Bollywood Movies » Latest Sports News

Jongole Mitin Mashi Movie Review: A Conservation-Centric Family Adventure 2023

8 November 20236 November 2023 by smgbnation.com

Arindam Sil’s “Jongole Mitin Mashi” draws inspiration from Suchitra Bhattacharya’s book, “Saranday Shoytan,” and offers an action-adventure with a compelling conservation message. For fans of Koel Mallick’s previous action-packed roles, this film showcases her in a different light, emphasizing a crucial environmental message.

The plot unfolds as Mitin, or Pragyaparamita Mukherjee (Koel Mallick), takes on a case that leads her deep into the Saranda forests, where ruthless poachers are targeting elephants for their tusks. Accompanying her on this mission are her husband, Partha (Subhrajit Dutta), niece Tupur (Lekha Chatterjee), sister Saheli (Kamalika Banerjee), and brother-in-law Abani (Ashim Roy Chowdhury), all of whom inadvertently become part of her investigation. While Mitin is determined to keep her family out of harm’s way, they choose to assist her, disregarding her warnings.

Conservation plays a significant role in this movie, underlined by stunning, well-captured scenes of the forests and wildlife, along with frequent reminders of the importance of maintaining ecological balance. Mitin is resolute in her zero-tolerance stance against those disrupting this equilibrium, a principle that motivates her to take on the case, at the request of Divisional Forest Officer Aniruddha Sen, even if it deviates from the book’s narrative.

Koel Mallick once again delivers a powerful performance as Mitin, commanding the screen with her dialogue delivery and physical prowess. Tupur, her trusty sidekick, is portrayed as a smart and observant character by Lekha Chatterjee. Kamalika Banerjee and Ashim Roy Chowdhury inject humor into the otherwise serious storyline as her sister and brother-in-law, while Subhrajit Dutta skillfully portrays her constantly concerned husband, Partha.

The music composed by Bickram Ghosh, particularly the foot-tapping “Dhamsha Dhitam” (performed by Timir Biswas and Iman Chakraborty) and the haunting “Gahana Upavana” (sung by Shubha Mudgal), adds depth to the film. The background score and sound effects enhance the cinematic experience, although certain CGI and action sequences could have been improved. In some instances, Koel Mallick’s expressions might have been more fluid, perhaps missing the spark from her earlier feisty detective role. The ending could also have been more concise. Nevertheless, “Jongole Mitin Mashi” is a family-friendly entertainer that warrants attention for its vital message of forest conservation.

Movie Review:

Bagha Jatin Movie Review: Dev’s Remarkable Portrayal in this Patriotic Biopic

30 October 2023 by smgbnation.com

In the realm of Indian cinema, “Bagha Jatin” emerges as a tribute to the unsung hero of India’s freedom struggle, and Dev, the lead actor, takes center stage to deliver a memorable performance. While this film certainly has its merits, it also falls short in some aspects that could have elevated it to greater heights. The narrative, in particular, suffers from some pacing issues and a lack of backstory for pivotal characters involved in Bagha Jatin’s mission.

Director brings to life the story of Bagha Jatin, the revered Bengali freedom fighter, with dedication and authenticity. The film encapsulates a bygone era, but it could benefit from a more contemporary pace to keep audiences thoroughly engaged.

One of the film’s shortcomings is the editing, which leaves room for improvement in tightening the narrative. A more seamless flow would have enhanced the viewing experience. Although the film embraces its period setting, a faster pace could have injected more dynamism into the storytelling.

One of the narrative’s weak points is the lack of a compelling backstory for many of Bagha Jatin’s primary contacts during the planning stages and his team during execution. This omission detracts from the depth and engagement that the film could have achieved.

Nonetheless, the film shines in various areas, starting with Dev and Sudipta’s outstanding performances. Dev embodies the spirit of Bagha Jatin, and Sudipta, as Jatindranath’s elder sister Binodbala, complements him with her remarkable portrayal. Additionally, Carl delivers an impressive performance as Bagha Jatin’s nemesis, British cop Charles Tegart. The film boasts a strong ensemble cast, and even the smaller roles of freedom fighters are executed with great skill.

