’s their family business, indicating a blend of traditional values and a darker quest for power (Nazi approach).

The tagline of Swastik, “Power, Progress & Victory”, is repeated by Ranvijay during his oath of vengeance. As per psychologist Carl Jung’s concept of the shadow, this tagline could be seen as manifestations of Ranvijay’s shadow, where his animalistic traits (aggression, dominance, the pursuit of power) are embraced and externalised as his personal and corporate ethos.

Animal & Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Propaganda Art

Regarding opinions, my friend argued,

“How conveniently do we forget that Scorsese used slow-motion and rousing soundtracks for despicable characters in ‘Goodfellas’ and ‘Casino’, and when Sandeep Reddy Vanga does an extreme Indian version of that, it’s suddenly ‘glorification’?”

As a die-hard fan of Scorses, I feel Martin Scorsese never portrayed Travis Bickle or Jimmy Conway as heroes, nor did he justify their actions. His characters dealt with consequences, unlike in Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Ranvijay. This is where Sandeep Reddy Vanga falls short as a responsible artist. I believe he is obsessed with certain ideologies and celebrates and promotes them through his movies. Scorsese’s Raging Bull highlighted male insecurity in 1980. Can we expect such a film from Sandeep Reddy Vanga?

Toxic masculinity is a propaganda tool for promoting patriarchal beliefs. Ranvijay’s words to his sister about killing any of her choices he dislikes, and his actions as a school kid stepping in with a gun to protect his sister, and delivering a lecture to his father suggest a patriarchal mindset. That’s where he fails to responsibly handle his craft.

Read about the Yadhoom philosophy & Sriram Raghavan’s Merry chritmas here.

Merry Christmas: A Tale of Yadhoom, Love, and Mystery

Merry Christmas, directed by Sriram Raghavan, is a beautiful film, especially if you like slow-paced yet engaging movies like the Before trilogy. Merry Christmas uniquely blends the romantic drama of Wong Kar Wai with the suspenseful elements of Hitchcockian noir thrillers.

In essence, it’s reminiscent of Thiyagarajan Kumararaja’s Ninaivo Oru Paravai, which seamlessly fuses these two elements. It’s not surprising that the director, Sriram Raghavan, mentioned Thiyagarajan Kumararaja as an inspiration.

Retro Charm & A Mood For Love, Sprinkled with Witty Black Humour

Merry Christmas begins with a note saying, ‘When Mumbai was known as Bombay.‘ The film takes place in Bombay during the 1970s and makes you feel nostalgic.

The colours, music, and songs in the film are sync with the era and make the experience even better. The story revolves around Albert (Vijay Sethupathi) and Maria (Katrina Kaif). Two souls wandering in the neon-lit lanes of Bombay, whose lives intersect in a serendipitous Christmas encounter.

It’s more of like a O.Henry short story; whatever you are reading and imagining in the first half will get a 180 degree shift in the later half.

The movie’s pacing is deliberate, slowly building up to a climax. If you are expecting a thriller like Andhadhun, you may get disappointed. Merry Christmas is a cute black comedy.

Perfect Blend of On Screen & Off Screen Efforts

Vijay Sethupathi is outstanding in his role. Watching him dance with Katrina Kaif, who is famous for dance numbers like ‘Chikni Chameli,’ is a treat for the fans of both. You can’t help but be drawn in by Vijay’s cute dance performance.

The film’s homage to the bygone era of Bollywood, Vivaldi’s ‘Four Seasons’, background score by Daniel B George, all these adds layers to its storytelling, makes ‘Merry Christmas’ more than just a movie set in the 70s. It feels like it truly belongs to that time.

Cinematographer Madhu Neelakandan deserves a special applause for meticulously capturing the essence of the setting, focusing on even the smallest details. The vibrant red-blue-green colour palette that fills each frame is so catchy and sync with the moments. However, the close-up shots of Katrina Kaif are a bit of a letdown. Personally, I felt that these moments were jarring, as Katrina seemed to struggle with conveying the subtlety of emotions required for these shots.

Sriram Raghavan’s Yadhoom: A Merry Christmas with Self-Discovery

Sriram Raghavan’s Merry Christmas not only shines with performances but also with its intriguing scripting.The movie looks at ‘Yadhoom’ moments – those instances of clarity and realisation of one’s true purpose in life.

Tamil veteran actor Rajesh plays a kind man who took care of Albert’s mother, Celine, before she passed away. He also looks after her apartment. He gives Albert a bottle of homemade wine called Yadhoom.

But what does Yadhoom mean?

