Reviews

197 Reviews
Sort by:
Filter by Rating:
NA
3 May 2024
Prasanna Vadanam has a few glimmers of a good idea, and parts of the story do catch your interest. The screenplay kicks off strong and wraps up nicely in the climax, but everything in between is pretty hit or miss. As for the acting, let's just say Suhas sticks to his usual playbook-nothing new there.

The music? Not exactly earworm material, and the production values don't do much to lift the spirits either.

All in all, it might be a pass on catching this one in theaters. Save it for a no-fuss, low-expectation kind of movie night at home, if at all.

I have to write 40 more characters to complete..
1 out of 3 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
Aranmanai 4 (2024)
If you want to Kill some Time.
3 May 2024
So, "Aranmanai 4" is back, and it's like that friend who always has a new story but never quite nails the delivery. The plot throws a bone with something intriguing, but it doesn't really flesh it out, and we're left with the same old average screenplay and narration vibe from the trilogy's earlier escapades.

The comedy's a mixed bag. Some bits will have you cackling, while others might just have you staring blankly. And those jump scares? Yeah, they're more miss than hit.

On the bright side, the story does step it up a notch from the third installment, and the laughs are better than what we got in the second-so, progress? The twists are a bit of a see-saw too-some you won't see coming, others you'll spot from a mile away.

Props to Thamanna, Kovai Sarala and Rashi Khanna, though-they brought their A-game. The VFX? Not top-tier but charming in their own quirky way-might even be a hit with the kiddos.

The production values hold up pretty decently. Oh, and about that sizzling promotional song with Tamanna and Rashi that got you all hyped? Yeah, they skipped that part in the actual movie. Bummer, right?

Bottom line-if you're hunting for a blockbuster-level thrill, this might not be your ticket. But hey, if you're just looking to kill some time and need a few laughs, "Aranmanai 4" could be your casual hangout flick.
0 out of 2 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
4/10
Dreary Narration with Splendid Visuals.
1 May 2024
The tale is a dreary and nonsensical affair.

The screenplay proves a tiresome, protracted bore.

The dialogue is insipid and trite.

Performances are utterly devoid of vitality.

The production values, however, are quite lavish.

The locales are top-notch.

The sets and their adornments are simply splendid.

The costumes are exceptionally fine.

The makeup is rather pleasing.

Cinematography is nothing short of remarkable.

The lighting is impeccable.

Alas, the direction feels hopelessly antiquated.

Its a mixed bag of splendid visuals and dreary narration not recommended for viewing.

****4****
48 out of 69 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
Rathnam (2024)
👎
26 April 2024
The story offers little novelty, laden with clichéd and silly elements.

The screenplay feels outdated, and the dialogue frequently induces cringes.

The film also suffers from excessive violence and songs that seem shoehorned in without necessity.

The acting follows a dated Tamil template reminiscent of the early 2000s, failing to bring anything fresh to the table.

Direction sticks to the typical 'Hari' style, characterized by rapid-paced editing, which doesn't compensate for the film's other shortcomings.

It's advisable to skip this film altogether.

Not recommended to watch on OTT either.
3 out of 5 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
5/10
Not Recommended.
11 April 2024
This horror-comedy effort falls disappointingly short of the mark. The narrative is plagued by silliness and a lack of logical cohesion, with numerous superfluous elements clumsily integrated.

The screenplay, particularly in the initial segments, is uninspired and lacks dynamism. It's only in the latter half that a few comedic moments manage to shine through, offering a glimmer of redemption.

Performance-wise, Anjali delivers an adequate portrayal, though her presence is unfortunately limited. Sathya stands out with a commendable performance, and Sunil also brings a solid contribution. Srinivasa Reddy and the remainder of the ensemble offer passable performances, while the antagonist fails to impress, suffering from both underdeveloped characterisation and lacklustre acting.

The film is further marred by its inadequate production values, with the choice of locations and sets reflecting a disappointing economisation. Both cinematography and music struggle to reach a satisfactory standard.