The film’s true strength lies in its action sequences. Whether it’s Bagha Jatin’s encounters with the police or intense gun battles, the action scenes are riveting. The judicious use of slow motion and a captivating background score succeed in delivering an adrenaline rush to the audience. The film’s cinematography is commendable throughout, but it truly excels during the action sequences, where the camerawork elevates the overall quality of the film.

A standout moment in the film is the VFX sequence that reveals how Jatindranath earned the moniker ‘Bagha’ by slaying a tiger. The hyper-realistic portrayal of the tiger and the execution of this sequence significantly enhance the film’s production quality.

Another memorable sequence portrays Bagha Jatin adopting various disguises, including that of a Naga Baba and a leper, to evade capture while traversing the streets of Calcutta. The makeup work in this sequence is particularly impressive and adds authenticity to the character transformations.

The film’s music, composed by Nilayan Chatterjee, is a standout feature, with several patriotic songs that stir the audience’s emotions. The background score effectively complements the on-screen emotions, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

In conclusion, “Bagha Jatin” is a film that warrants a visit to the theater with an open mind. If you expect a patriotic film on the scale of “RRR,” you may be disappointed. However, if you are eager to delve into the life and journey of the renowned Bengali freedom fighter, Bagha Jatin, then this film is a must-watch. It is a cinematic tribute to a hero whose contributions to India’s struggle for independence deserve recognition and remembrance.

Movie Review

“Dawshom Awbotaar” Movie Review: Prosenjit and Anirban Shine in This Dark Cop Drama

30 October 2023 by smgbnation.com

Srijit Mukherji’s latest film, “Dawshom Awbotaar,” opens up a fascinating world of interconnected characters and timelines, akin to the concept of a multiverse found in Marvel comics. It serves as a prequel to some of his well-loved works, inviting viewers to explore a complex web of characters. In this narrative, we encounter Probir Roy Chowdhury (Baishey Srabon and Dwitiyo Purush) and Bijoy Poddar (Vinci da) teaming up to apprehend a serial killer who has unleashed a reign of terror on the city.

Set against the backdrop of the early 2000s, the story revolves around Probir Roy Chowdhury, a seasoned police officer portrayed by Prosenjit Chatterjee. His mission is to track down a serial killer who meticulously plans and executes murders based on the ten avatars of Vishnu. Along the way, he forms an unlikely partnership with officer Bijoy Poddar, brought to life by Anirban Bhattacharya. Despite their differences in age, experience, and outlook, they forge a compelling alliance reminiscent of classic cop duos like Bad Boys, Lethal Weapon, or Tango and Cash. Together, they race against time to prevent the antagonist, played by Jisshu U Sengupta, from committing more heinous crimes. Their efforts are supported by psychiatrist Moitreyee, portrayed by Jaya Ahsan, who claims to have treated the killer for mental illness.

As the plot unfolds, Probir and Bijoy’s characters begin to resonate with each other, revealing the complexities of their respective lives. Prosenjit’s portrayal of the cynical and astute Probir Roy Chowdhury is nothing short of powerful, while Anirban’s street-smart Bijoy Poddar complements him perfectly with his youthful exuberance. Together, they strike a harmonious balance between the pragmatic cop and the emotionally driven partner. Jisshu Sengupta, as the enigmatic antagonist, is a delight to watch, both in his deceptive disguises and his portrayal of a sinister character. Jaya Ahsan delivers a convincing performance as the troubled psychiatrist Moitreyee, although her chemistry with Anirban falls slightly short of the magnetic connection between the two lead cops.

Soumik Halder’s cinematography deserves accolades, capturing familiar locations and choreographing well-executed action sequences that add to the film’s allure. Anupam Roy and Rupam Islam contribute a formidable soundtrack, featuring tracks like the energetic “Agunkheko” and the contemplative “Ami sei manushta aar nei,” both of which are easily hummable.

The film experiences a notable shift in tone during its second act, as romance takes center stage, temporarily slowing the narrative’s momentum. This transition leads to a slightly drawn-out climax and introduces a few loose ends and improbable situations that might have benefited from a more concise resolution. Nevertheless, the palpable chemistry between Prosenjit and Anirban is a rare cinematic treat and a standout feature of “Dawshom Awbotaar.” This dynamic duo’s captivating performances ensure that the film remains an engaging watch, particularly during the festive season.