Rajesh explains it like this:

‘We spend our lives working, raising families, and doing other things. But we’re all waiting for a special moment. When that moment comes, it’s like you suddenly know what you’re supposed to do. That’s what Yadhoom is about.‘
Merry Christmas (2024)

Sriram Raghavan carefully places his characters right before the Yadhoom moments in their lives. He shows us how they find out who they are and what they want.

Before he starts his night adventure Albert reads a quote “Night is Darkest Before The Dawn”, this blend with the eastern version of Yadhoom philosophy where challenges and sufferings lead to self-realisation. Hope you have watched Lion King which beautifully portrayed this philosophy.

Albert’s return to Bombay is more than just a trip. It’s a journey through his past and into his own heart. The idea of Yadhoom is key in the movie.

The characters of Albert and Maria are skillfully crafted to evolve towards this Yadhoom realisation. Their interactions, laden with yearning and a sense of lost time, gradually lead them to their respective Yadhoom moments.

Complementary Yadhoom Arcs

The characters, Albert and Maria, are created in a way that Maria is skeptical, fragile and is more sure of her motivations than her decisions, while Albert is almost too careful, yet easy going.

Katrina Kaif & Vijay from Merry Christmas

There is a dialogue from Albert: “I’ve left a lot of things unfinished in life, but never a bottle of chilled beer,”. These complementary arcs in their behaviour is what makes them complete in the end while talking about the agony of remorse and awaiting.

Sriram Raghavan’s storytelling is subtle, he cleverly uses the festive atmosphere of Christmas to create a striking contrast with the deep self-reflection experienced by his characters. This contrast serves to highlight their personal growth. Initially burdened by their pasts and uncertainties, Albert and Maria evolve throughout the film. They move from being individuals weighed down by life’s complexities to people who gradually come to embrace the concept of Yadhoom.

Yadhoom, Albert and Maria: Philosophical Layers in Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas is more than just a black comedy on screen. It introduces us to the deep ideas of some philosophies.

Katrina Kaif & Vijay Sethupathi playing Flying Wish Paper Swan

Existentialism

For example, the film reflects existentialism. This is the belief that people must create their own meaning in a world that doesn’t have a clear purpose. Albert and Maria are characters struggling to escape their past and the truth, and in the end, they use what happens in their lives to make their own meaning and purpose for their present.

Stoicism

The film also shows ideas from Stoicism. Stoicism consists of wisdom, justice, courage, and moderation.

This ancient philosophy teaches that people should accept what happens in their lives and use these experiences to grow and become better people. We see this in how Albert and Maria deal with their past and how they change to find their purpose. In the climax there is a shot where Maria burns a Teddy and keeps two fish in the flush tanks. The way that night ends was narrated beautifully by Sriram and captured elegantly. by Madhu Neelakantan.

Even there is an instance were, Albert talks about Violence, he says: “Violence is better than the sufferings from non-violence”. This reminds me of Dharma philosophy.

In summary, ‘Merry Christmas’ is not just a black comedy thriller but a philosophical journey that resonates with the heart and mind. Echoing the essence of trendy Ikigai, Existentialism, Dharma,and all other such philosophies, Merry Christmas inspires us to explore our own paths, encouraging us to find our unique place in the world.

Why ‘The Lunchbox’ More Than Just a Love Story

Whenever someone inquires about my favourite romantic films, my mind categorises them into ‘pre-The Lunchbox’ and ‘post-The Lunchbox’ eras. Before experiencing The Lunchbox, it was ‘10 Things I Hate About You’ and ‘Kandu Kondein Kandu Kondein,’ but not any more.

‘In the Mood for Love’ and ‘As Good As It Gets’ are my favourites from the post-Lunchbox era. This transformative journey commenced with a simple, unassuming film from 2013 directed by Ritesh Batra—‘The Lunchbox.’

The Lunchbox: A Lens into Realism

This movie is not just for a weekend entertainment; it offered me a fresh lens through which I could explore the nuanced, unspoken dialect of human connections.

The movie is set in the bustling life of Mumbai, home to the renowned dabbawalas and their near-perfect lunch delivery system. However, an unusual mix-up one day led a dabbawala to exchange lunchboxes, it became the link for an unexpected companionship between Saajan Fernandez and Ila.

As an accountant on the brink of retirement, Saajan’s character reflects every scene with an air of melancholy that resonates with anyone who has ever gone through loneliness once.

Saajan’s routine commute to work begins with a Mumbai urban bus ride, accompanied by a stop at his late wife’s grave before heading to his mundane accountant job.

On the other hand, we have Ila. Movie begins with Ila, a housewife who tries to get her husband’s attention by making tasty lunches for him. She thinks the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Her neighbor, Deshpande aunty, helps her out with recipes, joking that her husband will build her a Taj Mahal after tasting the food. Ila sends a lunchbox to her husband’s office using a dabbawala.