Overall, this cinematic venture does not merit the investment of time, falling well below the threshold of recommended viewing.
2 out of 5 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
Maidaan (2023)
7/10
Worthwhile Experience
11 April 2024
An engaging narrative unfolds, albeit one that tarries longer than necessary, yet redeemed by a screenplay of commendable craft. A scattering of the dialogue sparkles with wit and intelligence.

Ajay Devgn delivers a performance of gravitas and depth, while Priyamani dazzles, imbuing her role with a radiant excellence. Gajraj Rao, along with the ensemble, contributes performances of substantial merit.

The auditory landscape and visual storytelling through cinematography are executed with competence. Direction navigates the middle ground of proficiency, neither astounding nor disappointing.

In essence, this cinematic venture merits the allocation of one's time for viewing, presenting a worthwhile experience.
1 out of 1 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
Bahumukham (2024)
Watch it in theatres
5 April 2024
This movie is a breath of fresh air in a landscape often cluttered with rehashed plots and formulaic storytelling. It delivers a fresh story that captivates from the get-go, infused with a modern style screenplay that keeps you hooked with its smart pacing and inventive narrative twists.

The acting across the board is impressively natural. The cast brings authenticity to their roles, making the characters relatable and the emotional beats of the story genuinely impactful. It's refreshing to see performances that feel so real and unforced, contributing significantly to the film's immersive experience.

Production values are decent, striking a balance between quality and restraint. The film looks good without going overboard on extravagance, supporting the story and characters without overshadowing them. It's clear that the budget was used wisely, focusing on enhancing the storytelling rather than distracting from it with unnecessary flash.

Overall, it's a well-crafted movie that stands out for its creativity and genuine portrayal of its characters. Definitely worth watching for anyone seeking something different from the usual fare, proving that good storytelling and solid performances are still the heart of great cinema.
1 out of 1 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
Tantra (2024)
4/10
Hard Pass
5 April 2024
This flick is a wild ride into the land of "what were they thinking?" territory. It's got a sprinkle of decent moments, sure, but then it's like they decided to bulk up the script with all sorts of nonsense, as if someone's younger sibling got hold of the draft and went to town with a crayon.

The screenplay is a disaster - imagine trying to assemble a puzzle where none of the pieces fit, and for some reason, they're all covered in glue. It's a struggle, and not the rewarding kind. And the dialogues? They're so clunky and awkward, you'll find yourself wincing more than anything else.

Directing seems to have been an afterthought, with the whole thing coming off as if someone watched a couple of YouTube tutorials and declared themselves a director. It's amateur hour from start to finish, lacking any sort of coherence or finesse.

Don't even get me started on the production values. If cutting corners was an Olympic sport, this movie would take home the gold. Everything from the sets to the costumes screams budget cuts, making you wonder just how much they actually spent on making this film.

As for the acting, well, it's about as inspiring as a wet napkin. No one seems to be putting in much effort, with performances ranging from "barely there" to "please stop."

In short, this movie's a hard pass. It's not even worth the watch for ironic enjoyment or as a background noise. There are countless better ways to spend your time.
3 out of 5 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
Family Star (2024)
Honest opinion
5 April 2024
This movie is a hot mess wrapped in a pretty package. It's like they threw a bunch of stuff at the wall, hoping something would stick, but ended up with a jumble of good, bad and stale bits that don't quite gel together.

The screenplay is a roller coaster, but not the fun kind. You've got your moments of laughter, sure, but then you're plunged into scenes so ridiculous or dull you'll wonder if the script was written during a group brainstorm where no ideas were turned down, no matter how nonsensical.

The whole vibe of the film feels like it's stuck in a time warp, clinging to an old-school approach that's more yawn-inducing than nostalgic. And, boy, could they have shaved off some runtime. It drags like a lecture that could've been an email.

Vijay's shines in bits and pieces, but even his charm can't fully distract from the chaos.