Movie Review

Raktabeej Movie Review: Nandita and Shiboprosad’s Departure into Action Thrills 2023

30 October 2023 by smgbnation.com

Nandita Roy and Shiboprosad Mukherjee, the renowned director duo known for their heartwarming family dramas, have ventured into uncharted territory with “Raktabeej.” In this action-adventure film, they take a departure from their comfort zone to deliver a power-packed, high-octane thriller.

The movie, featuring a talented ensemble cast, unfolds in the remote town of Khoyragarh. A sudden explosion shatters the tranquility, revealing a sinister terror plot with a potential attempt to assassinate the President of India, who happened to be in the vicinity. The local police force joins forces with specialists from the mysterious ‘Centre’ to thwart the threat and ensure the safety of the VVIP. Meanwhile, the terrorists continue to hatch their nefarious schemes.

The director duo’s meticulous planning is evident as they craft a tightly-knit script, dividing it into distinct days and segments that seamlessly interweave to offer a range of narratives and perspectives. What initially appears to be a straightforward operation unfolds through various characters and their intricate interpersonal relationships, a storytelling style they have perfected in films like “Gotro,” “Bela Seshe,” and “Praktan.” This approach does not dilute the essence of the fast-paced narrative, which is elevated by well-executed, tightly edited action sequences, credited to Pratip Mukherjee.

The film boasts a diverse ensemble cast, including Victor Banerjee, who portrays the President of India with his signature gravitas and effortless charm. His character returns to his hometown for Durga Puja, reuniting with his older sister, played by Anashua Majumdar, who is thrilled to see him but disapproves of his decision to reject a mercy plea. The on-screen chemistry between the two siblings is enriched with flashbacks from their childhood, illustrating how they served as each other’s pillars of support. On the other hand, when Pankaj Sinha (Abir Chatterjee) enters the scene, he faces considerable disdain from the regional police head, Sanjukta (Mimi Chakraborty), who fears he may overshadow her accomplishments. Abir and Mimi exude a palpable chemistry that greatly enhances their interactions, whether they are working together to pursue a villain or engaging in verbal sparring.

However, Kanchan Mullick, in the role of the local police officer in charge, steals the show with his memorable catchphrases and the humorous way he mangles the Hindi language simply by speaking it. Debasish Mondal, portraying the elusive Munir Alam, delivers an exceptional performance, while other supporting actors, including Ambarish Bhattacharya, Tanusree Shankar, Gulshanara Khatun, Devlina Kumar, and Satyam Bhattacharya, perform commendably in their respective roles.

The film incorporates songs and music judiciously, enhancing the overall cinematic experience. The lively “Gobindo daant maje na,” the melodious “Nakku Nakur Na Jao Thakur,” and the enchanting “Gouri Elo” are tunes that are bound to stay with the audience. The integration of poetry, notably Rabindranath Tagore’s “Birpurush,” is tastefully done, adding depth to the narrative.

While “Raktabeej” intends to convey a powerful message about terrorism, it may not delve deeply into the backstories of all the characters or complete their character arcs. Nevertheless, for those curious to see how these filmmakers, known for their social and family dramas, have successfully navigated the action-thriller genre, this film is a must-watch this season.

MOVIE REVIEW

RDX Love Movie Review: Payal Rajput Shines Amidst a Weak Script

24 October 2023 by smgbnation.com

“RDX Love” features Payal Rajput in a leading role as Alivelu, a village campaigner who aspires to address her village’s long-standing problems. The movie attempts to blend social issues, action sequences, and elements of romance. Despite its promising storyline and Payal Rajput’s commendable performance, the film falters due to a weak script, lackluster supporting cast, and excessive focus on adult comedy.

Story:

The movie revolves around Alivelu (Payal Rajput), a village belle who works as a campaigner for government welfare schemes, focusing on issues like safe sex and the ban on gutka. Her primary objective is to secure a bridge for her village to ensure safe travel. She aims to achieve this by reaching out to the Chief Minister. Her journey takes a turn when she encounters Siddu (Tejus Kancherla), the son of a prominent figure, and seeks his help in addressing her village’s issues. The film explores how Alivelu, with Siddu’s support, attempts to solve the village’s longstanding problems.