From Salty to Sweet: The Beginning

When fate humorously redirects Ila’s delicious lunchbox to Saajan, Saajan’s response to the first meal is precisely what you’d expect from a lonely accountant uncle – “Dear Ila, the food was very salty today.”

That’s all he has to say about the meal Ila put her heart into. However, this complaint marks the beginning of a unique bond between two lonely souls. Here begins the beautiful tale of ‘The Lunchbox’.

What follows is a series of letters exchanged between Saajan and Ila.

Saajan’s letters give a glimpse into his life and the changing world around him, like when he mentions,

“Life is very busy these days. There are too many people and everyone wants what the other has. Years ago you could find a place to sit on the train every now and then but these days it is difficult…When my wife died she got a horizontal burial plot. I tried to buy a burial plot for myself the other day and what they offered me was a vertical one. I spent my whole life standing in trains and buses and now I will have to stand even when I am dead.”

This newfound mode of communication allows them to open up in ways they hadn’t with anyone else before.

This is where I want to tell you, ‘The Lunchbox’ isn’t merely a story of romantic inklings; it’s just one layer of it.

Why The Lunchbox is More Than a Romantic Film

The Lunchbox is a film that explores a wide range of human emotions and relationships through its simple but powerful storytelling. It’s not just a love story between Ila and Saajan. It’s also a story about several characters who are searching for comfort and connection in their mundane loneliness.

Every character in ‘The Lunchbox’ has a touch of loneliness. Ila is trying hard to bring back the missing spark in her marriage; Saajan, a sad widower stuck in the same office job for over thirty-five years without even a friendly chat with his office neighbor; Aslam, the orphan seeking familial bonds; and the Deshpande couple, each lost in their own realm of silence. Even young Yashvi, Ila’s daughter, seems quiet and serious throughout the movie. Something not common for a child of her age.

Maybe this is the same reason, why I am obsessed with the characters of ‘Lootera’ and there Pakhi resonates with the same echo of solitude.

What Lies Beyond Romance in The Lunchbox?

Lens 1

There are multiple instances where The Lunchbox proves that it’s talking about human connections, a deep bond that’s formed between people when they feel seen and valued—not a curious attraction or mere romance.

One line from Saajan beautifully captures the underlying theme of his and Ila’s shared bonding: “I think we forget things if we have no one to tell them to.” This simple line tells us about the deep need we humans have for connection. It also shows how good it feels to find someone to share our everyday moments with, whether they’re boring or happy. Aslam, Deshpande Aunty, Saajan, and Ila are all looking for this kind of connection.

Just like Ila is searching for a new spice to rekindle her husband’s affection, each character is searching for something missing in their lives, and that missing piece is a bond to share!

In addition, look at the vegetable Ila chosen for her delicious dishes. Bitter Guard, Baby pumpkin aka Tinde & even Brinjal —could be a metaphor for their unconventional life choices, or maybe it seems like a gentle reflection of narrative’s core, where bitter experiences pave the path to the sweet essence of companionship, understanding, and perhaps a subtle hint of romance as well.

Lens 2

The Lunchbox is a film that celebrates the unity and diversity of the human connections. The characters in the film come from different shades of life though they are connected beautifully like a string of pearls.

Saajan’s poetic observation is a beautiful example of this. In a scene, Saajan explains his reflections on a painter’s works, “I felt like stopping to look at a painter’s works. All his paintings are exactly the same but when you look close, real close, you can see that they are different, each slightly different from the other…”

After that letter, Ila is sharing her memories with her daughter.

He sees himself in one of those paintings; he compares people to paintings, noting that they may all seem similar at first glance, but when you look closely, you can see the unique differences that make each individual special.

This is exactly what you are seeing in the film. In one angle, they all are same. But if you look close, you will see the differences.

Aslam is a Muslim, Saajan is a Christian, and Ila is a Hindu. Saajan writes in Queen’s English, I never heard someone referring to a ‘Brinjal’ as an ‘Aubergine’ and Ila replies in Hindi.

Deshpande Aunty and Ila share a deep emotional bond, even though they do not have a visual connection. This is because they are both able to sense and understand each other’s feelings.

Here communication goes beyond language, diversities, and limitations; it’s tapping into the essence of human connection.

The Lunchbox and its Painful Romance

In the romantic parts, Saajan’s sadness really hits you when he opens up to Ila, saying that he can only dream through her young hopes. He mentions, “No one buys yesterday’s lottery ticket.” This is a honest way to say that his own dreams are fading away.

But Saajan’s thank you to Ila is really heartwarming. He tells her, “You are young, you can dream. And for some time you let me into your dreams and I want to thank you for that.” You can really feel that he means it.

