Confessions of a Superhero (2022) Poster

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9/10
Not Your Typical Superhero Film...
paiton_pires8 June 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Once again Inderveer Sodhi deserves immense praise for his exceptional directorial job he has done with his film, Superhero. Despite the financial constraints, Sodhi's vision and ingenuity shine through every frame, proving that true talent and passion can transcend budgetary limitations.

The story tackles three main issues I found when watching it. Samar's relationship with his friends and the boundaries that ensues; his secret friendship with Aalia whilst being best friends with her brother, Farhan. His romantic relationships, Meera. Concluding with his family relationships, his adopted father, Jason along with the fact of his lost connection with his birth parents. While Samar is stretching himself thin with trying to act as a therapist for everybody else, one must also reflect on how he is taking the steps to help & protect himself?

(SPOILER ALERT) A particular scene that highlights this aspect is when Samar and Meera go through a heated breakup. Shortly after, Samar is forced to wear the mask of Zeitgeist and act cheerful towards Meera in order to uplift her spirits and prioritize her feelings. This scene struck a chord with me personally, prompting deep reflection on the instances in our own lives where we often sacrifice our own mental well-being for the sake of others. It serves as a poignant reminder of the constant struggle to suppress our emotions and carry on.

The music is also intrinsically woven on to the story as it effortsly allows it to move along. There are elements of rich cultural flair yet the infusion of jazz adds a touch of unpredictability to the soundtrack, creating an overall unique sound. Not a typical soundtrack in a superhero movie but once again, this is not just your typical "good guy beats bad guy" superhero film.
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9/10
He's gonna win an Oscar
stevenguyen117 June 2023
I was truly engulfed with the movie's premise right from the first frame. Not only does the colour palette and cinematography completely grip you into the world but the music also composed by Inderveer just captures your imagination right from the opening title track: Jab Se Aya. Super happy that the English translations were burned-in for all the songs in the film, they don't feel out of place being in Hindi but knowing the meaning definitely elevates the narrative.

Representation is something that is heavily pushed nowadays to the point of treating different races like an agenda rather than fitting into a genuine story or expression, but this film's cast which is mostly brown are just characters which was honestly so heartwarming. No one was playing a stereotype of a brown person, they just happened to be brown in a world of interesting characters if that makes sense.

Very impressed with the lead cast's performances, especially Inderveer and Daniela. Such raw chemistry.

Thank you Inderveer for making this film, I know you're gonna win an Oscar in a few years. I don't know how anyone could make this film with such a stupidly small amount of money.
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8/10
A breath of fresh air.
pillaysrinivas12 June 2023
I will say right now that the cinematography mixed with the heartfelt direction is damn refreshing to see. I'm an avid cinephile and frequent festivals as well, so to be quite honest it gets tiring seeing film students making the same stuff over and over again. So this film came in as a breath of fresh air, probably because it wasn't made as a final assignment or graduate project.

I loved the way Inderveer treats the story with both a grounded and delicate human perspective on relationships, while creating a sense of fantasy as well with the setting. And the atmosphere is supported superbly by DP Chris Joys' striking imagery, which feels cozy yet bittersweet at times.

The movie left me wanting more by the end, I wish we got to see some of the ideas explored a little more but perhaps the longing I experienced is part of the charm, or maybe a financial limitation on the production.

And before I conclude, special nod to the background music and songs of the film. They are easily the heartbeat of the entire story, and without them, the film's soul would be missing.
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10/10
Cinema Magic
sahilbrar-4121113 June 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Inderveer creates a well paced film and takes the grounded approach to being a superhero and mixing it with the right elements like mental health which is refreshing. What works well is using the different characters to world build but also develop Zeitgeist as a character, it's ironic that Zeitgeist is the perfect hero therapist in the eyes of the people he helps but he also keeps a part of them to help his own mental struggles which I believe was perfectly executed, in a sense the people he helps in Maddenville are all part of Zeitgeist and vice-versa.

You have to understand that this whole film is a character study if you choose to break it down.

Zeitgeist helping Meera's Dad but also fulfilling that father and son relationship he lacked as Samar, Zeitgeist helping out Aaliyah but also fulfilling that sibling relationship he lacked as Samar and also vice versa for the Aaliyah.

(Spoiler warning paragraph) A lot of great foreshadowing and character comparisons as well, for example Meera's Dad trying to rekindle his relationship, and Samar's adoptive dad still grieving over his past family and lastly Samar's biological dad all being in different stages of fatherhood and having different perspectives, there were a lot of foreshadowing similarities with Aaliyah and Meera.