Review:

Payal Rajput, who made a stunning debut in “RX 100,” returns as Alivelu in “RDX Love” and delivers a strong performance. She not only excels in action sequences but also showcases her glamorous side effectively. The film’s plot initially surprises with its engaging storyline, challenging the expectations set by promotional materials. It’s encouraging to see a female-centric film with substantial content in Telugu cinema.

However, “RDX Love” falls short of its potential due to its mishandling of the emotional aspects. The film’s first half indulges in cheap and flat adult comedy, which fails to resonate with the audience. The inclusion of such humor feels unnecessary and takes away from the overall impact of the story. Mumait Khan’s portrayal of a cop doesn’t work, and Tejus Kancherla’s screen presence lacks the necessary emotive depth. In comparison, Payal Rajput consistently outperforms her co-star.

On a positive note, senior actors like Nagineedu and Naresh deliver commendable performances, adding some depth to the narrative. The film also boasts impressive visuals, but the subpar music by Radhan fails to enhance the movie’s overall quality.

The film’s focus on cheap comedy and excessive glamour distracts from its potential. The intimate scenes become repetitive, and the movie loses its appeal. “RDX Love” could have benefitted from a stronger emphasis on the well-crafted storyline and Payal Rajput’s exceptional acting skills. Director Shankar Banu might have elevated the film’s quality by concentrating on these aspects instead of relying on superficial elements.

In conclusion, “RDX Love” offers a promising premise with a strong performance from Payal Rajput. However, its weak script, misplaced humor, and a lackluster supporting cast detract from its overall impact. The movie’s potential is overshadowed by its focus on adult comedy and excessive glamour. Despite its shortcomings, Payal Rajput’s grace and talent manage to salvage the film from being completely forgettable.

RDX Movie Review: Adeptly Combined Action and Emotion

24 October 2023 by smgbnation.com

Story: In “RDX,” we are introduced to the world of three close friends, Robert, Dony, and Xavier, who were raised mastering martial arts. Their upbringing has honed their skills, making them formidable fighters. The trio often resolves conflicts with their martial arts abilities, which frequently results in confrontations. However, a significant event forces them to reconsider their approach, and their shared history ominously lingers in the background. The central question is whether they can successfully confront their past vendetta.

Review: “RDX” is a dynamic and hyperactive action film that expertly combines adrenaline-pumping fight sequences, high-stakes stunts, tension-filled moments, a touch of nostalgia, and electrifying music. The story revolves around three “angry young men” in Kochi: the brothers Robert and Dony, along with their friend Xavier. Bonded by their upbringing and their shared passion for martial arts, Robert excels in karate, Dony in boxing, and Xavier favors nunchucks.

Fresh out of college, their fiery youth is marked by a focus on testing their skills through local fights and pursuing love. This direction renders them somewhat aimless, yet their innocence and naivety are endearing. In the midst of no-holds-barred battles, a pivotal fight prompts their families to intervene, causing them to take a step back momentarily. Despite trying to leave their confrontational past behind, their history continues to cast a shadow over them, leading to a dilemma: should they confront or ignore their past? The movie delves into their journey of dispelling confusion and coming to terms with their history.

Shane Nigam, Antony Varghese, and Neeraj Madhav skillfully bring their characters of Robert, Dony, and Xavier to life. They infuse energy into the action-packed scenes with flying fists, raining kicks, knock-out punches, and roundhouse kicks. Shane Nigam’s portrayal of Robert is particularly charming, showcasing his playful romance, innocent smiles, dance moves, action sequences, and romantic persona. Antony Varghese captures the essence of Dony, a family man simmering with suppressed rage. Neeraj Madhav excels as Xavier, the dependable friend who seamlessly blends his dancing prowess with stunts. Vishnu Agastya emerges as a promising talent, exuding determination through his fiery gaze and flexible movements, injecting a breath of fresh air into his character. Lal, Mala Parvathy, and the opposing team members, along with the nostalgic presence of 90’s action star Babu Antony, contribute significantly to the movie’s heightened impact. However, Babu Antony’s potential could have been better utilized.

Debutant director Nahas Hidayat presents an enthralling entertainment for action movie fans. The screenwriting by Adharsh Sukumaran and Shabas Rasheed expertly blends action and family drama, incorporating elements of romance, friendship, and family bonds. The dynamic music by Sam CS elevates the emotions, intensifying the film’s impact. The music seamlessly complements various combat styles depicted in the movie, resulting in a riveting experience. Action director Anbu-Arivu captures the film’s essence, choreographing an exceptional fighting movie in Malayalam that leaves audiences invigorated.