As the story moves on, Saajan sees that life still has more for him to experience. This part leaves you smiling with hope.

The movie gently encourages us to find the sweetness in the bitter, to look beyond the ordinary, and to appreciate the simple joys that life places in our everyday lives.

In doing so, The Lunchbox is not just a movie; it is a gentle nudge to appreciate the unspoken, the unexpressed, and the unnoticed nuances of human connections around us. In the beginning of the movie, we see Saajan’s neighbour, a young girl, closing the window on him, but by the end, that same little girl is waving at Saajan, and Saajan smiles back.

Reheating The Lunchbox: A Cliched Angle on the Ending

The ending of The Lunchbox really a debatable topic. The internet is full of explanations on climax interpretations. At first, I liked open endings but not recently, since, it confuses us.

Here are my two cents on The Lunchbox ending.

A part of me, maybe the pessimist Akhil, thinks that Ila might have given up and ended her life. When she took off her jewellery, it reminded me of the lady who jumped from the terrace to find peace (news in the movie).

Positive Akhil looks into Deshpande Aunty tells Ila that she was able to clean a running fan. Could this news have given Ila the courage to clear up her own life’s messes? Will the train bring Fernandez to Ila before she leaves? I hope so, deeply.

The Lunchbox tells the stories of people tied together by thin strings of chance: a dabbawala’s mistake, voices across the old walls of a worn building, a basket dropped from one window to another. A lonely man and his letters, a housewife and her delicacies… Through life’s unsure moments, they all found relief in a unexpected bonds, and in the midst of loneliness, sparks of connection showed up, warming the hearts stuck in life’s endless give and take.

The Lunchbox is an experience about the simple everyday interactions between people that make a difference. Experience it!

Psychology of Baby (2023): What You’re Not Seeing

Since its OTT release, the Telugu movie Baby (2023) directed by Sai rajesh Neelam, has been the talk of the town. Viral reels and memes are flooding social media with taglines such as “it’s a message to the new generation” and “it’s the reality of our present generation.” But is this film really a mirror to contemporary relationships, or is it propagating outdated social norms and stereotypes? Let’s try a detailed analysis.

Baby telugu movie poster — Baby Telugu movie poster

If you haven’t seen the movie yet, please watch it here, or read the story here.

Is It Really a Love Story?

On the surface, Baby (2023) appears to be a love story, but is it really? It seems to perpetuate outdated notions from the 80s and 90s, where a woman’s character is judged based on her attire or lifestyle choices.

Remember how Neelambari was portrayed in the movie Padayappa? Or consider the characters of Vani Vishwanath in Malayalam cinema, and similar examples in the Telugu industry with second heroines in movies.

Just like them, Vaishnavi is subjected to a set of unfair expectations and judgements.

Questionable Messages

One of the alarming messages that Baby seems to deliver is that stalking is acceptable behaviour. Vaishnavi finds herself in a situation where she accidentally kisses Viraj. Though she realises her mistake and apologises, Viraj continues to stalk her, disregarding her repeated refusals.

Vaishnavi Chaithanya & Viraj in Baby(2023)

Anand, on the other hand, is portrayed as a possessive lover. While he does make sacrifices for Vaishnavi, such as gifting her a phone, these actions are often more about him than about her. His possessiveness often overshadows other critical aspects of his life, like his relationship with his mother.

The film appears to be whitewashing the male characters while darkening Vaishnavi’s character to an extreme extent. But why?

The Psychology Behind Audience Reactions

The mass audience seems to empathise more with Viraj and Anand, while vilifying Vaishnavi. This bias might be rooted in traditional gender roles and social norms that unconsciously influence our judgement. Vaishnavi’s character challenges these norms or mindsets that our typical audience has, thereby eliciting a stronger negative reaction from the audience.

The film’s commercial success and viral scenes beg the question: why are people resonating with it? It’s not necessarily because the film portrays reality, but perhaps because it confirms existing biases and beliefs. This is where I believe directors and script writers should be more responsible and try to make some differences instead of following the masses.

The film taps into the general scepticism around modern relationships & choices, packaging it as the real story of this generation, when, in fact, it might be perpetuating harmful stereotypes and norms.

Why Do Mass Audiences Hate Vaishnavi, not Viraj?

In my opinion, Viraj is the real antagonist of the movie, and he is the real villain. Still, people hate Vaishnavi. Why?

Traditional Gender Roles and Expectations

In our culture, traditional gender roles often portray women as the moral compass in romantic relationships. They want every woman to be like Sita, but men can be Krishna or Rama, depending on the hero. If Pawan Kalyan does the same thing in Badri or Jr. NTR does the same thing in Brindavanam, it is considered to be mass or cute. But when Vaishnavi does it in Baby, it is considered to be cheating.

