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Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004)
A cinematic masterpiece
🎬 Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004) #dotFilmReview
"Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" is a cinematic masterpiece that resonates deeply for numerous reasons. At its core lies Jim Carrey's career-best performance, a poignant portrayal that transcends comedic stereotypes. His character, Joel, navigates the film's unconventional narrative with a raw authenticity that captivates audiences from start to finish. Carrey's subtle nuances, coupled with his beanie hat serving as a symbolic motif, add layers to Joel's emotional journey.
In tandem with Carrey's brilliance, Kate Winslet shines as Clementine, bringing depth to her character with every strand of her hair. Winslet's portrayal is complemented by a script that meticulously crafts their doomed romance, allowing viewers to witness its beauty amidst its inevitable demise. The relationship between Joel and Clementine is excellently developed, showcasing their flaws in honest and relatable ways.
Director Michel Gondry, in collaboration with screenwriter Charlie Kaufman, delivers a film that is original at its purest extent. Kaufman's delightfully absurd script hides intricate details, while Gondry's direction seamlessly integrates them into the visual narrative. The pacing of the film, akin to a dream, enhances the emotional impact as Joel's memories fade away like sand slipping through one's fingers.
The supporting cast, including Mark Ruffalo and Kirsten Dunst, enriches the narrative with their performances, while Elijah Wood's portrayal of an antagonist adds layers to the story. The editing of the film is masterful, with transitions that evoke awe and admiration. Each scene, from the beach sequences to the bird scene and the opening in Montauk, contributes to the film's surreal atmosphere.
The dialogue is a standout element, with every exchange between Joel and Clementine resonating deeply. The cinematography enhances the film's emotional depth, while the ending leaves a lasting impression, particularly the last memory and Joel's slow realization of his love for Clementine. The flaws of every character are apparent yet compelling, drawing viewers into their journey with a sense of empathy and investment.
Overall, "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" is a film that defies conventions and challenges viewers to trust in its unconventional plot. It's a cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll, leaving audiences contemplating the complexities of love, memory, and human connection. In essence, it's a film that deserves every bit of admiration and praise it receives.
Saba Nayagan (2023)
Well executed
Saba Nayagan (2023) #dotFilmReview
This coming-of-age drama follows Saba, the happy-go-lucky protagonist, through the years leading up to his adulthood and highlighting events of friendship and romance along the way.
"Saba Nayagan" offers a delightful blend of coming-of-age romance and comedy, delivering ample doses of enjoyment. Its comedic scenes, clever pop culture references, and witty one-liners largely hit the mark, with only a few instances falling short. The film adopts a self-aware approach, steering clear of delving into overly dramatic emotional territories, and instead maintains a focus on its comedic and romantic elements. Despite skipping over some potentially heart-wrenching moments in the romance, the narrative remains consistently light-hearted and entertaining.
The film benefits from well-executed choreography in its stunning songs, complemented by Leon James' captivating background scores. While the cinematography skillfully captures the charm of the story, the occasional overuse of yellow tones detracts slightly from the visual appeal. Ashok Selvan delivers a commendable performance, while the heroines also shine in their respective roles, contributing to the overall success of the film.
Singapore Saloon (2024)
Good attempt I guess?!
Singapore Saloon (2024) #dotFilmReview
In a village, friends Kathir and Basheer dream big. Inspired by a local salon owner named Chacha, Kathir sets his heart on becoming a hairstylist. The story unfolds as Kathir faces challenges, pursues his passion, and strives to open his own saloon, the 'Singapore Saloon.'
While I had high hopes for this film, especially after RJ Balaji's comparison to Velaiyilla Pattathari during the promotions, it unfortunately fell short of expectations. Although there were some enjoyable moments, overall it lacked the sharpness in writing needed to truly captivate the audience.
The childhood sequences were undeniably the highlight, delivering nostalgia and depth to the narrative. However, as Kathir grows up, the pacing slows down, and the humor, particularly from Robo Shankar and Sathyaraj, didn't quite resonate with me. Despite some claiming the first half to be a "laughter riot," I found it a bit challenging to stay engaged.
Initially, the second half didn't offer much improvement, with weak conflicts dragging the story. However, the introduction of Aravind Swamy's cameo injected some much-needed intrigue, especially with the dance group subplot. The film managed to redeem itself somewhat towards the end, particularly with the heartfelt Chacha reunion scene, which I found genuinely touching.