Capturing the fire, energy, and intensity of action sequences on camera can prove challenging. While Alex J Pullikal’s work is commendable, there are instances where the spark is missed. Editor Chamman Chacko adeptly blends visuals but occasionally falls short of matching the story’s high-energy narrative. The story’s timeline is occasionally unclear due to shifts in fashion and ambiance. It’s sometimes difficult to determine whether the sabbatical was five or ten years long.

The central theme of “RDX” is ‘rage,’ a dominant emotion in this action flick. This celebration of anger amidst heightened youth crime due to post-COVID psycho-social impacts raises questions about the portrayal of rage in the film. From a creator’s standpoint, infusing rage becomes pivotal for widespread appeal in action films. Even within a family of predominantly masculine figures exuding anger, contrasting instances emerge. Mothers who weep for their children and can be manipulated in the name of love stand out. Amid evolving gender sensitivities, the inclusion of a scene aimed at applause appears incongruous within the larger narrative.

In conclusion, “RDX” delivers an adrenaline rush of action cinema. It’s an action-packed film that promises an exciting and energetic holiday season for fans of the genre.

Ravi Teja shines in ‘Tiger Nageswara Rao’ – a story of crime, redemption, and heroism

24 October 2023 by smgbnation.com

Story:

In the small town of Stuartpuram, a young Nageswara Rao (Ravi Teja) begins his life journey with dark undertones as he becomes deeply involved in the criminal world. This film, inspired by the real-life story of the notorious thief Nageswara Rao, meticulously traces his transformation. From his notoriety during the 1970s, earning him the moniker ‘Tiger,’ to his eventual evolution into a hero and savior of Stuartpuram.

Review:

In the intriguing blend of heists and heroism, “Tiger Nageswara Rao” manages to strike a resonant chord, weaving a narrative that seamlessly blends elements of crime and redemption. Director Vamsi Krishna opts for a grand storytelling style, reminiscent of the cinematic epics of recent years. The film boasts commendable visual and aesthetic appeal, though there are moments where it momentarily loses its grip, particularly in the second half, despite the presence of some impactful dramatic and emotional sequences.

Ravi Teja, the versatile actor with a history of compelling performances, wholeheartedly embraces the character of Tiger Nageswara Rao. His portrayal brings the protagonist to life, spanning the period from the 1950s to the 1980s. Ravi Teja’s performance stands out as he shoulders the movie with his charisma and unwavering commitment, thereby making the audience genuinely root for his character.

The supporting cast, including Anupam Kher as IB Officer Raghavendra Rajput, Nupur Sanon in her debut as Sara, Renu Desai as Hemalatha Lavanam, Jisshu Sengupta as CI Mouli, Murali Sharma as DSP Vishwanath Sastry, Hareesh Peradi as Yelamanda, Gayatri Bharadwaj as Mani, Sudev Nair as Kasi, Anukreethy Vas as Jayavani, and Nassar as Gajjala Prasad, deliver commendable performances. Each actor flawlessly embodies their respective characters, thereby adding depth to the storyline. Nupur and Gayatri, who portray Nageswara Rao’s partners, exude glamour and execute their roles with finesse. Seasoned actors Anupam Kher and Nassar seamlessly inhabit their characters, enriching the overall narrative. Renu Desai, making a comeback on screen after a prolonged hiatus, delivers a performance that is both subtle and nuanced. Jisshu Sengupta and Hareesh Peradi evoke a profound sense of rage in the audience through their antagonistic portrayals, ultimately leading to a satisfying climax.

While the first half captivates the audience with the intriguing shades of grey that surround Nageswara Rao’s character, the second half presents a redemptive arc, transforming him into a savior driven by noble intentions. However, the film’s brilliance is marred by its extended runtime, spanning over three hours. This prolonged duration somewhat diminishes the overall impact, diluting the intensity of the plot. Furthermore, the excessive violence, brutality, and gore, though appealing to some viewers, might be overwhelming for others. The well-choreographed action sequences do suffer in parts due to subpar visual effects in certain scenes, leaving room for improvement.