Narrative Focus

The story primarily revolves around Vaishnavi’s choices and their consequences, making her actions the driving force behind the emotional turmoil. This focus naturally makes her more of a target for audience scrutiny compared to Viraj, who appears more as a reaction to her choices than as an instigator. This is where I felt, the script writer could have done a better job instead of spreading more toxicity.

Moral Ambiguity

Viraj isn’t portrayed as a clear-cut villain. He’s attracted to Vaishnavi and pursues her, but it’s Vaishnavi who hides her relationship status, thereby enabling Viraj’s advances. He does make a problematic move by threatening to release their kissing video, but this comes after he feels deceived.

Social Norms and Masculine Privilege

Viraj’s actions may be viewed less critically due to societal norms that often excuse or overlook male indiscretions in romantic pursuits. As I said before, many superstars have already done this multiple times on reel & real, but people are ready to accept it.

Why is Baby a Blockbuster and Going Viral, irrespective of its theme and toxicity?

The Pull of Confirmation Bias

One reason for the film’s massive success could be attributed to confirmation bias, a psychological tendency to seek, interpret, and remember information that confirms our pre-existing beliefs. Baby (2023) seems to validate certain societal norms and judgements, making it appealing to a large audience that finds their beliefs reinforced. This is alarming, even in 2023, the majority believe in it.

Emotional Highs and Lows

From a cinematic standpoint, the film employs effective storytelling techniques that take the audience on an emotional rollercoaster. High arousal emotions, whether positive or negative, are more likely to be shared; this is known as the emotional contagion theory. Scenes that evoke strong emotions—like anger towards Vaishnavi or sympathy for Anand and Viraj—are more likely to go viral.

The Impact of Social Media Algorithms

Let’s not underestimate the power of algorithms in shaping public opinion. Content that triggers strong emotional responses gets shared and commented on more, which gives it higher visibility on social media platforms. This creates a feedback loop in which the more a scene or character is discussed, the more visibility it gains, leading to a self-perpetuating cycle of virality.

The Bystander Effect in Digital Spaces

The ease with which people can share their opinions online paradoxically creates a digital bystander effect. Many might disagree with the portrayals and messages in the film but assume that someone else will voice these concerns. Meanwhile, those who agree with the film’s messages are more likely to share and propagate its content, thus contributing to its blockbuster status.

Baby (2023) is entertaining for youngsters, but it also reinforces harmful stereotypes about women and men. Its popularity shows that filmmakers need to be responsible rather than merely echoing societal biases.

For more movie analysis and suggestions, click here.

OTT Releases This Week: August 18

Are you waiting for the latest OTT releases this week? Are you confused about what to skip & what to stream? From thrilling crime genres to animated superhero movies, the list is long.

Taali: An Ambitious Stride in Trans Representation

OTT Platform: JioCinema
Directed by: Ravi Jadhav
Cast: Sushmita Sen, Ankur Bhatia, Aishwarya Narkar, Hemangi Kavi, Krutika Deo, Suvrat Joshi

Plot Synopsis:

Taali portrays the life of Gauri (formerly known as Ganesh), a transgender activist inspired by Shreegauri Sawant. As a teenager, Ganesh struggles to express his gender identity in a traditionally rooted Indian family. His father, opting for understanding over aggression, introduces him to a sex counsellor. This reflects the internal conflicts of many Indian parents.

As Gauri matures, her battles intensify. She takes to the streets of Mumbai and eventually becomes a matriarchal figure in her community, fighting for equal rights.

Highlights:

❤ Taali bravely addresses the transgender identity struggle within the Indian context.
❤ Sushmita Sen’s portrayal of Gauri is compelling, echoing deeper due to real-life parallels.
❌ However, Gauri’s activist journey and challenges are insufficiently explored.

Chathrapathi: A Missed Opportunity for Re-imagination

OTT Platform: Zee5
Directed by: V.V. Vinayak
Cast: Sai Sreenivas Bellamkonda, Nushrratt Bharuccha, Bhagyashree, Sharad Kelkar, Karan Singh Chhabra

Plot Synopsis:
A remake of the Telugu hit originally starring Prabhas, Chathrapathi re-explores the cinematic world of Mother-Son bonding and the challenges of migrants. As Shiva rises against adversity, the narrative unfolds with predictable loops of action, dialogue, and song sequences.

Highlights:
❤ Chathrapathi feels like a nostalgic trip, echoing the masala films of yesteryear.
❌ However, with no fresh take, the film ends up feeling more like a dubbed version than an authentic remake.
❌ Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas’s portrayal of Shiva pales in comparison to the charismatic Prabhas from the original.