Mrunal is not really matching up with Vijay, and her performance feels as if she's stuck on repeat, recycling the same handful of expressions we've seen in her last few outings. The rest of the cast? They're just there, doing their thing, not making things worse but not adding much either.

On the technical front, they've splurged. Cinematography, sets, costumes - all top-notch, making you wish the story and direction had received half that attention. Background score gives you headache and the songs make for a good time to check your phone or go for a snack.

Honestly, unless you've been hyped up by all the marketing or feel the unbearable peer pressure from your mates who can't resist jumping on every movie bandwagon, give this one a miss. It's not worth the sit-through, unless you enjoy critiquing every aspect or need background noise while doing something actually interesting.
25 out of 45 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
Tillu Square (2024)
5/10
Missed the Mark
29 March 2024
"Tillu Square" graces the scene as the chic follow-up to "DJ Tillu," bearing a striking resemblance with about 80% of its DNA mirroring the original. Within its framework, it introduces two novel elements, hitting a mixed note with one being a hit and the other, unfortunately, missing the mark.

Narrative-wise, it's passable. Our lead, Tillu, retains his charm, albeit not quite capturing the magic of his debut performance. The screenplay is a mixed bag, featuring a handful of scenes that pop, a few that miss the mark, and others that simply fail to ignite, leaving the rest to fall squarely in the realm of mediocrity.

Production quality holds up well, with both cinematography and musical scores earning their stripes. Direction is on point, ensuring the film sails smoothly through its paces.

Siddu, in his element, delivers a sterling performance, living up to expectations. Anupama, while earnest in her efforts, seems to tread into the territory of overacting in her recent outings-a trend that's puzzling, to say the least.

The supporting cast turns in a decent performance, though none stand out as particularly memorable.

For aficionados of the original, "Tillu Square" might warrant a look, albeit with a grain of caution. Otherwise, feel free to give it a miss.
6 out of 9 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
The Goat Life (2024)
Could have been GREAT
28 March 2024
So, this flicks based on a real-deal story, right? And they've scribbled it down legit. But man, the screenplay's like they got commitment issues-it just goes on and on. And those flashback scenes early on? Snoozefest. Could've skipped 'em and missed nada.

But yo, when they hit the desert scenes? Pure fire. They nailed it. Characters are sketched out like art.

PrithviRaj, though? Dude went full beast mode. Blood, sweat, and probably tears in his role. Every scene, you can tell he's giving it his all. Major respect for that hustle.

Then there's Jimmi Jean Louis. My guy is on another level. His character's so dope, you'll be thinking about him while brushing your teeth at night. Dude's unforgettable.

On the flip, production's slick, music's hitting just right, and the camera work? Chef's kiss.
4 out of 20 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
Om Bheem Bush (2024)
3/10
Horrable
22 March 2024
The film is marred by a nonsensical plot, grating scenes, vexatious characters, and dreadful dialogue, making for an altogether excruciating viewing experience. The idea of a ghost in the movie is pretty common, but the story about why someone turns into a ghost is interesting and fresh. The first half of the movie moves slowly, and the moment before the intermission feels predictable, the music isn't great, and the visual effects (VFX) don't impress much either. The cinematography, on the other hand, is well done. The main actors, Sri Vishnu, Priyadarshi, and Rahul Rama Krishna are very annoying but the actor playing the ghost does a really good job.
6 out of 10 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
USHA MEHTA
21 March 2024
The film presents a commendable narrative that beautifully balances patriotism in a nuanced manner. While the screenplay might not captivate everyone, the effort to steer clear of religious and political bias is praiseworthy, contributing positively to the film's integrity. Sara is mediocre but rest of he cast delivers decent performances with the material they're given. Production aspects, including the choice of locations, sets, and costumes, are satisfactorily executed, enhancing the visual appeal of the movie.