Technically, the film excels, with the creators employing warmer and darker hues to portray intense action sequences and opting for vibrant tones to depict the romantic aspects. GV Prakash’s music, coupled with Madhie’s cinematography and Kolla Avinash’s production design, elevates the film’s larger-than-life persona.

“Tiger Nageswara Rao” is a roller-coaster of emotions, oscillating between the dark alleys of crime and the redeeming light of heroism. Despite its flaws, the film manages to leave a lasting impact, largely due to Ravi Teja’s stellar performance and the ensemble cast’s collective brilliance. Nonetheless, a tighter edit and refined visual effects could have catapulted this saga to even greater heights.

Official Trailer

Leo Movie Review : Lokesh rolls out a ‘red’ carpet to welcome Vijay to LCU

22 October 2023 by smgbnation.com

“Leo” Movie Synopsis:

Set in the picturesque landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, the film follows the story of Parthiban (played by Vijay), an animal rescuer who also owns a coffee shop. His quiet life takes an unexpected turn when he becomes a local hero by saving his town from a dangerous Hyena attack. Simultaneously, an unrelated incident in his coffee shop garners unwarranted global media attention. This incident piques the curiosity of two brothers, Anthony Das (Sanjay Dutt) and Harold Das (Arjun Sarja), who mistakenly identify Parthiban as Leo Das (also played by Vijay), the son of Anthony Das. These brothers arrive in the small town with guns blazing, determined to uncover the truth about Parthiban’s identity and whether he is truly Leo.

“Leo” Movie Review:

Parthiban, living in his idyllic world with his wife Sathya (played by Trisha) and their two children, sees a tiny crack appear in his perfect life. What follows is a series of events that turn his world into a chaotic storm. The question that looms over the story is whether Parthiban can save his family and rebuild the picture-perfect life he once had.

The Das brothers, Anthony and Harold, operate a tobacco business as a front for their illegal drug operations. Anthony’s son, Leo, is a key figure in ensuring the smooth flow of drugs between locations. However, a tragic incident at the tobacco factory results in a fire that claims Leo’s life. Fast forward 20 years, the Das brothers discover Parthiban and his striking resemblance to Leo. The central mystery revolves around whether Leo faked his own death to assume the identity of Parthiban or if they are indeed two separate individuals who happen to look alike.

Despite an ensemble cast, “Leo” shines as a one-man show, with Vijay delivering a remarkable performance as both Parthiban and Leo. His portrayal keeps the audience guessing about his true identity right up to the climax. The film features well-crafted scenes that captivate the audience’s attention until the final moments. The pre-climax scene is particularly noteworthy. While the writing may be somewhat inconsistent, Vijay’s charisma and performance make the narrative believable. He excels as both a “badass” Leo Das and a father and husband battling inner conflicts while keeping a watchful eye out of the bedroom window to ensure the safety of his loved ones.

One area where “Leo” falls short is the absence of a strong, imposing villain. While Arjun Sarja manages to match Vijay’s energy, the limited screen time given to the antagonist dampens their impact.

Director Lokesh sets the stage at the beginning of the film by acknowledging that the story draws inspiration from David Cronenberg’s “A History Of Violence,” preparing the audience for an action-packed, violent narrative. Lokesh’s previous films, including “LCU,” “Kaithi,” and “Vikram,” primarily focused on action, though “Vikram” did incorporate some family sentiment. In “Leo,” Lokesh delves into family dynamics and emotions, disrupting the high-octane action flow. While “Leo” carries the signature Lokesh Kanagaraj style with visible star service elements, it creates a visually captivating world for the antagonists, albeit without affording them a robust platform to shine. Despite having talented performers like Sanjay Dutt and Arjun Sarja, the film lacks a climactic showdown between the protagonist and antagonists. Anirudh’s music comes to life in the second half, with a slow song in the first half and the much-anticipated “Naa Ready Daan” in the second half, helping to balance the movie and set the tone. The action sequences in the first half could have benefitted from more energetic background music.

Lokesh opts for a well-worn “hero in exile” storyline and adorns it with creative, action-packed sequences. While the overall direction of the film may be somewhat predictable within the first half-hour, Lokesh shines through his innovative violence and action sequences. The hyped Hyena scene falls short of leaving a significant impact in the first half, but the bloodthirsty animal returns for a perfect revenge act in the second half.

