The Lord of the Rings - The Two Towers

“The Lord of the Rings : The Two Towers” is the second part of the trilogy. The movie was released in 2002, one year later after the first part. After the success of the first part, there were high expectations from the sequel and boy it delivered massively. Based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s book, the movie continues from where it left in the first part with all characters playing their part in destroying the ring which holds the key to power.  The director and producer have left no stone unturned to make this an epic saga.

 

The anecdote continues with Frodo and Sam on their journey to Mount Doom in Mordor. On their way they find Gollum, who deceits them and tries to break their friendship to attain the ring. You feel pity for what the ring has done to Gollum but also praise the fact that Sam and Frodo stick to each other. Friendship is rather a powerful weapon indeed. Other side of the story, you find Aragorn, Gimli and Legolas continue their quest to help the city of Rohan and fight against Sarumon. Merry and Pippin meet Treebeard and bring the fight to Isildur.

 

Okay a lot of characters to remember, but if you have watched the first part you know all of them. And indeed, second part is worthy and gives total justice to its name. The part is full of darkness and ends that way. Sam and Frodo fight against each other because of Gollum, the ring hanging in balance. The fight at the Helm’s Deep is one of the most satisfying displays of action sequences. Considering 2002, it surely gives you goosebumps.

 

Peter Jackson makes a noteworthy entrance for Gandalf – the Wandering wizard who had fallen and which seemed an end to his character. The acting as described in my earlier review of first part is superlative. The direction, music, cinematography, location for shoot - everything is just perfect.

 

(If you haven’t gone through the review of first part, go through our blog)

 

The movie moves ahead and reaches a bitter sweet conclusion with plot laid for third and final part of the trilogy! A noteworthy mention to the CGI effects used and a new technology motion capture work was first used during this movie. This involves computer generated character being brought to life – ones used in Avatar. Hence, it was a turnaround.

 

Another IMDB classic and if you have survived the first part this is a must watch. An age old classic with great story, better direction and the best execution makes this a treat for every fantasy lover.

 

The movie is again 3 hours long (4 hours in extended version), but once you set in motion, the movie ends like a whisker. Available on Netflix as well as Hotstar, just go ahead and don’t miss this acquaintance of the fantasy realm of LOTR.

 

This first part focused on the ring and the character of Sauron, the deceit and his hunger for power while this part brings other characters in development and also defines power on the good side. A lot has already been spoken and number don’t lie so the positive reviews of this trilogy makes this a must watch.

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The Lord of the Rings : The Fellowship of the Ring

“The Lord of the Rings : The Fellowship of the Ring” is the first part of the trilogy. To begin with its been more than 20 years since the movie released and created a havoc. But at last after watching it I understand why this trilogy holds a special place in hearts of the people. Based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s book of the same name, the movie stands on the same page with it and director and producer have gone lengths and bounds and left no stone unturned to make this an epic saga.

 

The anecdote begins with a land where Men, Elves, Dwarfs and Hobbits leave peacefully. Frodo Baggins played by Elijah Wood inherits a mysterious ring from his uncle which is the source to all power. This ring crafted by the Dark Lord Sauron himself is full of deceit and treacherous enough to bend anyone’s mind who wants to gain power. Thus the foundation is laid for a journey to destroy the ring and defeat Sauron once and for all.

 

Accompanied by other fellows (that’s where the name of the movie is derived from) including Gandalf – the Wandering wizard played by Ian McKellen (famous for the role of Albus Dumbledore in Harry Potter franchise) and other hobbits and a men, a elf and a dwarf, Frodo sets on a rather hopeless mission to destroy the ring in the Mount Doom in Mordor – enemy’s own land.

 

The dark lord is very powerful and all of the races must units in order to survive and defeat him. The movie involves more than just action, it is full of emotions. Will Frodo survive and destroy the ring?? More importantly will he be able to resist the power of the ring??? Will the crew stay just and true to the mission??? Lots of questions that needs answering….Watch out for LOTR !!!!

 

The cast which is very huge has done total justice and no parts could be played better. The direction by Peter Jackson is stupendous and this fantasy drama will surely blow your minds. The shots have been mainly filmed in New Zealand and the trilogy was shot back to back with first movie being released in 2001. The costumes are original and the most important thing about this movie being CGI effects have been kept to minimum. There is a lot to boast about the movie.

 

Dating back to 2001, the movie may still give competition to today’s movie in every aspect. It just not happens every day that you get such movies which have been in top 200 IMDB movies. An age old classic with great story, better direction and the best execution makes this a must watch for every fantasy lover.

 

The movie is 3 hours long and with trilogy, it makes a 9 hours journey. But once you set in motion, there is no turning back. Available on Netflix as well as Hotstar, just set out on a mission of yourself to get acquainted with this fantasy realm of LOTR.