Although the cinematography falls short of expectations, it's evident that there was an ambitious vision behind the camera. The direction, despite showing signs of inexperience, demonstrates a commendable effort and a genuine attempt to realize the film's potential. In essence, this movie, with its heart in the right place, is worth watching for those with a keen interest in the subject matter. It's a film that manages to appreciate its themes and aims to deliver a meaningful experience, albeit with some areas for improvement.
6 out of 8 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
NA
15 March 2024
The narrative draws inspiration from actual events in the history of Telangana, depicting the hardships endured by its people under the Nizam's rule and the brutalities of the Razakars.

However, the presentation of the story appears to be biased and slightly altered for political and religious motives.

The screenplay features a handful of commendable scenes interspersed with numerous dull and lackluster segments.

The film ambitiously attempts to merge the gritty essence of realism with the vibrant energy of commercial cinema, yet it finds itself caught in the crossfire, not fully committing to either. This indecision is further intensified by an overreliance on violence, which, rather than adding depth or excitement, muddies the narrative's intent.

The production values do not meet the expected standards. Musically, background score is commendable.

From an acting perspective, Bobby Simha and Prema deliver decent performances.

The roles of Anasuya and Vedika in the film seem perplexing with their terrible acting.

Antagonist and the remaining cast members tend to overact.

The director, despite displaying an air of overconfidence in interviews, delivers a direction that is less than satisfactory.

Overall, the film is not that good.
10 out of 26 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
Gaami (2024)
6/10
State of the art
8 March 2024
The story is laced with intriguing elements, and while there might be a handful of moments that don't fully hit the mark, the overall narrative is quite engaging. The screenplay demands your undivided attention and a keen mind to fully appreciate its depth, adding a layer of sophistication to the viewing experience. There are moments where the pace might seem leisurely, but these are more than made up for by the sheer visual spectacle on display. The film features breathtaking visuals, from exotic locales to state-of-the-art VFX, complemented by exceptional cinematography and impeccable color grading. The background music enhances the atmosphere significantly, and while the songs are decent, the outstanding sound quality elevates the auditory experience.

Vishwak Sen's dedication shines through in his performance; although it might not fully meet the demands of the role, his effort is commendable. The rest of the cast delivers with commendable zeal, contributing to a well-rounded ensemble. For those considering watching this film, it's best experienced in a theater that does justice to its superior sound and visual quality, ensuring the fullest appreciation of its technical excellence.
5 out of 9 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
Bhimaa (2024)
Loud
8 March 2024
Oh, what a delight, a film where the plot flirts with the idea of being interesting only to take a nosedive into the sea of cliché and cringe. It's like stepping back into an era where boredom was the norm, with a narrative that's as fresh as last week's leftovers. Dialogues so cheesy, you'd think they were competing in a dairy product fair. Our leading lights in the acting department seem to think they're at a shouting match, turning every scene into a test of patience. Priya might be somewhat tolerable, hovering around the realm of just okay, while Malavika proves that stunning looks don't translate to acting prowess. As for the ensemble, they simply meander along the path of least resistance, presumably following the uninspired direction they were given. The cinematography and production values wave a little flag of decency in this desert of mediocrity, and while the songs might have you reaching for the mute button, the background score mercifully doesn't exacerbate the situation. Recommending this film? I'd say you'd have a more enriching experience watching water boil.
11 out of 14 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
4/10
Long Short film
2 March 2024
This Telugu mystery movie presents a compelling plot at its core, yet it is significantly undermined by a multitude of shortcomings in its execution. The screenplay lacks sophistication, resulting in a plot that feels disjointed and fails to fully engage the audience. The dialogue comes across as frivolous, detracting from the film's attempt to build suspense and intrigue. Direction is notably subpar, reflecting a lack of finesse and undermining the storytelling. Furthermore, the production values fall below expectations, indicating constraints that likely impacted the film's overall aesthetic and quality.