Trisha’s role in the film goes beyond being a mere accessory, and her character receives the attention it deserves. Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Sarja, Priya Anand, Gautam Vasudev Menon, and Mysskin deserve credit for their performances, although they are somewhat overshadowed by Vijay’s towering presence as Leo Das.

While the inclusion of the “LCU” element may feel forced, “Leo” provides Lokesh Kanagaraj with a strong foundation for potential future installments. Lokesh and Vijay’s “Leo” presents a character who is more “bloody” than “sweet,” and while Leo’s roar may not reach its peak in this film, it still echoes like a lion.

LEO Official Trailer

“Jawan” Movie Review: Shah Rukh Khan Shines in This Bollywood-South Crossover!

18 October 2023 by smgbnation.com

Star Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Nayanthara, Vijay Sethupathi, Sanya Malhotra, Sunil Grover, Deepika Padukone

Director: Atlee

What’s Good: Anything and everything involving Shah Rukh Khan

What’s Bad: Anything that doesn’t feature Shah Rukh Khan

Loo Break: With a runtime of almost 3 hours, you might need a couple of breaks, one for necessity and another due to the film’s length

Watch or Not?: Even if you’re not a fan of typical commercial potboilers, “Jawan” is worth watching solely for Shah Rukh Khan!

Available On: Theatrical Release

Runtime: A lengthy 2 hours and 49 minutes

In “Jawan,” Shah Rukh Khan takes on a mummy-like character who relentlessly defeats his enemies while asking the question, “Main Kaun Hoon?” (Who am I?) with the same expression you’d expect from an actor who has just emerged from a coma after months of negotiations for a high payment. A child promises to find out who he is when they grow up, setting the stage for some typical Atlee-style drama.

Fast forward thirty years, and we meet Vikram Rathore SRK, a former police officer who has turned into a Robin Hood-like figure, taking on the role of doing what the government should have done to make life easier for the citizens. But is Vikram the same SRK we saw at the start, or are they different individuals? If they are indeed different, who are they? That’s the central question the storyline explores.

“Jawan” Movie Review: Script Analysis

A look at Atlee’s filmography reveals a common thread running through all of his films: a commitment to making movies for a broad audience. This approach has been a major factor in the success of his films, much like how “Gadar 2” catered to more than 70% of Indian cinema-goers. Atlee has consistently followed this formula.

“Jawan” is crafted to ensure that just when you feel the story is dragging, an exciting ‘seeti-maar’ (whistle-worthy) sequence comes along to revive your interest. Shah Rukh Khan appears to thoroughly enjoy wearing the multiple hats his character requires in the film. There’s something slightly over-the-top about his voice-to-body movement synchronization in the Hindi version, which may remind you of films like “Aparichit” and “Gabbar Is Back.” However, “Jawan” is better designed, making it a true-blue masala film.

In keeping with Atlee’s directorial style, you’ll notice how he packs multiple films into one. His emphasis on hero-worship and fan-centric heroism takes precedence over the story and screenplay. G. K. Vishnu’s cinematography shines in the action scenes, particularly during hand-to-hand combat sequences.

“Jawan” Movie Review: Star Performances

Shah Rukh Khan delivers one of his best performances in the realm of commercial cinema. While films like “Raees” and “Pathaan” showcased his acting abilities, “Jawan” adds the layer of portraying multiple characters, and SRK excels yet again. Three of his characters leave a lasting impression, while the rest contribute to the narrative’s complexity.

Nayanthara’s character plays a crucial role opposite Shah Rukh Khan, but it’s regrettable that her character lacks the depth needed to significantly influence the storyline. Nevertheless, she looks stunning in every frame she appears in. Vijay Sethupathi, an actor of superior caliber, is somewhat underutilized in this film and deserved a better-written role. Among the supporting cast, Sanya Malhotra and Sunil Grover fail to leave a lasting impact. Deepika Padukone, in her special cameo, adds a touch of allure to the film with her ’90s avatar, sporting sensuous sarees.

“Jawan” Movie Review: Direction and Music

Atlee is a director who understands how to tap into the sensibilities of the Indian audience. With “Jawan,” he serves up exactly what the Indian masses would lap up, seasoned with a bit of extra masala.