Also Zeitgeist and Farhan being best friends and coming from small beginnings both having tragic losses in life, the only difference is one tries to perceive his world in a more positive light while the latter self-sabotages.

The plot has its fair share of secrets and starts to provide the audience with puzzle pieces to Samars past which was placed very well, this type of engagement in the film is what creates a strong emotional bridge between the screen and the audience which is "cinema-magic".

By the end of the film, you as the audience member become so grasped in the world of Zeitgeist that you'll be craving for more!

A very well structured film about what's important in today's society such as mental health with a touch of magic and some confessions of our own self reflection.
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10/10
Amazed but somehow not surprised
bainsraman78 June 2023
What this man can do to pull you into the world he creates is insanity. I found myself feeling so connected to the characters, and it was as if I knew them. I am so impressed by the fact that he made this movie with only $24,000. The movie makes you think, it's relatable, and has every single emotion that captures the human experience. I loved it so much that I had to attend both screenings in person. I highly recommend that everyone go and watch this movie. To those that haven't watched it yet: please rectify this and check it out on Apple TV. I cannot wait to see what the talented Inderveer Sodhi does next.
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9/10
Was not expecting this.
miguelsanchezzz9 June 2023
Got to see the film on AppleTV with my girlfriend, and we both came out of it a little numb. There's so many things to breakdown and deconstruct as a viewer; I was not expecting to be so moved by a "superhero film."

It's an extremely mature take on what it means to be a protagonist or hero for people around you.

Where does the hero stand in all the chaos? Do their conflicts take the backseat? What if saving people was the "backseat"?

All of this is explored with such subtlety but huge impact through such an innovate story and concept. Kudos to the director Inderveer who weaved this amazing film together. I can't explain how this film manages to make you feel so bitter and sad without much really even happening, I'm not sure if I'm ready to watch it again.
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10/10
How did he even make this...
connormathews-973515 June 2023
I went into this film knowing it only had a budget of $26,000 so to be very honest, I did not expect much really. But my god...this movie does not look or feel like $26,000. I only just realized that Inderveer made his first film with $4,000, are you freaking serious?

Someone give this man a million dollar budget, like seriously.

I haven't even gotten into the story or the characters because I'm just so awestruck by the sheer ambition to make a film like this and the pure creativity he poured into it. It's a twist on the classic superhero story, almost a deconstruction of the tropes we're used to seeing: the friend, the girl, and the older mentor. But it takes the saviour complex trait found in a lot of superheroes, and spins into a literal theme and conflict within its protagonist, an anonymous therapist. I feel like its a movie you have to watch a few times to truly soak in the emotion and atmosphere, which is another thing I should mention. The film's setting feels weird and familiar, but new at the same time. Very nostalgic.

And what do I even say about the music? Masterpiece level stuff.
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Maddenville's Finest!
ravitejrekhi20 October 2023
This movie is an absolute delight and a great opportunity for anyone wishing to learn how to do high impact filmmaking on a reasonably low budget.

Be it the lighting or the colours or the production design- everything is done so so well!

Also the music is sublime!! All the songs and the overall soundtrack is very fresh. Each character gets a proper theme as well.

Overall, the film has a great recall value and is a must watch for anyone looking for a nice slice of life indie film with a lot of good South Asian representation. Such a cool coming of age film and it has no business being this good!
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4/10
Missing Something
boblally10 June 2023
Overall, the movie was performed well, but I couldn't help to notice that I didn't get attached to many of the characters. Major step up in progression since Inderveer's first movie Monster and definitely on the right track.

I would argue that the actors were the best part of this film. I like the idea of which Inderveer's creative talents were going, just didn't entice me to get deep into the story. Played out like an afternoon soap-opera rather than the desired superhero aspect to it.

The character development and relations to each other was one of the compelling factors to this film. Like I said, this movie definitely showed lights of hope and I hope Inderveer's next project grows further.
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9/10
A movie so relevant today!
nonapannu4 June 2023
Even though it is set in a dystopian world, the themes and topics in the movie are so relevant today. Inderveer and his cast have done great job conveying the emotions we were all feeling while watching the movie. Complicated and conflicted relationships, comedy, drama, and romance. You get a bit of everything. While watching the movie, you want to relate it back to your own personal experience. The music and background score compliments the storyline and conveys the mood in the scene. If you are a nerd for production design and cinematography, this movie will be a treat for you. It was a great movie to watch and after awhile I am enjoying a movie where I am giving my full attention.
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3/10
Waiting for something to happen
seanpatal9 June 2023
By the 40 minute mark of the movie, the story hadn't progressed at all. There was no backstory on the main character making it difficult to connect with them. I understand the premise was to dissect a superhero movie, but the lack of character development and slow script writing made the movie almost unbearable. Scenes that shouldn't have been more than 30 seconds dragged on for the entirety of the song that was playing. There wasn't really a clear plot or timeline of the movie. While I understand the budget was $25,000 - the real issue lies that there was no captivating story behind the film.
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10/10
Loved it so much!!
romangill19966 June 2023
Confessions of a Superhero is a charming drama comedy that cleverly combines superheroes and therapy. The main character Zeitgeist doesn't actually have any real superpowers, but that's what I so loved about the film. I've seen other films like Kick-Ass explore that idea, but not as realistically as this movie. It's so focused on the character's emotions and internal struggles, you really care about every one so much. The movie also strikes a perfect balance between humorous moments and deep feels, it address mental health stuff with sensitivity.