Amala: A Slow-Burn Psychological Thriller with Potential for a Sequel

OTT Platform: Amazon Prime
Directed by: Nishad Ebrahim
Cast: Anarkali Marikar, Srikanth, Appani Sharath, Rajisha Vijayan

Plot Synopsis:
Amala revolves around a series of serial killings in High Range and Kochi. Top police officer Akbar (Srikanth) is on the trail of the psychopath. The narrative dives deep into the backstory of the killer, Basil (Appani Sharath), revealing his tormented childhood and his obsession with a tragic childhood love, Amala.

Highlights:
❤ Different from typical thrillers as the killer’s identity is revealed early.
❤ Nishad Ebrahim’s direction impressively crafts the intense tale.
❌ Although gripping, pacing issues mar the film’s initial sequences.
❌ Some early scenes felt lacking due to inauthentic dialogues and casting choices.

Kolai: A Visual Delight With Hollow Depth

OTT Platform: Tentkottai
Directed by: Balaji K Kumar
Cast: Vijay Antony, Ritika Singh, Meenakshi Chaudhary, Murli Sharma, Siddhartha Shankar

Plot Synopsis:
Kolai is a murder mystery set in a fictional yet familiar Madras. The victim is singer-model Leila, who is found dead in a locked room. Detectives Vinayak and Sandhya must untangle the mystery, sifting through multiple suspects, each with a possible motive but a watertight alibi.

Highlights:
❤ Director’s fast-paced entry into the narrative can be both, refreshing and abrupt.
❤ Stunning visual transitions and surreal metaphors leave a lasting impression but lack emotional depth.
❌ The world of Kolai feels artificially constructed, making it hard to resonate with its characters.
❌ Performances don’t quite sell the emotions, leading to a lack of connection with the audience.

Other Exclusive OTT Releases This Week

Mathagam: A webseries on a a true-life event

OTT Platform: Disney Plus Hot Star
Director: Prasad Murugesan
Cast: Atharva, Nikhila Vimal, Jaypeem Manikandan, Moonar Ramesh, Dilnash Irani, Gautham Menon

Plot Synopsis:
Mathagam is a crime thriller that gets into the thrilling underworld of Chennai. The story revolves around the enigmatic Patalam Shekhar, a respected figure in the world of crime who is believed to be dead.

Parallelly, the story follows the determined police officer Aswat, who sets out on a dangerous journey to eliminate the Dadas (gangsters) following Patalam’s lead.

Guns & Gulaabs: Hit Makers are Back with Dark Comedy

OTT Platform: Netflix
Directed by: Raj and D.K.
Cast: Rajkummar Rao, Dulquer Salmaan, Adarsh Gourav, Gulshan Devaiah, TJ Bhanu

Plot Synopsis:
Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous 1990s, Guns & Gulaabs marries themes of love and purity amidst a world of crime. Seamlessly weaving humour, fantasy, and dramatic tension, the series spotlights the Misfits of the World. As the story unravels, expect an unforgettable journey through love, laughter, and maybe a few tears. This film is eagerly anticipated and is pegged to be a standout in this week’s OTT line-up.

The Chosen One: Based on the graphic novel American Jesus

OTT Platform: Netflix
Directed by: Everardo Gout
Cast: Bobby Luhnow, Dianna Agron, Lilith Amelie Siordia Mejia, Juan Fernando González Anguamea

Plot Synopsis:
In the heart of Baja California, 12-year-old Jodie discovers he possesses extraordinary abilities reminiscent of Jesus. Quickly, he becomes a focal point for both Evangelical and Yaquí leaders who see him as a beacon for mankind’s salvation.

Amidst this intense scrutiny and pressure, Jodie’s priorities lie in winning over the girl he cherishes and facing down his bullies. As he tries to reconcile with his extraordinary fate, viewers are taken on an emotional roller coaster.

The Monkey King: The Chinese Legend is Back

OTT Platform: Netflix
Directed by: Anthony Stacchi
Cast: Jimmy O. Yang

Plot Synopsis:
Born from a rock and profoundly narcissistic, Monkey, voiced by Jimmy O Yang, embarks on a quest to gain immortality. Along his journey, he steals the Dragon King’s potent multi-use Stick, which leads him to a series of adventures, some reminiscent of past adaptations like the 1970s Japanese series.

Instead of the traditional cohorts, Monk Tripitaka, Sandy, and Pigsy, the story introduces Lin, voiced by Jolie Hoang-Rappaport. She, while appearing as an ally, is secretly serving the Dragon King in hopes of saving her village from drought.

For more movie suggestions, click here.

OTT Releases This Week: August 11

Are you keen on catching the latest OTT releases this week? From thrilling spy genres to unconventional superhero movies, the list is exciting.

Por Thozhil: An Intelligent Twist to Investigative Thrillers

OTT Platform: SonyLiv
Directed by: Vignesh Raja
Cast: Sarath Kumar, Ashok Selvan, Nikhila Vimal

Plot Synopsis:
Por Thozhil follows seasoned police officer Lokanathan and young recruit Prakash as they join forces to nab a serial killer. A tale of intelligence and cooperation, the film transcends the typical buddy cop formula to delve into a more sophisticated story of action and intrigue.

Highlights:
Smart writing sets Por Thozhil apart from other investigative thrillers. The unlikely pairing of Sarath Kumar’s veteran wisdom and Ashok Selvan’s youthful ingenuity brings freshness to the genre.

Though the film draws inspiration from classics like Stray Dog and Lethal Weapon, it finds a unique spot with its combination of suspense, action, and intelligence.

Read a detailed review here.

The Jengaburu Curse: Noble Intentions Overshadowed by Overwhelming Drama

OTT Platform: Sonyliv
Directed by: Nila Madhab Panda
Cast: Faria Abdullah, Nasser, Makarand Deshpande, Sudev Nair, Deipak Sampat, and Hitesh Dave

Plot Synopsis:
Far removed from her Adivasi origins in London, Priya Das (Faria Abdullah) is thrust into the mysteries of her past when her activist father, Swatantra, disappears. The backdrop is Jengaburu, an ancestral village now under the iron grip of a mining company led by the unscrupulous Srinivas.

Local legends warn of a dragon king sleeping beneath the village, a creature that mustn’t be stirred. Yet, with each explosion and machine rumble, an ancient curse seems poised to awaken.

Highlights:
The Jengaburu Curse commendable foregrounds the Adivasi narrative and the contentious realm of Indian mining, an effort far more nuanced than similar takes like Aar Ya Paar (2022).

The series boasts an ensemble cast that shines in their roles, with Faria Abdullah’s portrayal of Priya being particularly spirited.

While the series is based on a compelling premise, it often finds itself ensnared by the trappings of its thriller genre.

Over-dramatization, convenient plot developments, and drawn-out scenes at times detract from the core message.

Made in Heaven: Season 2 – A Rich Tapestry of Indian Weddings and Social Realities

OTT Platform: Amazon Prime
Directed by: Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, Neeraj Ghaywan, Alankrita Shrivastava, and Nitya Mehra
Cast: Sobhita Dhulipala, Arjun Mathur, Jim Sarbh, Kalki Koechlin, Vijay Raaz, among others.

Plot Synopsis:

Season 2 of Made in Heaven witnesses the return of Tara Khanna and Karan Mehra, our favourite wedding planners from Delhi. Diving deep into the opulent world of Indian weddings, the season unravels not just the grandeur of these ceremonies, but the undercurrents of societal norms, personal aspirations, and familial expectations. Picking up from where it left off, Tara’s personal life is in turmoil while Karan grapples with his sexuality.

Highlights:
This season magnifies its focus on complex issues, with episodes like Neeraj Ghaywan’s Dalit wedding narrative, featuring a formidable Radhika Apte, standing out.

Secondary characters add depth, notably Trinetra Haldar Gummaraju’s resonating storyline. However, amidst the multitude of narratives, Sobhita Dhulipala’s Tara feels slightly subdued.

Overall, Made in Heaven: Season 2 offers a layered exploration of contemporary Indian society, intertwining the allure of weddings with hard-hitting social commentaries.

Neymar: A Lighthearted Bond with Man’s Best Friend

OTT Platform: Hotstar
Directed by: Sudhi Maddison
Cast: Mathew Thomas, Naslen K Gafoor, Shammi Thilakan, Yog Japee

Plot Synopsis:
In Neymar, the directorial debut of Sudhi Maddison, the bond of friendship intertwines with the love for a dog, leading to a series of unforeseen adventures. Centered around Aakamsh and Shinto, staunch supporters of the Brazil football team and admirers of its star player Neymar, the story takes a twist when an indie dog, named Neymar, enters their lives. From dreaming about aviation careers to a whirlwind quest in Pondicherry to retrieve Neymar from a formidable new owner, the film serves an intriguing cocktail of comedy and chaos.

Highlights:
While the narrative takes a relaxed pace in its Kothamangalam setting, the momentum magnifies when the backdrop shifts to Pondicherry.

The camaraderie between Mathew and Naslen is palpable, though their established chemistry sometimes feels repetitive. Yet, it’s the veterans like Vijayaraghavan, manifesting as the vibrant Chackola, who leave an indelible mark.