Anirudh Ravichander might not impress with songs, but he truly shines when it comes to the background score. The film’s soundtrack might not feature any memorable ‘speed-breaking’ songs, but the orchestral magic he creates with the instruments sets the tone perfectly.

“Jawan” Movie Review: The Last Word

In the final analysis, “Jawan” will be remembered for Atlee’s exceptional tribute to Shah Rukh Khan, reinforcing why he’s the last of the stars, with his unparalleled charisma and star power. Despite its length and moments of narrative clutter, the film offers a rollercoaster ride of entertainment that’s worth the watch, especially for Shah Rukh Khan fans.

Jawan Official Hindi Trailer

‘Dhak Dhak’ Review: A rare film about biker women races your hearts and spirits

13 October 2023 by smgbnation.com

Director Tarun Dudeja’s ‘Dhak Dhak’ is about four women going on an epic bike expedition. How this becomes a trip of self-discovery forms the story. Read our review.

Rating: Release Date:13 Oct, 2023

In the quest to influence people, aesthetics might not always be the foremost factor; instead, a compelling story holds the real power. One such captivating tale is ‘Dhak Dhak,’ which revolves around the journey of four women from diverse backgrounds embarking on a road trip to Khardung La point near Leh, each astride her own motorcycle. Yes, you read that correctly – women on bikes, living life on their own terms. The very thought is enough to make your heart go ‘Dhak Dhak.’ Let’s delve into how this film has fared!

Meet Sky, portrayed by Fatima Sana Shaikh, a YouTuber exceptionally skilled at her craft, but grappling with the aftermath of cyber harassment and a broken relationship. She is determined to establish her unique identity and break free from the shackles of embarrassment and shame. Sky places her bet on a Barcelona Expo, where she assembles a team of three more remarkable women, each with a story waiting to inspire and move everyone. Among these women is Mahi, played by Ratna Pathak Shah, a woman in her 60s starved of attention and love. Joining the team is Umza, brought to life by Dia Mirza, whose spirit has been oppressed by her patriarchal husband, and Manjari, portrayed by Sanjana Sanghi, who is still cocooned, having been raised by a single mother.

What makes ‘Dhak Dhak’ truly compelling is that each of these women is endowed with a rich character arc, carefully fleshed out to help the audience understand their respective journeys. The writer and director, Tarun Dudeja, has sensitively crafted robust backstories for these characters without demonizing any particular gender. They all bear the marks of conditioning by a patriarchal society, yet the film’s message doesn’t overwhelm or become too explicit. Instead, it’s subtle and thought-provoking. Tarun also ingeniously utilizes the backdrop of streets and wall art to send out timely reminders.

The film’s strength lies in its genuine desire to let the characters savor the journey, the camaraderie, and the destination. It refrains from relying on gimmicks, and its authenticity shines through in its straightforward screenplay. This authenticity is beautifully complemented by an excellent cast who have embraced their roles with gusto. Their on-screen camaraderie is palpable, and their banter is undeniably endearing. Despite the age gap between them in real life, it feels organic and natural.

Ratna Pathak Shah, as Mahi, is nothing short of a star. Her portrayal exudes elegance and flair, capturing the essence of a Punjabi woman who straddles the line between conservatism and modernity with finesse. Dia Mirza brings a profound sense of vulnerability and serenity to Umza, and her portrayal of a woman striving to reclaim her lost confidence is truly commendable. Fatima Sana Shaikh embodies Sky with an uncanny ease, and her performance in scenes that require emotional depth is particularly noteworthy. Sanjana Sanghi delivers her role as a ‘coming-of-age woman’ from a small town with remarkable credibility. Together, these talented actresses make us laugh and perhaps even shed a tear or two.

However, it’s worth noting that the film does feel a tad lengthy in its content. A more concise screenplay might have been the icing on the cake. The background music, while effective in some parts, is mostly forgettable. Nevertheless, the visuals and cinematography compensate for these minor shortcomings.

In a nutshell, ‘Dhak Dhak’ is a film that revs up your heart and spirit, urging you to set out on a journey of self-discovery. As Mahi wisely puts it in the film, “you can find happiness the moment you open your eyes.

Here’s the trailer: