I'm still trying to wrap my head around the intense backlash surrounding this film. While the first installment had its fair share of flaws, but I believe this sequel has made significant strides in improvement. While it's not a flawless movie, it has its own unique strengths. The CGI is impressive, the cinematography is stunning, the soundtrack is engaging, the performances are decent and the story is passable. If you enjoyed the world Snyder created in the prequel, you'll likely appreciate this sequel to be a worthy follow-up. It offers a glimmer of hope for future projects that are coming down in the Rebel Moon universe.
Reviews
4 Reviews
Role Play
(2024)
Felt like half a film
14 January 2024
"Role Play" offers a generally watchable experience throughout its 1 hour and 45 minutes runtime. The film's narrative may not be its strongest suit, but the captivating performances by Kaley Cuoco and David Oyelowo keep the audience engaged. As the film nears completion, viewers are transported to an entirely different setting, which might leave some wondering if they've missed key events or inadvertently dozed off.
The movie shows promise in its world-building efforts, establishing a setting that holds the viewer's attention. However, as the end credits begin to roll, one can't help but feel that the film's full potential remains unexplored, leaving a sense of incompletion.
The movie shows promise in its world-building efforts, establishing a setting that holds the viewer's attention. However, as the end credits begin to roll, one can't help but feel that the film's full potential remains unexplored, leaving a sense of incompletion.
Visually stunning, yet narratively disappointing
9 December 2021
Overview: "Marakkar: Arabikadalinte Simham" is a cinematic spectacle that boasts intense action sequences, commendable performances, and a storyline that, while thin, serves as a backdrop for the film's visual grandeur.
Visuals: The film's visual composition is nothing short of stunning, with each frame resembling a meticulously crafted painting. The combined efforts of the cinematography team, art department, and director are deserving of high praise for creating such a visually arresting experience.
Special Effects: The VFX work in "Marakkar" is arguably the finest within the Malayalam film industry to date. In contrast to other high-budget Indian films, "Marakkar" exercises restraint in its CGI usage, opting for a balanced blend of visual effects and practical effects that enhance the narrative without overshadowing it-a decision that will likely age well over time.
Design and Artistry: Both costume design and art direction are standout elements, successfully navigating the director's vision of a story that is 30% historical and 70% fictional. The film's aesthetic choices effectively support this creative balance.
Music and Performances: The soundtrack adds an enjoyable layer to the film's atmosphere, while the cast delivers solid performances across the board, despite some characters receiving limited screen time.
Narrative Challenges: However, the film's narrative is encumbered by an excess of characters who fail to justify their presence, leading to a bloated runtime and a sluggish pace. Those seeking a traditional historical drama may find themselves underwhelmed, as the film lacks emotionally resonant moments with its protagonist, Kunjali Marakkar IV, save for the intense final sequence and ending song.
Authenticity: A notable shortcoming is the film's inability to authentically reflect its historical setting. The dialogue lacks period-specific nuances, often indistinguishable from contemporary vernacular, which detracts from the immersive experience.
Screenplay and Theme Music: The screenplay's mediocrity is a significant detriment, undermining the film's potential impact. Additionally, while the theme music is functional and occasionally evocative, its repetitive nature is noticeable.
Conclusion: Despite not meeting the lofty expectations set by its pre-release buzz, "Marakkar: Arabikadalinte Simham" is a commendable effort that showcases the dedication of a large creative team. It represents a bold venture in the Malayalam film industry, with a budget that surpasses typical box office returns.
Verdict: "Marakkar: Arabikadalinte Simham" is a film best appreciated on the big screen, offering a watchable experience that highlights the fruits of collective ambition and hard work.
Visuals: The film's visual composition is nothing short of stunning, with each frame resembling a meticulously crafted painting. The combined efforts of the cinematography team, art department, and director are deserving of high praise for creating such a visually arresting experience.
Special Effects: The VFX work in "Marakkar" is arguably the finest within the Malayalam film industry to date. In contrast to other high-budget Indian films, "Marakkar" exercises restraint in its CGI usage, opting for a balanced blend of visual effects and practical effects that enhance the narrative without overshadowing it-a decision that will likely age well over time.
Design and Artistry: Both costume design and art direction are standout elements, successfully navigating the director's vision of a story that is 30% historical and 70% fictional. The film's aesthetic choices effectively support this creative balance.
Music and Performances: The soundtrack adds an enjoyable layer to the film's atmosphere, while the cast delivers solid performances across the board, despite some characters receiving limited screen time.
Narrative Challenges: However, the film's narrative is encumbered by an excess of characters who fail to justify their presence, leading to a bloated runtime and a sluggish pace. Those seeking a traditional historical drama may find themselves underwhelmed, as the film lacks emotionally resonant moments with its protagonist, Kunjali Marakkar IV, save for the intense final sequence and ending song.
Authenticity: A notable shortcoming is the film's inability to authentically reflect its historical setting. The dialogue lacks period-specific nuances, often indistinguishable from contemporary vernacular, which detracts from the immersive experience.
Screenplay and Theme Music: The screenplay's mediocrity is a significant detriment, undermining the film's potential impact. Additionally, while the theme music is functional and occasionally evocative, its repetitive nature is noticeable.
Conclusion: Despite not meeting the lofty expectations set by its pre-release buzz, "Marakkar: Arabikadalinte Simham" is a commendable effort that showcases the dedication of a large creative team. It represents a bold venture in the Malayalam film industry, with a budget that surpasses typical box office returns.
Verdict: "Marakkar: Arabikadalinte Simham" is a film best appreciated on the big screen, offering a watchable experience that highlights the fruits of collective ambition and hard work.
The Lion King
(2019)
Keep your nostalgia aside and watch
26 January 2020
I don't know what's point in blaming a film because it's "hyper-realistic". The trailer and poster clearly showed off what the movie will look like. The problem is not with the new Lion King; It's with the burden of expectations you've put on a modern animated movie.
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