Exceptional performances, visuals that be stunning, and message about self-care and growing up in an entertaining and thought-provoking movie experience. I wish there were more scenes between Samar and Farhan, but the storyline doesn't feel rushed either. Young people should definitely watch this one!
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9/10
A Comedy, then a Romance, and ends as a Drama
ryersmatt11 June 2023
You could say each of the genres I listed above represent each of the lead characters in this film, but as the story progresses the lines between these genres begin to blur, much like Samar's own perspective on the people around him. Samar grows with each relationship.

I will admit however, that maybe it's not for everyone to dissect a film like this, it is a slow-burn so don't go in expecting an MCU type of action flick. If you're into more cinematic or artsy films that revolve around people and themes, I would say this is right up your alley. It's a movie that makes you think; an emotional drama through and throughout.

The cinematography and music alone are a fantastic reason to watch this fiIm, I loved the use of yellow in each setting. It looks like a comic-book.

I really enjoyed Inderveer's performance, there's something about just his eyes that can convey so much. And his performance is so beautifully balanced by JP Padda as Jason, there's such a still intensity to him.

The entire lead cast has done a splendid job, and you can really see how wide everyone's range is: from the subtle quiet scenes to the loud punches. I did not expect some of the scenes to go where they did in the story, but the actors really helped blend the tones of each scene so seamlessly.

Special mention for Daniela Estefania as Meera, she handles such a complex character with ease. I was going to say it's manic-pixie-dream-girl archetype, but the end really makes you question that.

Overall, I would recommend this film to cinema enthusiasts and especially emerging filmmakers who are getting into the craft. Excited to see what happens when Inderveer has a real budget to make his films!
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9/10
Inderveer's Second Film Shines: A Captivating Review
myadeol6 June 2023
Inderveer, the promising filmmaker, has delivered another outstanding piece of cinematic art with his second film. Having attended the premiere and experienced it on the big screen, I can confidently say that I do not regret my decision. This movie presents an intriguing concept, accompanied by exceptional dialogue and a profound connection among the characters. Without a doubt, I wholeheartedly recommend this masterpiece to all cinema enthusiasts, aspiring actors, and aspiring filmmakers.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this film is its captivating concept. Inderveer has once again showcased his creative brilliance by presenting a unique and thought-provoking idea. The movie's storyline pushes boundaries and explores uncharted territories, leaving the audience engrossed in its world from start to finish. By challenging conventional narratives, the film takes risks and rewards viewers with a refreshing experience that sets it apart from other mainstream productions.

Another strength lies in the movie's exceptional dialogue. Every word spoken by the characters feels meaningful and contributes to the depth of the narrative. Inderveer's ability to craft compelling conversations not only enhances the overall storytelling but also allows the audience to develop a strong emotional connection with the characters. The dialogue reflects the complexities of human relationships, delving into the depths of their thoughts and emotions, making the film a truly immersive experience.

Furthermore, the chemistry among the characters is a standout feature of this film. The cast delivers outstanding performances, effortlessly bringing their roles to life. Their interactions feel genuine and organic, creating a believable on-screen connection that resonates with the audience. The dynamics between the characters evolve throughout the story, allowing for moments of both tenderness and intensity. This genuine portrayal of human connections adds an extra layer of authenticity to the film.

Inderveer's directorial prowess is evident throughout the movie. His vision and meticulous attention to detail are showcased in every frame. From the visually stunning cinematography to the meticulous production design, each element contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal of the film. The skillful use of lighting and color schemes further enhances the mood and atmosphere of each scene, effectively immersing the audience in the story's world.