Overall, while the film excelled in its opening and closing segments, the middle portion left much to be desired. Nonetheless, it's commendable for its attempt at storytelling.
Anyone But You (2023)
Great for fun movie night
🎬 Anyone But You (2023) #dotFilmReview
After an amazing first date, Bea and Ben's fiery attraction turns ice cold - until they find themselves unexpectedly reunited at a destination wedding in Australia. So they do what any two mature adults would do: pretend to be a couple.
"Anyone But You" delivers delightful moments and serves as a charming addition to the romcom genre, despite its imperfections. While the end credits shine (shoutout to Natasha Bedingfield!), the film manages to infuse some freshness into familiar clichés under Will Gluck's direction.
Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell exhibit fantastic chemistry, complemented by standout performances and impeccable styling. Although some dialogue feels overly manufactured, it's a minor quibble compared to the overall enjoyment. Special mention goes to Peter Gluck, whose brief appearance adds a memorable comedic touch.
While not groundbreaking, "Anyone But You" is a solid choice for a fun movie night. However, the integration of William Shakespeare references may feel a tad forced.
No Way Up (2024)
There's a way up!
🎬 No Way Up (2024) #dotFilmReview
Rating: 1/5
Characters from different backgrounds are thrown together when the plane they're travelling on crashes into the Pacific Ocean. A nightmare fight for survival ensues with the air supply running out and dangers creeping in from all sides.
Very bad acting by the casts. Out of nowhere, a kid who suddenly knows everything about sharks contribute to the many things wrong with this film.
Unrealistic and not logic at all. Stupid concept and I expect at least some fun but unfortunately it was not interesting at all. I think the story is written by ChatGPT.
Spoiler alert: There's a way up.
Salaar: Part 1 - Ceasefire (2023)
Part 2 might be much better
🎬 #dotFilmReview: Salaar Part 1: Ceasefire (2023) 🌟
"Salaar Part 1: Ceasefire" offers a gripping narrative that unfolds in two distinct halves. While the first half sets the stage with a decent start, it's the second half that truly shines, boasting a robust screenplay and exceptional action sequences.
Drawing parallels to the KGF franchise template, "Salaar" stands out with its strong characterizations. Prithviraj's portrayal of Varada Raja Mannar is impeccable, while Prabhas delivers a commendable performance as Deva. However, Shruti Hassan's portrayal falls short, lacking conviction.
The film seamlessly blends drama with moments of heroic elevation, although some scenes resonate more strongly than others. Overall, "Salaar" is an enjoyable watch with blockbuster potential.
Prashant Neel's meticulous execution shines through, with characterizations reminiscent of Game of Thrones, offering depth that requires time to fully appreciate. Anticipation runs high for the Varada vs. Deva showdown in the upcoming sequel.
Fa yeung nin wah (2000)
Mesmerizing Tale of Betrayal and Passion
🎬 #dotFilmReview: In The Mood For Love (2000) 🌟
"In the Mood for Love" (2000) delicately unfolds the poignant tale of two neighbors bonded by betrayal in 1962 Hong Kong. Tony Leung and Maggie Cheung deliver mesmerizing performances that immerse you in their world.
From stunning cinematography to a soul-stirring soundtrack, every aspect captivates, leaving you both hollow and impassioned. Director Wong Kar-wai's masterful storytelling grips you from start to finish.
Engage with this cinematic masterpiece to truly understand its depth and emotion.
#FilmReview #IntheMoodforLove #WongKarWai #TonyLeung #MaggieCheung #CinematicBeauty #EmotionalJourney #Masterpiece #HongKongCinema #ClassicFilm #MustWatch.
Hi Nanna (2023)
Delight
Hi Nanna (2023) #dotFilmReview
A doting father and his 6-year-old daughter find their lives taking a dramatic turn when the woman he loves marries someone else.
The story successfully keeps audience engaged throughout the journey of Viraj and Varsha. The 155 runtime explores through marital nuances but does not make it cliche. Nani, Mrunal Thakur and Kiara Khanna in the lead role successfully brings life into the slice of life piece. The father daughter bond displayed by natural star Nani and child actor Kiara add a generic poignance.
Nani, is always a darling to watch. This boy-next-door character gave him the much needed refreshment in his post Dasara transformation. Mrunal is the new cherry to these beautiful stories. After gorgeously tackling crown of Princess Nur Jahan, her embellishment as Yashna makes her win another round of applause. Her characters are dominating and donning a subtle elegance.
