Main Aur Charles mein ‘main’ kaun hai?

As perplexing the title may seem the movie, I guarantee, is no less. This should be attributed to bad direction and a very slow narrative.

The 'real' Charles Sobhraj, on whom the movie is based. Photo Courtesy: Internet

No, no, don’t mistake this piece of writing to be a movie review yet again. This is just my way of venting out the disappointment I suffered while I watched the movie. Randeep Hooda playing the celebrated criminal, Charles Sobhraj, sent my expectations soaring high. He did not disappoint. With an actor of his calibre, it did not come as a surprise when he charmed everyone with his flawless, effortless acting; something only expected from him.

Hooda as Charles Sobhraj in the movie. Photo Courtesy: Internet

Complementing his portrayal of a suave but equally ingenious Sobhraj is Adil Hussain in the role of a police officer who is in charge of the jail break case. His mannerisms and fine detailing in his acting, made him stand out.

A still from the movie. Photo Courtesy: Internet

Production design is commendable and the only saving grace apart from the impeccable acting on display. Apart from these two delights, there is not much that would hook you to your seat, leave alone push you to a ‘bite-your-nails’ situation. The narrative misses out on opportunities to induce suspense and curiosity with the story at hand.

Hooda is a sheer waste of talent in this one. One time watch, only for him.

This classic song found the beautiful Kanika Kapoor's voice in the recreated version of the film. Have a look, it helped me feel better after the disappointment that cam from watching the film. 

The Jungle book is back!

“What is meant to be, will be.”

As Raksha speaks these lines to man-cub, Mowgli, nothing has ever, in a long time, sent my heart and mind in a race of flashing childhood memories. I feel it was reason enough for many others to get up so early on a Sunday morning to catch the latest version of the classic children’s story, The Jungle Book, leaving the theatre hall houseful.

And to know that it is doing so good for itself even after facing fierce competition from the much anticipated SRK starrer film, Fan, reinstills my hope and admiration for well-made movies. Kudos, to the entire team!

This story is so special; it has taught me serious life lessons. This evergreen tale by Rudyard Kipling puts across the simplest but crucial lessons of survival in the most uncomplicated and enduring way possible. How difficult it is to understand Mowgli’s grit, the importance of being compassionate and loving towards all regardless of differences, and the striking of the perfect human-nature relationship being pivotal for everyone’s survival?

A still from the movie. Photo Courtesy: Internet

Scarlett Johnsson as Kaa has a miniscule role but her voice blows life into the few lines she is given. Ben Kingsley as Bagheera has to be my second favourite, first favourite being the adorable Indian-origin child artist, Neel Sethi, as he does wonders in the role of the much celebrated, every child’s beloved, Mowgli.

The adorable Neel Sethi as Mowgli. Photo Courtesy: Internet

Remember, ‘Jungle jungle pata chala hai, chaddi pehen ke phool khila hai...’?

I'm sure you will love this version of the song. Recreated by Gulzar and Vishal Bharadwaj, the kid's singing the lovely song is pure magic.

Ohh! Somebody take me back! :’)

And, by the way, on the home front, a small budget filmn( I hate to describe a film that way) starring the very talented Swara Bhaskar has hit the theatres, Nil Battey Sanata. It is giving me good vibes, hence, would be more than happy if you (yes you! who has taken the trouble to read this little piece of writing. I'm grateful, btw, Thanks! :D)  could catch it and tell me what you think about it. What say?

Kapoor and Sons: The desperately needed room freshener

This family drama is about a middle class, dysfunctional family; it can be your family, my family, anyone’s family.

A poster of the film. Internet Courtesy: Internet

The signature Kuch Kuch Hota Hia tune that plays in the very beginning when the producer of the film is revealed would give anyone the Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham impression of the film. But thankfully no, it’s Shakun Batra’s treatment of the film that saves the day.

Director Shakun Batra needs to take a bow for successfully instilling in his actors the psyche of the respective character; this makes more than half the work done.

Though, Ratna Pathak as a jealous and tired housewife is a treat to watch with Fawad Khan who, yet again, proves he is here to stay, I fail to pick out one actor who seemed misfit for a character, and that includes Tia’s Nepali house help.  

Alia does not have much to do in this one except get into a zestful, bubbly character with a tragic past. Well that is something that all characters in this family drama have in common: they have their share of problems that each one is struggling with.  

How can I forget to specially mention about the cutest of them all? Daadu (played by Rishi Kapoor) is hilarious in his zest for life and longing to watch porn. He is easily the most entertaining character and would compel you to miss your own grandfather. Are all grandfathers this cute?

Daadu (played by Rishi Kapoor) is so cute in the film! Photo Courtesy: Internet

As for the actor, Rishi Kapoor, he has one more interesting character ticked of his bucket list. This is one aging actor, I feel, who is doing a lot more interesting and enviable work than what he has done in his youthful years.

Thanks to the writers, Shakun Batra and Ayesha Devitre Dhillon, and their meticulous writing, the film does not grow into a yet another rone dhone wala love triangle with equally good looking prospects for the only girl in there. They have done a fabulous job of providing every character with the space and freedom to flourish.

The scenes don’t give the viewer a feel that each and every movement in it is controlled. It’s more of spontaneous acting and screen presence that makes the story so relatable and well shot.

Kar Gayi Chul is the hottest party number on my mind right now and I can’t wait to break into a dance on this one. Bolna is yet another romantic and melodious song to hum in memory of that beloved one.

A still from the song 'Bolna'. Photo Courtesy: Internet

The audience is sure to roll into laughter at the absurdity of a plumber trapped in the middle of a family fight, but this is just one of the many bone-tickling sequences. Basically, the film is down-right entertaining and a huge surprise!

Kapoor and Sons is that desperately in requirement room freshener that appears out of nowhere when you most need it. The film has surely pinned my hopes high of expecting a wave of fresh, renewed and interesting line-up of films in the times to come. Hope others follow suit. 

Want to catch a glimpse of the film? Click right here!