Made of movies, books and literature. Occasionally there's a penchant for social commentary.
The author reflects on the high expectations for the film Parasite, which won four Academy Awards, including Best Film. The movie masterfully depicts class division through a captivating story of a poor family's manipulation of a rich one. Its innovative symbolism and profound themes highlight societal realities, earning widespread acclaim for Bong Joon-Ho.
The author reflects on their enjoyment of the "Horrible Bosses" films after being focused on period dramas. They appreciate the comedies for their genuine humor and unconventional storylines about three men dealing with terrible bosses. The lead actors and supporting cast contribute to the films' charm, making them highly enjoyable.
Leo Tolstoy's portrayal of Russian high society is intricate and detail-oriented, exemplified in the adaptation of "Anna Karenina." The film, directed by Joe Wright, captures the theatrical essence of the story, emphasizing Anna's struggle between love and social status. It's a captivating, emotionally complex experience, compelling viewers to reflect on Anna's character and choices.
Akira Kurosawa's final film, "Dreams," presents eight vignettes reflecting his personal dreams and moral themes. While not commercially successful, it sparked diverse reactions, from praise for its artistic exploration to criticism of its perceived simplicity. The film serves as a complex blend of biography, social commentary, and creative expression, inviting varied interpretations.
Perhaps the greatest of literature and art created on love are created on unrequited/forbidden love. There is an intoxicating quality about separation in unrequited love that is a comfortably recurring theme in literature because there’s so much to say yet so little that gets said. The possibilities for interpretative artwork is endless - especially in... Continue Reading →
Pather Panchali by Sathyajit Ray heralded a new wave in Indian cinema when Indian cinema was just starting out. It is a classic that is parallel to modern cinema for notable reasons.
The Great Indian Kitchen portrays the struggles of a Malayali bride confronting patriarchy through a monotonous domestic routine. The film reflects the universal plight of Indian women, capturing realism while incorporating symbolisms. However, the narrative weakens during a religious sequence that diverges from reality, diluting its powerful message about women's oppression.
The White Tiger film, based on Arvind Adiga's acclaimed novel, continues the narrative of poverty in India, drawing comparisons to Slumdog Millionaire. While captivating, it raises questions about realism, depicting extreme behaviors that distort authentic experiences. Despite this, the compelling story of Balram Halwai stands out, with Adarsh Gourav's performance impressing audiences.
In the quest of finding the extraordinary in the mundane, how mundane can you go? How far can you stretch your observation to grasp and depict the most intricate of patterns in human behaviour? How varied and indulging, after all, can realism be? ‘Sometimes’ by Priyadarshan is perhaps as far as things go in answer... Continue Reading →
I don’t exactly make new year resolutions but the one to be binging on Malayalam movies in 2021 was made under the much welcome recommendations of a student who has breathed down my neck about it. I’ve watched just one Malayalam movie so far and that is Kumbalangi Nights, criticising which I managed to win... Continue Reading →