The Family Plan (2023)
Generic and cliche
The Family Plan (2023) #dotFilmReview
Rating: 1.5/5
When enemies from his past track him down, former elite government assassin Dan packs his wife, teen daughter, teen son, and 10-month-old baby into their minivan and takes off on an impromptu cross-country road trip to Vegas.
Mark Wahlberg wasn't too bad, and the scene in the supermarket when he had to fight with the baby was reminiscent of Jason Statham's fight in The Fate of the Furious. Slightly fun to watch. The baby was cute and funny.
It's predictable and cliche. The film is generic, it's terribly shot, the villain is forgettable. Storyline and logic were terrible. Fall apart in the second half.
One time watch that is forgettable. Very generic and boring. Anyway the baby had so much fun it seems.
Squid Game: The Challenge (2023)
Mr Beast's made a better reality show version of Squid Game
Squid Game: The Challenge Season 1 (2023) #dotTVReview
Plot:
456 real players will enter the competition show in pursuit of a life-changing reward of USD $4.56 million. As they compete through a series of games inspired by the original show - plus surprising new additions - their strategies, alliances, and character will be put to the test while competitors are eliminated around them.
Positives:
The concept is the same with Squid Game series, 456 players compete in a series of challenges to win $4.56 million, which I personally feel is an exorbitant amount of prize money for a television gameshow. The competition element is fun and often tense, putting people in situations where they must choose between selfish and selfless options that can have dire consequences for some.
Negatives:
Scripted reality show. None of it seems authentic. All the "contestants" come across as paid actors reading off of scripts. They don't act like human beings that are in a SQUID GAME show. Everyone is miserable, and exaggerates their reactions and stuff so much despite being on a game show adapted from what I'd assume to be a show they all watched and enjoyed considering they applied to be on it. No one is talking or even mentioning the original show. All the people fill in those generic lame game show tropes and stereotypes. The contestants and their "drama" they try to create with these "characters" was absolute rubbish.
Conclusion:
I was incredibly disappointed with this show. Just watch the Youtube Mr Beast squid game show if you want more squid game reality content. The sets are amazing and beautiful but thats it. Thats all they have. Netflix should have just gave the budget to Mr Beast i guess.
Rating: 2/5.
Captain Miller (2024)
Half baked with no screenplay
Captain Miller (2024) #dotFilmReview
Plot:
Set during the colonial times in a village in India, Captain Miller is a period film that revolves around a former British soldier turned renegade - Analeesan "Eesa" Captain Miller. After witnessing atrocities against his own people, Captain Miller starts engaging in crimes, and is on a mission to protect his village from the British, as they intend to loot a treasure hidden and protected by the villagers.
Positives:
Grand production value. Stunt sequences are spectacular. What makes Captain Miller truly captivating is the way it tells its story in a non-linear fashion. Every actors including Dhanush performed their characters very well. GV Prakash's BGMs worked out well.
Negatives:
Actors with great potential like Niveditha Sathish, Sundeep Kishan, Jayaprakash didn't get much screen time and dialogues. The villain acting was not good. Story was slow and some might get bored. I also felt like too much of action scenes. The main characters also had plot armours where they don't get hurt in a battle.
Conclusion:
The movie would have been better if runtime reduced around 15-20 minutes. Probably worth for one time watch unless you're Dhanush fan.
Pendatang (2023)
Sad picture of how a completely segregated Malaysia would look like.
#pendatangmovie is the first Malaysian film was produced through crowdfunding and streamed for free on YouTube. Set in a dystopian Malaysia in which different races are forbidden to mix. A Chinese family moves into their new house to find a scared Malay girl still hiding in it. Should they get rid of her or try to smuggle her back to safety?
I had quite high expectations but it was slight let down. I noticed multiple plot holes and mid acting, however it had interesting point on the country's racial segregation. The portrayal of Panda/Raifa seems like not utilised fully. We didn't get to know her backstory and no character development. The storyline also felt a bit rushed towards the end (but it's understandable considering their tight budget). I also expected much more diverse cast.
The main compliments are the cinematography and the location. It was beautiful. Despite slight criticism, I really enjoyed the film and would recommend for others to watch it on @kumanpictures YouTube channel as well. The film showed a tragic and sad picture of how a completely segregated Malaysia would look like. Great job to @kumanpictures and whole #pendatangmovie team 👏🏻 Hoping more films like this will be made and get screened in cinemas instead.
#dotFilmReview.