The musical score fails to complement the narrative, adding another layer of disappointment to the viewing experience. Additionally, the movie suffers greatly from inferior dubbing and editing, which disrupt the flow and coherence of the story. Performances by the cast are mediocre, hovering around average, but they are not enough to salvage the film's numerous flaws. Overall, the movie's promising premise is let down by its execution, leaving much to be desired in terms of cinematic quality and viewer satisfaction.
5 out of 9 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
5/10
Never Ending
24 February 2024
The film doesn't boast a particularly strong story, though it does offer a few intriguing points that catch the interest. The narrative is managing to keep things light and fun, though it's occasionally marred by dull moments. In terms of performances, Abinav and Vaishali stand out by delivering their best, showing commendable effort and skill. Nizhalgal Ravi, Moin and Lavanya provide satisfactory performances, doing justice to their roles, while Ali Reza's performance is deemed average.

Both the direction and music of the film are below average, contributing positively to the overall experience without necessarily standing out as exceptional. For those looking for a casual viewing experience to fill their leisure time, this film might serve as an adequate choice.
2 out of 4 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
5/10
😐
23 February 2024
The film introduces a promising concept but is let down by its execution, featuring an average storyline and a screenplay that often lacks luster. The comedic attempts largely miss the mark, with only a handful of scenes managing to elicit genuine laughter. However, it's worth noting that the pre-climax sequences do stand out for their quality. The narrative suffers from repetitiveness in parts, leading to moments of tedium.

Among the highlights is an engaging rain dance scene, though an attempt at a memorable projector scene falls flat. Performance by Harsha shine through as commendable bringing depth to the role, while the rest of the cast does their best with the material provided.

The direction of the film shows signs of inexperience, possibly exacerbated by what seems to be a constrained budget. This combination of factors suggests missed opportunities in elevating the film's overall impact.
3 out of 4 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
Article 370 (2024)
6/10
It's a ride, not a revelation.
23 February 2024
Oh, buckle up, folks, 'cause we're diving into the cinematic masterpiece that's about as grounded in reality as a unicorn at a rave. The story? A wild ride on the make-believe express, chugging full steam ahead into fantasyland, leaving little ol' reality eating its dust.

Now, the screenplay - oh, honey, it's not just draped in nationalism; it's practically bathing in it, with zero chill on the patriotic front. It's like they're trying to sell you a brand of patriotism so exclusive, it only exists in their heads. And the timing? Chef's kiss Perfect for stirring the pot just when election season's heating up. Coincidence? I think not.

Let's talk narration - it's like that one friend who's super into conspiracy theories and somehow makes them sound legit. You know it's all wild speculation, but dang, it's entertaining.

Yami Gautam, bless her, still manages to shine like a diamond in a rhinestone world. Girl's picking scripts like she's the only one in town with taste. Priyamani and the gang? They're doing what they can, serving up performances that almost make you forget you're watching a glorified political pamphlet.

The direction and cinematography? On point, I guess, if you're into that sort of aesthetic - making propaganda look pretty. And the music? It's there, doing its best to set the mood, bless its heart.

In short, if you're in the mood to indulge in a fantasy so detached from reality it needs its own zip code, and you love a good fictional tale masquerading as something profound - this flick's your ticket. Just, for the love of all things sensible, don't walk out of there thinking you've just been enlightened with the sacred truth. It's a ride, not a revelation.
24 out of 68 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
6/10
Bigger and Better
18 February 2024
This film stands out as an improvement over its predecessor, scaling up in terms of ambition and execution for a crime comedy sequel. The storyline holds up decently, providing a solid foundation for the ensuing antics and drama. The screenplay is notably better than average, though it's worth mentioning that the climax could have used a stronger finish.

Performance-wise, the cast delivers commendably across the board, contributing to the film's dynamic energy. Production values are solid, ensuring the film looks and feels polished. However, the editing leaves something to be desired, particularly for a film that leans heavily on suspense and thrill; it falls short of amplifying the narrative's tension.

The VFX work is decent. The background score does its job adequately, supporting the film's tone without standing out as particularly memorable.

For those looking to fill some leisure time, this film might just fit the bill, offering enough entertainment value to make it a worthwhile watch.
4 out of 5 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
4/10
🙄
15 February 2024
The film presents a promising story but falls short in its execution. The screenplay struggles, leading to a narrative that often feels uninspired and lackluster, although it does have its moments with a very few standout scenes. Unfortunately, the dialogue fails to elevate the material, lacking depth and impact.