Despite its predictability, the film scores with its heartwarming moments, especially those involving the titular dog.
For those seeking light-hearted entertainment, Neymar is a delightful pick.

Maaveeran: The Voice Within – An Audacious Superhero Story

OTT Platform: Amazon Prime
Directed by: Madonne Ashwin
Cast: Sivakarthikeyan, Yogi Babu, Mysskin, Sunil, Saritha, Adithi Shankar

Plot Synopsis:
In the bustling streets of Tamil Nadu, Sathya, a humble comic-book artist, sketches tales of valor. His life, shadowed by poverty and the need to protect his family, takes a radical shift when a mysterious voice (akin to the ‘Maveeran’ from his comics) begins forecasting imminent events. This auditory guide, coupled with socio-political upheavals, thrusts him into an extraordinary journey. As structures crumble and systems fail, Sathya grapples with his newfound ‘precognition’ power, while also confronting his own inhibitions.

Highlights:
Maaveeran brilliantly juxtaposes a superhero narrative with underlying political tones.

Sivakarthikeyan‘s rapport with comedic genius Yogi Babu enlivens the film, adding layers of humour amidst intense sequences.

Noteworthy is the film’s audacity to challenge and subvert traditional superhero tropes while still catering to the commercial palette.

The dynamics between supporting characters, notably Sunil and Mysskin, are intricately woven, ensuring every subplot gets its deserving closure.

Padmini: A Humorous Dive into Societal Scrutiny

OTT Platform: Netflix
Directed by: Senna Hegde
Cast: Kunchacko Boban, Aparna Balamurali, Madonna Sebastian, Vincy Aloshious.

Plot Synopsis:
Amidst the buzzing chatter and societal judgements, Rameshan’s life takes an unexpected turn when his wife, Smrithi, elopes on their wedding day. Left to face the brunt of the village’s ridicule, Rameshan, a poet and lecturer, embarks on a comedic journey to find love once again. Amidst the chaos, parallel narratives unfold, touching upon modern relationships, societal norms, and the quirks that bind us all together.

Highlights:
Hegde’s signature style of highlighting societal intricacies remains intact.

Kunchacko Boban excels as the heartbroken Rameshan, whose endeavours in love, interspersed with comedic interactions with his brother-in-law (portrayed by Anand Manmadhan), form the essence of the film.

A standout subplot showcases advocate Sreedevi’s (Aparna Balamurali) turbulent relationship with her over-protective fiance Jayan (Sajin Cherukayil). The inclusion of fictional brand advertisements, reminiscent of Tarantino-esque style, adds a quirky flavour.

Other Exclusive OTT Releases This Week

Vaan Moondru

OTT: Aha
Director: Amr Murugesh
Writer: Amr Murugesh
Stars: Ammu Abhirami, Aditya Badekar, Delhi Ganesh

Plot Synopsis:
A timeless romantic narrative that intricately binds six individuals, Vaan Moondru beautifully transcends societal norms surrounding age and relationships. This poignant tale of love paints a vivid picture of evolving relationships and emotions.

Hidimbha

OTT: Aha
Director: Aneel Kanneganti
Stars: Ashwin Babu, Nandita Swetha

Plot Synopsis:
Set in the heart of Hyderabad, “Hidimbha” unravels a chilling medical mystery. As two diligent police officers embark on an inquiry into a peculiar case, the city witnesses a series of disappearances. Strikingly, all victims are young girls, bound by one intriguing similarity. As the plot thickens, truths emerge, and a sinister game begins.

The Killing Vote

OTT: Amazon Prime
Director: Park Shin-Woo
Writer: Eom Se-Yoon
Stars: Park Hae Jin, Park Sung Woong, Lim Ji Yeon

Plot Synopsis:
In an unsettling world where justice is questionable, “The Killing Vote” dives deep into the unsettling game of death penalty voting. Every adult citizen is polled. If majority votes favor the death sentence, the mysterious Gae Tal (Dog’s Tail) exacts lethal justice on offenders who exploit the system’s flaws. As the narrative unfolds, moral dilemmas arise, questioning societal norms and individual agency.

Heart Of Stone

OTT: Netflix
Stars: Alia Bhatt, Gal Gadot

Plot Synopsis:
Join the espionage world with “Heart of Stone.” Gal Gadot, celebrated globally for her iconic role as Wonder Woman, takes center stage in this thrilling spy drama. Taking cues from franchises like “Mission: Impossible” and “James Bond,” Netflix ventures into the realm of spy thrillers, positioning Gadot in a pioneering role. As intrigue, action, and suspense merge, “Heart of Stone” is poised to establish its niche in the spy genre.

For more reviews and suggestion click here.