 

This movie only focuses on the ring and the character of Sauron, the deceit and his hunger for power. A special mention for character of Smeagol aka Gollum – plotting evil and constantly repeating “My Precious”…!!!

 

A lot has already been spoken and number don’t lie so the positive reviews of this trilogy makes this a must watch.

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Panga

‘Panga’, movie based on sports and more importantly the dreams of a mother. It is a delight for sports lovers and our very own ‘Queen’ is back with more emotions and class apart acting.

 

The movie begins with a common middle class family comprising of mother, father and their only son. Jaya played by ‘Kangana Ranaut’ was at peak in Kabaddi and the best raider and Captain of Indian National team as well. But her love life and motherhood forced her to sacrifice her love for the game. She ended up giving her love for Kabaddi and went on to live her normal life.

 

Few years down the lane, precisely 7 years later, when her son finds out that her mother was an all time great but surrendered her dream, he encourages her to make a comeback at the age of 32. This drama which started just to please her son, ended up motivating her to actually make a comeback to National team. But with her speed and agility decreasing with her age will she able to cope up with young blood?? Does she get a chance to represent India?? Watch out for ‘Panga’….!!!

 

Kangana is the best in whatever she portrays. You can hate her or lover her but you can’t ignore her onscreen presence. She is the lead of the film displaying variety of emotions, spirit, motherhood and love for her family. Just a delight to watch and probably the best female actress in Bollywood at present.

 

The surprise package of the film are the duo of father and son. The witty one liners of the movie will surely give your belly a tickle. Richa Chadda as supporting cast is outstanding. Her language and dialogue delivery is to the point.

 

(Tthe dialogue in movie – “A mother has no right to see any dreams. If she does so, she is a cruel mother” – will definitely make you realize the sacrifice made by parents in one’s life)

 

Jassie Gill, Punjabi actor with debut in Bollywood has done justice to the role. The film displays everything right from importance of mother in daily life to importance of personal dreams in one’s life. Ashwini Iyer’s direction is just precise with proper narration and straight forward storyline. The music is soothing and as described the casting is perfect. The drama does become predictable at the ending.

 

The climax scene will definitely get you clapping. It is of same genre as ‘Chak De India’ but a little more predictable. However, it does give a message like all other Kagana movies. ‘Never ever sacrifice your dreams. Always give it a shot. Trying is better than regretting.’

 

 A watchable movie with straight forward story line and jam packed emotions makes this a family entertainer and a must watch the understand the importance of mother and dreams.

 

Even if you have missed this in theatres, it is available on Hotstar. Just sit back, grab your popcorn and enjoy this delightful ride of ‘Panga’.

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The Old Guard

‘The Old Guard’, as the name suggests is a movie which is based on Immortals – to be specific Guardians who protect the humanity. The movie is released as a Netflix Original and as per trend, is the latest addition to the OTT platform. Action genre movie which totally justifies the name.

 

The backdrop of movie is laid right from the beginning where four Immortals who have the healing capacity are found compromised in a mission. These Immortals have been in existence for decades and centuries. They have protected human generation time and again. These so called Immortals have healing capacities. During, one such mission, they find that their little secret is exposed.

 

The Immortals are linked to each other and can dream about each other. This is when they get to know a new addition to their little family. But is the new one ready to accept this fate??? Also, they themselves are in trouble as their secret is exposed to a CEO of pharmaceutical company who wants to create a drug to immortalize the humans by capturing these mercenaries. Too much even for the ‘Immortals’ to handle. Watch out this gem to know whether Immortals keep their freedom intact. If yes, at what cost.

 

(A little secret – immortals don’t always stay the same. Over a period of time their healing power deteriorates to such a phase, where they can no longer heal themselves) Interesting right…!!!

 

Charlize Theron, who has played the role of ‘Andy’, leader of the group is perfectly suited for the role. It’s as if the role was drafted for her only. Action sequences are done brilliantly with finesse. Everything about her in the movie is nothing short of perfection. (Not to forget she is drop dead gorgeous and an Academy Award winner – justifies her superb acting).

 

Kiki Layne as ‘Nile’ has supported Charlize Theron splendidly. Their chemistry on screen is that of elder sister/ younger sister. The emotions displayed are beyond imagination. All the other character and cast have played their part as well to make this one memorable. Just a mention for the antagonist, the villain doesn’t really scare and his presence is not really felt on screen. For someone of the caliber of Charlize Theron, the antagonist should have been someone of her capability.

 

The background score and direction is admirable. However, the lyrical music does not blend with scenes. While watching action scenes verbal music kind of distracts you. Other than that, just sit back and enjoy this masterclass. The action scenes have wide angle and are stably shot, giving the viewer a fine experience.

 

Probably second movie of 2020, after ‘Extraction’ which justifies the action and fight sequences. One special mention is for the use of CGI effects. Though being of superhero genre, the effects have been kept limited. After a fine Avengers collection, this superhero movie is different on the grounds which is more realistic yet superficial.

 

Plot has been laid for sequel, which is common anecdote now-a-days. Would love the see the history of these immortals as to how they were created and individual stories as well in the sequel version. A watchable movie with straight forward story line and action packed sequences (especially the one inside the aeroplane). Kudos to Charlize Theron for pulling off such a character at the age of 44.

 

Just sit back, grab your popcorn and enjoy this delightful ride of ‘The Old Guard’. I am sure you will crave for second part as I am while writing this review.

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The Perks Of Being A Wallflower

The Perks Of Being A Wallflower is a story about a 15-year-old boy Charlie who is about to start high school. The book is written in epistolary (letter) form from Charlie’s point of view. Charlie lives with his parents, an elder brother who is great at playing football, and a beautiful, popular elder sister. Apparently, Charlie’s best friend Micheal has committed suicide before the story begins and it is quite clear through the letters that he is trying to cope up with the loss and is still processing out things by “participating” in life.

Charlie is very passive and introverted and often goes unnoticed by people. He is very sensitive and cries often. But mostly he is invested in observing and feeling. He comes out as someone who finds it comfortable to be on the side-lines than actually participating in life. Later in the book, we discover the issues and events that might have shaped his personality to be the way it is.

  Patrick then said something I don’t think I’ll ever forget.

 “He’s a wallflower.”

 And Bob really nodded his head. And the whole room nodded their head. And I started to feel         nervous in the Bob way, but Patrick didn’t let me get too nervous. He sat down next to me.

 “You see things. You keep quiet about them. And you understand.”

Charlie starts hanging out with two seniors at the high school, Sam and Patrick, both of whom are step-siblings. They are kind and friendly and introduce him to music, new experiences and new friends. With them, Charlie finds himself coming out of the shell. Experiencing the dynamic world of a high school life with Sam and Patrick by his side, Charlie encounters school politics and drama, awkward first dates, conversations, etc. Patrick and Sam also introduce him to a world of experimentation with alcohol and drugs, guiding him as he makes new friends and tries to find out where he belongs amid all the partying, music soundtracks and life’s unexpected twists and turns.

“And I thought about how many people have loved those songs. And how many people got through a lot of bad times because of those songs. And how many people enjoyed good times with those songs. And how much those songs really mean. I think it would be great to have written one of those songs. I bet if I wrote one of them, I would be very proud. I hope the people who wrote those songs are happy. I hope they feel it's enough. I really do because they've made me happy. And I'm only one person.”

However, in the midst of all the adventurous and fancy new experiences, Charlie is struggling with his emotions and thoughts. An unknown sadness and anxiety often cripple him. The rawness with which Charlie writes and chooses his words in the letters is evidence of the mental turbulence he is going through. It is almost like he is suppressing certain past demons (which actually is the case).

“So, this is my life. And I want you to know that I am both happy and sad and I'm still trying to figure out how that could be.”

“I don’t know if you’ve ever felt like that. That you wanted to sleep for a thousand years. Or just not exist. Or just not be aware that you do exist. Or something like that. I think wanting that is very morbid, but I want it when I get like this. That’s why I’m trying not to think. I just want it all to stop spinning.”

All through Charlie’s letters, there are both heart-warming and heart-wrenching moments. However, in the final episodes of this book, Charlie faces his past as a result of 'certain events' (I don’t want to spoil the plot). And comes out of it at peace and a better understanding of people and the reason for the way they are and the things they do.

“So, I guess we are who we are for alot of reasons. And maybe we'll never know most of them. But even if we don't have the power to choose where we come from, we can still choose where we go from there. We can still do things. And we can try to feel okay about them.”

I am really in awe of how subtly Stephen Chbosky has put greater issues through the words of a 15-year-old. He has positively left the readers to think about the issues of mental health, abuse, trauma, drug use, suicide, etc. And probably this in essence is the reason you should read the book. To understand how there is so much more to a person than he lets on. To understand, how a simple act can make or break a person. To simply understand how it is to be someone who is battling mentally and emotionally.

And here’s my one request. Don’t just read this book because of the story or because of the escapism it will provide. Read it to lift the veil of the story in order to understand the real story. The Perks of Being a Wallflower is, for all intents and purposes, a book where the prose and writing style is just begging to reveal its sad and haunting secret.

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