Musically, the film manages to deliver two nice songs.

Sandeep Kishan delivers a commendable performance, consistent with his reputation for solid acting. Varsha Bollamma shines in her role, Kavya Thapar adds a spark to the film with her presence. Kishore and Harsha are fun.

The supporting cast turns in acceptable performances, doing what they can with the material provided. The cinematography is competent, offering some visual appeal, though the film's VFX elements do not meet the same standard, detracting from the overall experience.

While it may not justify the price of a movie ticket, the film could be an option for streaming on OTT platforms for those who find the premise intriguing enough to overlook its shortcomings.
6 out of 8 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
Yatra 2 (2024)
Average
8 February 2024
Given that this film is both a sequel and a biographical portrayal, it treads a delicate line between historical accuracy and creative embellishment, leaving audiences to ponder the balance of truth versus dramatization. The storyline is well-crafted, with a screenplay that hits the mark in few scenes, and stumbles in a few scenes. The dialogue shines, enhancing the narrative with its quality.

The filmmakers have evidently made an effort to avoid the excesses typical of mainstream commercial cinema, aiming for a more measured approach. The direction is commendable, guiding the film with a steady hand.

Jiva's portrayal of Jagan is outstanding, capturing the essence of the character with a compelling performance. Ketaki brings Bharathi to life with a portrayal that is nothing short of remarkable, while Aashrita, Sudhakar, Manjrekar, and the rest of the cast deliver solid performances. Mammootty, in his brief appearances, manages to captivate and leave a lasting impression, adding a layer of gravitas to the film.

The musical score complements the narrative well, and the production values are fine, ensuring the film's quality. For those drawn to its premise, the film might give a satisfying experience, may not be the same for others.
2 out of 5 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
Miss Perfect (2024– )
6/10
F U N
2 February 2024
The mini-series might pivot around a premise that seems trivial at first glance, but it's executed with a level of craftsmanship that keeps you hooked for the most part.

It swings between genuinely amusing moments and a few that might not hit the mark as intended.

Lavanya, taking on the lead role, delivers a solid performance, maintaining her track record of commendable work.

Abijeet complements the cast well, holding his ground.

Abhignya, in the role of the maid, and her younger brother both add depth to the series with their noteworthy performances.

Jhasnsi, consistent with her previous roles, is adequate, while Harshavardhan shines in a well-deserved substantial role, proving once again that he's a talent often not tapped to its full potential.

The production values are satisfactory, aligning with what one might expect from a series of this scale.

Overall, this mini-series serves as a decent option for those looking to while away a few hours, offering a mix of humor and drama that's engaging enough to keep you entertained.
5 out of 7 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
Shh
2 February 2024
This film struggles to offer much in the way of entertainment or intrigue, managing to squeeze out only a handful of laughs amidst a sea of missed opportunities. Despite the actors' efforts to inject humor, their attempts fall flat, hindered by a script that lacks genuine comedic essence. What's meant to be emotional or touching instead comes across as contrived, diminishing any intended impact.

The screenplay clings to an outdated formula, failing to bring anything new or exciting to the table. Coupled with subpar production values, the film's overall quality suffers significantly. The direction lacks sophistication, contributing to a viewing experience that feels like a misallocation of one's time.

The attempt by actors to adopt the Telangana dialect falls significantly short of authenticity, emerging as a glaring weak point in the production.

It seems the producers prioritised allocating the budget towards securing a high-profile cast, unfortunately at the expense of investing in the overall quality of the movie.

Visually, the cinematography does little to elevate the film, while the music grates more than it gratifies. Sohel's pursuit of commercial stardom appears misguided here; a pivot towards selecting richer, more substantive scripts might better serve his talents and allow him to flourish as an actor.
6 out of 8 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink
An error has occured. Please try again.

Recently Viewed