In addition to its technical brilliance, the film also tackles significant themes and societal issues. It prompts introspection and encourages viewers to contemplate the complexities of human existence. The narrative gracefully explores topics such as love, loss, identity, and personal growth, leaving a lasting impact on the audience. Through its thought-provoking storytelling, the movie transcends its entertainment value and becomes a catalyst for deeper reflections on life itself.

Inderveer's second film is an impressive achievement, solidifying his position as a talented filmmaker, director, and actor. His ability to create a captivating narrative, combined with exceptional dialogue and a profound connection among the characters, sets this movie apart from the rest. By pushing boundaries and delving into profound themes, Inderveer offers a refreshing cinematic experience that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant.

Ps. The score is great.
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10/10
The cast performance was stellar!
aulakhnavneet8 June 2023
I had the privilege of attending the movie premiere and viewing it on a large screen, and was completely enthralled. The colour scheme of the movie was fantastic. Every scene's colours are related to Samar's colour palette, and the audience is led to assume that they are a part of Samar's world.

I was deeply impressed by the way Samar's various relationships with the other characters were depicted. The mood of the era was powerfully represented and expressively captured in the movie. The movie's concept is incredibly creative, as it explores the range of feelings that a person going through adolescence feels.

I loved the contrast in demeanour between Samar and Zeitgeist.

Zeitgeist's exuberant character was performed masterfully!
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10/10
Great movie
deolravraj5 June 2023
Great movie, first film in a exceptionally long time that had my heart drop and have me fear for the characters. Especially times now when global mental health is at a low, we see themes of bad mental health in the movie. I recommend everyone to check this movie out and maybe even Inderveers first movie, monster. Both movies I felt showed a lot of emotion and were very genuine feeling. There was many times in the movie when my friend group and I had trouble not tearing up, it just really was a rollercoaster of emotions. Plus the soundtrack is absolutely phenomenal, absolutely amazing job with this movie Inderveer!
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10/10
I confess that...
stevesandhu20 June 2023
"Confessions of a Super hero" has a different style of superhero compared to all other films of that genre. The protagonist, Samar, does not have any non-human powers to help him overcome his challenges. Although, his character stays true to his saviour complex by helping people, with what he does best. Therapy.

It is rare to see such ordinary individuals highlighted in a fictional film. The general image that comes to mind when referencing a superhero, is a being that has enhanced abilities or powers. The film is very much like a roller coaster ride taking the audience through a surge of emotions uncommonly seen in superhero films. The soundtrack is unique and original. The songs are beautifully written, performed and produced. They are also catchy and compelling.

This feature explores many themes such as love, friendship, confidentiality, betrayal and happiness.

It doesn't take too long into the film before we start to generate a deeper sense of care for the characters that reside in the town of Maddenvale. Every character has problems that they are struggling with. The raw emotion, comedy and care that has been put into this film reveals itself.

At times, I felt the mix of emotions as I felt attached to the characters in Maddenville. Everyone suffers from very real situations. Samar, uncommonly then others as he is an orphan. I appreciated the decisions that were taken by the characters as scenes played out then led to the eventual resolution of the film. The ending doesn't have the typical "all is well" happy end. But the message I received was that happiness can be found in many places where it doesn't appear to be visible at first.

I had originally seen this film during the theatrical premiere. However, watching it again for the first time on Apple TV. I sincerely appreciated it all the same.

After knowing the budget that went into this film. And that the director, producer, lead actor and composer Inderveer managed to make such a moving artistic piece of work with only $26,000. That is an extraordinary feat and it is inspirational to other artists pursuing similar passions in believing nothing is unreachable.
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8/10
Worth watching at least once!
amanthind14717 June 2023
Warning: Spoilers
The film feeds plays on being light hearted and fun to invoking serious topics such as domestic violence and suicide. It was successful in making me feel the emotions that it set out to extract from the audience. I watched it at the premiere and a second time on Apple TV. The film had my attention from start to finish and the soundtrack was a beautiful icing on the cake. All the flaws and cons I can point out don't seem as important as it is only his second film and I can already see vast improvements between his first and second project. This movie was ambitious and made every dollar count of its $25'000 budget. Looking forward to the next movie!
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10/10
One of favourite films of 2022
Bubsy3D5 June 2023
Saw it opening night at the premiere! Watched it again with my fam on AppleTV :)

Loved the storyline, direction and performances. Amazing music as well. Can't say spoilers but my favourite scene is near the very end with Samar's character, Inderveer's acting is just *chef's kiss.* If you're a fan of drama, comedy and romance, I definitely recommend checking it out. It's a very grounded film even though it's about a superhero, focusing on the emotional baggage of its characters.

It's a long film but it does not feel that way at all, the pacing is probably one of the strongest parts of the film.
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